16 or 22

L

ldsills

New member
I have been dreaming of a C-Dory for a two decade's or more. Seems life always got in the way. But as they say "family always comes first" and I would not have it any other way!

I live in the heart of Iowa surrounded by corn and bean fields. Nearest reservoir is 20 minutes away and the Mississippi River is 1 hour an a few minutes.

Lake Michigan is only a few hours away. I love trolling for salmon and walleyes in the ultra clear water. Having a C-Dory 16 or 22 with a little canvas added would make an ideal water camper for long weekend trips.

We love the east coat as well. I was a the USS Nautilus out there in the early 70's. We still go back and "pig out" on sea food any chance we can. Also I have been known to charter a boat and go after migrating blues and stripers at the mouths of the Connecticut Rivers which always pour fresh water into Block Island Sound.

Still dreaming, can any one offer advise on what size C-Dory would be best for us. The 16 or the 22. Mind we will be always towing but there has never been an issue my entire life. I think both sizes would be great and should we travel to the east coast both would be fine for catching lobster, crabs and an occasional Tautog or Striper.

Thanks,

Larry
 
The biggest consideration is how much of the family will be on board. The 22 is infinitely better suited for more than two people. If on these trips to the coastal waters you plan to overnight on the boat, with or without family, then the 22 is the better choice. If you are overnighting with kids, the 22 is probably the hands down choice between the two sizes.

They are both great boats and the 16 will serve you well for local day trips but I really think you will be happier with the cabin on the 22.

Thank you for joining our little group and welcome aboard! Best of luck with your plans and do not hesitate to ask questions. We are an easy going bunch and are happy to have you with us.
 
Thanks for the grand welcome Tybo

Probably no kids for any overnighters. But maybe three grown men at times if we go after salmon on Lake Michigan. however, that is where a canvas top for the aft will come in handy as we'll just set up a cot.

Ill be 70 young years next year and my hunting and fur trapping days are over with my legs in bad shape after I was forced into a concrete barrier in late May at 65 MPH by another driver.

Bottomline, why not grab boat where the walking is minimal and the relaxing is optimal?

I should add this, if I would get a 22 would anyone recomend single engines or dual? I like the idea of two as a backup...but is it really required if you have a kicker motor which would be required as I do like trolling.
 
Definately the 22. I prefer a 90 main (+/-) and a kicker for trolling. With your type of fishing this would serve you well. Three men aboard a 16 woud be a no go for me. Also for the camping on the road (boaterhome)--we have stayed in RV parks, WalMarts, Cracker Barrel etc en route.

Also you can have a refrigerator and or freezer in a 22, you have a lot more room, and can stand in the cabin. A camper canvas on the cockpit makes another room when cruising. There are many more advantages, such as carrying a dinghy on the cabin roof, solar panels, much more food and water, and being more capable in rough water. There is longer range. Most SUV's will tow the 22, I had used as small as a Honda Pilot.
 
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