If you've been scouring the entries for a key west 189 fs for sale , you probably already know that these types of boats are just like the "Goldilocks" from the middle console world. They aren't so large that you need a huge dually truck to them, yet they aren't therefore small that you feel every tiny ripple in the gulf. There's a reason why they tend to disappear from the classifieds inside days of becoming posted. It's the boat that tries to do every thing, and surprisingly, it actually succeeds in most of it.
Whether you're trying to spend your Saturday morning chasing redfish or your own Sunday afternoon pulling the kids on a tube, the 189 FS (which stands for Family Sports) is designed to bridge that gap. But finding a single in good shape on the used market requires a bit associated with a keen attention and some persistence.
Why We all want an 189 FS
The 189 FS has already been a staple in the Key West Boats lineup for a long time, and the "no-wood, no-rot" construction will be a major selling point for anyone looking from an used model. When you're browsing a key west 189 fs for sale , you can feel a bit more confident knowing the particular stringers and transom aren't going to turn into mush with time.
Exactly what really sets this particular model apart from the standard middle consoles of the same size is the particular seating layout. Most 19-foot boats are built purely for fishing, meaning you obtain a big open up bow with nowhere to sit. The particular 189 FS adjustments that up with molded-in bench seating in the front. Much more the boat a lot more "spouse-approved" because you can in fact bring friends along without them needing to stand upward the whole period or sit upon a plastic bucket.
The Ideal Size for the particular Average Garage
One of the biggest headaches associated with boat ownership is usually storage. High-and-dry shelves are expensive, plus boat yards may be a travel. The 189 FS sits right at that 18' 9" mark (hence the name), which means it's very workable on a truck. If you have got a decent-sized drive or a deep garage, you can often tuck this particular boat away in home.
Over and above just storage, the size makes this incredibly easy in order to launch and weight by yourself. In the event that you've ever observed someone struggle in the ramp with a 25-foot twin-engine beast, you'll appreciate just how quickly you may get the 189 FS off the particular trailer and straight into the water. It's small enough in order to navigate tight creeks and shallow apartments, drawing just about 12 inches, however the hull design is deep enough to take care of the bit of the "washday" chop with no soaking everyone upon board.
Angling Features That Really Work
Don't allow the "Family" component of the title fool you in to thinking this isn't a serious angling machine. If a person find a key west 189 fs for sale that's been rigged correctly, it's going to have everything you need for a day on the particular water. It generally posseses an aerated livewell underneath the console chair or in the back, plenty of pole holders (including these under-gunwale racks), plus a nice open cockpit area within the rear for combating fish.
The boat is steady enough that you don't feel like you're going to tip over when 2 people move in order to the same side in order to net a seafood. Plus, the cockpit is self-bailing. That's one of those features you don't think about until you're washing fish blood off the deck or perhaps you get caught within a sudden Florida downpour. The water simply runs right away the back, keeping the floor dry and the vessel safe.
What to Look for When Buying Used
If you lastly track down the key west 189 fs for sale , you need in order to go through it with a fine-tooth comb. Even even though the hull is built like a container, the accessories may take a beating.
- Upholstery: Since the FS model has a lot of cushions, check the condition of the particular vinyl. When the previous owner left it uncovered in the sunshine, that "Family" seating is definitely going to become cracked and uncomfortable. Replacing a complete collection of Key West cushions isn't the cheapest endeavor.
- The Engine: Most associated with these boats are usually paired with a Yamaha 115 or an one hundred fifty. Both are great, but the 150 actually makes this boat scream. If you're taking a look at one along with a 115, it'll be fine for cruising, but if a person plan on carrying four adults and also a full tank of gas, you might wish you had that extra kick of the particular 150.
- The Wiring: Pop open up the console door. Is it a "bird's nest" associated with tangled wires, or even is it perfectly organized? Key West generally does a good job from the factory, yet previous owners like to add fish finders and stereos, occasionally with questionable DIY skills.
- The Fuel Container: It's got a 40-gallon tank, which is usually plenty for the boat this dimension. Just be sure there isn't any "old gas" smell lingering in the console, which usually could indicate the leak or the vent issue.
Handling the Slice
There's the common misconception that will small boats can't handle rough drinking water. While you shouldn't be taking a 19-foot boat forty miles offshore on a windy time, the Key West 189 FS your punches way above its weight class. The hull includes a pretty aggressive V-shape that cuts through surf rather than slapping over them.
I've been on 189s in which the water was stopping up a two-foot chop, and as long as a person trim the motor right, the ride is surprisingly dry. The flared ribbon and bow helps push that will spray out and away from the passengers. It's a confidence-builder for newer captains who might be worried about getting caught out whenever the wind picks up in the mid-day.
The Value Retention Factor
Let's talk money for an additional. One particular reason why searching for a key west 189 fs for sale can be irritating would be that the prices stay high. These vessels hold their worth incredibly well. A person might get a five-year-old model selling for not much less than what it cost brand new.
While that's annoying when you're the particular buyer, it's a massive plus once you're the owner. If you decide to upgrade to a bigger vessel in 3 years, you aren't going to shed your shirt on the resale. It's a "safe" boat to buy mainly because there's always the market for them. People know the brand name, they trust the particular build quality, and they love the layout.
Final Thoughts on the Research
Finding the particular right key west 189 fs for sale will be mostly about getting ready to shift. As they are such high-demand "crossover" boats, the particular good ones don't linger on Fb Marketplace or BoatTrader.
In case you find a single that has the 150hp motor, a clean T-top, and also a truck that doesn't look like it's been sitting in a salt marsh for a decade, jump upon it. It's the particular kind of ship that simplifies your life. You don't need a crew to help you dock it, you don't require a second mortgage to gas it, and you can still do everything through catching dinner to watching the sun having a cold beverage you are holding.
It might take some period to find the particular perfect one, yet once you're out there on the water, you'll realize why everybody else was searching for one, as well. It's just a solid, honest vessel that does precisely what it states on the tin. Look out, have your own financing ready, and all the best with the hunt!