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Review of the Princecraft Sport Series 172 MAX Aluminum Fishing Boat

Apr. 7 2022 Buying Guide By Click Theory

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Are you in the market for a new fishing boat? If so, the Princecraft Sport Series 172 MAX aluminum fishing boat is worth your consideration. This boat is well-suited for those seeking a reliable option that can handle a variety of fishing trips...but does it offer everything you’re looking for in a fishing boat? Keep reading to learn more about the Sport Series 172 MAX features and find out if it's the right boat for you.

Sport 172 MAX Features

Let's kick off by covering some of the Princecraft Sport 172 MAX features. Click here to see a complete list of features, but in the meantime, these give you a great idea of what the boat has to offer. 

Hull and deck features:

  • Deep self-draining splashwell
  • Rigging tube under flooring (from console to bow)
  • Rigging tube under flooring (from stern to console)
  • Aft raised casting platform, and bow raised casting platform
  • Large storage compartments
  • Electric-filled aerated livewell
  • Splashwell extension

Fishing features:

  • Seven-foot rod storage without support
  • In-floor lockable rod organizer for four rods
  • 12V bow trolling motor plug & receptacle with wiring harness
  • Trolling motor plug with 60 AMP protection
  • Bow mounting trolling motor pad

(Take a look at this post next to read about some of the most helpful features for fishing boats)

Other features: 

  • Tachometer, speedometer, trim and fuel gauges
  • Electric bilge pump
  • Two bow handles
  • Sun top with bimini canvas connected to windshield including the bimini structure (black)
  • Stern telescopic boarding ladder
  • Emergency reboarding ladder
  • Removable ski pylon
  • 160-watt AM/FM/Bluetooth JensenStereo

Along with these standard features, you might add all kinds of optional features to your boat, including seat packages and different fish and trolling packages.

(Another fishing boat you might be considering is the Lund 1650 Angler. We break down everything you need to know about this option in this post)

Why the Sport 172 MAX Stands Out from the Rest

Those features on its own might be enough to convince you this is the boat for you.

When it comes down to it, the boat is easy to drive, capable, and one you'll be proud to show off. 

One of the first things you'll notice about the Sport Series 172 MAX is it feels very open and spacious. At 17 feet and six inches length with 91 inch beam-width, this boat will feel roomy and comfortable while you’re on the water. The 2.5mm aluminum lower hull also helps it hold up against rocky shores. This hull is designed for durability and strength, so you can feel confident taking this boat out in harsh the conditions of some Alberta lakes. 


The Sport 172 MAX has a 91-inch beam, which gives you plenty of space to move around while casting or reeling in your catch. And with an overall weight of 1327 pounds, the Sport Series 172 MAX is relatively easy to transport and store.

As the top-level trim, this model includes $7,270 of optional equipment you won’t get in other models in the Sport Series, including RSP Combo: aft flip seats, black sun top with bimini canvas connected to windshield including the bimini structure, and a trailer cover. 

Missing Features

This sport series boat isn't missing much, that's for sure.

It's helpful to note this Princecraft fishing boat seats up to a maximum of six people (seven in the US). Additionally, it has a maximum HP capacity of 86 kW (115 HP) and a maximum weight capacity of 1549 pounds.

If you're looking for something a little bigger and with more engine power, you might consider the 2022 Lund 208 Tyee GL Sport. It can seat up to eight, has a maximum weight capacity of 2000 pounds, and 300 HP engine power.

Comparing the Sport 172 MAX to Other Boats in the Sport Series

There are four boats in the Princecraft Sport Series, including the Sport 172 MAX. The others are the Sport 182, the Sport 177, and the Sport 172. We’ve mentioned the Sport 172 MAX is the top-level trim, but what else makes it different from other boats in the Sport Series? 


Let’s take a look at some of their features to give you a better idea of where the Sport 172 MAX stands in the lineup.


  • Sport 182: At 18’-5”, this option is slightly bigger than the Sport 172 MAX. It also has a slightly higher maximum HP capacity (150 HP vs the Sport 172 MAX’s 115 HP).
  • Sport 177: This option also has a maximum capacity of 150 HP. It also seats seven rather than the Sport 172 MAX’s six. 
  • Sport 172: The Sport 172 weighs 50 more pounds than the Sport 172 MAX, but it also offers a maximum HP capacity of 125 rather than the Sport 172 MAX’s 115 HP. 


Whether you're convinced that the Princecraft sport series fishing boat is the one for you, or you're ready to learn more, we're here to help! Call for a quote today or come by today and experience the superior service and selection at Barry Jay's and Rainbow Marine.


Did you learn a lot from this post? Here are three more posts to read next: 

Best places to get your boating license online in Alberta

What safety equipment is required on a boat in Alberta and Canada?

Boat Winterization in Alberta - Just Tarp? Or is Shrink Wrapping Worth it?