panag said:
Think my biggest concern is ride quality vs other popular makes and how that changes with console vs tiller for someone with lower back issues. Second would be what changes, if any, you'd make to your rigging if you had to do it over.
I've fished on a Sabine several times over the last few years but just had mine for about a month.
I went with a CC because of the managing the tilt/trim/jack-plate on a tunnel vs. a tiller. But, I've got lower back problems too (2 herniated discs- L4/L5 & L5/S1) so I like to run standing up. I'm 6'3" and the console is at a good height for that for me.
The ride is great. I mean, it's still a skiff with low freeboard and pretty much zero deadrise. But the bow cuts the waves well and it's got huge spray rails. It's not going to ride as nice as say a Hells Bay Professional or Marquesas or an East Cape Evo but the Sabine will float skinnier. I'd liken it most to a Hells Bay Guide. The main difference being the Guide is 18'4" while the Sabine is 17'6"- but the Guide has sponsons and the Sabine doesn't.
You can't overcome physics but you can make the ride more comfortable in a chop by adjusting your tabs and speed.
I don't have mine really loaded out, that defeats the purpose. But it's also not bare bones either. The main thing is the trolling motor which I generally take off but given the supply chain issues I went ahead and had it installed now vs. trying to get it later on. I also got a removable leaning post for the poling platform. I don't really need it when I'm up there but my knees are jacked and don't like to bend so the post provides a great handle to help getting up & down.
https://instagr.am/p/CUX-AXXrYQg
