Opinions: Key West 225WA, Scout 222 Abaco, Proline 23 Express

[Hokiepoq]

I'd like opinions of these three boats because, if I get a good deal, I'll probably choose between these three. My requirements are:

- easily trailerable
- able to go out in the Bay in something other than a perfect day
- good for fishing
- good for cruising
- able to get out of the weather in cold/rain
- able to use through December around here
- able to sleep overnight on (not more than one night) up to 2 people
- take off-shore once in a blue moon
- plenty of horsepower to get from point a to point b
- Yamaha OB preferred, maybe Suzuki OB
- No wood in hull
- Able to fish off the front
- Not an unlimited budget
- Quality boat (I suppose the ones people call "mid-grade")
- Not inheriting someone else's problems

I ruled out the Sea Hunt 225 because, frankly, I can't find any models other than 2010.

The boats:
Key West 225WA - the only note I see about them is that the transom seat seems like it could be not very sturdy. I know people would ride back there so don't know if that would be a problem.
Example: 2008 Key West 225 Wa For Sale In Williamstown, NJ: Walkaround - BoatTrader.com

Scout 222 - this boat seems to have a lot of seating in the back; not sure how that would work for when people are fishing. They don't usually come with hardtops which is a minus.
Example: 2008 Scout Boats 222 Abaco For Sale In Chesapeake, VA: Walkaround - BoatTrader.com

Pro-line 23 Express - this boat seems good and practical. Wonder about getting service on the boat and Suzuki motor since I'm not sure there is even a Pro-line dealer in the area.
Example: 2008 Pro-Line 23 Express For Sale In Fernandina Beach-Amelia Island, FL: Walkaround - BoatTrader.com

I'm hoping to be in the mid-high 30's for a boat (~$37,000). Any opinions? Anyone own one of them? Only know the deadrise of the Pro-line (20 degrees).

Thanks!

[marshalljr]

I would suggest you look for a Grady White, especially if you plan some offshore fishing...Great ride and tough as nails...May cost a bit more but will have a greater value when you're ready to trade up or sell.....Good luck on the water....Marshall...

[Hokiepoq]

"...cost a bit more..." - I think that's a little bit of an understatement. They look to cost about double.

[Capt Kid]

of your three choices i would have to say proline, i havent been on a scout so cant comment on that. so proline vs. key west... bottom line is proline makes a better product. take a close look at the small things such as latches, hinges, through-hulls and wiring terminals and components because we all know these are the things that really get aggravating. i dont know where you are located but whalens marine is a great suzuki to deal with here in va