The 190 Bay by Triumph Boats is an economical center console designed for anglers who fish in shallow water. With a draft of just eleven inches, the boat is easy to launch, and allows you to stalk fish in skinny water without fear of running aground. The standard boat includes many well-designed features that other manufacturers offer only as options.
On the bow there is a 12-volt plug for a trolling motor and a large flat deck where you’ll feel secure and sure-footed while tossing a cast net or line. Beneath this area are two deep storage spaces. One side can function as a fish box, while the other stows the removable bow fishing seat along with your anchor and other gear. There’s an additional bow storage area designed to handle the electric motor’s dedicated batteries.
In front of the console is a bench seat that houses a small but adequate 60-quart livewell. Rods can be stored vertically on both sides of the console or under the gunwales in horizontal holders. At the helm you’ll find all the basic engine instruments, a compass, and a glove box for keeping things dry. The 12-volt outlet on the console will keep your cell phone fully charged so you can call in reports on all the fish you’ve tossed into the bow and stern fish boxes. The absence of supporting pistons or any other provisions for holding the storage boxes open was noted. This is an affordable boat, and Triumph’s designers apparently felt this was not a cost effective feature.
The helm seat comfortably accommodates two people and the pivoting backrest flips around so you can face aft while fishing or relaxing. When it’s time to celebrate your catch with a cold one, reach into the 72-quart cooler located beneath the helm seat. Cup holders are positioned throughout the boat: in the bow, at the helm, and by the two padded stern seats. The stern seats flip down and transform into flush decks making it easy to fish from the stern.
The test day was not a fishing day. It was windy and rough but the boat was responsive and handled the chop without problems. However, a larger windscreen might have kept more spray off the driver. Although the 190 Bay is rated for a maximum of 150 hp, the test boat was equipped with a 130hp engine, but lack of power was never an issue. The boat hit a top speed of 36.2 miles per hour at 5400 rpm. The best speed for cruising was 29.9 mph at 4500 rpm which produced a burn rate of 10.1 gallons per hour. This gives the 190 Bay a range of about 100 miles with the internal 39-gallon tank.
Triumph uses an innovative construction technique that reduces the cost of labor and time as well as the overall cost of these boats. The computer molded Roplene hulls are tough and designed to stand up to abuse. Unlike fiberglass boats, the 190’s Roplene hull will handle a poor docking without cracking or chipping. This is a well-designed boat that offers great value and great features.
If you intend to use the boat for more than fishing, consider adding the comfort package. The bow cushion, stereo and swim platform will transform your wide beam fishing machine into a family fun machine.
For additional information visit: www.triumphboats.com
