The Smoker Craft Big Fisherman 14 2005 vs Smoker Craft Pro Bass 171 2009 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Smoker Craft Big Fisherman 14 2005 at 14,0 ft versus Smoker Craft Pro Bass 171 2009 at 17,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Smoker Craft Pro Bass 171 2009 tips the scales at 1 075 lbs — 790 lbs less than the Smoker Craft Big Fisherman 14 2005 at 285 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 90 hp, the Smoker Craft Pro Bass 171 2009 has a 55-hp advantage over the Smoker Craft Big Fisherman 14 2005's 35-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
Both boats are rated for 4 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Smoker Craft Big Fisherman 14 2005 comes in at 8 lbs per hp versus 12 lbs per hp for the Smoker Craft Pro Bass 171 2009. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Bottom line: The Smoker Craft Pro Bass 171 2009 at 17,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Smoker Craft Big Fisherman 14 2005 at 14,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.