With so much desire to downsize, the 191 Bay Scout has come along at just the right time. This new model is designed with fuel-efficient four-strokes in mind, and it doesn’t require a lot of horsepower to get up and go.
The key to the 191’s performance advantage is the reverse transom. Far more than just a styling exercise, moving extra displacement aft of the engine’s mounting point offsets the additional weight of a modern four-stroke outboard, keeping the boat stable at rest and enhancing on-plane running performance. A stepped section allows the boat to pivot and plane quicker, and reduces wetted surface area and drag at planing speeds. The end result of this clever engineering is a 19-foot fishing boat that performs well on a 90 hp outboard, but can also shoulder a 150 hp four-stroke. Our test boat was rigged with a 90 hp Yamaha, which delivered ample acceleration and pushed top end to better than 40 mph in windy conditions.
The hull design also adds versatility to boat’s fishing missions too. With its 10-inch draft, flats anglers would be justified in adding a push pole and possibly a stern platform. The boat is equally suited for open waters, as we found it stable with two anglers on one side of the bow platform.
As one would expect from a company such as Scout, the 191 musters a full complement of fishing features, including livewells, rod storage, a removable fishing chair and built-in tackle organizers. In short, all the things a fisherman would want in a compact but fully capable angling platform.
Key Note: The flared bow tames oncoming chop to give the 191 good rough-water performance, without compromising resting stability or the shallow draft.
Standout Features
• Despite the low profile, there are ample storage areas in the bow and console.
• The primary livewell is fitted into the console leaning post to keep weight centered and the transom area uncluttered.
• Flush-mounted cleats and hardware won’t snag lines or toes.
Vital Stats
* Length Overall: 18’10”
* Beam: 8’6″
* Dry Weight: 1,390 lb.
* Seating Capacity: 6
* Fuel Capacity: 52 gal.
* Maximum HP: 150
* MSRP (base boat w/ Yamaha F90TXR): $27,197
* NMMA Certified: Yes
Test Drive
* Test Engine: Yamaha F90TXR
* Test Prop: 13.25 x 18
* Test Load: People (350 lb.); Fuel (25 gal.)
* Optimum Cruising Speed: 24 mph @ 3,500 rpm
* Top Speed: 42.5 mph @ 5,800 rpm
* Time to Plane: 4.4 sec.
* Time to 30 MPH: 8.2 sec.