Any info or warnings on 2000 Bass Cat Pantera III

mrpeewee · March 07, 2013, 10:22:56 AM

I'm looking at a used 2000 BC Pantera III as my first boat. Don't know much about them and would welcome any recommendations or warnings anyone may have. Thanks in advance.

Creel Limit Zero · March 07, 2013, 12:55:05 PM

I have not driven one, but been in one. Sure is a fine boat. I know a few have had that boat, not sure if it was the exact year though. I'm sure they will chime in shortly. What motor is coming with that boat?

mrpeewee · March 07, 2013, 01:48:20 PM

Merc 200 opti-max. Right or wrong, most of my boat-owning friends have strongly favored Mercury, so I think that's good. As I said, first boat so everything is a little bit guesswork and research for me. Thanks for your interest.

Creel Limit Zero · March 07, 2013, 02:04:20 PM

Mercury does make a fine motor, I used to run the 1997 Merc 200 EFI on my BassCat. I have not had an Optimax though. I would certainly suggest getting a compression check on all the cylinders just to be sure all is in working order, as well as taking a look at the Lower Unit gear lube, see if there are metal shavings in it.

Flyswatter · March 07, 2013, 08:23:43 PM

Dotting I's and crossing T's here. I'm most sure this boat will qualify for lifetime hull warranty. BassCat started doing this in 2000. Call them to confirm and pay the re-registration fee for $100. Best bang for the buck anyone could ask for. What a bonus to have from the only company I know of for pre owned BassCat boats. How's that for protection and if you ever sale your potential buyer will qualify for the same lifetime hull warranty opportunity like you.

PIII is the precursor to the PIV. If you like it and motor tests out jump on it. If you do I"m invoking BassCat Law number one. Post pics of that BA rig.

mrpeewee · March 07, 2013, 09:21:51 PM

Thanks for the feedback. If everything checks out, I'm ready to pull the trigger on this baby.

Flyswatter · March 07, 2013, 10:43:51 PM

Quote from: mrpeewee on March 07, 2013, 09:21:51 PM
Thanks for the feedback. If everything checks out, I'm ready to pull the trigger on this baby.

Good luck and hope it works out for you.

Elwood · March 08, 2013, 07:30:44 AM

Good luck and here is a preemptive "Welcome to the Family"!

Like Fly said...Post Some Pics!!!

Stihl1 · March 10, 2013, 09:42:26 AM

I have had 2 of them with Mercury Opti's. Great boat drives and fishes great.

Eyra1 · March 10, 2013, 09:59:02 AM

Not known for amazingly quick holeshot with a 2.5 liter engine, they are however and excellent big water boat and carry loads well.
I would test it and put some gear in it to add weight and see.....stripped down they all run fast but at least you can make sure you are satisfied.
The 96 Eyra I bought with an old 175 EFI came with a 26 pitch prop...ran great on top end empty.
Just call it a lesson learned

Flyswatter · March 10, 2013, 12:24:56 PM

Quote from: Eyra1 on March 10, 2013, 09:59:02 AM
Not known for amazingly quick holeshot with a 2.5 liter engine, they are however and excellent big water boat and carry loads well.
I would test it and put some gear in it to add weight and see.....stripped down they all run fast but at least you can make sure you are satisfied.
The 96 Eyra I bought with an old 175 EFI came with a 26 pitch prop...ran great on top end empty.
Just call it a lesson learned

Well said.... The reality from empty to full load needs to be appreciated so you don't have any surprises. However, that boat if anything like a PIV will ride great and offer plenty of great fishing experiences. Eyra1, is spot on with his BassCat experiences. Lucky to have guys like him that can offer suggestion per your endeavors.