Prop for ’23 Puma STS – Lake Erie

[Hocking]

Hello.  Just getting into my first Bass Cat as I stepping out of my 2000 Ranger 520 DVX “Bass Master Classic” Edition boat after 23 years. I am getting a new 2023 Puma STS  It appears, given limitations on Prop availability, that the boat will be coming with a Prop Upgrade to the Bravo I FS 4-blade Prop.  There has not been any discussion at all about propping for this boat with my dealer, so I thought I would come here.

What Prop should I get for my new Puma STS?  Here are details about my situation:

-My home lake is Lake Erie, which makes a huge difference I know.  I am sure a 4-blade prop offering the best in bow control is best for this situation

-I would like high top-end speed, but realistically, we rarely run anything at its highest top-end speed on Erie.  I really need mid-range bow control and handling in heavy waves more than anything.  I am hoping to still stay above 72 – 74 mph on calm days.

-What about Pitch?

-With the bow control & stern behavior of this boat, would a faster 3-blade prop be totally fine for Lake Erie?

Thanks for any help here.

[glen11]

I live in Florida now, But I fished Lake Erie for years. I had two props, one for Lake Erie and one for everywhere else. Best prop I ever used for riding those swells was a “High Five” five blade. Perfect for low end and mid range punch!

[Bass Cat Boats]

While the High Five does do a fine job, most won’t prefer it for one propeller users. Another option is the four blade Fury and drop an inch of pitch if desired.

Our most common suggestion for most is to drop an inch, or possibly two, on pitch and run a 23 or 22 Fury. These do well and you’re already (usually) dropping performance going from the 24 Fury to the four blades.

[1fishman]

Hello” BassCat Prop, Lake Havasu Here” I would also like to know how the 4 blade prop is running on the Puma STS,

I have current order in, (my 5th Cat) just probably another 6-8 weeks.. My dealership recommended The Bravo Fury 3 Blade”  I’m running a

300Merc. so dealerships are pretty much all over the place depending on area and attitude. I’m at sea level, 3 blade will usually run a little quicker,

but you do give up the handling capability. 4 or 5 Blade will always provide you a little better stability in the rougher water.

[Bass Cat Boats]

On a 300 Pro XS we would suggest a 25” Fury three blade for most at sea level.

[1fishman]

Thanks, I appreciate the information..

[Hocking]

Thanks for the replies.  I know they had originally ordered a Bravo I FS prop for the boat, but their availability is very much in question now.  They put a 24 pitch Fury 4 prop on for now to start out with.  Seems maybe that I should drop that down to a 23 pitch Fury 4.

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