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I am looking for a boat that I can fish in the Chesapeake Bay between Kent Island and Annapolis as well as take into the Sassafras river for bass fishing. My research has led me to the Boston Whaler 210 Outrage but I am concerned about it's ability to handle the Chesapeake. Any response would be appreciated.

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In a word "No". The real question is about your ability to handle the Chesapeake Bay. The 210 Outrage will "handle" just about anything that a human can handle and more.

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Butchdavis is correct in that these boats will handle more than most of their captains can. I have a 1961 16' Nauset and use it in the Chesapeake all of the time. I am from Annapolis and use it in the same area you are thinking about off of Kent Island. I wouldn't take her out when the chop is more than 2'-3' or when it's blowing hard, but overall she's a decent bay boat, if small. I even take her up and down the bay, but I pick my days carefully for that. She can handle the weather but it's hard on her passengers. You do have to pilot her appropriately for the conditions.

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There eventually comes a point where any boat is too small, if the conditions get bad enough. The bigger the boat, the less often that occurs.

That said, we routinely fish and cruise the same waters in an Outrage 18/19 hull (18.5'). No, we are not out there during winter. But April-October, even March & November weather permitting, the boat can handle ordinary Bay conditions.

You'll want to keep tabs on weather, and consider heading to more protected waters if a Small Craft Advisory is forecast. But as long as conditions are moderate, you can criss cross the Bay in that boat to your hearts content.

Good luck and let us know what you decide.

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What year 210?

I have a 1999 21 Outrage. If I can make it through Shark River Inlet it will handle the ocean.

This is a bit of a breezy day with a good chop, 3-4'. Wasn't uncomfortable as long as you are willing to slow down to match the conditions.
For the most part it is dry unless the wind is pushing the spray.

Drifting in this is surprisingly comfortable

iPhone video, hand held.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVJDWp...VJDWpV9yy0

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Having spent time on an Outrage 210 and been out in the Chesapeake, I say YES.

While the Bay can be nasty, the 210 is a bit of a beast, has high freeboard and significant deadrise.

Good to have max hp. if possible.

I would also agree with Duane's opinion. The Outrage 21 is a good choice too.

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Phil, just to clarify, is it your opinion that the Boston Whaler Outrage 210 is too small for the Chesapeake?

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Sorry. Both boats are NOT TO SMALL.

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X2 what Old Bay says. To Phil's point - what year/HP is the motor?

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I guess it's just me but I think it's funny when someone asks if a 21 foot Whaler is enough for the Chesapeake Bay. I grew up going out on the Bay. Mostly the western shore of the middle Bay from point lookout to Sandy point. I've been all over the Bay but mostly those areas.

I have been out on everything from a kayak to a skiff to a CC to a DC to a bowrider to a Downeaster. I had a good time on all of them.

The Bay can be glass or it can turn to stringy green snot. I've yet to die. Now comfort is another discussion. How many people, how much gear, what you expect amenity wise. Those are deciding factors. If you use common sense, you can enjoy the Bay with any craft.

I know plenty of guys who would kill to have a 210 outrage for the Bay. If you can afford it, and it makes sense, go bigger. You certainly wouldn't regret it.

Best of luck with your purchase, no need to over think it.