My first boat was a Tracker 165. It was a very good boat - just a little small for what I wanted. My current boat is an Excel 1860 Crappie and I love it. A good buddy of mine has a Lowe Stinger 175 that is really nice. I think if I had to choose between Lowe and Tracker I would pick the Lowe. That being said - you really just have to look at what you want/need in a boat. Do your homework and you'll be happy. I wouldn't rule out the smaller aluminum boat manufacturers. I looked at every one I think. There are some really good ones that aren't as well known...