2016 Nitro Z18 Boat in Fairfield, OH 45014 US
Z18
1 Engine (Mercury)
18.7 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
The 2016 NITRO® Z18 takes the success of the highly-regarded Z-7 bass boat to a whole new level. Our new NVT™ (NITRO Vortex Technology™) hull. Lower profile gunnels for maximum deck space. An improved, heavily-insulated cooler. Room at the bow and console for a 12" fishfinder.
These improvements, plus the high level of quality craftsmanship that goes into every NITRO, make the new Z18 the fiberglass bass boat of choice for everyone from the weekend warrior to the hardcore tournament contender.
- NEW NVT™ (NITRO® Vortex Technology™) hull w/Rapid Planing System™
- Big 34 sq. ft. (3.2 sq. m) deck
- Unitized hull, foam-filled stringer system & deck for superior durability & flotation
- Room at the bow & console for flush-mount 12" (30.5 cm) fishfinders
- Improved cooler w/more insulation & a trash receptacle
- Oversized, lockable port & starboard bow rod lockers w/lid assists for rods up to 8' (2.4 m)
- Large lockable center bow storage locker w/Tackle Management System
- Aft 30-gal. (113.6 L) Guardian™ aerated, divided livewell w/timer
- Partner rod ramp w/rod handle organizer & rod holder strap
- Factory rigged w/a Mercury® outboard, Minn Kota® trolling motor & custom-fit trailer w/GALVASHIELD® corrosion protection
- Length:18' 8"
- Beam: 94'
- Bottom width: 75'
- Max. recommended HP: 175 HP
- Fuel capacity: 40 Gallons
- Max. person capacity: 4 Persons
- Max. person weight: 550 Lbs.
- Max. weight capacity : 1350 Lbs.
- Depth inside: 18.5'
- Transom height: 22.5'
- Deadrise: 16 Degrees
- Draft: 15'
- Approx. weight: 1700 Lbs.
- Approx. package weight: 3200 Lbs.
- Package width: 8' 6"
- Storage length: 21' 3"
Comfort, Convenience & Peace of Mind
- NMMA Certified
- Flotation meets or exceeds NMMA & U.S. Coast Guard requirements
- EPA-compliant fuel system
- Non-skid bow mat
- 6 drink holders
- 4 stainless steel pull-up cleats
- Integrated fold-down stainless steel reboarding ladder
- Stainless steel passenger grab handle(s)
- Fire extinguisher
- Horn
- Paddle
Console(s)
- Flush-mounted Lowrance® Mark-5x Pro fishfinder w/480x480 pixel display & surface temperature
- Removable molded, tinted windscreen
- Ready to accept optional removable port console
- Hydraulic steering w/tilt
- Custom-molded modular console w/2-tone paint scheme
- Veethree® multi-function instrumentation w/speedometer/fuel gauge, tachometer/trim gauge, voltmeter gauge & water pressure gauge
- Dash light dimmer
- Switch panels w/water-resistant switches
- LED courtesy light
Construction & Exterior
- Deck & hull chemically bonded & mechanically fastened w/stainless steel fasteners
- Transverse & longitudinal fiberglass foam-filled stringer system
- Full-width fiberglass-encapsulated composite transom
- 16-oz. (.45 kg) plush, marine-grade cut pile carpet on decks & floor
- Carpet edge trim
- Low-profile gunnels to maximize interior space & fishing decks
- Heavy-duty rub rail
Electrical
- Bow panel w/trolling motor receptacle, anchor/light switch & trim switch w/capability to flush mount 12" (30.5 cm) graph
- 1,000 GPH (3,785.41 LPH) bilge pump
- LED console courtesy light
- Integrated bow navigation lights w/stowable stern light
- Automotive-style labeled fuse panel w/cover
- Interstate® cranking battery
- 2 heavy-duty Interstate® Series 29 trolling batteries
- 2-bank (8 amps total) battery charger w/exterior receptacle
- 6-gauge trolling motor wiring/w 50-amp circuit breaker
- Master power switch
- Waterproof Deutsch plugin gauge connectors
- Water-resistant connectors on all pumps & navigation lights w/protective abrasion-resistant wrap
Interior
- Big 34 sq. ft. front deck for casting mobility w/lots of storage
- Helm & passenger seats w/carpeted step up to aft deck
- Bike seat w/pedestal
- Folding fishing seat w/composite frame
- Trolling motor pedal recess for Minn Kota® & MotorGuide® trolling motors
- Oversized, lockable port & starboard bow rod lockers w/lid assists for rods up to 8' (2.44 m)
- Molded-in drainage channels around bow storage compartments
- Port & starboard bow rod hold-down straps
- Oversized lockable center bow storage locker
- Partner rod ramp w/rod handle organizer & rod holder strap
- Lift-out, molded aft storage boxes that will accept tackle trays
- Molded utility rigging compartment for easy access to batteries & pumps & easy cleanup
- Lockable compression latches
- Step to bow deck w/insulated 62-qt. (58.7 L) cooler & removable trash receptacle
- Footrest w/non-skid mat under console(s)
- Insulated aluminum lids w/welded corners
Livewell System(s)
- Aft 30-gal. (113.6 L) Guardian™ aerated, divided livewell w/timer
- 500 GPH (1,892.71 LPH) livewell recirculation/pump-out system
- 500 GPH (1,892.71 LPH) aerator/fill pump
- Rotomolded w/rounded corners
Performance
- NVT™ (NITRO Vortex Technology™) hull
- Rapid Planing System™ for quicker holeshots, better handling & a drier ride
- Rigging tube for organized wiring & abrasion resistance
- Stainless steel propeller
Trailer
- Custom-fit, factory-matched, single-axle NITRO® drive-on trailer w/color-coordinated powder-coat finish & GALVASHIELD® corrosion protection
- 14" (35.56 cm) chrome wheels w/radial tires
- No Touch Vortex hub lubrication system for no-maintenance peace of mind w/6-yr. 100,000-mile limited warranty
- Spare tire carrier (spare tire avail. at additional cost)
- All-welded rectangular tube frame for a unitized structure w/exceptional strength-to-weight ratio
- Space-saving swing-away tongue to reduce storage length
- 1,200-lb. Fulton swing-up locking jack w/swivel wheel
- Heavy-duty winch w/nylon strap & bow safety strap
- Outboard motor support to reduce hull & transom stress while towing
- Carpeted bunks & fender boards to protect hull
- Submersible lights
- Safety cables
Trolling Motor
- Minn Kota® Maxxum® 24V, 70-lb. thrust, 42" (1.07 m) shaft foot-control trolling motor
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 8/27/26 | Initial price | $29,995 |
2016 Nitro Z18 Video Tours
Nitro Z18: BoatTEST Review
Overview
The Nitro Z18 bass boat is an 18-foot 8-inch vessel designed for serious bass anglers seeking high performance and speed. Powered by Mercury's new 150 horsepower 3.0-liter inline 4 Pro XS 4-stroke outboard engine, the Z18 aims to deliver improved torque, acceleration, and overall efficiency compared to its predecessor, the Mercury 2-stroke Optimax. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of the boat's performance, design, and features.
Power and Performance
The Mercury 150 Pro XS engine powering the Nitro Z18 is based on a 3.0-liter inline 4-cylinder block introduced in 2012 but features significant enhancements. It boasts the highest displacement and lowest weight in its class at 456 pounds, along with the highest alternator output of 60 amps. Key improvements include transient spark calibration that increases torque by 5 to 7 percent for better acceleration, a revised gear ratio of 2.08:1 in the 4.8-inch gear case to boost torque, and four raw water pickups in the gear case nose cone allowing for higher engine mounting and greater trim flexibility. During testing with two people aboard and a full fuel tank, the Z18 reached a top speed of 60.2 miles per hour at wide open throttle using a 25-inch Fury 4-blade propeller. Cruising at 3,000 RPM yielded 25.7 miles per hour and 6.4 miles per gallon, providing a range of 231 statute miles with a 10% fuel reserve. The boat demonstrated quick acceleration, planing in 4.1 seconds, reaching 20 mph in 4.6 seconds, and 30 mph in 6.4 seconds. Handling was responsive with smooth sweeping turns at moderate speeds.
Exterior Design and Deck Layout
The Nitro Z18 features a beam of 7 feet 10 inches and provides ample deck space for fishing activities. Access to the boat is facilitated by a fold-up ladder located on the port side. The aft fishing deck measures 6 feet 7 inches by 2 feet 3 inches, offering generous casting room. Underneath the deck hatches are compartments housing the batteries, a 30-gallon divided live well, and dry storage with removable plastic tubs on either side. The forward fishing area spans 6 feet 7 inches wide at the aft section, tapering to 5 feet 2 inches forward, with a depth of 4 feet 2 inches at the forward aft area. This space includes a wastebasket and a 62-quart draining cooler that can be outfitted with an optional sandwich tray. Additional exterior features include four 4.5-inch pull-up cleats, cup holders, and tool racks mounted outboard on each side. The boat is equipped with a Minn Kota Maxim trolling motor delivering 70 pounds of thrust and controlled by a foot pedal, enhancing maneuverability in fishing scenarios. The Z18 is trailered on a single-axle unit with a swing-away tongue, carpeted bunks, and a motor support, making it a ready-to-use package.
Helm and Controls
The helm console is designed for ergonomic operation and comfort. It is topped with a windscreen and features an instrument panel centered around a 5-inch Lowrance Hook 5X fish finder. Flanking the fish finder are SmartKraft multifunction gauges, with the tachometer positioned to port and the speedometer to starboard. The steering wheel is mounted on a tilt hydraulic helm for adjustable driver comfort. The throttle and shift controls are conventional mechanical units, with a remote trim switch allowing the engine to be tilted up for trailering. The boat includes a master power switch adjacent to the ignition key that disables electrical power to accessories, preventing battery drain. Storage for fishing rods is conveniently located ahead of the companion seat on the port side, complemented by a rubber mat on the gunwale to protect reel finishes.
Additional Engine Features and Maintenance
The Mercury 150 Pro XS engine incorporates several practical design elements to enhance durability and ease of maintenance. The gear case includes low water pickups that facilitate higher engine installation and compatibility with jack plates, beneficial for navigating shallow waters. Engine mounts have been stiffened slightly to improve stability. The engine cowl features updated graphics and a streamlined profile. A maintenance decal is prominently displayed on the motor's side for quick reference. The alternator's 60-amp output is the highest among four-cylinder four-stroke engines, and the idle charge battery management system automatically increases idle speed to produce 20 amps when low battery voltage is detected, ensuring reliable battery maintenance.
Conclusion
The Nitro Z18 bass boat, equipped with Mercury's 150 Pro XS outboard, represents a well-rounded package for bass anglers who prioritize speed, torque, and functional fishing features. Its combination of advanced engine technology, efficient fuel consumption, responsive handling, and thoughtfully designed fishing spaces makes it a competitive choice in its class. The inclusion of standard equipment such as the Minn Kota trolling motor and a quality trailer further enhances its value as a turnkey fishing platform.
Overview from around the web 2016 Nitro Z18
The 2016 Nitro Z18 has garnered positive feedback from owners and enthusiasts alike
Customers frequently highlight the boat's impressive performance and stability on the water, making it a favorite for both casual outings and competitive fishing. The efficient and powerful motor options provide quick acceleration and smooth handling, ensuring a thrilling experience on the water. Many users appreciate the spacious layout, which offers ample storage for gear and fishing equipment. The layout has been designed to maximize utility without compromising comfort, allowing for an enjoyable day out on the lake. The feature-rich console, including easy-to-read gauges and a well-placed electronics mounting area, has also received commendations for enhancing the overall boating experience. Furthermore, the Nitro Z18's construction durability and attention to detail in design have received praise, giving customers confidence in their investment. Overall, the combination of performance, functionality, and value has made the 2016 Nitro Z18 a popular choice among avid boaters and anglers.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
Pros
Performance: The Nitro Z18 is equipped with a high-output engine, providing excellent acceleration and top speed that appeals to serious anglers and recreational boaters alike.
Stability: Designed with a stable hull, the Z18 offers a smooth ride even in choppy waters, ensuring comfort for both the driver and passengers.
Ample Storage: The boat boasts generous storage compartments, allowing anglers to stash away gear, tackle, and personal items conveniently and securely.
Fishing Features: Equipped with features like live wells, rod lockers, and dedicated tackle storage, the Z18 is tailored for fishing enthusiasts, making it easier to organize and access fishing gear.
Affordability: As an entry-level bass boat, the Nitro Z18 offers a great combination of features and performance at a competitive price point compared to similar models in its class.
Customization Options: Buyers have various options for upgrades and accessories, allowing for a more personalized boating experience.
Cons
Size Limitations: While the Z18 is a capable boat, its smaller size compared to larger models may limit passenger capacity and overall storage space for those needing more room.
Basic Amenities: The focus on fishing performance may mean fewer luxury features or amenities found in larger, higher-end boats, which could be a drawback for those seeking a multi-purpose vessel.
Ride Quality: While it offers stability, some users may find the ride less smooth compared to more expensive performance boats, particularly at higher speeds over rough water.
Wind Protection: The open layout may not provide as much wind protection for passengers compared to a more enclosed design, which could be a consideration in adverse weather conditions.
Resale Value: As with many boats, resale value can fluctuate based on market demand and condition, which may be a concern for future buyers.
Made For
The 2016 Nitro Z18 is designed for avid anglers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a versatile and reliable fishing boat. With its spacious layout and robust construction, it caters to both novice and experienced fishermen who prioritize performance on the water. This model is perfect for those who enjoy exploring lakes, rivers, and coastal waters, offering ample storage for tackle and gear, as well as features that enhance convenience and comfort during long fishing trips. The Nitro Z18 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their fishing experience while enjoying the thrill of boating.
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2016 Nitro Z18 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $29,995 | $35,785 | $37,855 | $38,185 | $38,690 | $39,285 |
| Location | Fairfield | Avon | Rossford | West Chester | Columbus | Columbus |
| Nominal Length | 19' | 17' | 17' | 17' | 17' | 17' |
| Engine Make | Mercury | MERCURY MARINE | MERCURY MARINE | MERCURY MARINE | Mercury | MERCURY MARINE |
| Total Engine Power | 150 hp | 115 hp | 115 hp | 115 hp | 115 hp | 115 hp |
| Days on Market | 21 | 22 | 355 | 11 | 28 | 22 |
| Get in touch |
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Address
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Boat Location
Contact Hern Marine about 2016 Nitro Z18
7341 Dixie Hwy., Route 4, Suburb of Cincinnati, Fairfield, OH, 45014




















