Don Johnson Auto Group – Which 2026 Chevrolet Colorado trim is best for towing a fishing boat around Amery, WI?
Heading to the water with a boat in tow demands a midsize truck that pulls confidently, tracks straight, and keeps the driver in control. The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado brings best-in-class towing up to 7700 pounds when properly equipped, anchored by a standard 310-hp turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder and an 8-speed automatic that balances torque and refinement. If your boat, trailer, and gear approach midsize limits, choosing the right configuration matters. Here is how to identify the trim and setup that best fits towing a fishing boat around Amery, WI’s lakes and river landings.
Start with your fully loaded trailer weight, including fuel, batteries, coolers, and safety equipment. If your combined number is comfortably below 6000 pounds, most Colorado configurations will be in the sweet spot. If you are closer to the top of the class, look beyond off-road-focused builds to reach the maximum 7700-pound rating. The same robust 2.7-liter turbo engine sits at the core, but driveline choice and suspension tuning influence tow ratings. Rear-wheel drive is available, and four-wheel drive adds confidence when launching on slick ramps or navigating muddy access roads after a storm. Chevrolet’s hitch-view backup camera is a difference-maker either way, allowing you to align solo with minimal repositioning.
- Know your numbers: Confirm the trailer’s gross weight with gear, then compare against the Colorado’s published tow ratings for your chosen trim and driveline.
- Mind the margin: Leave headroom between your trailer weight and the truck’s max rating to account for passengers, coolers, and extra tackle.
- Choose traction wisely: Four-wheel drive adds stability on slick ramps and wet gravel approaches common around local landings.
- Use built-in cameras: The hitch-view backup camera helps you pin the ball to the coupler on your first try and spot obstacles behind the trailer.
- Balance ride and control: The Colorado’s suspension calibrations deliver composed tracking at speed, so highway miles to distant lakes feel relaxed.
If off-road exploring is part of your routine, the ZR2’s Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers, locking differentials, and protective hardware are appealing, but note its tow rating of up to 6000 pounds. For heavier boats, look to trims tuned for maximum tow capacity. The crew cab’s five-foot bed still handles coolers and gear easily, and the tailgate’s lockable storage keeps small items out of sight while you are on the water. Inside, the 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto simplifies route planning to remote landings and provides weather updates that help you choose the safest time to launch and return.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado tow a 21-foot fiberglass fishing boat?
Many 21-foot fiberglass rigs with fuel and gear approach 5000 to 6500 pounds on the trailer. Configurations rated to the Colorado’s 7700-pound maximum provide the margin you want. Confirm your fully loaded weight and match it to a trim and driveline that supports it.
Is four-wheel drive necessary for launching?
Not always, but it is beneficial. Four-wheel drive improves traction on algae-slick ramps and gravel launches, especially when the rear tires are wet. It also adds confidence on muddy access roads after rain and during cold snaps when surfaces freeze.
How does the Colorado help with solo hitching?
The backup camera includes a hitch view that centers the ball and coupler, making it easy to align without a spotter. This feature reduces trial-and-error and helps prevent jack stand or bumper contact.
Which trim rides best with a loaded trailer?
Trims focused on maximum towing pair the 2.7-liter turbo’s torque with suspension and tire choices tuned for stability at speed. If you also want trail capability, the ZR2 shines off road but is rated up to 6000 pounds for towing—keep that in mind when selecting your build.
When you are ready to tailor a build for the water, Don Johnson Auto Group can walk you through ratings and features, from driveline choices to camera tech. Our team is serving Amery, Spooner, and Minong with test routes that include highway stretches and simulated ramp scenarios so you can feel how the truck responds with a load. Bring your gear list, and we will help you pick the configuration that balances towing confidence, everyday comfort, and the flexibility to chase bites on distant lakes.
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