I have a 2000 Targa 18 with an I/O and it has been really good. I use is almost exclusively on Erie. The I/O has a closed loop cooling system so all I have to do is put a little bicycle air pump on a valve on the heat exchanger and I can pump the raw water out. I can fish all winter just like with an outboard. The I/O also gives me a nice casting / netting platform in the back. I was really worried about buying this type of boat with this type of motor but it has worked out fine. It rides a little high in the front, but I've never taken a wave over the bow!
I do have some questions about some things like the livewell plumbing, etc. so it would be great to keep this "targa owners thread" going so we could compare notes. does anyone have an owners manual?