Boat Length for Registration

[mmf]

I recently bought a Starcraft boat that is just an open V-hull basic fishing boat. The actual length of the hull from the transom to the furthest point
on the bow is 13' 6". Should boat length be "rounded off" to 13' or 14'?
My state (NC) requires titling if 14' or over and I am trying to avoid titling this little boat unless necessary. Should'nt I be able to say it is a 13' boat since it IS NOT 14'? Anyone done this before?

Thanks

 

[mthieme]

Re: Boat Length for Registration

Technically, it's not 14'. Although for marketing purposes, the mfg. probably dubbed it as 14'.
It's very doubtful that DNR would have a tape measure and actaully be able to use it on the water either.
But, that's the rebel in me.

 

[This_lil_fishy]

Re: Boat Length for Registration

This is true, my boat also measure 13.5'. I registered it as a 13, but I noticed recently (been shopping for a new boat) that almost all the manufactures add that 1/2" to their designation. IE: Doral 190 is actually 18' 5"...etc.


Ian

 

[LongLine]

Re: Boat Length for Registration

It's not 14 ft so don't register it as one. It's very similar to the outboard engine thing years ago. Many states restricted outboard use on small ponds to under 10 horsepower. That's why nobody makes a 10 hp anymore. They all have 9.9's or 9.8's.

Tom B.
(LongLine)

 

[mmf]

Re: Boat Length for Registration

Thanks guys for the input. I think after reading your replies I will fill the papers out as a 13' boat. This boat never had been registered because it was previously a farm pond boat, but I will use it on my local river/lake system (Lake Wylie) which is heavily patrolled by the wildlife comission officers. This will become my "little" fishing boat coupled with a little Merc 9.8 HP. I have a 24' Sea Ark and 150 Merc that I use for "big water". I just like to have the small one to get up in the upper river feeders plus I think it's neat to get back to basics of simple fishing as I started. Thanks again fellows!

 

[Nandy]

Re: Boat Length for Registration

What size is in the previous registration if any? Is there a capacity tag? Any of those 2 places will show the size you should use. If there is none of those in existence then have at it, tell them 13 feet. I frankly dont see the problem with registration unless you are trying to avoid the fee.