Re: Need help deciding!!!
Is $15,000 your new, or used, budget?
Assuming used, and given your location, look for a 17-19' center console, outboard, with bow seating. Scout and Sea Hunt come to mind. They will be plentiful on the water but hard to find for sale--because it's the best design for where you are for general purpose and family boating. Consider a "bay boat" design but I think a V is more versitile, unless you plan to go to the beaches, flats and marshes.
An option is a dual console, which is basically the same as a "fish n ski" but be sure it has a self-bailing deck and no carpet. Do not get an I/O. A good rig for your location is one where most of the cushions are removeable; then you don't have to mess with covers. And no carpet.
Look at Carolina Skiff DLX, too. Start by looking at new boats on the websites and boat dealers to get an idea of design, engine pairing, etc. then walk around the docks and marinas and get a better idea. talk to the owners.
Try a local boating forum, too; just be sure it's coastal and not the lake boaters.
T-tops are nice but I have come to like my bimini. You can start with a bimini and add a T-top but it doesn't make sense to go the other way! But you will want shade for sure.
Look for a roller trailer that you don't have to dunk. If your seller was a frequent dunker, be ready to repair or replace it. Not a big deal with a 17-19' since you will have single axle, no brakes.
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