Need help with finding first powerboat...

[squale]

I am new to boating and am looking to get my first powerboat. I want something that I can use for fishing, swimming, waterskiing, etc. I would also like to have something that I can use on lakes, bays, and oceans. So I guess it's safe to say that I am looking for a boat that could do everything, but I am overwelmed with the amount of different boats and manufacturers. What would you recommend I start off in for my quest to find the perfect first boat?<br />Could you recommend some manufacturers to look at and some to stay away from?<br />Could you tell me what type of boat I should get.. such as a runabout, deckboat, etc. ?<br /><br />I have instant messenging programs if you prefer to chat over them if that would be quicker. Thank you for your help in advance.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

EDIT: Sorry, Lenny. We don't allow selling here. JB

 

[squale]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

what are the best brands of boats to go with?

 

[Tacklewasher]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

This is my opinion ONLY. I was looking for the same kind of thing, with a big focus on fishing and river fishing.<br /><br />My first priority was an aluminum hull as the fibreglass doesn't take running up on rocks well (and I knew I was going to do that).<br /><br />I bought an older Starcraft and it's perfect for fishing but a bit underpowered for skiing. And at 18', not sure if it'll see Ocean use (I'm 400 miles from the ocean).<br /><br />Maybe put the uses you list in some kind of priority and post that. Good fishing boats don't make the most comfortable water sport boats. And good water sport boats don't take the blood and guts of fishing.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

Where to start? - - Well here is as good a place as any. Spend some time bumming around the various sections on this web site. There is more info here than you can possibly absorb. You also need to talk to every one you know who has a boat and find out what they like and what they don't. Hit the marinas and boat ramps in your area and do the same. Most owners will be more than happy to share their tales. Go to any of the boat shows that are around even if you have to travel a bit. Above all take your time. We read many posts here from folks who got starry eyed and bought first and thought second. Then they come here with their sad stories.<br /><br />You have to ask yourself a few basics - - Like new or used? - - How many people will I need to carry? - - What are the dealers in my area (need a good dealer for service & warranty support)? Outboard or I/O? - - and so on.<br /><br />Having said all that I would sort of focus on a trailerable 18-21' center console with a 2 or 4 cycle outboard (as big as you can afford (like 125-175hp).<br /><br />You might also look into taking a power squadron course - lots of info there.<br /><br />Good luck!!

 

[LadyFish]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

My opinion only. But within the last year we bought a center console with live bait well, fish boxes, raw water wash 21' boat with a 150 Johnson, and I am totally in love with it. Now you have to know our prior boat was a Bayliner with a Force engine, Cuddy Cabin (pleasure boat), so this is a dream come true. So easy to clean after a day of fishing and no engine troubles. I wish we had the sense 10 years ago to buy a great fishing boat that suits all our needs.<br /><br />Johnson is still a good motor, Wellcraft is still a good hull. We couldn't be happier. We would have preferred to purchase a Proline, but this boat fell within our means and has been very good to us.<br /><br />Good luck in your search. And, even though I'm a girl I've been boatin all my life. <br /><br />My Mom still has a 15 horsepower Johnson year 1955 and it still runs. 'Nuff said.

 

[KCook]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

Here is another thread that may give you some ideas - Boat buying advice <br /><br />Take your time,<br />Kelly Cook

 

[Andrew Leigh]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

I am unable to offer opinions of boat type but will give you some food for thought having just been through what you are about to go through.<br /><br />1.When you want to use the boat for so many activities then be prepared to compromise. First figure out which activity will dominate your recreation time and make sure that the boat conforms more to that activity.<br /><br />2. Make sure you have enough hp. This is the most expensive part and rather have 20 or 30hp more than be lacking.<br /><br />3. Your hull "v-depth" will have a great bearing on your ability to access shallow water (fishing) and your ability to safely negotiate rougher water. Also with a shallow "v" one tends to get little protection from the wind when on the move.<br /><br />4. Don't buy a boat without extensively testing it on the water, with if possible, someone you trust who knows and understands boats.<br /><br />5. I took a long time to decide as it took many weeks for me to decide what I wanted. Then I waited for "my boat" in the right condition and at the right price.<br /><br />It is a 1998 model and in perfect condition, both boat and motor and trailer. I got a fishfinder the Lowrance X51, two oars, 6 life jackets, port and starboard light kit, that awning thing that provides shade, ropes, extra fuel tank, the boards and two seats (without the poles)and I paid the equivalent of $US 7000. That may be expensive in the US but here it was probably 20% below the going price. The secret is to wait and if possible to have the cash....cash talks. <br /><br />6. I also did not buy a new boat knowing that I may not enjoy boating to the degree I anticipated and therefore would lose less money (new boats depreciate rapidily in the first period) were I to sell within a short space of time.<br /><br />7. Consider where you will store it and whether your vehicle will be able to tow and launch the boat you desire.<br /><br />I ended up with a 17" Shallow "V" Fiberglass Bow Rider with a 115Hp Evinrude attached to the back. It has a ski pole and "pops" a skier up without any problems. I have also fitted a fishfinder and have had two custom boards made. These boards are marine ply and coated with fiberglass and a non-slip surface. One goes in the bow section and replaces the the bench seats the other just behind the captains seat and replaces those bench seats. In time these boards will have those little seats fitted, the one on the poles. Although not a bass boat it gives more than ample space for two adults to stand /sit and fish. As I don't competition fish and practice catch and release (other than when I keep some for eating) I don't need a live well.<br /><br />It goes really well and I think I have a real nice compromise. I only use the boat on rivers and lakes.<br /><br />I have one modification left and that is to make a detachable nose piece for the bow so that I can fit a trolling motor to be taken on or off when required. <br /> <br />Good Luck<br />Andrew

 

[Parrot6909]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

I agree with the comments above. I would try to buy used first as well, this way you can find out if that particular style boat offers you the versatility that you are looking for. Looking at a 16-18 foot fish-n-ski isn't a bad idea either. Check your local papers, marinas, ebay, classifieds on iboats etc, and see what is available. A fish-n-ski would offer you the versatility of a bowrider to seat people, and the ability to have some fishing comfort as well.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

JB, <br />I am sorry I was not aware of that rule.<br /><br />newtoboatsman,<br />Email me your email address to Lenny2113@optonline.com

 

[grooveman]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

Heres some more advice. If you decide to go with a used boat there are a lot of them for sale on e bay and various other classifieds. Make sure that you know what you are getting, either by having it inspected beforehand or seeing it yourself. If youre not sure what to look for take someone with you that has knowledge of boats. Also, if you need to have it transported, be sure to check pricing first, ask a lot of questions, check them out and go with a reputable company. I bought a used boat off e bay and although it eventually had a happy ending, I could have saved myself a lot of headaches by doing my homework first. Good luck.

 

[Snailman]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

Hi New....<br /><br />I bought my first power boat last year. I'm pretty happy with her but if I had to do it over again....<br /><br />Look seriously at CENTER CONSOLE boats... They offer the best fishing platform and at 21'+ they're pretty seaworthy boats depending on the manufacturer. They can be made VERY comfortable with simple accessories.<br /><br />If you must have a cabin go with a WALK AROUND... They've got most of the advantages of the center consoles and the advantage of an enclosed foredeck and cabin.<br /><br />As far as engines are concerned... if you're not a mechanic get twin outboards. Why? Inboard/Outboard engines are essentially automobile engines that have been marinized. Outboards are built for the marine environment from the ground up. Why twin? If you're going to cruise bays and oceans have TWO engines. What are the chances that both engines will crap out on you in one outing?<br /><br />Just my opinion and I'll be the first to admit that I know little about boating but if I had it to do over again....

 

[mikemondo]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

Hey New<br /> To hell with Center Consoles. They just suck. They ride terible and most of all they are uncomfortable and leave no place to get out of the weather. Get yourself something like a 19 -21' Grady or a boat of that style not nec. makeand with a little cuddy and with a full windshield and canvas top. Now that is what you are looking for. Power it up well and you will love it for everything. P.S. No open bow boat....

 

[bossee]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

Hi,<br />If money is no problem and You want an almost indestructable boat that needs almost no maintenance, except regular service on the outboard, have a look at this boat:<br /><br /> http://www.busterboat.com/en/210_magnum.html <br /><br />I do not know if it is sold in Your country but in my country it is. I have seen one with my own eyes and the reviews in boat magazines gives this boat highest scores, even in rather high waves.<br /><br />One negative thing is that it is expensive... but hang a Yamaha F150 or F200 4-stroke and it will take you on a very fast (and safe) ride.<br />Yes there is a cover over the cabin for it and a door in front.<br /><br />/Bo

 

[kshatzer]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

Good luck on your search. Take your time as others have pointed out here; a right choice will bring you many hours of pleasure but a wrong one will make you regret doing it. Boat shows are a great place for seeing a lot of boats at one time. I've had boats for 35+ years and every one was a joy except my first one that I didn't tailor to what I really wanted to do. First, as someone has already mentioned, is deciding what you will be doing most: fishing or skiing/water sports? Next, where will you use it the most: fresh or salt water? If fishing: I'm partial to center consoles. You can fight fish all around the boat if you need to. Yes, you are going to get wet if caught in the rain. I've fought a 400# blue marlin in the middle of a thunderstorm and a cuddy cabin wouln't have helped!! As some one also mentioned, a walk-around might be a good compromise, but I still prefer a center console. If you are going to be in saltwater, recommend a minimum of 21' and probably some here will say that's too small. (I had a 21' Glastron that I went 25-35 miles off shore out of Destin FL on a regular basis and it did fine). Recommend no less than a 175 HP (outboard) for that size and a 200 HP would be even better. (If you buy new, do not let a sales-person talk you into less HP to save a few bucks. It's probably the single biggest mistake first time boaters make.) It's also the biggest reason people sell boats; so be aware of that if you look for a used boat. Find a boat built by a manufacturer that has been making boats for a long time; there's a reason they are still in business. I addition to my Glastron, I've had an 18' Wellcraft CC and my newest "baby" that I absolutely love; a 22' 2003 Pro-Line center console with T top. My main interest is fishing, obviously, but I've had 4 adults and 5 kids out for watersports and swimming (no skiing although it would do fine for that) and did not feel crampped at all. It has a half swim platform with ladder so kids can easily get in/out. <br /><br />Hope some of these posts help and again, good luck on your search

 

[squale]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

I guess what I also need to understand is the difference in boat designs. Like for instance, I know what center console is, but there is also like bowrider, deckboats, cuddy cabins, etc. I don't know what these types of boats are tailored to. I think the best type of thing for me would be a fish and ski type of boat. Could anybody let me know who makes these boats and what particular models are good ones?<br /><br />Thanks

 

[KCook]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

Bowriders are mainly for day cruises and recreational skiing on lakes. The smaller ones are not so good for the ocean, or even bays.<br /><br />Deckboats can take more people than bowriders. But are not quite as fast as bowriders. Usually cost more than a bowrider the same size.<br /><br />Cuddy cabins are for overnight cruises and recreational skiing. Most are over the 20 foot size. So they are bigger than what most folks start out with as a first boat.<br /><br />Fish-n-ski boats are designed for lakes. Could be a handful on the ocean, or even bays. For the ocean the nearest thing to a fish-n-ski would be a DualConsole type boat. In your case the main limitation with a DC boat is for the gals catching rays. The bow cockpit can be filled with a sunpad, but that is about it. Which is why the gals usually prefer a bowrider or deckboat to a fishing boat.<br /><br />Lots of choices, none perfect for everything,<br />Kelly Cook

 

[squale]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

I like the walkaround type boats like Cobia or Wellcraft. But I don't know if the gals would like that the best.. lol.<br /><br />what are the best manufacturers of fishing boats, both walkaround and center console?

 

[ob]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

Boston Whaler.I'm finished.

 

[squale]

Re: Need help with finding first powerboat...

what do you think is OLD for a used boat? I was thinking I didn't want to go before 1999, but not sure how old is still considered pretty new in the boating world?