Small Boat Advice

E

eZZi Bob

Cadet
Joined
Apr 14, 2009
Messages
9
[SUB][/SUB]I just moved down to the Florida Keys and I am looking on buying a small boat. I was looking for something between 14-16 foot. I want to us it for mainly Bully Netting lobsters but also fishing on nice calm days. I have asked some people and they all say get a Boston Whaler or a Carolina Skiff as if there are no other small boats out on the ocean. Can anyone give me any advice in which boats to look at and what ones to stay away from.
-Thanks you in advance
Bobby L
 
JB

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: Small Boat Advice

Boston Whaler. No second choice.
 
H

Home Cookin'

Fleet Admiral
Joined
May 26, 2009
Messages
9,715
Re: Small Boat Advice

Those people got it wrong. It's Carolina Skiff or Boston Whaler.

OK here's the deal: whalers are the best of the best, but they cost way too much new, and good used ones sell high and lightning quick, so they are hard to find used (find for sale; you see them everywhere).

Carolina Skiff is one of the best inexpensive quality utility boat. Not nearly as high quality as BW but safe, sound and cheap. Also hard to find used unless someone is up-sizing and can't store two, or someone is moving. Most people I know would keep a 14' boat if moving up so they are sometimes hard to find.

The clones aren't a bad option. McKee is a good Whaler clone. Bay runner and skimmer are copies of the CS J series.
Also look for an old Privateer or old Mako; aquasport; palm beach or proline.

Anyway the main thing is fiberglass, self bailing deck, outboard, removeable cushions; flat, cathedral or semi V hull. Best if it has a sealed hull like BW or CS rather than a bilge.

boats to stay away from? bass boats and inboard/outboards.
 
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