Suggestions/Recommendations - Slow, but reliable

[Willie12345]

Both my wife and I retired at the beginning of June and are interested in both Boating and Fishing. Fortunately, our home is near several rivers and bodies of water in Northern Idaho and North Eastern Washington. We would like to begin the search for a boat to use during our retirement, as we both enjoy the water. In the past, we've had a small sail boat.

Ideally, we would like to purchase a used boat for approx. $ 14,000 or less. The boat would be trailered and stored in in a pole barn when not used. There would be times that I would use the boat alone, so ease of launching is important. Fishing (trolling) would be it's primary use, with some cruising when family members are here. At most, 5 people would be on board at any given time.

I was thinking about a purchasing a Sport Fisherman type of boat, such as a used ~ 20 foot Trophy like boat. But, that is just an initial thought. The key requirements are reliability, safety/stability, and cost of operation. My wife's health would require a cuddy cabin for her to rest in as needed.

I don't have the "need for speed", so a top speed of 15 mph, would be fine. Fuel economy is far more important.

Anything suggestions or recommendation concerning boat brand/model selection would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[crabby captain john]

Re: Suggestions/Recommendations - Slow, but reliable

More than anything it is what NOT to buy. Every boat you look at should NOT have an OMC if an I/O. Must would suggest stating far away from Chrysler and Force motors too. Many would stay away from Bayliner which built the Trophy you mentioned and many other models. Have a mechanic check compression on all cylinders and go over the motor- hopefully the seller will have documentation of all maintenance. Check the floor for softness, push hard on the tilted lower unit to find zero flex in the stern. Look in every corner and through openings under the floor for any sign of water intrusion or rot. There are people here that will know about nearly any boat / motor you are interested in-- ask here with year, make, model, length, motor mfg, year, and HP. You also have to consider the waters you will be on. Last I was in ID hunting we used aluminum boats as they were banging on rocks all day, almost anywhere else I prefer fiberglass.