What to look for in a boat

[TexasBob]

I have never owned a boat but have been going out with friends/family more lately and started looking at used boats. I am more than a little overwhelmed with all the options and features. What is important to look for? I am leaning toward a bass boat because I will mainly fish, ride around and swim. Would be nice to be able to tow a tube but not a requirement by any means. Fiberglass vs. aluminum? Minimum length? I assume 4 stroke EFI is best. etc.

[bearkat2004]

well, the main thing to look for is one that floats, as far as length, depends on how many people you will have in the boat with you.

[Snapper]

You will get 100 different responces to which boat works best. You need to ride in as many as you can, fish out of them and remember that you never have enough storage space.

I have a 22' Nautic Star center console that I love. Good for fresh water bass and cats and can go to the short rigs if I want.

[holdem]

Condition of the keel
Hours on the motor
Cracks in the transom

[Jaspro]

This is what I look for in a boat.

[Ksig512]

^^^^^^^ That's that the first thing you should look for in a boat..

[Ol Thumper]

Jaspro when you find that boat just let me know, I think you need a partner to go in with

[TexMax]

Wow you opened up a huge can this one

1. Ski boats are good for skiing, fishing boats are good for fishing, fish and skis are good for nothing.
2. Get fiberglass
3. 18'+
4. If it's rated for a 150 it should have a 150. A 125 may do. A 90 will not.

Sounds like youll want a center console, of which there are still lots of different choices (if it says pro master or travis addition on the side, run). Not a four stroke fan myself (sho aside). They belong on pontoon boats.

[JTeLarkin08]

Salt or freshwater??

Most important thing is a good motor and good transom

[Booger74]

The hole to throw your money inn.

[systemnt]

A) it floats
B) Engine works
C) Has a large cooler
D) If Engine doesnt work, it has Oars
E) If it doesnt have oars, that it has enough beer in cooler for the trip all the way down stream.
F) Doesn't leak

[BrandonA]

Imo go with a center console. Minimum length 22 ft . Fiberglass. Stay away from promaster or like mentioned earlier anything Travis edition. Also stay away from bass pro models.

[systemnt]

Imo go with a center console. Minimum length 22 ft . Fiberglass. Stay away from promaster or like mentioned earlier anything Travis edition. Also stay away from bass pro models.

Kenner, blue waves are good boats.

[Charles]

Jaspro's picture just proves the point that boats are "high maintenance"

[SKLOSS]

boat = Break Out Another Thousand