Corpusfishing.com

Stinger-A · Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2012 7:31 am Post subject: Boat inquiry?

I figure this is the best site to ask such a question. What is y'all opinion of a good fishing boat to purchase? I will be saving up for this so it will not be a "today" purchase. I want a boat i can bay fish but still be able to make a rig trip in good weather. Must be able to seat family (5). Used boat? How old is too old? What do you think my price range should be (hoping to stay around 10,000$ or less)? Do you finance? If so, what is the monthly payment like and how long is the loan? What would full coverage insurance be like? I asked the wife and she ok'ed the purchase as long as I have some numbers for her first, lol. Thanks.

Stinger-A

Stinger-A · Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2012 7:39 am Post subject:

Let me add that I also know nothing about saltwater boats/boating. Is there a safety course or any training I can take upon purchasing the boat? Thanks again.

Uncle D · Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2012 7:39 am Post subject:

One of the sponsors is Ron Hoover Marine. Good place to start. Wink

Stinger-A · Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2012 7:43 am Post subject:

Haha, I'm scared to go in and look first hand, I know I'll end up driving out with one attached to the truck. That's why I'm trying to do a little research first.

Ol Sanch · Flour Bluffian in training Joined: 05 Jun 2006 Posts: 320

This is such a broad question it's hard to answer. First, yes there is a boat safety course you can take. I'm sure you can find dates on the TPWD website. I took it and I recommend you do the same. It was taught by some dudes from the Power Squadron and they have additional courses you can take for fun if you choose. When I bought my boat I didn't know much about them. I've learned alot but I'm no Admiral. If I could do it over again, I'd start with a small aluminum boat with a smaller motor. You can learn lots, you can explore, and they can be inexpensive. But that isn't going to meet your needs. To answer your question directly, IMHO, if I was looking for a boat that can do what you described, I'd choose a Panga 19, a Boston Whaler Montauk 190, or a Mako 2201. The last two boats (and especially the last) are going to limit your skinny water ability. Sadly, all of those boats are well over $10K new. So based on your price range your going to be looking at something used. Used boats can be financed. It's best if you go with a more common brand that your bank can find in the book. For example, my bank never heard of Transport Boats. Used boats for people that don't know anything about boats can be a lot of trouble and money. I'd familialize myself with my boat and basic seamanship before I put my family on a used boat and ran out to the closest rig. You can rent boats in certain places, you might consider that, just to have some fun and experience being the captain. It's not the same as being the passenger.

Hopefully this is helpful to you.
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Do you even fish, Bro?

Stinger-A · Posted: Tue Jun 05, 2012 9:37 am Post subject:

Thanks for the info, a boaters safety course is a must for me. Also, when I do purchase you can bet I'm bringing someone who knows the ropes. I'm looking for a cheap boat due to fact I learned a long time ago to purchase only what you can affored to lose. Much like motorcycles. I will not be bringing my family until I'm 100% comfortable with it. And the rig trip will come when the stars aline with the planets. I just wanted a boat that I will have the option to go out BTB with. Im just trying to an idea of a good reliable boat, and what y'all think one would cost to purchase and operate. Thanks for your help