I need a boat

[HiG4s]

I'm looking into getting a boat for fishing. 16 to 20ft. Probably a bay or flats style as I will do most of my fishing in the intercoastal waterway. But I do enjoy bass fishing too. Any tips or hints on what to look for in a used boat and things I really need or really don't need  on a boat?

[bassdog]

Hmmm, where to start?  

 

A used boat; things to look for -

1.Make sure engines starts and runs

2.check tilt and trim on the motor, make sure it has full motion. when motor is trimmed all the way up put a little pressure on it and try to force it back down with your body weight. This will tell you if the hydraulics are good or not. If it does start to drop back down you may have to invest in hydraulics.

3.Check and see if all guages work, engine will have to be running to check this.

4.check livewells and pumps, fill and drain if possible, check for leaks.

5.check trolling motor, try all speeds etc...

6.Fiberglass boats; crawl under the boat if you can and look for scrapes, cracks, gouges, and repair work.

7.Aluminum boat; same as above, also check out all rivet or weld seems. Look for missing rivets here.

8.boat trailer is also important, check that out as well. Ask if it is the correct trailer for the boat...

9.Overall condition, is it kept clean, rugs and seats in good shape, nothing missing, etc.

 

I can go on and on, but this is more of a check list. Find a boat or a couple boats you like, do some research. Check NADA guides and compare the asking price.

 

If you need any further help, just let me know.

 

Bruce

[Dihappy]

And of course, walk in it.

 

Ones with wooden floors tend to rot over time, i replaced my floor last year

 

 

And arrange for a test drive at a nearby lake or river.

 

Run it at WOT to make sure the fuel system is working fine.

Sometimes the bulb may be shot, or the line may be clogged and under WOT the engine will slow, or shut down.