Newbie boat question

[fwe]

I know I probably could have searched the threads and gotten this info, but here it goes.

I am a longtime surfcaster, looking to get a boat.

I'm looking for 18-20 footer

It's all so confusing. So many brands, wide variety of prices, differing opinions.

I've heard differing opinions on used v. new. I don't know much about boats, and I have heard that the security of a warranty may be worth getting a new boat. However, I know depreciation on boats is rapid. Used v. new.

And, of course, the million dollar question: what boat. You hear the same names - Boston Whaler, Grady White. They are very expensive. I do want a safe boat - are the above really that much more stable and safter than other boats?

Thanks for you help. Bill

[mctrout]

Please be allot more specific

[stripah]

What type of fishing will you most likely do how much do, how much you wanna spend, and a heck of alot of other considerations must be thought out before you even begin to look. So put a little though into what youre needs will be and what you expect from youre vessle as to help you narrow it down and help us help you :)

[marlinslayer]

fwe,
ask a hundred guys and you could get a hundred different answers, unfortunately for you. but , we've all been there at one time or another. if you have any friends ask them. look around marinas, see what people have . you may want to charter a couple boats and ask some of the skippers what works for them. you do have a great resource in this web site , as alot of the "usual contributers" are a wealth of information.
start off by knowing what you like . it makes it easier to pay for and will you'll be that much quicker to take care and do the maintanance. consider if you'll be trailoring it or mooring. the more you research it and know "what you want" in advance, the far better off you are. it's the same as buying a car, some prefer minivans, suv's or little sportscars. boat selection is a very personal decision. your far better off coming and asking about a certain model and requesting input and opinions. for as tough as a decision it can be, it will be a very rewarding experience if it works out. the peple on this sight are very helpful and there's no limit to the questions you can ask.wish you the best in your search....

[mansfieldsign]

Ask yourself a couple of questions that might help focus your boating needs.
Will I usually launch alone?
Will I trailer it or slip?
Do I need to ugrade the tow vehicle?
How far will I have to travel to the ramps?
Will the kids and wife usually to go.
Winter storage space?
How much boat time will I have?
Do I feel comfortable doing some of the basic engine maint.?

There are lic. boat surveyors that can go over the boat for you and give you a real selling value and structural integrity report. Might be worth the small investment if you are looking at the high end boats.
They can usually spot things that may have been covered up by new gelcoat or bottom paint or deck repairs. Good luck

[maineguideman]

Im with mansfield There are a hundred things to consider.
Also many people new to boating somtimes bite off more than they can chew, maybe start small like a carolina skiff with a tiller outboard and get used to launching and trailering and maintaining. Then sell it in a few years and go a little bigger and keep doing that until you get the 21 footer of your dreams. My first boat when i was alot younger was 14 foot zodiac type boat with 25 mariner I caught thousands of stripers out of that boat.

[saxatilis]

Hey, just buy my boat. It is a great value, safe, and very well maintained. See the thread above "Great Light Tackle Boat". BTW, Ranger makes a fantastic saltwater boat. This just in they know a little something about fishing and fishermen!!!!!!!!!!! Good luck