Bassin' USA - Bass Fishing Forum Archives

Hi all - I stumbled into this site searching the internet and spent the last two hours reading the message board. (Needless to say I also bookmarked it ) The past few months I have been looking for the perfect boat. I am located in WI and will be fishing the Mississippi river/backwaters.
I guess to get to the point; I would like to have a bass boat, but can only spend 8,000 - 10,000. Since this will put me into the used boat price range can you give me some advice on brands that are made to last? Also if anyone has some good pointers/checklists on things to look at before buying a used boat.
Thanks for this great site; I will definitely be visiting often.

First, let me welcome you to Bassin' USA, this is one of the best sites you will find anywhere! For that kind of money, might I suggest you consider new? There are many manufacturers out there that have new aluminum in that price range, the only drawback if you can call it that, would be the horsepower you get. As for durability, aluminum will definitely get you that. I also suggest you look very carefully at what you are REALLY looking for, make sure you take safety into account. I am sure you will get several replies to this question and listed to these guys, we all have our own opinions, but your best interest will be at heart. Take a look at all of the manufacturers (might I suggest Tracker boats? I have not had any problems with mine and I love the performance). No matter what, all of the major builders make a good product (they wouldn't be there if they didn't), but if you buy used, be VERY careful, you most likely will have no idea how that boat was really taken care of. Feel free to email me with any questions, or any of the rest of the pro-staff for that matter. Best of luck!

lovefishn,
Bryan offered some good advice, it's always difficult buying a used boat. Let me STRONGLY suggest that any boat youchoose, buy it locally, I know from experience!! Aluminum boats are an excellent buy and work well in the Mississippi river as well as lakes and ponds. I however, recommend fiberglass. I know there are folks out there that think fiberglass boats won't go as shallow as aluminum, but that's absurd. My Ranger will go anywhere a tin boat will go and a whole lot safer and more comfortable. For $8 to $10,000 you can buy a nice bass boat, again, check locally and often times you can learn the history of the rig. Many anglers simply choose to move up in size or horsepower and trade perfectly good boats. A 16' 10 Champion, Charger, Ranger or Bass Tracker will serve you well. One good place to check boats is the transom area, look for stress cracks or impact cracks. If the lowwer unit looks newer or different on the motor, look elsewhere. Good luck and stay with Bassin' USA, the best **** web site period. Johnnie Crain Iowa Pro Staff.

Well - I thought I would update this post. I did buy a bought. It was a skeeter 1985 still in good shape... Some minor scratches underneath. The motor is a 2001 Yamaha 115 4 stroke and 1 year old 24V 65 thrust trolling motor. I feel I got a pretty good deal (I guess otherwise I wouldn't of bought it ) I got the package for $6,500. I do have a picture but did not see a place to post. But just wanted to thank you guys for the response. I did take them into consideration.

Thanks again
John

Good luck with the new (for you) boat... Skeeter is a solid choice. I am actually in the process of buying a new ZX225. They are built to last and the resale value is higher on a Skeeter than it would be with any other bass boat in its class except for a Ranger.

Congrats on the new boat! I agree with Brendan, a Skeeter is a good boat and should give you years of enjoyment.

Best of luck with the Skeeter, they are a great boat. Keep us informed on how you do and how the boat works out. Johnnie

Congrats on the boat!! Good luck and keep on fishing. If there is anything we can do to help don't be afraid to ask.