Short Wave Sportfishing wrote:



$3,500 isn't out of the question for a new boat, but I'd jack the
target price up $1000 or so for a new boat of decent construction.

Based on my Lake Champlain experiences, I would think that you would
want something in the 16/18 foot category with decent freeboard and in
the vicinity of a 25 horse outboard. To save some money, consider
obtaining a two stroke.

What I suspect you are probably looking for is a utility type boat
rather than an open boat. Those will also be slightly cheaper.

Lunds are the premier aluminum utility boat line and they are pricey,
but Princecraft are excellent boats along with Starcraft - those are
boats that I've have direct experience with. Tracker makes a series
that has a lot of freeboard and those are a little less expensive.

Later,

Tom

I second the 16-18 Aluminum... w/ a 25-30-35 hp Johnson/Evinrude w/
forward controls. A boat w/ lots of freeboard - Smokercraft &
Alumacraft(LOVE the Lunker 16...) are two more brands to look at in this
category. The boat will last nearly forever, so get on top of your
powerplant with a good survey, and you are headed in the right direction.

Rob