I'm thinking about spending a month or two in Florida yearly, around
Port Charlotte. Probably rent a home with canal/dock in Punta Gorda.
I like to fish on most days, but renting a boat is expensive.
An option I'm considering is to buy a boat, let's say a 16' Carolina
Skiff with a 40hp motor, and store it in the area when I'm not there.
Anybody done something similar, and does this sound practical?
What are not-obvious-to-me financial pitfalls/gotchas?
I live near Chicago but don't want a boat here and don't want to tow
it to Florida.
FYI, I've never owned a boat, but have handled a few powerboats and
spent plenty of time on all kinds of water.
If I get the boat, I'll be here asking for boating tips, but right now
my concern is financial.
And security. Is boat theft from canal docks something to consider?

Thanks,

--Vic