DerekB

I fish out of a 14' jon boat that's on a trailer. It already had marine carpet when I bought it as well as a livewell. I put two pedestal seats in it and a 40 lb. thrust foot-controlled trolling motor in front. I added a 9.9 HP Johnson outboard last year. It's a little unstable due to the narrow beam, but I can lean back on the seat while standing and fish comfortably. Trailering the boat was somewhat a challenge until I added trailer guides last year. Works like a charm and it's paid for!

Skeeter 22i...just because.

That's a great looking rig! And it looks like it has a flasher at the console. IMO the best piece of electronics you can have once you learn to read them.

I currently fish out of a 1982 14-foot Duracraft jon. It's a fine boat, but as Catt mentioned, the beam is slightly narrower than most. I fish from the front standing and leaning on the seat, but I wouldn't want to walk around too much.

Thanks for the great advice. The boat has evidently already been inspected by a certified mechanic, so I've asked for a copy of it. I can then determine whether or not I need to enlist my own mechanic. Rodnreel, sounds like you got a great boat. A friend of mine owns a 2003 Champion. They ride like a dream.

Hi everyone! I've been reading posts for a while now (great info. by the way). I have a specific question about used boats. I'm currently in the used market. I feel I'm quite particular, so I'm in no hurry. I want a good, steady, wide beam with a moderate HP motor (no more than 150HP). It can be glass or aluminum. Under $10k would be ideal. Here's my question -- how old can you go on outboards to ensure you don't get one on the brink of expensive maintenance? I don't want to buy something on the verge of needing a new power head or something. What is the expected life of an outboard that's been taken proper care of? I'm currently looking at a 2000 Stratos 283 with a 150HP Johnson. Asking price is $9995, but I think that's a little high. Would you consider this boat to be too old? Thanks in advance.

I also think it's how you learned to fish. I'm right-handed, use a RH retrieve BC, but cast with my left hand. I also palm the reel. When using a spinning rig, I cast with my right hand and use a LH retrieve. It just feels right to me...go figure.

Thanks for all the advice, guys! After carefully inspecting the boat a second time and having the motor tested by a mechanic, I was able to purchase the rig for $10,250. The only thing needing replaced was the tail lights on the trailer, everything else works great. I'll post some pics once I pick it up...unless I'm fishing ;D

Thanks for the replies and advice. I've already spoke to the local Tracker dealer about checking out the motor if needed. I checked the value on NADA this evening, and you're right on about the price. Seems to me the boat should be bought for around $9,000-10,000 after factoring in the pristine condition. I'm planning to take a closer look this weekend, so I'll be sure to check on the HP rating. You make a great point, I saw a few of these for sale on various web sites and all of them had 150HP motors. Thanks again!

Hi everyone! I'm new to the forum, and after an 8-year hiatus from bass fishing to help raise my kids, I'm trying desperately to get back in the game. I'm currently looking at a 2000 Nitro NX 882 SC with a 175 Merc EFI. I didn't think I'd be interested in a boat this old, but it doesn't look like it's hardly been in the water. Transom looks perfect, and there's no rust at all on the trailer. Typical electronics at the bow and a flasher in the dash. Does anyone have experience with this boat model? Is the Merc 175 EFI a good motor? Is there anything else to look for on a boat this old? The individual is asking $12,000. Thanks in advance.

Hey Mid-MO, You're correct, they re-opened Blind Pony on March 1. They drained it about three years ago to deepen it and renovate the hatchery. At one time it was a trophy bass lake. I've also heard good things about Edwin Pape, but I've never taken the opportunity to try it out. It sounds like you don't live far from me. Maybe we should try to do some fishin' sometime.

My favorite hard bait is a Smithwick Suspending Rogue.

I live one mile from Maple Leaf and fish it regularly. While it gets alot of pressure, the bass fishing remains good. I believe most of the pressure is due to crappie fishing. Crappie weren't originally stocked (as noted on the website you mentioned), but someone had other plans. Another good small lake is Hazel Hill in Johnson County, MO North of Warrensburg. It's like a small Truman...lots of standing timber. Good bass in there that'll really jerk your line.