Question About A Boat Im Interested In On Cl

[Goose21]

Craig's list

http://columbiamo.craigslist.org/boa/3178242261.html

2001 Lowe, looks to be in relatively good shape.

My concern is the trolling motor, only 40lbs of thrust? I contacted the owner and he sounded not so confident, "runs fine but you may want more power"...Anyone have any input? I do not river fish, for the most part it's just me and a buddy.

Any other questions you all would ask?

This will be my first boat, trying to come up with what to offer.

Thx all!

[MarkH024]

The rule of thumb with trolling motors....get the most powerful one that your wallet can afford and the boat can handle. Either way, it will work with that 40lb thrust in most conditions. It will be challenging if you fish very windy days, or extremely weedy lakes. It's a start, and if you love the boat get it. You can always upgrade or ask Santa for a Minn Kota this year.

[tnriverluver]

Get him down to $4000 or less on the price and use the savings to upgrade trolling motors. Very good boat and that motor will work fine as long as you aren't in a strong current or wind.

[Michael DiNardo]

From someone who does not have a boat, I would make it work. Beats the heck out of fishing from shore. Think of it this way, you better not buy the boat because it might be too windy on the lake for that size. You better hold out for a 20 ft Ranger that will handle the wind better. If it fits your budget, buy it and just fish. There is always something bigger and better. Just the opinion of someone who would fish the heck out of that boat and trolling motor.

Mike

[Old man river]

If that outboard on it is running good then that seems like a pretty good deal. He's willing to put in in the lake for a test ride and that shows he's not trying to get over on the buyer. That trolling motor would not keep me from buying it as long as it is in good working condition. That's an easily upgradable item. Go for a ride in it, get it checked by a mechanic and if he gives you a good report on the motor then buy it and enjoy it.

[Goose21]

Thanks for the advice all.

Dinardo you hit the nail on the head, I've been banking it with the snakes for a while now, and I'm excited to cover some new water!

I negotiated down to 3850, meeting the guy in a couple days on a lake for a test run (much appreciated). My budget will allow for some upgrades if need be (new trolling motor and fish finders). He's selling because he wants a larger outfit.

Will keep you all posted and I'm sure I'll have a few more questions.

Tight lines, Goose.

[RyneB]

i had a Tracker with a 40 hp and 47 lb thrust trolling motor. Never once did i feel the 40 hp outboard was under powered. Of course i always want more speed, but it would do just fine on big reservoirs and rivers. As for the 47 lb trollling motor, it did just fine in calm water. When the wind was bad and there was a chop on the water, it was a bit of a struggle. By no means was it a reason not to buy a boat though. Good luck.