Which way would you go?

[Avalonjohn44]

I have a jon boat now, but after some practice this year, I aim to buy a real bass boat... Money being the key issue, would you guys suggest buying a low end traditional composite bass boat, or a high end aluminum hull boat?  I've been looking around and it seems that folks like Skeeter, Triton, etc, offer a base model composite hull boat for about the same price as a loaded aluminum boat.  I can't really go higher than 13 or 14K.

Or should I just start looking at a used boat?  

[bassnleo]

My opinion.....

I was in the same situation as you a few years ago. I looked at all the places I fish, what the water can get like during a storm or on a busy day etc.... I settled on a glass rig and got a great deal on a used one. I love it and never regret my choice. No matter what you decide if you have 13 to 14k to spend you can get a really nice rig, glass or aluminum.  

[Cajun1977]

shop and and get what best fits your needs   only you can really decide whats best for you  newer bassboats can get pretty expensive

[cart7t]

For 13-14k you can get a pretty nice used bass boat.  I've never owned an aluminum bassboat but I've fished out of quite a few and I would never make the switch unless I was going to spending all my time on smaller waters.

[Madhouse27]

In that price range you are going to be able to get a sweet ride regardless of what it's made of. What's your tow vehicle situation. That could end up being the deciding factor.

[Ben]

First you need to look at what you're going to be towing it with.  Glass boats are heavy and not just anything will haul it up and down the road.

Tin cans are much easier on the towing vehicle, and cheaper to operate, but will beat your guts out on choppy water.  If you have to go very far on chop, it will be about five minutes before you can make accurate cast, takes that long for you eyeballs to stop bouncing.

[northgabassfisher]

I just bought me a used aluminum bass boat and I love I have nothing but postive thing's to say about it.

[Triton_Mike]

I have to say I don't think your gonna be able to get one of them high end Triton or Skeeter jon boats for 10-12K.  A 150hp motor almost costs that much alone.  I'd definitely go used if I was you.  

T Mike

[IneedAnewScreenName9886691]

My opinion-

Like most everyone above has said- it really depends on the water you plan on visiting.  If you are going to be fishing large lakes I would go with glass and go BIG!  nothing under 18' will sufice if you are tackling big lakes on a regular basis.

Nothing worse than spending all that money and time and getting to the lake only to not want to run because the wind is blowing.  

If you are going to fish small lakes and private waters - a tin boat may work for you.  I really don't know -but I have never seen a aluminum boat over 18'.  But with what they have been doing lately I wouldn't be surprised.  

good luck...I am jealous of your position!