Help finding first boat

[Matt Larsen]

Hey all,

 

I have always loved fishing and had a 12' fiberglass jon boat in college. My kids are now wanting to learn how to fish and I would like to get a small boat to cruise around local lakes with the family. We live in Arkansas so we dont have any emission restrictions, but I wanted some advice on what to get or stay away from. I have a small budget of 5K as I dont want to invest too much at first in case they dont like it. So all that being said and I know its an impossible question to answer, what should I be looking for?

 

Aluminum/Fiberglass

Age of boat

Motor

 

I have run across a couple, 1 being a 1976 Ranger tournament and he says its perfect of course with everything replaced last year including outboard rebuild. Is something like that ok for the age or steer clear?

 

Thanks in advance 

[DaubsNU1]

Look around and do your research. You can find good used boats on marketplace and craigslist. Lots of boats in the $5k range...but think about, and budget for electronics before you buy. 

 

1976 Ranger sounds like a lot of work. I would pass on that one. 

 

I'd stick with Aluminum boat. Old two stroke Mercs will run forever...mine is a 1974 20hp. Runs great. 

 

Find what fist your budget...and when you get that boat in your garage...immediately start saving for the next boat / upgrade. Because you know it will be coming!

 

 

[Glenn]

 

 

[GaryH]

For 5k imho you’ll get more boat for your money if you go with aluminum than glass. Either way good luck on your search and let us know how you do. I too would stay away from a boat of that age.

[airshot]

Any glass boat over 20/25 years is a crapshoot for wood rot so I stay away from them.  Most aluminum boats have very little wood in the structure and is easy to replace if rotted.  Aluminum boats hold resale value better.  What are you going to do with the boat ?? Makes a big difference on what style.  With smaller boats an outboard  works best, and easy to maintain. I have been a boater for over 60 years, owned one fiberglass boat, never again, aluminum all the way. 

[MN Fisher]

I'll second this. My boat is a 1972 Alumacraft with a 1973 Evinrude 25hp on it. Now I did gut and rebuild the boat to turn it into a bass boat, but even an old 3-seater would be enough to get you on the water.

[DaubsNU1]

Hey @MN Fisherpost a picture of your boat. I'd love to see what you created. 

 

My 1960 Rich Line with the 1974 Merc. I've owned it 23 years now...built decking two years ago. The Minn Kota 40lb All Terrain 12v is 20 years old, and does just fine. Garmin Echomap 7sv up front, and a small Garmin in the back. No live well, but I did put in running lights and a bilge pump. Have a separate battery for the electronics and a two bank charger. 

 

 

 

[MN Fisher]

Ask and ye shall receive - before and after shots.

 

[gim]

10 hours ago, MN Fisher said:

My boat is a 1972 Alumacraft with a 1973 Evinrude 25hp on it. Now I did gut and rebuild the boat to turn it into a bass boat, but even an old 3-seater would be enough to get you on the water.

I think its safe to say that you have a unique set of skills and knowledge that most of us probably don't have.  I'm fairly boat savvy in terms of basic operation, but there's no way I'd even attempt to tackle something like that, especially with all the electrical wiring involved.  Plus you need to have the right tools too, and that's also something I don't have.

[MN Fisher]

6 minutes ago, gimruis said:

Plus you need to have the right tools too, and that's also something I don't have.

To be fair, I did have to purchase a couple tools to do the job...didn't own a rivet gun before I started.

[airshot]

Gotta start some where...some folks prefer already made, not a problem, but beware they are more costly!

Nice used boats are out there but be prepared to shop hard and long !  Spent almost 4 months shipping for mine last summer, had to drive 200 miles each way with cash in hand....but it is in like new condition, a garage queen from original owner  and a 1992 to boot!

Do lots of shopping and looking, after a while you will figure out what you really want/ need and will know it when you see it !!  But...be prepared to look at lots of junk in the mean time !!  Never be afraid to walk away!!

[Matt Larsen]

I think based on what you guys have said, Im going to go aluminum. Any advice on trackers, lowe, lund, sea ark, etc? Rivet vs Weld? Are 2 strokes ok?

[MN Fisher]

Lowe, Lund and Alumacraft are probably the 'big 3' when it comes to aluminum. I'm a fan of riveted hulls, but it's a matter of personal preference. 2 stroke motors are pretty bullet proof, known for lasting a long time if you treat them well...mine is 50 years old and still runs like a champ.

[Bird]

Never even heard about Lowe until I started shopping boats and that's what I ended up with.

Drove 12 hours round trip to get it.

 

We have used car lots around here with boats, keep shopping and you'll find a gem.

[WRB]

Looked at bass boat for $5K and a 1999 16’ Tracker on trailer with 30hp Merc is currently offered at $2,100. Located in IL.

Take a look and get started looking.

 

 

[Kirtley Howe]

Check the regulations on the bodies of water you plan to fish. Some (so far only a few, but it seems to be a growing trend) are now banning 2 stroke motors due to environmental reasons.

[airshot]

On 7/3/2023 at 7:52 PM, Kirtley Howe said:

Check the regulations on the bodies of water you plan to fish. Some (so far only a few, but it seems to be a growing trend) are now banning 2 stroke motors due to environmental reasons.

Small bodies would make sense, but on large bodies....surprised it isn't blamed on global warming...oh...wait...it already is.

[WRB]

Just read on Boat Trader a 1985 Valco 15’ boat converted to bass fishing, 2022 4 stroke 20HP Tohatsu, TM, sonar and cover for $4,000 It’s west coast but fly, rent a light truck and tow this home now!

Tom