Thinking about getting a bass boat

[Kepo]

Looking at the possibility of buying a boat for fishing/recreation. Went out on my buddies Nitro and enjoyed it. The thing is I don't even know where to start. A couple of things I do know
- It doesn't need to be big. Ability to fish with 2 people, recreational float with 4
- It doesn't need to be new or the best, it needs to be functional and reliable
- It needs to be easily repairable and parts need to be readily available
- It needs to come with a trailer
- Ideally, it would be $5k or less.
- Aluminum vs fiberglass?
- Good used older brands?

Another thing to consider is storage. Ideally, I would keep it near a lake so I do not need to haul it back and forth all the time. Are there locations like this by the lakes in central KY? What is the average cost? I have no issue with dry storage and hooking up the truck to pull it into the lake.

What about storage locations in Lexington for the winter. Is that a viable option? I can store it in my garage, but if it's cheap enough I'd rather use that space to park my car.


Figured I would start here since you guys know the local market best.

[Princeton_Man]

Welcome aboard Kepo!
Looks like you're thinking ahead. One of the most important things to keep in mind when buying a used boat is the condition mechanically. A test drive isn't enough to insure you're getting a fair deal. Once you find what you're looking for, have it checked out buy a reputable shop. Have them do a compression test on the motor and check the lower unit. Depending on size, rebuilding/replacing a power head can easily set you back $5k and a lower unit $1.8k. If your buddy with the Nitro has a lot of boat experience, he can probably help you a lot and may know a reputable mechanic.

Also inspect the trailer closely. Look for rust and inspect the wheel bearings and tires. Both are often overlooked.


You'll get the most value with an aluminum boat. Aluminum boats generally require less maintenance and IMHO make a great first boat because they're not as easily damaged as fiberglass, are easier to repair, and they hold their value better if you choose to upgrade later.

What will you be towing with? You'll want to have the towing capacity to handle whatever you buy.


Where will you be fishing? If you're fishing big water like Kentucky Lake, Aluminum may not be your best choice if you expect to get out on the big water.


As far as fishing with 2 and floating with 4, Look for the Coast Guard capacity approval decal on the boat. That matters a lot, particularly to Law Enforcement.

[Oldfart9999]

Welcome aboard Kepo!!! Don't forget the new members contest, you might win a really nice prize!!!. I think Jim pretty much has it covered, if you can have somebody knowledgeable go with you it would be a help, they might be able to point out things you ahven't thought of and help you get a better price when you're ready to pull the trigger. A test ride if you can would be good also. Keep us posted and don't forget the pics.
Rodney

[coldfront]

couple ideas:
those old triton v-mags (aluminum, aluminum decking, I think) and/or the G3 HP series (more of a deep V looks, but great shallow draft).

if you're looking used aluminum.