ThePolkFolk

You test it to see how stable it is yet? I have a similar 14' and for stability reasons have not built a deck up front at this point.

YES! Forgot about that one!

I run ONLY a 55# on my 14' aluminum, no outboard (anymore at least). Plenty of power as long as you have the juice to back it up. As many people say though, get the most thrust you can reasonably afford.

Sure aint the easiest thing in the world. Good luck on your search and stay safe on the water!

The motor is definitely the biggest thing to look at, especially with that budget. You DO want a reliable propulsion system, You DO NOT want to know how long it takes to row a 14' semi V across the lake back to the dock against a headwind. Let's just say I made it home pretty late that day. For the fiberglass, I would definitely want someone who knows a bit about boats to look at it before I'd even consider that. Even for a family friend, an $1,800 pricetag for a fiberglass boat is not usually a good sign. Your dad is smart. 10 hp will get you places plenty quick enough.

Seems like you have a good start on this. If you are keen on fishing 2 people, I would start looking at jon boats. Pay attention to the condition of the hull, ask to see the motor run, don't be afraid to walk away from a deal if you feel uncomfortable. Keep in mind you will want to budget for other items such as lifejackets, safety equipment, fish finder, and maybe a trolling motor (you might be able to find a boat with all these included). Also make sure to follow all your state laws. Make sure to get your boaters license as required for persons born after Jan 1, 1986 (at least where you and I live). Have fun and most of all stay safe! "To operate a personal watercraft, a person must be 16 or older, be 12 to 15 years old and be under the direct supervision of a person at least 18 years old, or be under 12 and be under the direct supervision of a person at least 21 years old." I agree with Hawkeye in that $800, while doable, is going to be a low budget for a boat/trailer.

How do you plan to transport the boat to the water and also how big is the water you plan to fish?

I like to start with a 1 oz weight and adjust from there if needed. Sometimes with a punch skirt, sometimes not. I like using the Gambler Ugly Otter and Flappy Daddy. If I am having trouble penetrating the cover I will rip off the side arms of the ugly otter.

Lately I've been using Z man chatterbaits with a rage craw as a trailer.

I'm sure plenty of guys will chime in soon but don't be afraid to send Mike an email.

Be aware my experience ranges from greatest to least from Saddle Creek to Lake Parker (at least from the bank). Saddle creek gets pretty heavy pressure especially on the weekends. A lot of people there buy bait at the tackle shop and go from there. I tend to throw more finesse techniques due to all the pressure and not wanting to buy live bait. Stick baits, shakey heads, ned rig have all worked for me there. They key on the bank is to get long casts and cover as much profitable area as possible. My experience with Teneroc FMA is mostly with crappie. Though the same will generally apply. Lake Parker my experience is mostly on a boat watching fireworks and one trip catfishing

Wacky rigged KVD Ocho 4". Size 6 octopus hook.

All good areas. Saddle creek has a tackle shop in front that sells live bait if you need it.

After a pretty extensive day of use I am liking it a lot as well.

I didn't need to, but I upgraded some reels and a rod for my current setups. Even with the trade in program at BPS you can still see my wallet weeping in the background. Shimano Stradic CI4+ 6:0:1 Lews BB1 6:4:1 Ike Series cranking rod 7'3"

Nice little jig order from Siebert. @Smallieseeker I saw your choice of blue gill flash for a crappie imitation and I had to get one as well, great thinking!

A little physical therapy can't hurt right?

Welcome! You have found the right place to learn about bass fishing!

@lonnie g hope your recovery is swift and you're back on the water soon!

Y'all deserve it, you really do.

I just want to thank all the members of this community for sharing their wealth of information. I have gone from being skunked week after week to finding bass on days that would be considered "unproductive" for bass fishing. The posts on deciphering structure have helped me the most personally and have led to me finding really productive areas on a lake my father and I used to overlook as a child (even though we put in there to move through the chain). The technique posts in the tackle section have made trying new techniques a breeze and has really gotten me to come out of my comfort zone of t-rigs (though I still love t-rigs). Thank you Glenn for putting together one hell of a site!

Thanks Yeajray!

What a game! Congrats Pats! #TB12 #JE11 #DH54 #JW28

Any chance you may want to share that recipe? lol No problem if you wouldn't want to but it sure sounds tasty!