JeffD

Hey guys, in the last couple of months I've posted a few different topics. New or used boats, boat brands, motors, reels, etc. As I stated in my first post, I'm getting back into fishing after a nearly 30 years lay off. All of your comments/recommendations have been a great help. So, I need help on electronics. My plan is to buy a used boat that doesn't have any newish electronics so I can purchase what works best for me. I can't (and don't want to) spend giant dollars for them. Being out of touch for the period of time that I have, I don't really know where to start. I figure if I can find a boat that doesn't break the bank, I could probably budget $2,000. I know everyone has an opinion on this, so I'd like to hear yours. Brands, technology, features are what I'm in need of. Do I need them at the console and bow? I suppose I would be considered a bass fisherman, although I'll try to catch anything that'll bite. Thanks in advance.

Sorry, what is a good group 31?

I'm in the process of buying a used boat. I'm looking at a 18-19 foot glass boat. I'm still looking, but I want a boat with probably a 115 hp or up depending on what I find out there. That being said, there is a small lake near my son's house that has a 40hp limit and we plan on fishing that lake regularly. My plan is to use the trolling motor when we fish that body of water. Im wondering if switching to a 36v motor is the way to go or just stay with a 24. I don't necessarily need the extra thrust, but will I get enough more battery life to make the switch beneficial?

As I find used boats to purchase, I keep having different questions. Anyone have any experience with a Yamaha Vtec hpdi 225? The seller doesn't have much information for me right now. I know there's good and bad in every manufacturer. Just wondering if there's a trend (good or bad) with this motor. Also, I've never had a tandem trailer. Pros and cons.

I see a Ranger '04 185VS for sale. I'm not familiar with a Redfish Edition. Does anyone know anything about them?

I have another guy that's selling an '05 Evinrude Etec 200HP. He said he had a compression check and all cylinders have tested at 90 lbs. I've heard that they are supposed to be within 10% of each other, but does 90 seem low?

Thanks for the help

Can they be disconnected?

I just found out, the guy is telling me the trailer brakes aren't working. He says they just need to be bled. Does that make sense. I've never had a trailer with brakes.

I'm looking at a '98 Ranger svs. It has a '98 Evinrude Vindicator 200hp. Does anyone have any info on the motor. I've seen here that there are some Evinrudes to stay away from. Any insight would be appreciated.

I just came across a '96 Bullet 20DC. I've never heard of this brand. Are these quality boats?

I'm shocked that everyone is using such heavy braid. Is that just so it doesn't cut into itself. I wouldn't expect to catch a fish anywhere close to 10 pounds!

Yeah Lionheart, back thirty years ago I had to set my VCR to record In-Fisherman at 1AM. There wasn't anything to speak of on television back then. Now, there's big money in it and that means anybody selling anything says their way is the only way. For me, that's what makes it so confusing. Back then, you wond your reels with Trilene XL and go fishing. Maybe I should just go back to what I was doing then.

I'd rather not have to tie leaders on if I don't have to. This is exactly why I'm asking the question.

If I was to use a leader, what are your thoughts on length and poundage to connect to 30lb. braid? What are your thoughts on brands for both braid and leader?

The higher pound braid is not a problem for casting distance on BC's?

MN Fisher, what l pound test for your BC's? Are you using leaders at all?

I know this has probably already been discussed numerous times, but I'm new on this forum and could use some help. I'm getting back into fishing after a nearly 30 years off. I have baitcasters and spinning reels. I'm a Midwest mainly bass fisherman. I'm reading articles and looking at YouTube videos, and the more I see, the more confused I'm getting. I think I'll use braided line on both with fluoro leaders. I don't know what weight of the braided or the leader. I thought the idea of leaders was to hide the braid with lighter line. I see some guys use heavier leaders than the braided line. Like I said, I'm confused. Could you tell me how your setting up your reels and what your reasoning is.

Thanks to everyone for the different ideas. Lots to mill over.

Could you guys give me your favorite baitcaster for under $100!

That's what I'm afraid of. I don't think I want to spend more than $100. I'm also looking to buy a boat! I've had Daiwa spinning reels in the past and I know they're good quality. Are there any other quality brands that you think I could pick one up for under $100?

Thanks guys

I've decided to get back into fishing And I need some help with my old equipment. It's been 30 years since I sold my boat and got into hunting. I was self employed and didn't have the time for fishing and hunting, so... I have sold my business now and I'm back. I used Quantum combos for my bait casting set ups. I don't know where they stacked up quality wise back then, but I loved them. The reels are Quantum Pro 2's. Two of them seem fine, but one isn't working. Is there someone out there that still works on this old equipment? Is it worthwhile reviving them or just buy some new stuff. As I said, I loved them back then and if parts are available I think I'd rather get them fixed. Any advise or help would be appreciated.

Thanks Jsmith1990, that's all great advise. You're right, at some point I have to do what I can and make a decision based the information I have. Thanks for everyone's advice.

I did look at the couple that I know of. Not much there.