So first off, let me begin by saying I am not looking to buy immediately.  I am wanting to start out smart, take my time researching and getting opinions, and make a new purchase in a couple of years. 

 

Current Rig:
'99 Skeeter SS90 16'2" which I bought used for a great price.  It's had normal problems and I've learned basic maintenance and how to rebuild a trolling motor, lol.  Love the boat, but it's a little small and in need of some minor upgrades like new electronics, new carpet, new seats/seat covers.  I have done some upgrades for personal preference, but now its getting to where I need to address the other issues. 

 

Expected Use:
I used to fish tournaments, and its "possible" that I would fish them again, but most likely not.  So, I am not looking for a flat out hard core tournament setup.  I do plan on using it primarily for bass and panfish fishing.  I do, however, do some multi-species and fish for Cat's and Carp etc.  I designed and built a removable rod holder system for the skeeter.  I would like to transfer it to the new boat as it only needs two base plates installed on the rear deck to support it.

 

I would like to have room for 3 adults to comfortably fish.  Ideally enough room for two adults and two kids would be perfect.  Along that same theme, I would also like a rig that can safely tow people.  I love to fish, but realistically I know that I will be doing more than just fishing and I need to plan for that.  SO -- having said that, I would like a boat with the power and stability to not only fish, but tow skiers or tubes, etc.

 

What I think I want:

Actually I'm very open to suggestions.  I would note that it needs to be fishable first, pleasure craft second.  Really, it's about this simple:  I want a larger bass boat that I can tow people with and have room for 3/4 on deck at times.

 

I would LOVE a pontoon as a second boat, but I am thinking this:  Keep the Skeeter, and buy a New "bass" boat (also wife wants a new boat, so thats a lock).  Then look for a used 25' (or so) pontoon that is in bad shape with no motor.  Yank the 90 off the Skeeter and put it on the 'toon and rebuild it.  So, I am really looking for a "bass" boat not a pontoon, etc.  I may then salvage as much of the skeeter as I can for use on the toon, or sale it cheap etc.  If it would really help, I have no problem traiding it in, but I can't imagine I would get much out of it.  But, I don't know...

 

Anywho -- I think for the uses, I should be looking at a 20'+ boat.  I think I would prefer fiberglass for the additional stability and smoother ride in choppy waters / weekend waked waters.  I fish smaller SW VA lakes, so no Lake Erie worries, etc.  But my concerns are that for the size I want in glass, I'm going to shoot way over the $ mark.  This would be financed and I don't really want to pay 400 or 500 a month lol.  I think I should be able to go up to about $35K for around $250 monthly (15 yrs).  Having said that, someone mentioned an Express 22' aluminum rig was like $30/$35k fully loaded with options and with a semi-v and 150 on the rear it was just as smooth as any other boat. 

 

So having said all that - I'm not in a rush (seriously looking 2 years out so just planning), looking to buy a new boat (unless I were to find an unbelievablely amazing deal - but the wife wants new), and open to all suggestions even if its seemingly different than what I was asking about.  That's why I'm asking.  Maybe the best answer is to look at fixing up the Skeeter and look at buying a new Pontoon.  IDK.

 

Glad to hear your opinions and experiences with different crafts and thoughts on what would fit my needs.  Thanks ahead of time!

 

 

 

 

 

Oh, I should add that I do hope to take advantage of older stock if I can.  So if I can get a new boat, in the winter, that's 2 years old - that's a perfectly good plan.  So a new 2014 boat, in 2016 etc. is completely cool.  (or whenever the absolute best time to buy is)

I'm a little confused about what you're asking here, are you just asking what bass boat we think you should get for 35k?

LOL - actually I kind of rambled and half answered my own questions along the way; but yeah - I was just looking for opinions on boats that come in under the 35K mark and are suitable for 3-4 people.  It seems the best bet is probably a Nitro Z-7 or go Aluminium.  I was hoping that maybe some people had multi-species boats or other non-traditional bass boats and could give their input.

Take a look at the Lund aluminum line of boats, great quality and everything you want.

Otherwise you can buy a near new bass boat and do everything you want with $30-35K

Tom