Guys-

I found a used mid 90's (not sure of the year) Bass Tracker "Panfish 16" stick-steer with a 25hp Merc 2-stroke for $2500. Everything on the boat works; bilge pump, trolling motor, etc. While it doesn't look new, everything seems sound.

Without pictures or more details I'm not sure if you guys can offer much advice but all are welcome.

I've got two very young children so the boat will mainly be for me, alone, for the next 4 years or so.

This will be my first boat so I'm not real sure what to look for on a used boat- that advice would be helpful too.

Thanks a bunch,

Sean

Sounds like an excellent choice for your situation  

Sounds like an excellent choice for your situation

I agree, Sounds like a good deal for you. The Bass Tracker is the most popular ride in it's class and you will get a lot of enjoyment out of it.

I'd see if you can take it out for a test spin.  

Make sure the steering system and throttle and shift cables operate smoothly.

Run the motor through it's paces from idle to WOT.

Check and see if the boat is taking on water.

With the boat off the trailer, check the bunks and fittings on the trailer and especially check those crossmembers.  Tracker trailers used a tubular construction method and the crossmembers were prone to rust from the inside out.

Go over everything else thoroughly, electronics, batteries, etc.

The panfish specials were a fairly simple boat without the bells and whistles of the other tin boats in their lineup.  Not a whole lot to go wrong with those but the engine.