Hypothetically if you had 20k to spend on a boat what would you get?

http://www.nitro.com/boat/?boat=3107

that one.

Did you notice that when you step up from the 90 to the 115 you only gain a couple more mph top end?

used Ranger all the way!!!

Did you notice that when you step up from the 90 to the 115 you only gain a couple more mph top end?

i did. ive had faster boats and the extra speed didnt do much for me. the only dislike i have for the basic boat is the 12v trolling motor.

Before I would spend 20 grand on any boat, I'd have to weigh a few factors: my fishing style, my fishing partners, my amount and type of equipment, my tow vehicle and probably most importantly the type of water I would be fishing.

Once I got all that in mind then I'd know what size boat and motor I would be happy using.  After that I'd make a list of boats that I would want to own and look them up in the NADA guides so that I could be realistic on just what that much money would get me.

For me the list would be headed by Champion, Bass Cat, Allison, and last on my list would be Ranger.  I would not even look at other brands but to each his own.

Now I'd be ready to deal with finding and trying out boats in my size and price range hoping to find a good late model Champion with a 175 or bigger Merc and a good trolling motor.

I would go to Craigslist and buy a $1K boat and invest the remainder. Lot's of nice used boats on there. Folks who have lost jobs and need money are selling them.

Nitro Z-7

It depends on your fishing. I personally would get a new Bass Tracker 175TXW with a 75 Mercury OptiMax. Perfect bass boat in my opinion.

I would go to Craigslist and buy a $1K boat and invest the remainder. Lot's of nice used boats on there. Folks who have lost jobs and need money are selling them.

x2  Help some one else out and get a nice fishing rig at the same time

It's kinda funny that this post came up. That was what my limit was and here is what I recently picked up. It is a 2004 Nitro 929 CDX, 225 Merc, 2 Lowrance units (LMS-330C GPS, X-102C on bow), 101 lbs. Minn Kota Maxxum. I had it inspected and it had less then 16 hours on the motor. I paid $19,700. I am very happy w/ the purchase. I ALMOST had a 2005 Nitro 911 CDC until I got the inspection on it and the motor turned out to be garbage. Word to the wise....Pay the money to get an inspection done when buying a used boat. I know for a fact that it saved me money in the long run. Most reputable shops will do an inspection for around $100. Money well spent.

Nitro x-5

I would ask first what your limiting factors were. What exactly are the most important things you are looking for?

Give me 20 k I would grab a Tracker 175tx (I think someone mentioned it already) and take whatever i had left and invest.

That is because, I need something that can carry at least 2 of my girls with me. Can easily fit in my driveway. Can be easily towed with both my vehicles. Gets less than insane gas mileage. Does not have to win a race but I would like a little speed out of her and I really like aluminum hulls.

Oh and there are 3 tracker dealers within easy drive of my home. When I got my Jon, I just had them fight it out for cheapest price.

It's a big decision, especially if you dont have a 'brand' already in mind that you like and would want to buy.

Making a list of 'must haves' and a list of 'would be nices' is where I would start. As someone else mentioned, you have to consider what your basic needs are and what kind of waters you'll be fishing. And whatever you do, if you buy a used boat, have the motor checked by a certified tech like JGrouch said.

Thats easy....pay off my current boat!!! hehe ;D

used Ranger all the way!!!

At least you have good taste in reels if not in boats.  

Kelley

There is alot of deals out there right now. I picked up a Stratos PRO181 for $5000 with a Yamaha 150. It needs a new seat but other than that it is in great shape.