I wrote last winter about buying my first boat when I return from Afghanistan. Well, I have a little over 5 months left and have 3 options for buying a boat:

-Bass Tracker 175 TXW (new): would eventually want a boat of this size and motor but expensive

-Bass Tracker Pro Angler 16 (new): garunteed to be in great condition, but would eventually want a bigger boat

-Used boat: cheaper but unsure of condition and quality if bought from private owner

This will be my first boat ever and unsure of what to do. Any help?

First, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE

Second, how much money are you looking to spend? How much space do you have in garage etc.? How many people will be fishing with you normally? How big are the lakes you intend to fish?

I can say that I bought a new tracker 175txw a few years ago and have many times regretted it. For the same amount I could have bought a much nicer rig used. If I had it to do over again I would look for something in the 8-12k range with a 150.

I can say that I bought a new tracker 175txw a few years ago and have many times regretted it. For the same amount I could have bought a much nicer rig used. If I had it to do over again I would look for something in the 8-12k range with a 150.

I second this response. Unless you're going to fish smaller waters that don't get riled up with boat wakes or bad weather, I'd look for a good used rig. There's lots of them out there.

I agree with those who say you should buy a good used boat. With the economy the way it is, you can get a lot more boat for the same amount of money. Just make sure you have a reputable mechanic check it out before you lay out the cash.

Probably the largest body of water will be KY Lake. I'm willing to put down anywhere from $2000-4000, then finance the rest. I am wanting a bigger motor (eventually), and you guys are making me lean towards a used boat; just always uneasy about spending a lot of money on something 'used.' I have a 2.5 car garage, will easily leave my car outside, lol. When I fish, it's usually just myself and one other person.

Thanks for the quick replies and the well wish.