What boat to trade up to?

[Heinz CA.]

I'm thinking I want a different type of boat in maybe the next year, here's my criteria:<br />Aluminum for durability, lightness and beaching, floatability for safety, dependable, 4 stroke so I can take it anywhere, no more than $5000, 17' footer is fine(what I have now), be able to fish from it and also have it be able to handle approx. 3' chop(will be used in Delta and lakes by San Francisco/Concord, CA area) and also be able to get 4 adults in it. I don't want to have to be so picky when it comes to weather-be able to tke it out more. Here's what I have now, got it & trailer a year ago, 40 hp rebuilt, for $700.00. I appreciate all comments, Thanks, Heinz<br />

 

[Heinz CA.]

Re: What boat to trade up to?

Oh yeah, I would LOVE a Boston Whaler Outrage!(even tho glass and not alum.)But I think it would cost too much for my budget. <br />Heinz

 

[Solittle]

Re: What boat to trade up to?

I'm confused. You described what you want but it is pretty much like what you got - except for carrying 4 people in a 3' chop. <br /><br />Here in south Florida you would probably want to go for something bigger than 17'for that load. I would recommend something in the 19-20' range with a 110hp+ on it. Most of the boats here are fiberglass.<br /><br />You should be able to get something suitable in your price range though perhaps not as new as you might like. Remember condition is a lot more important than age - of boat or mototr.

 

[Heinz CA.]

Re: What boat to trade up to?

I like my boat, but I also want to hit rougher water easier(I REALLY have to pick my days on Delta out here), thus the vhull desire. Also as you said, a bigger motor would be nice too, I can max mine out at 25 mph w/ 2 guys in it. Maybe larger too. I saw a Monark Deep V that was just about perfect for 5K. I agree about condition as opposed to age - just like my vehicles(Jeeps & Volvo all with well over 100K and great). Thanks for reply, Heinz