How to Buy a Used Bass Boat
Most most new bass boats are stocked with live wells, high swivel chairs, trolling motors and depth finders, and most require a considerable investment. Because bass boats hold their value well, the used market is usually ripe with solid crafts. Buying a used boat, however, should come with careful consideration.
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Proper Tow Vehicle and Trailer
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Make sure your vehicle is able to tow the craft on its trailer. A vehicle capable of towing weight of 3,000 to 4,000 lbs. is almost always necessary. When pricing a bass boat, it is equally necessary to inspect its trailer to ensure an additional investment isn't required for repair or a new unit.
Size Considerations
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Bass boats come in variety of sizes, and it is vital to choose a size that fits your fishing applications and works on the bodies of water you intend to fish. Smaller crafts are easier to manage and safe on smaller lakes and rivers. For larger bodies, boats between 15 and 25 feet are usually in order.
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Motor Considerations
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Bass boats are commonly stocked with outboard and trolling motors. Choosing a boat with a solid, late-model engine is wise. Always ask for a motor's model year, as boat age and motor age may not match.
Material Considerations
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If your budget is tight, consider an aluminum boat. Aluminum is cheaper than Fiberglas and better able to withstand rough treatment. It's not uncommon for bass boating to include hitting docks, rocky bottoms, tree trunks and other obstructions. Regardless, thoroughly inspecting a used boat for leaks and repairs from past mishaps is a must.
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- Photo Credit bass boat repair 01 image by Joyce Wilkes from Fotolia.com
