Fishing Boat Buying Guide
Fishing boats are a great investment for anglers, but not all models will be a good match. It's important to pick the right model - one that suits your budget, your group size, the places you plan on visiting, and so on. But with so many options on the market, finding a good fit can be overwhelming!
Here at Rockingham Boat, we strive to make your life easier. That's why we created the following fishing boat buying guide. If you have any questions or want to shop boats for sale, head over to our marine dealership in Hampstead, New Hampshire. We also proudly serve those in Manchester and Nashua, New Hampshire.
Consider Where You'll Use The Fishing Boat
A great first step is factoring in the places you'll use the fishing boat, which influences the models and features you prioritize.
For example, freshwater areas tend to contain shallow spots. These can pose an issue for boats with deep hulls, which can end up bottoming out or getting damaged by sunken obstacles. Here, flat bottomed fishing boats work best. They'll be able to safely navigate shallow areas while remaining easy to handle in the deeper areas.
Saltwater areas, on the other hand, tend to contain rougher waters. The farther from the bay, the more choppy the waters tend to be. Here, fishing boats with a deep V hull work well. They offer the sturdiness and stability needed to stand strong against crashing waves.
Consider The Boat's Size
Next, think about the ideal fishing boat size. A few factors will dictate how much space you want.
The Tow Vehicle
Decide what vehicle you will use to transport the fishing boat. Look up its towing capacity and make sure you get a fishing boat well-within that limit. Keep in mind that the weight limit also includes the weight of passengers and cargo, not just the fishing boat.
The Storage Space
The fishing boat will need to go somewhere when it's not in use. If you want to use your garage or shed for storage, make sure you know the dimensions of those areas. If you have to pay for off-site storage, factor those costs into your budget.
The Passenger Number
If you take solo fishing trips, you can save money by getting a smaller boat. If you want to bring friends or family along, seek out models that can accommodate extra passengers. The more passengers the fishing boat needs to fit, the larger size it will need to be.
Consider The Features
Fishing boats can be outfitted with many different amenities. These can improve your time on the water, your safety, and even your success at catching fish! Spend some time thinking about what features you want, then look for models that offer those features.
Common fishing boat features include:
- A livewell, which keeps catches fresh and alive while you continue fishing.
- A rod holder, which frees up your hands.
- A depth finder, which helps you better navigate the water.
Consider The Price
Fishing boats come at many different price points. Think about what your spending limit is, then adjust your search accordingly. This helps you get the highest quality model that you can afford.
There are a few factors that affect the price:
- The size of the fishing boat. Larger models use more materials during construction, which drives up the price.
- The features. As amenities increase, so does the cost.
- The age. A new 2021 fishing boat will cost more than a new 2017 model.
- The past owners. Used fishing boats will be much more affordable thanks to the impact of depreciation.
Ready to shop fishing boats for sale? Check out the selection at Rockingham Boat. Our friendly staff can answer questions, give advice, and make shopping much easier. You'll find our dealership in Hampstead, New Hampshire, and we also serve those in Manchester and Nashua.