Things to Look for When Buying a New Fishing Boat

Buying a new fishing boat is exciting, but it can also be a little daunting! If you plan to take the boat out more than a few times a year, there are a lot of options to consider. This list will help you come up with a plan of action so that you’re more prepared to buy that new fishing boat. Read through our checklist, then come see us at Fish and Ski Marine, and we'll help you with that. For more information, visit our location in Sanger, Texas, for fishing boats in Dallas, Texas, or our location in New Braunfels, Texas, serving San Antonio, Texas.

Saltwater or Freshwater?

The first thing you need to decide is whether you plan to take your new fishing boat on the lake, in the ocean, or both. While many boats are multi-purpose and can be taken in saltwater or freshwater, some will definitely work better in one type of water or the other.

Fishing Alone or with Friends?

Do you need a lot of space for bringing your buddies or your family with you on the boat? Or do you plan to make these trips solo? Knowing this will tell you not only what size boat you are likely to need and how many rod holders and baitwells you should have but also how many creature comforts your boat needs to provide. If you’re only going out alone in the mornings, you probably won’t need an awning, but if you’re planning days on the lake with the crew, you probably will.

Need for Speed?

If you will spend most of your boat time on small lakes with wake restrictions, you don’t need a super-powerful engine. On the other hand, if you will have to travel long distances through the water to even reach a good fishing spot, you want an engine that can get you there faster.

Do Your Research

Once you have an idea of what kind of boat you need, it’s time to see what’s out there. You could do this first, but if you already have a good idea of what you need, you’re less likely to get overwhelmed with all the different options.

When you’re ready to buy that new fishing boat, stop by Fish and Ski Marine and let us help you find the right one. For more information, visit our location in New Braunfels, Texas, which serves San Antonio, Texas, or our location in Sanger, Texas, serving Dallas, Texas.