I've never owned a boat. I love being on them, fishing from them and enjoying all the fun, relaxation and enjoyment that they can bring. I've wanted one for the better part of 25 years now, and at the end of each year I tell myself that next season I'll have a boat. My involvement with this board has brought this years promise to myself to a new level. Anyway, I know that this is probably a question that will be more impossible to answer than most, but maybe you experts can help me get as close to a feasible solution as possible. Basically, I want a boat that can do it all; fish (shallow as well as a distance from the shore but not necessarily where it gets too deep and wild), cruise, comfort (head, small galley, sleep). I figure it would be somewhere between 21' and 28'. To make things even a little more difficult, budget is definitely a consideration. I am pretty much resigned to the realization that it would probably have to bought used and I know that that can be a problem in and of itself, but I'll just have to take my chances and hope for the best. Now, I know it's impossible to fit the bill perfectly in all of these areas, and that compromises will have to be made, but what type of boat, if any, should I be looking at to get as close as possible, or doesn?t such an animal even exist?
Diversity dilemma.... what would you suggest?
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My suggestion...
Nightcaster,
Glad to hear that you are going to go for it! You are right that it might be impossible to fill that order exactly as requested. However, I'll put in my 2 cents and tell you my solution...
A 21' WALKAROUND CUDDY with a 150 Outboard
I like to think of them as the SUV's of the water. They are the go-almost-anywhere, do-almost-anything vessels that won't drain your wallet too hard.
You won't be able to take her to the canyon (but as a new boat owner, you shouldn't be taking any boat to the canyon yet). You also won't be able to sleep a family of six. But the advantages to owning a fishing platform of this size are extreme...
-Easy to trailer
-Not too difficult for a new boat owner to operate (compared to larger boats).
-Extremely Gas efficient (a 200 mile range from 100 gallons of fuel is not unusual)
-Extremely affordable (new boat/motor/trailer packages start under $30,000. Used are WAY LESS).
-Roomy
-Stable in rough seas.
-Can handle less than 36" of water.
-Easy to push off a sandbar.
-Easy to maintain
-Large enough to fish or cruise with five to six adults.
-Small enough to launch and fish solo.
-Easy to beach for a family picnic or swim.
-Large enough to take 15-25 miles offshore when the weather opportunity window allows.
-Many times they come loaded with "big boat" features (like trim tabs, saltwater wash-down, live bait wells, hardtops, tackle stations, rocket-launchers, etc...).
-Decent shelter from weather/the elements (including cold fall, winter & spring air temps).
-Overnight capabilities for two to three adults.
-Private head for the ladies.
-Safe, stable platform for children.
-Decent storage.
-Still small enough to accelerate and manuever water skiers, Ski tubes, knee boards, etc...
The list of benefits goes on and on. As I said before, there are many possibilities for you to choose from, but not many of them give you so much for so little.
Nightcaster,
Glad to hear that you are going to go for it! You are right that it might be impossible to fill that order exactly as requested. However, I'll put in my 2 cents and tell you my solution...
A 21' WALKAROUND CUDDY with a 150 Outboard
I like to think of them as the SUV's of the water. They are the go-almost-anywhere, do-almost-anything vessels that won't drain your wallet too hard.
You won't be able to take her to the canyon (but as a new boat owner, you shouldn't be taking any boat to the canyon yet). You also won't be able to sleep a family of six. But the advantages to owning a fishing platform of this size are extreme...
-Easy to trailer
-Not too difficult for a new boat owner to operate (compared to larger boats).
-Extremely Gas efficient (a 200 mile range from 100 gallons of fuel is not unusual)
-Extremely affordable (new boat/motor/trailer packages start under $30,000. Used are WAY LESS).
-Roomy
-Stable in rough seas.
-Can handle less than 36" of water.
-Easy to push off a sandbar.
-Easy to maintain
-Large enough to fish or cruise with five to six adults.
-Small enough to launch and fish solo.
-Easy to beach for a family picnic or swim.
-Large enough to take 15-25 miles offshore when the weather opportunity window allows.
-Many times they come loaded with "big boat" features (like trim tabs, saltwater wash-down, live bait wells, hardtops, tackle stations, rocket-launchers, etc...).
-Decent shelter from weather/the elements (including cold fall, winter & spring air temps).
-Overnight capabilities for two to three adults.
-Private head for the ladies.
-Safe, stable platform for children.
-Decent storage.
-Still small enough to accelerate and manuever water skiers, Ski tubes, knee boards, etc...
The list of benefits goes on and on. As I said before, there are many possibilities for you to choose from, but not many of them give you so much for so little.
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1,054 Posts
Doctor - Nice response!
Like NightCaster,
I am also in the market for a so called "do it all boat" and it has to provide a level of security size and cover for wife and my 6 year old triplett boys.
I own a small Bayliner bowrider which is not a real fishing boat nor is it at all seaworthy in any kind of chop.
Anyway I thought your answer was right on the money - we all know one boat can't do it all but this sounds like a great compromise and a great starting point.
Thanks
Like NightCaster,
I am also in the market for a so called "do it all boat" and it has to provide a level of security size and cover for wife and my 6 year old triplett boys.
I own a small Bayliner bowrider which is not a real fishing boat nor is it at all seaworthy in any kind of chop.
Anyway I thought your answer was right on the money - we all know one boat can't do it all but this sounds like a great compromise and a great starting point.
Thanks
A 21' WALKAROUND CUDDY with a 150 Outboard
"I like to think of them as the SUV's of the water. They are the go-almost-anywhere, do-almost-anything vessels that won't drain your wallet too hard."
The Doc is right about this. I have a 22" WA with a 150 ob. I bring the wife and 2year old daughter to the beach all the time. I also fish alone alot. I have been to Fire island from Jamaicia bay for 2 nights with the wife. I also go out with the guys for ocean fishing.
I have had 6 adults and 2 children out for a beach picknick. I also went Diving with two buddies this year.
What a beautiful place America is. Don't you agree?
"I like to think of them as the SUV's of the water. They are the go-almost-anywhere, do-almost-anything vessels that won't drain your wallet too hard."
The Doc is right about this. I have a 22" WA with a 150 ob. I bring the wife and 2year old daughter to the beach all the time. I also fish alone alot. I have been to Fire island from Jamaicia bay for 2 nights with the wife. I also go out with the guys for ocean fishing.
I have had 6 adults and 2 children out for a beach picknick. I also went Diving with two buddies this year.
What a beautiful place America is. Don't you agree?
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1,407 Posts
All sarcasm aside, what the previous posters say is correct. I have probably gotten more use out of boats I have owned in the twenty to twenty five ft range than any other size. Just use common sense and you wont get into trouble. You also might look at the new Parker 21 ft. pilot house.
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4,148 Posts
boats
They are right on the 21 footer, you can do the most in something that size range; used you can scoop a totally decent one for 10k anytime. But, it's not going to be quite perfect for anything - the same way an SUV isn't the fastest or best handling or toughest thing on the road - a generalist vehicle.
I would say though, it might be a good idea to look for something a little bigger, mabye 24 ft or so. You'd get the same benifits w/ a bit less on the small water side and a bit more on the big water side, where safety is an issue. I also wouldn't be afraid of closed bows - you'll get a safer boat and more cabin space that way. The downside is less deck space, and it's a little trickier to manuever w/ a circling fish or anchoring etc..
I'm a fairly dedicated want adds surfer and that 10-15k range covers a whole lot of boats - no difference in price between a 21 and 24, used anyway. For that $$, you will see everything from 18 to 30 ft and all are turn key or **** close - what makes the big difference is age, brand, and type between the lengths.
Down the road, if you want a perfect shallow water vessel, you can allways pick up an aluminum 16 footer or something small as a beater - as a first boat, that's not actually a bad idea, although w/ only 16ft you are pretty limited in the salt h20. I'm relativly new to boats - first one was a 15 ft fiberglass, the last couple seasons it's been a 21 foot alumiminum and now I'm putting together a second 16 footer as the 21 footer is sketcky in the flats. Currently I'm holding out on the next real boat - will limp by w/ 21 until I can afford the 28ft range, but I still miss the ease of a 15 ft. My .02,
Jon
They are right on the 21 footer, you can do the most in something that size range; used you can scoop a totally decent one for 10k anytime. But, it's not going to be quite perfect for anything - the same way an SUV isn't the fastest or best handling or toughest thing on the road - a generalist vehicle.
I would say though, it might be a good idea to look for something a little bigger, mabye 24 ft or so. You'd get the same benifits w/ a bit less on the small water side and a bit more on the big water side, where safety is an issue. I also wouldn't be afraid of closed bows - you'll get a safer boat and more cabin space that way. The downside is less deck space, and it's a little trickier to manuever w/ a circling fish or anchoring etc..
I'm a fairly dedicated want adds surfer and that 10-15k range covers a whole lot of boats - no difference in price between a 21 and 24, used anyway. For that $$, you will see everything from 18 to 30 ft and all are turn key or **** close - what makes the big difference is age, brand, and type between the lengths.
Down the road, if you want a perfect shallow water vessel, you can allways pick up an aluminum 16 footer or something small as a beater - as a first boat, that's not actually a bad idea, although w/ only 16ft you are pretty limited in the salt h20. I'm relativly new to boats - first one was a 15 ft fiberglass, the last couple seasons it's been a 21 foot alumiminum and now I'm putting together a second 16 footer as the 21 footer is sketcky in the flats. Currently I'm holding out on the next real boat - will limp by w/ 21 until I can afford the 28ft range, but I still miss the ease of a 15 ft. My .02,
Jon
I pretty much agree with DoctorFish. I might stretch the size to 22 or 23 feet, and I much prefer I/O to outboard. Of course, the new Yammies and Hondas might change my mind on that. Whatever you do, don't get "Biggeritis". The good thing for you is that this sort of boat is so popular around the Island. You shouldn't have any trouble finding a decent affordable used one. Good luck
Denmark
Denmark
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have gotta disagree on the I/O
This is a highly opinionated subject, but I have to disagree about I/O's. My .02, there's really no benefit to them, they are more complicated and therefore less reliable, when compared to outboard or inboard setups. Used I/O's can be a real nightmare as well, it's far more difficult to judge the condition and replacement or upgrading isn't anywhere near as simple. They also eat up valueble fishing space, which is really an issue in any mid 20 footer w/ a cabin. You will find I/O's much cheaper, but my opinion is that there really is a reason for it.
Jon
This is a highly opinionated subject, but I have to disagree about I/O's. My .02, there's really no benefit to them, they are more complicated and therefore less reliable, when compared to outboard or inboard setups. Used I/O's can be a real nightmare as well, it's far more difficult to judge the condition and replacement or upgrading isn't anywhere near as simple. They also eat up valueble fishing space, which is really an issue in any mid 20 footer w/ a cabin. You will find I/O's much cheaper, but my opinion is that there really is a reason for it.
Jon
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1,409 Posts
if you are plaaning to keep the boat in the water outboard is the way to go. Much less headache and expense, I/O are corroding as you sleep, they simply don't tilt clear of the water. 21-23 WA is a great way to go, very versatile. If you like a long season, consider a pilot house (parker, steiger, etc). good luck.
Thanks again for all the great feedback
You guys have been great. As I said from the beginning I know that there is no one perfect vessel to fit all applications. I want to get as close to an all around boat as possible, one that would not totally disable me from doing one thing at the expense of doing another better. However, as expected, the prime need is to fish. What finally prompted me to ask this question was Doc's description of hulls on another thread. Which makes and models feature desirable hull design, and fishing platform size to get as close as possible to my impossible dream? Hey!!! Maybe that's what I'll name her!! (nahhh.... on second thought, too common....)
Oh yeah... there's something else for you guys to look forward to. Once we figure out what boat I should buy, we can get started on best (most convenient and economical), place to dock it. I say "dock" and "convenient" because I don't drive, and I say economical because I'm poor.
I know what you're thinking... "I'll be poorer yet when I get a boat". But at least then I'll be happy poor.
You guys have been great. As I said from the beginning I know that there is no one perfect vessel to fit all applications. I want to get as close to an all around boat as possible, one that would not totally disable me from doing one thing at the expense of doing another better. However, as expected, the prime need is to fish. What finally prompted me to ask this question was Doc's description of hulls on another thread. Which makes and models feature desirable hull design, and fishing platform size to get as close as possible to my impossible dream? Hey!!! Maybe that's what I'll name her!! (nahhh.... on second thought, too common....)
Oh yeah... there's something else for you guys to look forward to. Once we figure out what boat I should buy, we can get started on best (most convenient and economical), place to dock it. I say "dock" and "convenient" because I don't drive, and I say economical because I'm poor.
I know what you're thinking... "I'll be poorer yet when I get a boat". But at least then I'll be happy poor.Economical Dock Space
Nightcaster,
The most economical (but not always the wisest) place to dock a boat is often the local town dock. I'm not familiar with the Town of Hempstead's docking, however, in most other towns around the island there is a waiting list. You don't need to currently own a boat to put your name on the list so I would inquire and pursue. If you have children or neices & nephews who live in the township it may also be wise to put them on the list too (it could take half a generations in some towns to be next in line).
Check out this link;
Town of Hempstead Dock Application
As you can see, Town dock space does exist. I'd imagine that in addition to Point Lookout, the town probably owns dock space in Freeport and also somewhere around Inwood. Perhaps some of our Nassau residents can help clarify this and also give any feedback about how safe & secure the locations may or may not be.
The alternative is private docking which could cost considerably more $$ per foot.
Nightcaster,
The most economical (but not always the wisest) place to dock a boat is often the local town dock. I'm not familiar with the Town of Hempstead's docking, however, in most other towns around the island there is a waiting list. You don't need to currently own a boat to put your name on the list so I would inquire and pursue. If you have children or neices & nephews who live in the township it may also be wise to put them on the list too (it could take half a generations in some towns to be next in line).
Check out this link;
Town of Hempstead Dock Application
As you can see, Town dock space does exist. I'd imagine that in addition to Point Lookout, the town probably owns dock space in Freeport and also somewhere around Inwood. Perhaps some of our Nassau residents can help clarify this and also give any feedback about how safe & secure the locations may or may not be.
The alternative is private docking which could cost considerably more $$ per foot.
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1,545 Posts
A couple of things to consider.
First off, I would recommend an outboard. I am going on my fifth year with my boat, and I find that I have no problem doing basic maintenance on the engine. I see guys with I/O's having a difficult time getting the little things fixed. I know I'll probalby get some heat from some of the folks on this site who favor I/O's, but thats my opinion.
Second,
Check out some of the upcomming boat shows. I bought my boat at the Nassau county show in late February and got about $1500.00 in add on features free because I bought at the show. Also, I was able to buy the boat, and by the time the dealer scheduled delivery, I was able to put the boat right in the water.
As far as docking space is concerned, shop around. There are small, no frills marinas that are pretty reasonable ($42-$48 per foot for the season) on the south shore. I would highly recommend docking your new boat, as opposed to trailering it.Just think about how much time you waste launching the boat everytime you want to fish. I never even bought a trailer for my boat.
Hope this helps.
First off, I would recommend an outboard. I am going on my fifth year with my boat, and I find that I have no problem doing basic maintenance on the engine. I see guys with I/O's having a difficult time getting the little things fixed. I know I'll probalby get some heat from some of the folks on this site who favor I/O's, but thats my opinion.
Second,
Check out some of the upcomming boat shows. I bought my boat at the Nassau county show in late February and got about $1500.00 in add on features free because I bought at the show. Also, I was able to buy the boat, and by the time the dealer scheduled delivery, I was able to put the boat right in the water.
As far as docking space is concerned, shop around. There are small, no frills marinas that are pretty reasonable ($42-$48 per foot for the season) on the south shore. I would highly recommend docking your new boat, as opposed to trailering it.Just think about how much time you waste launching the boat everytime you want to fish. I never even bought a trailer for my boat.
Hope this helps.
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322 Posts
I have to agree with Doc Fish and others on this one. I also have a 21' WA - made by Arima. We've had GREAT fun so far - it's very economical, and easy to maintain.
www.arimaboats.com
What you should do is go to the boat shows, take a look around, climb around on some boats, do some serious research, and BUY A BOAT! Take your time, do your homework, and have fun. You'll be glad you did.
Here's a picture of mine - Arima is not a well known name around here - so you could see it -
With the bimini top down:
www.arimaboats.com
What you should do is go to the boat shows, take a look around, climb around on some boats, do some serious research, and BUY A BOAT! Take your time, do your homework, and have fun. You'll be glad you did.
Here's a picture of mine - Arima is not a well known name around here - so you could see it -
With the bimini top down:
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Goodnight Moon
A partial view of the ****pit
A partial view of the ****pit
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