Name:	Andrewg -	Reply
Subject:	Need Help
Date:	9/8/2014 6:02:37 PM

Im looking to buy a new boat and it is going to be my first boat. I like bass and crappie fishing but i also want to be able to get out on the big lakes and do some striper fishing. i found a boat online at boatselect.com but im not sure if its a good buy. its a 1993 cajun 21ft. in good condition listed for $15000. any help or expert advice would be much appriciated! any other suggestions would be good too. thanks 

Name:	Lifer -	Reply
Subject:	Need Help
Date:	9/9/2014 10:38:41 AM (updated 9/9/2014 10:40:48 AM)

Unfortunately you did not provide enough information for anyone to offer good advice.  Choosing a boat is a very personalized decision that must take in so many variables.  I will try to help you out a little by asking a few questions.  If you answer them then maybe myself or others can offer solid suggestions.  This will by no means be a complete list of things to know/consider but may help start a dialogue to help you make a better informed decision.  I have nothing I am trying to sell you so maybe I can help you focus on what matters to you and your preferences and not what someone is selling.

1.  Where do you live?  This forum is a nationwide forum.  The site has lake specific sections also so try making the same post on it and see if locals can help you define your needs also.

2.  What type boat do you want?  Bass bost, jon boat, center console, pontoon, I/O, outboard etc.  Your post was lacking so much info it is hard to tell what you are looking at.

3.  What type of waters will you be primarily using it in.  Lakes, rivers, creeks, swamps, offshore each of these will have unique factors that will determine best type of boat.  I know you said "big lakes" but that is a very broad statement and could mean anything form Lake Martin where I live or Lake Michigan.  Since you are first time potential owner let me take this time educate you that each time you leave one body of water to PLEASE take the time to wash the hull with a mild soap and water before launciing into a new body of water.  Each body of water has unique life forms and should not be mixed to avoid cross contamination.

4.  Are you married with children?  If so will the family ever be using the vessel for recreation?  Will you be fishing alone or with buddies?  These things matter.

5.  What type tow vehicle do you have?  This is a huge consideration.  Too much boat and to little truck is a bad combo.

6.  What is your mechanical apptitude/abillity?  Boats require routine maintenence jsut as anything mechanical.  Maybe more than most machines.  Are you capable/willing to do the work yourself?  If not do you have a mechanic you know and trust.  There is a major difference between I/O and outboard requirements and even major differeneces in outboards between 2 stroke and 4 stroke.

Maybe this will help you focus on what is important before making a huge decison.  Maybe it will just confuse you, but if that is the case then you shouldn't be dropping 15K on any boat IMHO.  Do more research until you can make a decision with confidence that you are getting what you want/need.

Name:	oneshot -	Reply
Subject:	Need Help
Date:	9/9/2014 6:19:45 PM

What lifer said.....