FREE For Boat Shoppers: www.BoatersSecretWeapon.com/Toolkit FREE Boat Buyer's Toolkit for new or used boat shoppers will give you 28-pages of checklists, questions to ask and how to demo the boat the right way so you don't miss a thing. Plus, get the cost of ownership calculator so you know precisely what your cost of ownership will be. FREE For Boat Owners: boaterssecretweapon.com/pages/boater-bootcamp FREE Boater Bootcamp for newer boat owners gives you insights on boat ownership basics, navigation and practical rules of the water and how to avoid, be prepared and handle emergency situations. No more not knowing what you don't know in the boating lifestyle.
I've watched so many good intentioned souls buy their boats (new & used) and let them sit in the yard to the ravages of UV, mildew, falling leaves, rodents, spiders, bird crap, etc.. At least under a roof, you can keep most of the water and UV damage to a minimum. I keep my C-22 on a trailer in the backyard and it's a constant chore keeping her clean, dry inside, teak oiled and trailer tires from dry rotting.
Another great video Matt. I bought a new Yamaha with a wakeboard tower for my retirement. When I was younger I had a Sanger and water skied every weekend. Now I have a bad back and can't do watersports. Everyone asks me why I bought a boat with a tower because I'm almost 66 years old. I tell them I love wave runners and this is the next best thing. Plus, I plan on enjoying the boat for as long as I can, hopefully 5+ years. It will be much easier to sell it to someone younger if it's set up for watersports. I have done numerous upgrades to the boat as well. I'm a retired master mechanic and a I am OCD on preventative maintenance. No one will find a better boat when I am ready to let go of mine. I bought a jet because they are more fun.
I would add a few things. #1 Make sure your tow vehicle can handle what you are buying. If your vehicle can't pull it you will be paying for a better tow vehicle in addition to your boat. You definitely don't want to exceed your towing capacity. Remember to include the extra weight of cooler, gas and accessories. #2 Leave room in your budget for accessories and unexpected items. You can easily drop a thousand or two in things like comfortable life jackets, lines, fenders, anchors, tubes, skis, wake boards, marine radios, fish finders, fishing gear, grills and more. You can also encounter unexpected items especially when buying used which most of us do. These things could include trailer tires, lights, or brake work. If you are unsure the seller did all the maintenance like changing of the impeller in last 2 or 3 years, you're better off doing preventive work especially if you can learn to do it yourself. Factor in winterizing cost when budgeting. #3 Consider what your canvas needs are as that can turn into a few extra thousand if the boat doesn't come with what you want.
Great vid. If i may say, know how much it will cost a year, including docking,winterizing, gas, and things breaking down. Put the money to the side this way when things break you already have the money and dont have to scramble when things go bad.I figure our boat costs about 7 grand a year providing it doesnt break. How i justify it is the last time we went to universal studios it cost us about 7 grand for a few days. With our boat, it gives us about 5 months of enjoyment. Btw. Just chilling at the dock is awesome
Buying my boat was the worst financial decision I’ve ever made. Sure, it’s fun. However, that stupid thing costs me a small fortune in maintenance and tons of other fees. I can’t wait to get that thing out of my back yard.
I feel lucky after watching this because my wife and are (mid to late 50’s) decided to buy a Bennington Pontoon last month. We purchased the right size (24’), the correct power (Yamaha 200), the right value (2 years old with 30 total hours in mint shape), at a long standing Marina with great service dept and storage! We also have one of the best slips (great back view with nobody behind us), and we can afford the 5-7k a year in total expenses. We feel we checked off the 80% rule. I guess the only miss we had so far is I already started looking at other features and colors for the next one… but I agree that we should enjoy this one and the great equity we received buying it so new but after the depreciation is gone too! Very very happy to be “‘making memories on the water”. We went out 14 times in 25 days. More than double the hours owner one did in his two seasons! Happy happy!
Hey man, really enjoy the video series. Got my first boat this year, really enjoy a lot of your input and your advice. I’ve got a little V haul 14‘25 hp mercury outboard and it does exactly what I needed it to do. Want a bigger boat but I’ll get that when I’m ready. The best thing about this little boat is I could handle it by myself. I can launch it I can load it I can move it around the water and I have to worry about needing a second pair of hands. Keep on making great videos I’m looking forward to watching the rest of them and learning more about the sport that we all love. Take care
I've been boating for about 12 years now, bringing my kids up in a boating environment. It's been some of the greatest stuff we've done. There's also been some frustrating stuff with the boat itself. It's going to happen. Good advice in this video!
Check the foot oil.Milky looking oil means a seal needs replaced.There is a fill screw on the foot remove it check the oil.Water in foot means a diaster.
People just need to do some research and put some real thought into any big purchase. I figured out straight away I wanted a high powered boat for the speed I want and to carry around a full load of people.
Thanks for the 80% rule! You're correct - its probably only once a year that I'll take a group of friends to France etc. The rest of the time I'll be relaxing
So many truths on this one. My wife and I have spent months looking at boats. I got pretty fixated on one that I want that will fit what we want now and when the kids are gone in a few years. We have had family give their opinions on what they like and all kinds of stuff. I just laugh and say "it's good that you're not buying it" hahaha. The options are endless for boats though and it sure is tough yo narrow it down on what you want that hits the check marks. My in-laws have a pontoon with a 90hp, and it was eye opening ok how much power I'd want on a toon.
Sounds like you've seen all the mistakes and trappings No matter what you buy, Car, truck, boat, quad, side by side etc etc. you're always going to have a wondering eye and see better nicer ones out there. It's can be a viscous cycle
BOAT - Break Out Another Thousand A boat is a hole in the water you pour money in. You either put out the BIG money up front for a new boat with only delayed headaches or you buy used and start pouring the money in that hole. Really, a boat can provide good times and good memories just know that $ suck seems never ending so be prepared.
I grew up on boats, from canoes to small outboard 16' Johnsons to 19' bass boats. Considering getting an all-around boat for my family, the one that appeals to me the most is the Chapparral 21 OB Fish & Ski with the 200hp option. Curious, why did you choose a Chapparral boat for the thumbnail for this video? I'd love your input before I make a decision! (Edit): I'd rather listen to the voice of experience than make a decision I'll regret later.
Haha. The thumbnail is what made me click on this video because I am looking at the same boat online. It is very appealing as I want to get into fishing more and still be able to play. I've been looking at tri-toons as well. Have you seen a price for the Chaparral? I haven't seen an MSRP yet, but I just looked at them last night.
Looking at buying my first fishing boat. I’ve seen so many mixed reviews on trackers. Should I just spend the extra money and get a Lund or a crestliner?
Depends on several things... what kind of vehicles do you buy? Where will you be running the boat? How does each fit into your budget? How often will you be out on in? what kind of water? The question is, for YOU is the extra money worth it?
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon the plan is to fish the Mississippi ever chance I get. Just hard telling with reviews online. Some people either LOVE a brand or absolutely hate it. In theory a tracker looks like a nice step up from a Jon boat. But I wouldn’t want to spend the money if it’s going to fall apart quickly.
When you buy a boat, it cost as much or more than your car. It is a toy, not a financial investment. The boat takes gas, insurance, annual registration fees, annual maintenance, takes up storage space and you likely will not use it near as much as you thought. Oh, and they are very difficult to sell and when you sell it you likely will have to drop your price lower than you like (current market is an exception). The day you buy and the day sell it are the two best days when owning a boat. I have owned 5 boats and will soon be looking for a 6th. Why? Because fishing is something I enjoy and having a boat adds to that enjoyment. I'm just waiting for the COVID boat buyers to realize the above headaches which should result in bargain deals.
Great advice bro. I'm getting my first cabin cruiser this year. Looking to get one around 28 to 35'. Gonna maintain it at a marina at Daytona beach area. I know to have it insoected. Any suggestions on reliable maker to go with?
How's it going captain Matt!That was my biggest regret with the smaller engine as well the outboard doesn't have enough HP.Thats why I won't get an outboard (The Mercury)that doesn't have it least two hundred horse.Matt can you recommend a good dealer for me? Perhaps the dealership you used to work at? Buying a boat from Ohio I can only find one that I trust unless I go east to Cleveland area.The dealer I was telling you about that sells Boston Whalers seems to be pretty good but I don't know alot about them.
❤ We must trust Jesus Completely 😊.. not having backup plans or conditions.. Remember we are to Mature in God's word after his perfect justification so that our obedience during saintification can contribute to our rewards at the bema seat.. and that our inheritance remains intact 😊.. May the Love of our perfect hight priest and king Jesus fill you all.. 🙏
Captain Matt, I agree, be happy with what you have, I’m 56 and when I was coming up my dad had a 1967 glassmaster 15 1/2 foot boat with a 80 hp Johnson, me and my brother were raised up on that. My brother has a boat, goes fishing a lot. He used to go to the lake all the time with his son. I bought a new boat in May of 2020, one of my boys took my older boat that I bought new, (a 1995 Bayliner 160 Capri with a 75 hp Mariner 2 stroke outboard) still running strong. I was always taught, it’s not what you got, but what you take care of! Just thought I would share that. Try and be content with what you have, you’ll be happier. 👍
I bought my first new boat in February. 20ft pontoon with a 90hp. My biggest regret is not getting the tritoon with the 150. I considered my 80% usage of cat fishing with one other person but did not realize how much my wife would enjoy it. She almost never liked boating prior but loves the pontoon and often invites more people than I ever figured.
My moniker is "Buy once cry once" when it comes to things like this. I want to get the right boat the first time. Not buy one with the plan to upgrade in a year or two. Get the warranty, take great care of it, and put a few thousand hours on it over the next 10 years. That's the way to go!
Ive never owned a boat, dont know much about em but considering getting one, and TH-cam landed me here. Im sooo glad I found this place. Thank You for putting this information out there for idiots like me.
If you're new to boating, buy a "beater" boat for a year first. You WILL smack it into docks and go over shoals etc your first year. It takes a long time to become a master power boat driver. I spent several years with a budget Chaparral. Then this year had a brand new Cobalt delivered, glad I did it that way. ($42, 000.00 boat, vs, $200, 000.00 boat)
Disagree on the cheap boat callout, I bought a cheap boat to just dip my foot in and it's been an amazing boat for a few years. Now that I know I love it, I'll upgrade but going cheap to just get in isn't bad at all.
I would say also don't buy a boat unless you've got cash for it. A boat is a luxury item and to take out a loan for a quickly depreciating luxury asset is silly. Secondly, start small. Buy a 15ft runabout first and see how you go and how many times you use it.
"I want you to have this for your family." Absolutely! If you have kids, boys or girls....take them camping and fishing. They may act like they don't enjoy it....but it will always be one of their fondest memories as they too become parents, and they too will look to do the same with their family. I can't stress this enough, it is an excellent way to bring a family together!
My friends dad who I have known for 25 years bought a 90ft yatch years ago and said in the yatch world there is always a bigger yatch. He bought the yatch and went down to Florida with it and saw a 120ft yatch and said I wish I got that instead 😂😂😂 he still has the yatch but they charter it most of the time in the Bahamas nowadays.
I've owned boats for about half my life. Being a gearhead I look for a good power plant. I do a variety of water activities, pleasure cruising, fishing, tube/skiing. My basic rule of thumb 20ft double axle is best. Once you get up in size triple axle is needed. Painted trailer not good for salt water use. There are numerous publications from Coast Guard etc. Take time to read these. Go boating with a friend that is a boat owner. First time out with a new boat is best done on week day. Take time backing to a ramp you can use a empty parking lot for practice. Be the qualified captain.
This is awesome advice folks!!! I've had six boats over the years and have fallen into a few of these categories. Our first ski boat had a 140HP I/O. We thought it was great until we put six people on board or tried to get a slalom skier up. Now we have a Mastercraft but the Inboard parking and docking is really hard and don't stop too quickly or you burry the nose. I think I just need four boats :)
I made a huge mistake. I bought a maxum in 2022 that was supposed to be a vacation spot in Wildwood NJ. I’m on many waiting lists, so when nobody called by May 1,2023 I decided to put the boat on the Delaware River for 2023. I’ve been on the boat about a dozen times and nobody in my family has seen it in the water. Apparently it’s all about location.
I agree with everything except the trailer part. A boat is meant to be on the water. The time a boat isn’t on the water is in storage. How often are you transporting a boat on a trailer? You really think spending 6k on a tandem axl trailer is worth it? Each case is different of course. If you’re going to be portaging from lake to lake, then you might have a case for a nice trailer, otherwise, buy the minimum necessary to move it from the lake to storage and back twice a year.
YEP!!! I have a three month old Bennington R23 with a 250 on it and I cannot break 44 miles an hour to save my life! That’s with their $10,000 upgraded tritune package for speed and handling. At first I was extremely aggravated as everyone including the salesman/Marina said I would be in the low 50s. But I’ve come to realize 40 miles an hour is plenty. 95% of the time I’m cruising it 25 miles an hour. At first I regretted I did not get the 300. Now I realize there was no need for it. But know this, you can take a good eight, to 10 miles an hour off the speed of a boat based on what people tell you. And I should’ve known better because I’ve seen it time and time again. .
Im def not going to become a boater until I can afford having in a full service Marina .. I don’t want to be towing and dealing with all that .. also buying new
Started boating in an chapparal 4.3L 19 feet bowrider 10 years ago made some upgrade over the years still feel brand new still loving it in this market.
I live with n HOA my 17 foot flats boat barley fits in garage .. I want a bigger boat but then I would have to pay a boat payment and pay monthly storage fees which means it would be outside .. if I dry dock it then I would have to pay boat payment dry dock storage $500 a month and then another $200-300 to store the trailer … may paid for boat that fits in my garage is just about perfect situation for me
Our lake is busy and rough. I’m in search of an affordable 22-24ft runabout that can offer a more comfortable ride across the lake. So far I’ve owned a Tahoe (beat me up) a Old Mariah the best so far, but too old and didn’t have enough room, a Glastron GX205, decent but still, looked for better, Now I have a 22 ft Crownline Razor series, stitching coming loose, plastic parts chipping and the ride is still rough. I’m definitely having some buyers remorse on this last purchase. I’m ISO my last and final boat purchase and want to make sure it’s right
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon I'm in germany and the base is a model "Ilka Reling" from "BootslandDOTde". 4m long(about 13 feet freedom units😉) I will power it using 2pcs e-foil motors flipskys 65111(each 1500W permanent), 10pcs solarpanels each 150W, victron charge regulators, ardupilot autonomous pilot on pixhawk4, battery lifepo4 51.2V 100AH..... That's the main things
I JUST GOT A 85 BAYLINER CEIRA WITH A 280 VOLVO PENTA ON IT AND A V8 MOTOR I GOT NO CLUE HOW TO EVEN GET THE OUTDRIVE DOWN SO I CAN FIX THE OUTDRIVE SHAFT THAT IS SEIZED UP ...FLOORS R GOOD AND THE TRAILER HAD NEW TIRES THE BOAT HAS BRAND NEW BATTERIES AND IS TUNED UP NICELY IVE GOT MY HANDS FULL BUT BEING DIRT POOR I HAD THE CHANCE AND TOOK IT IM VERY GOOD MECHANICALLY JUST GOTTA LEARN HOW IT ALL WORKS 🤷🏽♂️😂
I just bought a boat I stopped looking at other boats that day. I'm not doing that to myself 😂 This is my boat i bought it there's no looking back 😅 I'm to busy trying to make it mine and bring back her gory day's 😊 I already plan on getting a newer outboard for it next year. I may keep this engine if it's worth it.
Just bought my first boat at age 43 3 weeks ago. It is a 1991 sunbird corsair 198. I bought it from the original owner. Garage kept. 4 years ago he took it to a marine shop to get service done. They unfortunately installed a part the wrong way that made the motor seize. So the original block has been completely rebuilt from the ground up. The whole lower end of the out drive is only one season old. Replaced last year with a brand new prop. The motor is a original 130 horsepower cobra 4 cylinder that i could eat off. It's a all around boat from tubing, to fishing, to leisure. Ive been out 9 times in the last 3 weeks. Unfortunately i feel like i missed out making some of those memories with my kids. I was only able to afford jetskis at the time to get them out on the water. But we had alot of good memories on them and still have the jetskis. My kids are 22, 14, and 12. My youngest is obviously the most excited.
Man i wish I saw your guide before buying my boat many years ago. That 80% rule is totally valid. Bear in mind that even the boat manufacturer advised me not to go for my choice and to pick a different model that suits my needs, I still insisted on what's on my mind. I Bought my boat for fishing mainly, but I thought what if I got my Gf got to join me, or in other occasions, my family or (future in laws), I ended up getting the scarab30 boat which has a cabin that i never used and which was a speed boat that could cut waves yet too narrow. I ended up feeling chocked while fishing with my mates as there was not enough width. not to mention that the boat was too wobbly while fishing with little waves which is something that other boats would handle just fine. Eventually I stopped going out for fishing much and by the end of it I sold the boat.
My boat is just over 17'. And it has a 4.3L v6 Penta :-D . It is perfect for my needs of the wife and me cruising the lake, and watersports with the kids. I can load it up with 7 people and a still pull a skier or tube with no problems. 2-foot-itis has never been a problem for me.
I am new and I am thinking of buying the Sea Doo Switch (pontoon Type of boat). I do not know anything about the Sea Doo quality versus other boats. I really would like a PWC that I can fish with but the family might want to go too so a Pontoon might be the best option for us. Thanks for any help.
Love all your vids keep them coming. I used to run all my buds boats when in the marines since they could afford but didnt know how to run them. Now disabled and live tho others vids . Love them all good times
Bought my first boat this year. 15’5” seaswirl fiberglass tri hull from 81. For my needs it’s perfect, it’s light, cheap, easy to tow, easy on fuel, stable when parked and gets on plane quick. Got it for $1500 running perfect just needed the prop replaced. After owning it, I’ve found that I probably could have got it for less but either way I’m happy with it. Currently redoing the floors as they were rotted but at least the stringers are in good shape.
My regret was not knowing how many little things can go wrong on an in/out boat. hydraulics, trim gauge, fuel system, water pump. Be sure you know a bit about the boats before you dig in.
I disagree that it's OK to under power boat if you just want to put around. You can still put putt with a bigger motor and it will burn less fuel be quieter and last longer than a smaller motor. As well it will be easier to resell.
Thank you for posting. I was about to buy a boat that was going to be way bigger than what I need just because I wanted to fit all the people that would hardly ever come along.
Thank you for your channel! Your videos first started to educate me how to pick a boat then found videos that stopped me from running out and buying a boat. I’m learning sooooo much before I buy. In my area of Southern California we have a brand called SUN RAY. Any thoughts on this brand?
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon thanks anyway. I’ll have to do some west coast research. I’ll be a First time boat owner, but o have a bit of experience working on a brother’s 60s-70s style ski boat in the 90s. Now for myself I started out looking at small sparse aluminum boats of various types then noticed that they are sometimes a good deal of money. I also noticed that older fiberglass boats that seem very nice can sometimes be around the same price. I’m have the idea I want a boat for mostly fishing but also have thoroughly just enjoyed just driving a boat around a lake because it’s relaxing. So thankfully because of your videos whatever I end up with will be mostly trouble free.🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻
FREE For Boat Shoppers: www.BoatersSecretWeapon.com/Toolkit FREE Boat Buyer's Toolkit for new or used boat shoppers will give you 28-pages of checklists, questions to ask and how to demo the boat the right way so you don't miss a thing. Plus, get the cost of ownership calculator so you know precisely what your cost of ownership will be.
FREE For Boat Owners: boaterssecretweapon.com/pages/boater-bootcamp FREE Boater Bootcamp for newer boat owners gives you insights on boat ownership basics, navigation and practical rules of the water and how to avoid, be prepared and handle emergency situations. No more not knowing what you don't know in the boating lifestyle.
The best advice I can give anyone as a 30+ year boat owner: Don't buy anything until you have a place to store it first.
Real talk
I've watched so many good intentioned souls buy their boats (new & used) and let them sit in the yard to the ravages of UV, mildew, falling leaves, rodents, spiders, bird crap, etc.. At least under a roof, you can keep most of the water and UV damage to a minimum. I keep my C-22 on a trailer in the backyard and it's a constant chore keeping her clean, dry inside, teak oiled and trailer tires from dry rotting.
Watched my in-laws buy a Brand New pontoon and let it sit in the back yard for over 3 years now in the open with no cover.
The FL sun is not kind.
Mackerel holy!😢😂
That is true. Found a great place that is easy in and out
I would also test drive the traffic pattern in and out of the storage site.
I don't believe it! This video only had 16 seconds of introduction before they got to the meat and potato's. Absolutely awesome!
Always get the MAX Horse power you can get. Cheaper to do it now then later. Less stress on the engine as well
Another great video Matt. I bought a new Yamaha with a wakeboard tower for my retirement. When I was younger I had a Sanger and water skied every weekend. Now I have a bad back and can't do watersports. Everyone asks me why I bought a boat with a tower because I'm almost 66 years old. I tell them I love wave runners and this is the next best thing. Plus, I plan on enjoying the boat for as long as I can, hopefully 5+ years. It will be much easier to sell it to someone younger if it's set up for watersports. I have done numerous upgrades to the boat as well. I'm a retired master mechanic and a I am OCD on preventative maintenance. No one will find a better boat when I am ready to let go of mine. I bought a jet because they are more fun.
I would add a few things. #1 Make sure your tow vehicle can handle what you are buying. If your vehicle can't pull it you will be paying for a better tow vehicle in addition to your boat. You definitely don't want to exceed your towing capacity. Remember to include the extra weight of cooler, gas and accessories.
#2 Leave room in your budget for accessories and unexpected items. You can easily drop a thousand or two in things like comfortable life jackets, lines, fenders, anchors, tubes, skis, wake boards, marine radios, fish finders, fishing gear, grills and more. You can also encounter unexpected items especially when buying used which most of us do. These things could include trailer tires, lights, or brake work. If you are unsure the seller did all the maintenance like changing of the impeller in last 2 or 3 years, you're better off doing preventive work especially if you can learn to do it yourself. Factor in winterizing cost when budgeting.
#3 Consider what your canvas needs are as that can turn into a few extra thousand if the boat doesn't come with what you want.
Great vid. If i may say, know how much it will cost a year, including docking,winterizing, gas, and things breaking down. Put the money to the side this way when things break you already have the money and dont have to scramble when things go bad.I figure our boat costs about 7 grand a year providing it doesnt break. How i justify it is the last time we went to universal studios it cost us about 7 grand for a few days. With our boat, it gives us about 5 months of enjoyment. Btw. Just chilling at the dock is awesome
Buying my boat was the worst financial decision I’ve ever made. Sure, it’s fun. However, that stupid thing costs me a small fortune in maintenance and tons of other fees. I can’t wait to get that thing out of my back yard.
I feel lucky after watching this because my wife and are (mid to late 50’s) decided to buy a Bennington Pontoon last month. We purchased the right size (24’), the correct power (Yamaha 200), the right value (2 years old with 30 total hours in mint shape), at a long standing Marina with great service dept and storage! We also have one of the best slips (great back view with nobody behind us), and we can afford the 5-7k a year in total expenses. We feel we checked off the 80% rule. I guess the only miss we had so far is I already started looking at other features and colors for the next one… but I agree that we should enjoy this one and the great equity we received buying it so new but after the depreciation is gone too! Very very happy to be “‘making memories on the water”. We went out 14 times in 25 days. More than double the hours owner one did in his two seasons! Happy happy!
Love it!
My tip is anyone buying a sailboat unless your buying a brand new boat stay away from inboard engines. They are a never ending money pit
Hey man, really enjoy the video series. Got my first boat this year, really enjoy a lot of your input and your advice. I’ve got a little V haul 14‘25 hp mercury outboard and it does exactly what I needed it to do. Want a bigger boat but I’ll get that when I’m ready. The best thing about this little boat is I could handle it by myself. I can launch it I can load it I can move it around the water and I have to worry about needing a second pair of hands. Keep on making great videos I’m looking forward to watching the rest of them and learning more about the sport that we all love. Take care
I've been boating for about 12 years now, bringing my kids up in a boating environment. It's been some of the greatest stuff we've done. There's also been some frustrating stuff with the boat itself. It's going to happen.
Good advice in this video!
100% agreed on stop looking for boats after you just bought one. This applies to everything, cars, homes, electronics, etc.
Check the foot oil.Milky looking oil means a seal needs replaced.There is a fill screw on the foot remove it check the oil.Water in foot means a diaster.
Thanks for the honest videos, Matt. God Bless.
People just need to do some research and put some real thought into any big purchase. I figured out straight away I wanted a high powered boat for the speed I want and to carry around a full load of people.
Thanks for the 80% rule! You're correct - its probably only once a year that I'll take a group of friends to France etc. The rest of the time I'll be relaxing
So many truths on this one. My wife and I have spent months looking at boats. I got pretty fixated on one that I want that will fit what we want now and when the kids are gone in a few years. We have had family give their opinions on what they like and all kinds of stuff. I just laugh and say "it's good that you're not buying it" hahaha. The options are endless for boats though and it sure is tough yo narrow it down on what you want that hits the check marks. My in-laws have a pontoon with a 90hp, and it was eye opening ok how much power I'd want on a toon.
Sounds like you've seen all the mistakes and trappings No matter what you buy, Car, truck, boat, quad, side by side etc etc. you're always going to have a wondering eye and see better nicer ones out there. It's can be a viscous cycle
BOAT - Break Out Another Thousand
A boat is a hole in the water you pour money in.
You either put out the BIG money up front for a new boat with only delayed headaches or you buy used and start pouring the money in that hole.
Really, a boat can provide good times and good memories just know that $ suck seems never ending so be prepared.
I grew up on boats, from canoes to small outboard 16' Johnsons to 19' bass boats. Considering getting an all-around boat for my family, the one that appeals to me the most is the Chapparral 21 OB Fish & Ski with the 200hp option. Curious, why did you choose a Chapparral boat for the thumbnail for this video? I'd love your input before I make a decision! (Edit): I'd rather listen to the voice of experience than make a decision I'll regret later.
Haha. The thumbnail is what made me click on this video because I am looking at the same boat online. It is very appealing as I want to get into fishing more and still be able to play. I've been looking at tri-toons as well. Have you seen a price for the Chaparral? I haven't seen an MSRP yet, but I just looked at them last night.
all true what you said
Don’t forget to attend as many boat shows as possible. It gives you the opportunity to see what you want and like and to ask a thousand questions.
Awesome info man! I will be looking into you program!
Great advise Matt!
Thank you
You're welcome
Looking at buying my first fishing boat. I’ve seen so many mixed reviews on trackers. Should I just spend the extra money and get a Lund or a crestliner?
Depends on several things... what kind of vehicles do you buy? Where will you be running the boat? How does each fit into your budget? How often will you be out on in? what kind of water?
The question is, for YOU is the extra money worth it?
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon the plan is to fish the Mississippi ever chance I get. Just hard telling with reviews online. Some people either LOVE a brand or absolutely hate it. In theory a tracker looks like a nice step up from a Jon boat. But I wouldn’t want to spend the money if it’s going to fall apart quickly.
Buyers of used boats can find mobile boat techs and have them check out the boat in the sellers driveway. I am hated by a few sellers this I know lol.
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon So.... what was found?
I’ll just get a jon boat
When you buy a boat, it cost as much or more than your car. It is a toy, not a financial investment. The boat takes gas, insurance, annual registration fees, annual maintenance, takes up storage space and you likely will not use it near as much as you thought. Oh, and they are very difficult to sell and when you sell it you likely will have to drop your price lower than you like (current market is an exception). The day you buy and the day sell it are the two best days when owning a boat. I have owned 5 boats and will soon be looking for a 6th. Why? Because fishing is something I enjoy and having a boat adds to that enjoyment. I'm just waiting for the COVID boat buyers to realize the above headaches which should result in bargain deals.
80MPH towing a boat? That's just dumb advise
Great advice bro. I'm getting my first cabin cruiser this year. Looking to get one around 28 to 35'. Gonna maintain it at a marina at Daytona beach area. I know to have it insoected. Any suggestions on reliable maker to go with?
Used, 75k or less
Thank you so much! Wish me luck!👍🏽🤞🏽
How's it going captain Matt!That was my biggest regret with the smaller engine as well the outboard doesn't have enough HP.Thats why I won't get an outboard (The Mercury)that doesn't have it least two hundred horse.Matt can you recommend a good dealer for me? Perhaps the dealership you used to work at? Buying a boat from Ohio I can only find one that I trust unless I go east to Cleveland area.The dealer I was telling you about that sells Boston Whalers seems to be pretty good but I don't know alot about them.
Don’t watch this right before a walk through…. Oh man… lol
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon lol…. His loss was my gain… after I replace the manifolds and risers…. S.o.b…. Lmao… gotta learn somehow!
Yeah..... I'll just.... Stay on the bank....
sometimes you dont know you bought from a bad dealer until its too late!!
❤ We must trust Jesus Completely 😊.. not having backup plans or conditions..
Remember we are to Mature in God's word after his perfect justification so that our obedience during saintification can contribute to our rewards at the bema seat.. and that our inheritance remains intact 😊..
May the Love of our perfect hight priest and king Jesus fill you all.. 🙏
This video's content is about boats. I am a catholic, but take your religious preaching elsewhere.
Let’s keep it boating focused
Freedom Boat Club
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon yes I have watched that video very good video
*B* UST
*O* UT
*A* NOTHER
*T* HOUSAND
My first boat 1100 hp twin inboard big blocks cigarette 🚤 😆 not even joking either got it super deal on auction
Still learning about boats right now
Have $50,000 in cash on hand for the first years maintenance on a Cigarette boat. The initial cost on a Cigarette boat is nothing.
@@johnsambo9379💯 percent accurate most people have no clue
Captain Matt, I agree, be happy with what you have, I’m 56 and when I was coming up my dad had a 1967 glassmaster 15 1/2 foot boat with a 80 hp Johnson, me and my brother were raised up on that. My brother has a boat, goes fishing a lot. He used to go to the lake all the time with his son. I bought a new boat in May of 2020, one of my boys took my older boat that I bought new, (a 1995 Bayliner 160 Capri with a 75 hp Mariner 2 stroke outboard) still running strong. I was always taught, it’s not what you got, but what you take care of! Just thought I would share that. Try and be content with what you have, you’ll be happier. 👍
I bought my first new boat in February. 20ft pontoon with a 90hp. My biggest regret is not getting the tritoon with the 150. I considered my 80% usage of cat fishing with one other person but did not realize how much my wife would enjoy it. She almost never liked boating prior but loves the pontoon and often invites more people than I ever figured.
A friend reminded me that the two best days of boat ownership are the day you buy it and the day you sell it. Boats are great but they are money pits.
My moniker is "Buy once cry once" when it comes to things like this. I want to get the right boat the first time. Not buy one with the plan to upgrade in a year or two. Get the warranty, take great care of it, and put a few thousand hours on it over the next 10 years. That's the way to go!
Ive never owned a boat, dont know much about em but considering getting one, and TH-cam landed me here. Im sooo glad I found this place. Thank You for putting this information out there for idiots like me.
To avoid buyers remorse, rob a bank first !!
I started 30 years ago now I have a 32 foot cabin and love it. Twin engine A/C frig.
Thats why sub 20 foot boats are so attractive.
Most fit in a standard garage. Problem solved.
If you're new to boating, buy a "beater" boat for a year first. You WILL smack it into docks and go over shoals etc your first year. It takes a long time to become a master power boat driver. I spent several years with a budget Chaparral. Then this year had a brand new Cobalt delivered, glad I did it that way. ($42, 000.00 boat, vs, $200, 000.00 boat)
This is what I did. Bought an already scratched up but pretty new boat for a significant discount. We put a few new scratches on it ourselves.
100% took a wealth of knowledge from my beater boat
Disagree on the cheap boat callout, I bought a cheap boat to just dip my foot in and it's been an amazing boat for a few years. Now that I know I love it, I'll upgrade but going cheap to just get in isn't bad at all.
I would say also don't buy a boat unless you've got cash for it. A boat is a luxury item and to take out a loan for a quickly depreciating luxury asset is silly. Secondly, start small. Buy a 15ft runabout first and see how you go and how many times you use it.
"I want you to have this for your family." Absolutely!
If you have kids, boys or girls....take them camping and fishing.
They may act like they don't enjoy it....but it will always be one of their fondest memories as they too become parents, and they too will look to do the same with their family.
I can't stress this enough, it is an excellent way to bring a family together!
My friends dad who I have known for 25 years bought a 90ft yatch years ago and said in the yatch world there is always a bigger yatch. He bought the yatch and went down to Florida with it and saw a 120ft yatch and said I wish I got that instead 😂😂😂 he still has the yatch but they charter it most of the time in the Bahamas nowadays.
Thanks for this advice. I went with a tritoon with a 250 Yamaha. Completely happy can pull wakeboards tubes and haul people.
My new boat's name is : Freedom of Disease
I've owned boats for about half my life. Being a gearhead I look for a good power plant. I do a variety of water activities, pleasure cruising, fishing, tube/skiing. My basic rule of thumb 20ft double axle is best. Once you get up in size triple axle is needed. Painted trailer not good for salt water use. There are numerous publications from Coast Guard etc. Take time to read these. Go boating with a friend that is a boat owner. First time out with a new boat is best done on week day. Take time backing to a ramp you can use a empty parking lot for practice. Be the qualified captain.
If not even about capacity, just having 2 tires on either side in case of a flat is the best thing.. can always get off the road
This is awesome advice folks!!! I've had six boats over the years and have fallen into a few of these categories. Our first ski boat had a 140HP I/O. We thought it was great until we put six people on board or tried to get a slalom skier up. Now we have a Mastercraft but the Inboard parking and docking is really hard and don't stop too quickly or you burry the nose. I think I just need four boats :)
I made a huge mistake. I bought a maxum in 2022 that was supposed to be a vacation spot in Wildwood NJ. I’m on many waiting lists, so when nobody called by May 1,2023 I decided to put the boat on the Delaware River for 2023. I’ve been on the boat about a dozen times and nobody in my family has seen it in the water. Apparently it’s all about location.
their loss. find some other people that will enjoy the boat no matter the location
I agree with everything except the trailer part. A boat is meant to be on the water. The time a boat isn’t on the water is in storage. How often are you transporting a boat on a trailer? You really think spending 6k on a tandem axl trailer is worth it? Each case is different of course. If you’re going to be portaging from lake to lake, then you might have a case for a nice trailer, otherwise, buy the minimum necessary to move it from the lake to storage and back twice a year.
Great video, thanks!Going to a dealer tomorrow for the first time to get the talking/looking/buying process started.Hoping for a good experience.
YEP!!! I have a three month old Bennington R23 with a 250 on it and I cannot break 44 miles an hour to save my life! That’s with their $10,000 upgraded tritune package for speed and handling.
At first I was extremely aggravated as everyone including the salesman/Marina said I would be in the low 50s. But I’ve come to realize 40 miles an hour is plenty. 95% of the time I’m cruising it 25 miles an hour. At first I regretted I did not get the 300. Now I realize there was no need for it. But know this, you can take a good eight, to 10 miles an hour off the speed of a boat based on what people tell you. And I should’ve known better because I’ve seen it time and time again.
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You want to hear something funny? Yesterday's 10000 dollars is today's 20000 dollars makes it even more of a challenge!🤣😂
And yesterday's $20K is today's $35K haha
Im def not going to become a boater until I can afford having in a full service Marina .. I don’t want to be towing and dealing with all that .. also buying new
Buying new does not mean buying good
Started boating in an chapparal 4.3L 19 feet bowrider 10 years ago made some upgrade over the years still feel brand new still loving it in this market.
That's awesome, my brother is looking at a 19ft Chaparral right now!
@@dynamicphotography_ Which model?
I have had 5 boats, go below and see how the headroom is Not being able to stand up below deck gets old fast .Don't buy a fixer upper
If your going to buy a boat you need to live 1hr to 30 min away from a large body of water where you can go enjoy your boat
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon thanks for replying God Bless you
I live with n HOA my 17 foot flats boat barley fits in garage .. I want a bigger boat but then I would have to pay a boat payment and pay monthly storage fees which means it would be outside .. if I dry dock it then I would have to pay boat payment dry dock storage $500 a month and then another $200-300 to store the trailer … may paid for boat that fits in my garage is just about perfect situation for me
Our lake is busy and rough. I’m in search of an affordable 22-24ft runabout that can offer a more comfortable ride across the lake. So far I’ve owned a Tahoe (beat me up) a Old Mariah the best so far, but too old and didn’t have enough room, a Glastron GX205, decent but still, looked for better, Now I have a 22 ft Crownline Razor series, stitching coming loose, plastic parts chipping and the ride is still rough. I’m definitely having some buyers remorse on this last purchase. I’m ISO my last and final boat purchase and want to make sure it’s right
I ordered my first boat Last week. Will be delivered mid October. Lest see
Congrats
What did you get
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon I'm in germany and the base is a model "Ilka Reling" from "BootslandDOTde".
4m long(about 13 feet freedom units😉)
I will power it using 2pcs e-foil motors flipskys 65111(each 1500W permanent), 10pcs solarpanels each 150W, victron charge regulators, ardupilot autonomous pilot on pixhawk4, battery lifepo4 51.2V 100AH..... That's the main things
I JUST GOT A 85 BAYLINER CEIRA WITH A 280 VOLVO PENTA ON IT AND A V8 MOTOR I GOT NO CLUE HOW TO EVEN GET THE OUTDRIVE DOWN SO I CAN FIX THE OUTDRIVE SHAFT THAT IS SEIZED UP ...FLOORS R GOOD AND THE TRAILER HAD NEW TIRES THE BOAT HAS BRAND NEW BATTERIES AND IS TUNED UP NICELY IVE GOT MY HANDS FULL BUT BEING DIRT POOR I HAD THE CHANCE AND TOOK IT IM VERY GOOD MECHANICALLY JUST GOTTA LEARN HOW IT ALL WORKS 🤷🏽♂️😂
I just bought a boat I stopped looking at other boats that day. I'm not doing that to myself 😂 This is my boat i bought it there's no looking back 😅 I'm to busy trying to make it mine and bring back her gory day's 😊 I already plan on getting a newer outboard for it next year. I may keep this engine if it's worth it.
Just bought my first boat at age 43 3 weeks ago. It is a 1991 sunbird corsair 198. I bought it from the original owner. Garage kept. 4 years ago he took it to a marine shop to get service done. They unfortunately installed a part the wrong way that made the motor seize. So the original block has been completely rebuilt from the ground up. The whole lower end of the out drive is only one season old. Replaced last year with a brand new prop. The motor is a original 130 horsepower cobra 4 cylinder that i could eat off. It's a all around boat from tubing, to fishing, to leisure. Ive been out 9 times in the last 3 weeks. Unfortunately i feel like i missed out making some of those memories with my kids. I was only able to afford jetskis at the time to get them out on the water. But we had alot of good memories on them and still have the jetskis. My kids are 22, 14, and 12. My youngest is obviously the most excited.
Man i wish I saw your guide before buying my boat many years ago. That 80% rule is totally valid. Bear in mind that even the boat manufacturer advised me not to go for my choice and to pick a different model that suits my needs, I still insisted on what's on my mind. I Bought my boat for fishing mainly, but I thought what if I got my Gf got to join me, or in other occasions, my family or (future in laws), I ended up getting the scarab30 boat which has a cabin that i never used and which was a speed boat that could cut waves yet too narrow. I ended up feeling chocked while fishing with my mates as there was not enough width. not to mention that the boat was too wobbly while fishing with little waves which is something that other boats would handle just fine. Eventually I stopped going out for fishing much and by the end of it I sold the boat.
Great video I really appreciate it but nobody should be pulling any trailer any boat or any kind of camper or anything at 80 mph😅😅😅
My boat is just over 17'. And it has a 4.3L v6 Penta :-D . It is perfect for my needs of the wife and me cruising the lake, and watersports with the kids. I can load it up with 7 people and a still pull a skier or tube with no problems. 2-foot-itis has never been a problem for me.
I am new and I am thinking of buying the Sea Doo Switch (pontoon Type of boat).
I do not know anything about the Sea Doo quality versus other boats.
I really would like a PWC that I can fish with but the family might want to go too so a Pontoon might be the best option for us.
Thanks for any help.
I randomly bought a boat at a garage sale last weekend., no regrets lol except that……😂 well it’s big enough for just me and my family.
Best advice possible...avoid a powerboat and buy a sailboat
Love all your vids keep them coming. I used to run all my buds boats when in the marines since they could afford but didnt know how to run them. Now disabled and live tho others vids . Love them all good times
Perfect message at the end! I truly agree.
Biggest regret would be buying a bayliner🎉🎉
Bought my first boat this year. 15’5” seaswirl fiberglass tri hull from 81. For my needs it’s perfect, it’s light, cheap, easy to tow, easy on fuel, stable when parked and gets on plane quick. Got it for $1500 running perfect just needed the prop replaced. After owning it, I’ve found that I probably could have got it for less but either way I’m happy with it. Currently redoing the floors as they were rotted but at least the stringers are in good shape.
Congrats, sounds like it fits you well!
My regret was not knowing how many little things can go wrong on an in/out boat. hydraulics, trim gauge, fuel system, water pump.
Be sure you know a bit about the boats before you dig in.
Grab out www.BoatBuyerToolkit.com and watch the 500+ videos on the channel!
I disagree that it's OK to under power boat if you just want to put around. You can still put putt with a bigger motor and it will burn less fuel be quieter and last longer than a smaller motor. As well it will be easier to resell.
good point on being easier to resell
I want to buy a for under four around 40k
Thank you for posting. I was about to buy a boat that was going to be way bigger than what I need just because I wanted to fit all the people that would hardly ever come along.
Glad it was helpful!
The first day is cool lol.
I really like your platform and because you dropped some gems on this one!You covered all the regrets too!
StabiCraft cant go wrong
Thinking the best thing to do for 1st time buyers is join a boat club and see how that goes.
We've got a video talking about "Should I buy, rent or join a boat club"
My man and I want the Lambo boat.
Thank you for your channel! Your videos first started to educate me how to pick a boat then found videos that stopped me from running out and buying a boat. I’m learning sooooo much before I buy. In my area of Southern California we have a brand called SUN RAY. Any thoughts on this brand?
Glad you found us however, I'm not familiar with Sun Ray
@@BoatBuyersSecretWeapon thanks anyway. I’ll have to do some west coast research. I’ll be a First time boat owner, but o have a bit of experience working on a brother’s 60s-70s style ski boat in the 90s. Now for myself I started out looking at small sparse aluminum boats of various types then noticed that they are sometimes a good deal of money. I also noticed that older fiberglass boats that seem very nice can sometimes be around the same price. I’m have the idea I want a boat for mostly fishing but also have thoroughly just enjoyed just driving a boat around a lake because it’s relaxing. So thankfully because of your videos whatever I end up with will be mostly trouble free.🤞🏻🤞🏻🤞🏻
Very nice 👍
Great video!!
Nicely done. Very beautiful family.
Thank you so much!
I've been binge watching 😂
Love it, welcome to the community
advice re first bay boat. price high this time , 2000 to 2005 good condition 22 footer ok?
Thinking about purchasing a new Trophy 20 CX. What's your take on. Obviously price is appealing.
My 2000 Bayliner Capri w/125 Merc O/B was the best 12.5K I ever spent. I loved that boat, it did everything.
Thank you sir.
Welcome!