This is still a ways off because I want to save up for the right boat, but it’s fun to think about.
For background, I got my “training wheels” 16x48 drift boat a couple years ago and have been getting comfortable hauling, launching, etc. But living in Western WA, Puget Sound is really where I want to spend my time. And that means a different boat.
Here are my considerations as I start to think about the boat I want. Curious what you all would add to the list, or where you think I might be off base.
1. 1500 lb towing capacity on my vehicle. This is pretty limiting, but I ain’t rich and so I’m not shopping for a truck and a boat at the same time. I assume this means I’m going aluminum and pretty bare bones.
2. Garage space - I’ve got about 20’ of space, so accounting for trailer tongue that’s probably around 16’ of boat.
3. Passenger space - needs to accommodate my wife and two young (for now) kids. A removable canopy would probably help for when they’re on board.
4. The fishing I plan to do is mostly fly fishing and jigging.
5. Range - Marine Areas 9-13, decent weather. Not trying to run out to the San Juans or fish in 15 knots of wind.
6. Budget will probably cap out around $10k. So a reasonably well-loved used boat.
I’m thinking this all adds up to a tiller-style 16’ aluminum option, i.e. Lund, Smokercraft. Does that sound about right, and what else should I be thinking about?
For background, I got my “training wheels” 16x48 drift boat a couple years ago and have been getting comfortable hauling, launching, etc. But living in Western WA, Puget Sound is really where I want to spend my time. And that means a different boat.
Here are my considerations as I start to think about the boat I want. Curious what you all would add to the list, or where you think I might be off base.
1. 1500 lb towing capacity on my vehicle. This is pretty limiting, but I ain’t rich and so I’m not shopping for a truck and a boat at the same time. I assume this means I’m going aluminum and pretty bare bones.
2. Garage space - I’ve got about 20’ of space, so accounting for trailer tongue that’s probably around 16’ of boat.
3. Passenger space - needs to accommodate my wife and two young (for now) kids. A removable canopy would probably help for when they’re on board.
4. The fishing I plan to do is mostly fly fishing and jigging.
5. Range - Marine Areas 9-13, decent weather. Not trying to run out to the San Juans or fish in 15 knots of wind.
6. Budget will probably cap out around $10k. So a reasonably well-loved used boat.
I’m thinking this all adds up to a tiller-style 16’ aluminum option, i.e. Lund, Smokercraft. Does that sound about right, and what else should I be thinking about?
