LP-Bass-Top Tips For Buying A Boat

Top Tips
For Buying
A Bass Boat

If you’re like most fishermen, a fishing boat is your ultimate purchase. And the great thing is, you have plenty of options.

But talk about a difficult choice! Fear not, though, because we’re here to help. We’ve gathered all the information you need and have summarized it into these top six considerations.

So whether you’re an in-season competitive angler, a year-round sportsman, a hunter, or a family who loves the lake, there’s a boat out there with your name on it. And these are the tips on how you can get it.

One: Depth Performance

So, where are you planning to fish? You’ll need a boat that’s suited to where you’re going. Let’s cover the main choices:

The Walkaround Boat
Your walkaround boat will have a step down cabin with a large center console. It is perfect for both nearshore and offshore fishing. It is made from fiberglass or aluminum. You can get one with a single, twin engine (outboard or inboard), or a sterndrive.

The Center Console Boat
Your center console boat will have a fiberglass hull with a deep-V or modified-V design. It is very adaptable and is often used out on lakes, in rivers, and for ocean fishing. It is also called an “open fisherman” for its spacious deck layout.

The Flats Skiff
Your flats skiff is expressly designed for inshore fishing in extremely shallow waters. Because of this, it is designed with a low freeboard, standing platform, and aft and fore casting decks. It is made from either fiberglass or composite specialized shallow-draft hull material.

Two: Construction Material Quality

Next, consider the material your boat is made of. We can’t stress that enough. Pick the boat that’s made with only the best materials. Choose one with a well-made interior and exterior, top of the line rigging and other features.

Fiberglass
Fiberglass fishing boats tend to be on the costlier end. They are also often fitted with two-stroke engines. Part of the reason they cost more is because fiberglass withstands rougher conditions found in larger bodies of water.

Aluminum
Aluminum boats, on the other hand, are perfect for smaller fishing spots and shallower lakes. Aluminum boats cost less and are sturdier. They absorb nicks, dings and bangs caused by stumps and rocks found in shallower fishing waters.

Three: Resale Value

Even when you’re focused on buying a boat, thinking about what’ll happen if you sell it, is a good idea. A boat’s resale value will determine your overall cost and the returns on your purchase. Not all boats are created equal so pick a boat known for retaining its value in the long-term. This will be helpful on your maintenance costs in the long run.

Four: Fit and Finish

As with all high quality items, great craftsmanship matters. More so, on your boat. Everything on it, from the material, the assembly, the paint, the workmanship, to its rigging and features, they need to be on point. It must have that high-quality finish we associate with its price.

So, take the time to check out some reviews about your boat. Pay close attention to reviews about the smaller, less visible features and parts. Read about the manufacture and assembly and whether these are problem areas. These are some of the things you need to look out for.

Five: Company Innovations

So, how’s your prospect boat’s company looking? It’s a good idea to pick a boat that boasts of innovation in technology and production. Pick a brand or company known for leading and staying ahead of the game.

Is the company constantly reworking their product line’s engine capabilities? What about their advancements to meet ever-changing EPA emission standards? Are they rolling out upgrades to track systems, ventilation capabilities, or digital dashboard options? Ideally, you should pick a boat that’s not only top of the line in price and quality, but also in advancements as the industry evolves. That’s what we’d do and that’s the only way you should.

Six: A Great Dealer Network

Choose a boat that is available across many dealers. Why? Because it enjoys upgrade accessibility, ease-of-maintenance, awesome cleaning services, and more. Take particular note of fishing boats available in awesome dealer networks. Not only will you enjoy more options, you’ll also get discounts and seasonal deals.

So, are you ready to take to the fishing waters? Nail down these boat-buying essentials so you’ll have all you need to make a great investment. Good luck out there, and enjoy the ride of a lifetime.

WHY XPRESS?

Xpress Boats, creator of the original all-welded aluminum boat, understands that your time is valuable and we appreciate your interest and investment in our innovative product. With care and maintenance, you will experience decades of xcitement with your Xpress craft.

Family Owned and Operated
Unparalleled Construction
Pioneered the Hyper-Lift Hull
Xtreme Engineering
Xceptional Performance
Elite Proven
and more!

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THE XPRESS DIFFERENCE

No two boats are built the same. They may both have an attractive exterior covered with shiny metallic paint, but the hull design, structural support, and substrate can vary drastically. Each component of our all-welded aluminum boats comes together to deliver The Xpress Difference.