The sun is just below the horizon and the air is crisp. You've packed your
tackle box, grabbed your pole and
bought some worms. Now you're making your way
to the fishing dock headed towards the perfect fishing
boat - you're no longer landlocked. Then you wake up, you don't have a boat! But making that dream
a reality
will be easier with these 4 important tips for purchasing the perfect
fishing boat!
The Kind of Boat - Start out with a clear understanding of the purpose of the fishing boat you want.
Obviously the
boat is going to be
used for fishing, but is it
going to be floating on oceans or in lakes? What length of fishing trip will it be - day time trips or overnight
stays? For example for a simple overnight stay in your boat, you will want to be sure to choose a boat
with a hull which will allow you to ride
the waves well. It is one thing to be rocking and rolling during the day,
but at night you want to be able to sleep! Imagine different scenarios - length of time in the boat, storing supplies, number of passengers
Where you will be fishing and the type of weather you might face. These pictures will help you narrow
down the type and a size of boat
you will find most pleasurable.
The Boat Budget - Boats
are very expensive items. You should be well acquainted with
your
finances before you take on the additional burden of a boat
purchase. Boats with hulls for overnight stays and
rough waters
are obviously more expensive than small boats for small lakes.
Know your limitations.
And
Don't forget maintenance costs, docking fees, fuel expenses and storage costs. The smaller the boat,
the smaller these additional expenses. Balancing your desire and your budget is necessary. Get a boat
You can keep and enjoy over the long haul.
Warrenties - This may seem obvious, but in the excitement of the purchase this can be overlooked.
Read and understand the warranties fully before making a
purchase. A warranty can be your best
friend. Make sure the
dealer you buy the fishing boat from offers you the proper coverage in
case there is
any
defect or problem with your boat. You don't
want to end up having to pay huge amounts to fix your boat
because you forgot to check out the warranties!
Proper Boat Certification - The NMMA, or the
National Marine Manufacturer's Association is an
organization
that tests boats that are manufactured by different companies.
They only certify those boats
that pass their rigorous testing.
Any boat certified by the NMMA is one that you would feel safe
owning.
Look for the NMMA "seal of approval" or ask your dealer.
Boat Registration - Just as with cars, boats must be registered. Be prepared to
register
your boat with your state government(normally the DMV) just as you do with your vehicle (i.e. pay money!).
On top of that expense, And finally, stock your boat
with life
jackets, brand new fishing gear, food and a cooler and
get fishing!
Inflatable Boats - An inexpensive alternative to regular boats!
Find your fishing supplies at On the Hook - lures,
rods, reels, line, bait, scents, tackle, fishing guides and much more! See the the catogories on on your left.
Suspected poaching boat gutted by fire United Press International - 21 hours ago 20 (UPI) -- Fire destroyed an impounded and dry-docked Canadian lobster fishing boat suspected by federal officials of being used for poaching off Nova ...