Needs some suggestions on boat purchase.

This topic has 9 replies, 9 voices, and was last updated 12 years, 11 months ago by blakesfav.

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July 8, 2013 at 2:57 pm #418310

Star1021Scott
Participant

For those of you that have read the thread “Bass Cat Challenge” you’re probably aware that once I successfully meet my goal, I will be purchasing my first boat ever and Ive decided it will be a BC.I really need feedback from those of you who are experienced boat owners and perhaps those of you would can relate to my situation. Here are some of the facts.· This will be my first boat, outside of fishing out of my friend’s boat, which is the extent of my experience on the water.· My garage can only house something that is just under 22 feet.· I want a minimum of 150HP· $25,000 is my limit I had in the past limited my choice to either a Sabre, or Sabre FTD. However, reading through some of the posts on the forum, even BCB recommends the Margay over the Sabre, but not the Margay over FTD.I live in the Nashville area, and would likely be fishing most likely Percy Priest, Old Hickory, or Center Hill. I think I might be able to swing a Margay brand new, but I definitely would be in the “used” category for any other boat. Thoughts? Suggestions?

July 8, 2013 at 3:52 pm #418311

Bass Cat Boats
Keymaster

That is a hard cup to fill with any solid electronics package and and engine that MSRP hovers around $13,000 to $14,000 or more with oil tank, fuel line, propeller, control box, cables, ignition just dedicated to Mercury, Yamaha or Evinrude. Let alone trolling motor, electronics, steering and other items before you touch boat and trailer. This leaves you to either stay with your expectations and bump price some, lower the electro package and live on less on some items or revamp thoughts and go Used. First time buyer incentives exist to help some and there are more items to discuss with a dealership. We commend your commitment to change the health style and you will be much better for it on down the road if you can hang onto the gains in your life. As we age we all need to remember to keep our health further on the priority list for our families sake.

July 8, 2013 at 6:34 pm #418313

polaris425
Participant

You can find year-2year old Sabre FTDs in that price range. Im going to look at a Sabre this afternoon, like you this will be my first REAL boat of my own. Ive done quite a bit of research and I dont think Ill be dissapointed for going with a BCB for my first real boat. Ive been fishing out of an 18 1985 Winner this year so It will be interesting to see how this newer BCB fishes and rides compared to the old Winner, which is basically an old Ranger w/ a different name.13 PIV w/ 200 MercIG: WarriorRiverCustomRods

July 8, 2013 at 6:38 pm #418315

polaris425
Participant

Oh, and it should fit w/ a swing away tongue. My garage is 21 clear and Im positive it will fit, based on the information on the BCB website.13 PIV w/ 200 MercIG: WarriorRiverCustomRods

July 8, 2013 at 7:36 pm #418317

mifon
Participant

Star1021Scott,I would suggest that you consider a used Bass Cat based on your need and budget. With a budget of $25,000, you can buy a whole lot of boat, very nicely equipped that might be a little more comfortable on the lakes you mentioned. I am from Old Hickory, TN and fish the lakes you mentioned. When faced with this choice (and not as big a budget as yours), I chose a Pantera 2 with 200 HP Mercury and very nice electronics. The fact that your considering a Bass Cat makes a choice of a used boat to purchase a good one since the same quality that was built into the boat remains in a “lovingly” used model Bass Cat.If I can help with your decision, please let me know!Best wishes on your purchaseMike

July 8, 2013 at 10:33 pm #418320

bngolfen
Participant

Used FTD. The baddest boat in the lineup is EYRAJMHO

July 9, 2013 at 12:10 pm #418322

pantera296
Participant

With 22 of garage you have choices up to a Pantera II w/ a pivot tongue. The $25,000 will be more of a limiting factor. Id be happy to help in any way I can.. Good Luck with the weight challenge and we all hope to be welcoming you to the BCB family soon… Sherm

July 9, 2013 at 1:37 pm #418323

sabreski
Participant

Id look at the Classic w/200 & pivot tongue. I also would skip the Margay and go w/Sabre/Sabre FTD.

July 9, 2013 at 1:52 pm #418325

Anonymous
Inactive

Sir, A friend of mine, Mr. Pat Kowal, has 2 boats for sale, a older Pantera / 200 Merc and a newer model Nitro / 150 Merc. “Might” be what you need!His # is 573-280-7779 Lake of the Ozarks area. Good Luck!

July 9, 2013 at 2:32 pm #418328

blakesfav
Participant

One thing about those three lakes is that having good electronics will really serve you well. An older well cared for used boat will allow a little room in the budget for updated electronics and possibly side/down imaging, which will be a blast to have on Percy Priest and Old Hickory (Lived in Nashville for five years and loved exploring those lakes!).
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