sneak_e_pete

I thought I would start this topic to help answer some of my questions, but I am sure that there are a lot of other people out there who would really benefit from some of the knowledge on the board of previous boat buyers. I will be buying a new boat in the next couple of years, but I have started looking now. I currently have a 16ft alumacraft with a 40 4 stroke, but I bought it used. This time, I want brand new. I went to the boat show this year and I am glad I did, because it really helped me to visualize what I am looking for. However...it also brought up a TON of questions that I had a hard time getting an answer for (every dealer gave me a different answer). Hoping that some board insight will help. The model that really stood out to me at the show was the Smokercraft Ultima 172. I have 3 boys, and the seating arrangement and being able to use it for more than fishing was ideal. Size is also a consideration as I need to keep towing weight below 3,000 lbs. Budget is $30-$32K It was listed at $25,000 with a 90hp 4 stroke and came with a fisherman's top. The boat is rated for 140hp...I would 100% get the 140hp. So after a long introduction, here goes with the questions: 1. What options should I be considering? Is there anything that is a MUST have? I like the motor upgrade, battery charger, full top, ski bar...anything else? 2. Kicker or no kicker? Some people said definitely need one. Other people said don't waste your money. A couple of guys said a trolling plate on the main motor will do the same.???? 3. If yes to kicker, is there anything else I need to consider (i.e. how do I control the kicker? Does it steer with the main wheel and shift from the console? 4. 4 stroke versus 2 stroke. I got a LOT of conflicting information at the show on this one. I also thought it would be very useful if we could share some pricing tips. What is the best way to negotiate a price? With all of the options I thought of so far....the Ultima would come out to around $33-$34K give or take. I know these are a lot of questions, probably with many long answers as well, but any information is greatly appreciated.

I really like this boat (the 172 Superfisherman). 100" Beam, 17ft 8" length...good layout. Anyone ever been in one? They seem to be paired up with Suzuki outboards....any opinions on Suzuki? http://www.starcraftmarine.com/Showroom/Specifications.aspx?TypeId=37&SeriesId=131&ModelId=1597&Type=Fishing%20Boats&Series=Superfisherman&Model=176

I live in Grimsby and have a trailer in Lowbanks, so will be fishing Erie and Ontario mostly.

Thanks again for all of the feedback....I REALLY APPRECIATE the time everyone is taking to help me. This is going to be a lot of fun! A couple of people have said though, that I can get exactly what I want for $30K, but some of the prices I have seen are pretty high already... http://www.autotrader.ca/a/Princecraft/SPORT%20172%20SS/LONDON/Ontario/5_11663774_ON20071122100019686/?ms=boats That Princecraft is great, but it is only a 91 beam with a 115, no kicker, no bow mount, no freight, PDI and apparently is already $3,600 off.

O.K., I feel like a total tool...I actually took the time to look into the towing capacity rather than rely on what the sales guy at the dealership told me, and it is actually 3,600 lbs. Sorry.

Thanks for all of the feedback. Any feedback on Legend boats?

Good point...17-18 footer...92-96 inch beam. I am guessing total package weight of 2,500-2,700 lbs.

Hello again...lots of questions...these days...just excited I guess. I posted a while ago about a tow vehicle and got a lot of valuable advice, however I have 1 more question. I want a new boat in the next 1-2 years, but would like to avoid buying a truck for several more years. I currently own a Dodge Grand Caravan (towing capacity 1,500 lbs.). My family has a trailer near Dunville, and the boat launch is literally 3 kms down the road and is relatively flat. I could store the boat at my trailer and launch each time I want to use it. Do you anticipate any real problems towing it on a regular basis to that launch and launching/pulling it out? I definitely want to avoid buying a boat and not being able to use it. Thanks for your input.

Thanks for the info so far. I live in Grimsby. I have a year to look, because I would be purchasing (at the earliest) next winter/spring. I have 3 young boys, so want to upgrade to something a bit bigger and more comfortable. Can you get a good size boat with some nice options (bimini top for example) for under 30K?

I am starting my search for a new boat (currently have a 16ft alumacraft with a 40hp). I want a family boat...nothing too huge, but comfortable. I actually really like the features, set-up and size of the Tracker Pro Guide V-17 Combo. 96 inch beam and 115hp. Any thoughts on this? Any other recommendations for a boat with similar features and under $30k all in? As always, thanks in advance.

Hi, saw these on another post. My question is whether you guys would recommend insulated or not? Can the insulated ones still be worn in the summer?

Holy smokes...thanks for all of the replies...very much appreciated. I agree with the general theme...if I'm gonna do it...do it right and safely. I may have the option of mooring the boat as well. I live in Grimsby, and my family has a trailer in Lowbanks...I may be able to leave the boat at the trailer.

Thanks for the replies. I appreciate the insight. I do have a nice little boat now (16 ft aluminum with 40hp), but I also have a 4 year old, 2 year old and 2 month old boys that I will want a bigger boat for in a few years. I want a very comfortable set-up for us to hang out in. Thanks again.

Within the next couple of years, I really want to get a new boat...18 foot aluminum. The package weight on one of these is 2,500 lbs, and my Caravan only tows 1,500. So, not only do I have to fork out 30k for a new boat, but also 40-50k for a truck? I am never gonna sell this one to my wife. What do you guys use for towing? Any cheaper options?

Sorry, one more question. I admit I have no idea how ice forms, or how cold it needs to be. At this point, is there even a chance that the ice will be safe enough to be in an operator's hut on January 1, or should I just re-book?

Thanks for info. As always, much appreciated!

Hi all, I have a trip planned to the South Shore of Nipissing with my little boy Jan. 1-4. Just wondering if anyone can update me on the conditions. I have been unable to find info. Thanks in advance.

Hi there, I am wanting to take my 4 year old son ice fishing for the first time this year. I have stayed with one operator for the past 4 years (South Shore) and they have been awesome, however I have always found the walleye fishing to be very hit and miss. Just wondering if anyone has any other suggestions or great experiences. It will be just him and I going and want to stay for 3 nights. Thanks in advance.

HI all,'my family just bought a trailer in Lowbanks. I am taking my 4 year old out on Thursday... any tips are appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Hey, glad you had a good time and that I was able to provide you with a little information. This place is definitely a Walleye factory! The most amazing thing to me is how "unspooked" the fish were. Forget letting out 100' feet of line when trolling....it takes too long to reel them in. We let out 20' feet....seriously....20' of line and were catching them in the prop wash!

Hi all, my wife and I are taking a leap and looking at a 36' foot trailer. We are looking for a park to keep it at year round, and I was hoping someone would have some recommendations. We have a few criteria that we are looking for: 1. We live in Grimsby and would love be close (within an hour or so) 2. We have a 4 year old, 2 year old and one in the oven, so family oriented 3. Fishing - not a must have, but I have a 16ft aluminum and would like to take the kids out/get some peace and quiet for myself. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Thanks, I did install a new bilge a few weeks ago...most likely the culprit I am thinking because I have changed nothing else. Seemed to be a pretty easy install though...I cut the old cables and wired them to the new bilge....viola....seems hard to mess that up!

Thanks...what would cause a draw...is it easy to fix or better left to the pros?

Hi there, I have a 16ft. aluminum and I am having power issues. My battery keeps getting drained while just sitting in the driveway. Goes from full charge to dead in 2 days. Have had the battery tested and tried my back-up and they are fine. The only things running to the battery are my bilge, lights and ignition (electric start 40hp). All run off a fuse panel. I am not an electrical guy and am wondering if anyone has any ideas? Is this something I could tackle myself, or should I just take it to the marina?

Thanks for all of the info. One more question, do I need to use a bottom bouncer to get the "J's" down deep enough, or will the fish come up to get it?