Fishing Boat Buying Guide
Fishing is a rewarding and relaxing activity that draws many people to the water. While you can certainly fish from a dock or the shore of a lake, it’s often much better if you get out onto the water in a fishing boat. Fishing boats allow you access to more places and, accordingly, more fish, so your chances of catching something good are increased. Also, owning a fishing boat lets you take family and friends along for the ride, and they can either cast their lines with you or enjoy the tranquility of cruising across the water on a sunny day.
Not sure what to look for when shopping for a fishing boat? Roger's Performance Marine, with locations in Centerville and Hurricane, is your Utah fishing boat dealer. Here are some questions to ask yourself when determining what type of fishing boat will best suit your needs.
What’s Your Budget?
First, you’ll need to think about money. Establishing a firm budget lets you avoid boats that are out of your means while ensuring that you’re getting all the features you need. Don’t just think about the sticker cost of a boat, either; you have to consider maintenance, registration, licensing, storage and fuel costs, too. If you are on a tighter budget, you can always look into used options to save more money.
Are You Going Freshwater or Saltwater Fishing?
Now it’s time to consider where you plan to go fishing. Freshwater fishing can take place in either shallow rivers or deep lakes. If you’re going to fish in shallow water, a flat-bottomed boat is best since it’s not likely to run aground. Deeper waters require a V-hulled boat that can navigate the depth better.
If you prefer to trailer your boat and head west to the Pacific Coast to do some saltwater fishing, you’ll definitely want to make sure your boat can handle the salinity of the water. This means finding a boat that isn’t likely to corrode from the salt. Also, ocean waters are choppier and more unpredictable than a calm lake, so a deep-V hull proves especially beneficial here. If you’re fishing right along the coast in shallow tidewaters, a smaller fishing boat is better, but the further away you get from shore, the bigger and more powerful your fishing boat will need to be.
How Much Space Do You Need?
The next order of business is to consider the amount of space you need on your boat. If you’re fishing with only one other person, then you probably won’t require that much space. But you’ll want to have a lot of extra space if you plan to bring several people along, and that includes storage space for everyone’s gear.
How long you spend out on the water will also have an impact on the size of boat you get. You’ll want more space for longer or overnight trips, but a short afternoon outing can be done in a small craft.
What Amenities Do You Want?
Fishing boats can come with several different types of amenities, which can improve your experience significantly. Baitwells and livewells keep your bait and catches fresh until you get back to shore. Rod holders along the side of your boat allow you to keep multiple lines in the water or step away from your rod without having to remove it. Fish finders help you to locate where the fish are biting. A cooler gives you space to store snacks and drinks to make your trip more enjoyable.
Where Will You Store Your Boat?
Finally, how and where you store your fishing boat is another essential consideration. If you have a large garage or driveway where you can keep your trailered boat covered, then you may not have to worry. However, if you don’t have the space on your property for your fishing boat, then you’ll need to look into storage options at a marina or dry-storage facility, especially during the winter.
Searching for fishing boats near Salt Lake City? Browse our website to see the wide selection of new and used fishing boats for sale at our dealership locations in Hurricane and Centerville, UT. We also provide boat storage services if you’re looking for a place to store your brand-new fishing boat when the season is done. Roger’s Performance Marine proudly serves the greater SLC metropolitan area as well as the city of St. George, UT.