$18,000 budget, what you buying?

[LittleJohn]

I would hit 3 or 4 the top lakes and hire best guide on them lakes. Would learn a lot and what fun u would have.
LittleJohn

[LA CrappieMaster]

Thanks for all of the suggestions. I passed on a couple of fair deals because of work restrictions. I’ve come to the conclusion that I’d be alright with several models (Tracker 175 TXW or bigger, Lowe Stinger, Ranger RT, G3, Triton) because each has there own pros/cons and I fish several species and styles.


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[ryanjay11]

I have an Xpress XP180 and can highly recommend that model. No matter what you get, you'll probably end up swapping out electronics and making several modifications.

You can save a whole lot of money by buying a 2-3 year old boat from someone that has changed their mind on what they want.

[slabby joe]

There's a TA-196 Triton for sale on the classifieds front page if it's still available.I wish it would have been for sale before I bought my Basscat because this is a like new boat for the price of some of the aluminum boats you've mentioned. The motor only has thirty some hours and it looks immaculate with a double axle galvanized trailer. I'm always checking back to see if it's sold Good luck!!

[skunked again]

Slabby Joe ; you and me both ! I like that awlgrip flooring. Easy to clean, anti slip, won't hold water or dirt like carpet.
The only downside is no cushion to it, for standing all day.

[Grainraiser]

I know the OP said he never got around to learning how to read electronics. I was in the same boat and paid a guide for a electronics trip. I was the best money I ever spent. Down and side scanning eliminates a lot of water. Livescope pinpoints the fish even more. I would rather have a used boat and good electronics over a new boat with bad electronics.

[LA CrappieMaster]

I know the OP said he never got around to learning how to read electronics. I was in the same boat and paid a guide for a electronics trip. I was the best money I ever spent. Down and side scanning eliminates a lot of water. Livescope pinpoints the fish even more. I would rather have a used boat and good electronics over a new boat with bad electronics.

Most likely going this route. This is the only reason I haven drove to Alabama and paid a little under 18.5K for a new Stinger 175. It would eat up all of my budget and although I would have a brand new boat with warranty, I'm left with saving up to replace low end electronics and 12V trolling system. I enjoy the bream beds with kids right now, so I've been dragging my feet learning to use the electronics. However, as they get older, I can see them beginning to enjoy the "hunt" as much as harvesting bream. I must admit, I need to spend some time in the electronics thread debating on what types are for what and where they should be located on the boat.

[skunked again]

For the electronics, getting a guide is a great recommendation. Maybe even try to set something up with local members of this site?
Also, go to some stores, get your hands on the units. Scroll through the screens yourself. You'll most likely find one brand easier than the other, just like phones or computers. That advice was given to me, on this site, I found it extremely useful.
I wound up with Garmin echomap plus units, no complaints.
Get on YouTube, everything you could want to learn, for all the brands, is there. Trust me, it's more than enough to confuse you !

[LA CrappieMaster]

For the electronics, getting a guide is a great recommendation. Maybe even try to set something up with local members of this site?
Also, go to some stores, get your hands on the units. Scroll through the screens yourself. You'll most likely find one brand easier than the other, just like phones or computers. That advice was given to me, on this site, I found it extremely useful.
I wound up with Garmin echomap plus units, no complaints.
Get on YouTube, everything you could want to learn, for all the brands, is there. Trust me, it's more than enough to confuse you !

You are 100% correct. I haven’t put too much stake in them yet, since I don’t own a boat and would likely attempt to use what it comes with first. I know I’ll want to link the console and bow units, likely a SI/DI for console. The bow unit for more stationary activity is what I really need to figure out. Eventually I’d like to get a live scope setup, but that would likely be a year after getting a boat and an addition to another unit.


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[skunked again]

Then do your homework, and ensure whatever you buy, is compatible with your end goal.
Keep in mind, when wanting to network all together, your now looking at Ethernet cables, hubs, boxes, etc. That price can really go up, and quick. Especially if you go with the "approved" cables and hubs.