Buying a Boat
As a salesman for Boatland Canada (www.boatlandcanada.ca) it always amazes me just how unprepared a buyer can be. He usually wants a bass boat; She wants a pontoon boat and they end up settling on the first decent boat they see. It’s good to compromise but they spend a decent amount of cash on a boat that simply doesn’t suit all or even most of their needs. Here are some things to consider before buying:
Price
Before you consider purchasing a boat; set a realistic price range. It’s no good to own a boat that is costing you so much that you can’t afford to run it. There is great financing available through Boatland Canada that will allow you to set the price in a range that’s bearable for you.
Remember to factor in the costs of gas, oil and insurance. If you are going to use your boat a lot then it may be worth your while upgrading to an Optimax or even a 4-Stroke motor. This will lower your operating costs. Buying used is another option. I have a great “Boat Finder” feature on my website (www.blitzcreek.com) that will assist you in finding the right price for the ideal used boat.
New or used you are going to have to insure your boat. I deal with John Hofsink of Pearson-Dunn Insurance (jhofsink@pearson-dunn.com) for the best rates imaginable.
Main Uses
Are you looking for a fishing boat? A Fish and Ski or a Ski and Fish? This will depend on who will be using the boat. Buying for yourself is easy but what about your wife and the kids? Carefully consider all the uses for your boat (fishing, skiing, entertaining, cruising, or for weekends at the cottage) and write them down. Don’t be bogged down with models, the salesman will help walk you through the best rigs that will suit the needs that you now have in writing.
Further Considerations
There are other considerations that need to be addressed. Where are you going to store your boat throughout summer and winter? The standard garage is 20’x20’. Boatland is able to offer swing away tongues on most of their models, new or used, which will reduce the package size by two feet or more. Will this be enough to make it fit? Do you have other options available to you?
Trailer length is important but what about trailering weight? Do you have a vehicle that is capable of hauling your new rig? Do you need a bimini top for the boat? Who will do the maintenance? Will you need further electronics (i.e. GPS, Fishfinders)? Take the time now to resolve any questions and concerns.
Last but not least; get behind the wheel. After addressing all of the “new boat issues” - if it looks good, feels good and brings a smile to your face – buy it.
On a side note, I have a few used fishing rods and reels for sale. Email me at chris@blitzcreek.com for the full list.
Bass Wishes from www.blitzcreek.com
Copyright © 2005 Chris Hockley
It is illegal to reproduce or distribute this work in any manner or medium without written permission of the author, Chris Hockley c/o Blitzcreek Pro Fishing chris@blitzcreek.com