Re: My Next Boat Will Be...
Smaller, maybe an aluminum one that I was recommended by the good folks here. I will probably also look for an outboard engine too.
We like our big heavy Wellcraft, but I will go smaller and sportier next time, or maybe go for a pontoon with a stout outboard.
Some advice for the newbies here...
Listen to the recommendations.
For the experienced guys, what would you choose as your next boat?
I'm happy with the various boats I now have, after almost 50 years of trial, and both error and success, and would not change much if i replaced any of them. But over the years my family (and now I) haev changed styles not due to the boat but due to our changing interests and circumstances.
True, one should heed the advice of the experienced, but first you have to discern if the advice comes from someone who knows your waters and your intended use. Everything about boats is situational. One solution is to get advice from your local boat/fish forums and better, local experienced boaters.
You are asking for typical regrets.
I think the mistake that many new boaters make is to fall for the razzle dazzle, and as it fades, they get less enchanted with their choice. Electronics such as stereo's start failing. The shiny surfaces and plush carpet require constant care and nonetheless wear out or look tired. All that built-in appointments and padding take up room. Size becomes more of a burden than a benefit.
So for the next boat, the want something more maintenance-free, and a focus on function rather than form. Keep it simple.
I doubt anyone has regretted paying more for reliability, but lots regret not paying for it. They stretch the budget around length at the expense of reliability. Part of this is the unrealistic expectation of taking hordes of people out every time--and similarly, the unrealistic expectation that those cute enthusiastic children will want anything to do with you when they are teens. (Around here, the strategy is to buy the boat for the teens; that's who uses them the most).