Re: Starting Out
Roscoe has it right; look around at boats even new ones on line and in shops to find the size and style you want then go find a used one.
The list above is good except one thing: carpet. No carpet. Ever. Buy the kind of boat that doesn't have to be covered.
However Rule #1 is good titles to boat and trailer. Anything else can be fixed.
Outboard only.
You want 20-24' @ $5-8500. That is going to be a tough fit. And there is a huge difference between the dynamics. Let me suggest you start with a 19' on a single axle trailer. You will find way better quality in your price range, but even there you have to buy something old. And it will be a salt water motor, which makes age a factor. 19' is a good two man boat. You will be comfortable in fair weather and safe if it gets rough on you.
Do not get tempted by I/O bowriders that are dirt cheap and all over the used market. There is a reason they are dumped everywhere; it's the worst set-up for what you want to do. Conversely, people hang on to their real boats, or sell to friends, so good CC's are hard to find. Your profile seller is the guy who bought it "for the kids" and now they are grown and out of the house, and it's just sitting. or the guy who is up-fitting.
The "bay boat" hull is good for flats; wet on open water. The deep V is the opposite, although a 19' V can go about anywhere. A modified V is a good compromise, including the old starcraft tinnies. A flat Carolina Skiff and its imitators (Bay Runner, Skimmer, etc.) are both good for big water and flats, and require a much smaller motor, which saves you big $ on the purchase.
Any brand that starts with "Sea" is a good mid-grade boat. Old mako's are great; new ones not. Proline, privateer, palm beach, Scout are good. Grady white, Whaler, old Wellcraft are at the top.
As for test ride: you don;t need to test ride each boat, just each style and size. Once you've been in a 21' Sea Hunt or a 17' Carolina Skiff you been in them all.
