So what do you consider the most important things to check out on a used boat before you buy it?
How about a Top 10 things to check?
Go!

what kind of boat ?bass ,center console, deep, shallow ?they all have different things to look for.

Go have it checked out by a mechanic of your choice before purchasing.

Period.

I agree with slabx

Here's what I look for
Transom stand on the lower unit and bounce if it moves you don't want it
Floor walk around on it look for soft spots
Compression bring a gauge there only $30
Check gear oil for water or metal shavings
No patches in hull if fiberglass if aluminum look for cracks
Smell the fuel see if it smells old
Always lake test
Do you research on the engine and see if it is a model that had lots of problems or recalls
Check the power trim
See if it shifts smooth or pops out of gear in forward and reverse
See if [censored] cables are smooth not stiff same with steering if hydro steer look for leaks under the console and at the ram

Schedule an appointment with a service center and pay the $100 for a pre-buy inspection. You'll sleep easy and know what you're getting.

All these things are good. I also like to try and get a feel of the person selling it. there are always tells on their character and why they are really selling a boat. I have bought and sold 4 boats in the last 6 years on craigslist and just finally found the one for me. I have had one issue with one of the boats, but that was because of the crazy mechanic I brought it too, Never bring your boat to a guy that has like 30 dead boats in front of his shop lol.... Any way, there are still decent people out there selling boats and you can find them, you just may have to drive a little. At the very least go ahead and get a lake test if it is over 4k, It really is hard to get people to do much as far as showing a boat when it is at its bottom price, I do not know what your price range is or what type of boat you are getting, Obviously if you paying over 8k or so I would go get it checked out if you are able to. First and foremost learn how to trust your gut and walk away if you feel off or something. There are plenty of boats out there and there is no reason to let something that brings you joy, start off with bringing you stress. I feel like there are great deals out there on used boats all the time. you can do the leg work and save some money or you can fork out the cash and get piece of mind that way.

Everything listed above + one., The time of year plays a significant role in $paid. Unfortunately the $ may be higher with the warmer weather ahead of us and thus, the price is = to the demand. Good luck and post when u pull the trigger !

used boat.? First thing I would do is go see a psychiatrist

Everything above is great advice. I would add is don't be afraid to walk away, there's plenty of used boats out there. If you look long enough you'll find a deal. Also pick a boat that matches what you like to fish for.

++++1 on the timing and dont be afraid to walk away. I always buy before spring with used boats. Most people psychologically start remembering the fin they had on their boat and start to think it i worth more in the spring I think lol. Also I have walked away from at least 10 boats that were hard to walk away from but trusting your gut is always best!


Did you find one yet???

Don't know about anyone else but I have never purchased a new boat. I would do the following things.

Cash is king.

Get it checked out! $100.00 now or thousands later.

If you have never had an inboard get a outboard and it is best to get a 4 stroke.

Get insurance day one for the value of the boat anymore does you no good.( A low water obstruction strike and you are without a boat again)Insurance is cheap. Get full coverage for other boats in case an accident. I carry on board incident medical as well and it was all under $200.00 per year.

Get personal. Collect all the sellers information and never buy from a non-local. I bought my last boat from a guy who said "Now that we have tested it it you don't like this boat just bring it back." He was serious and the boat was way better than what I expected.Every local who knew him he he was a very honest man.He didn't need the money and didn't use the boat anymore.

Good Luck