I'm about to buy my first boat. is a new boat the way to go or a good used. And if used should I buy from a dealer or any ole jo. My budget is between 20-30 thousand

Man...you are gonna get a lot of opinions on this one...people asking about what make you are wanting, length, type, engine, etc....I would say that despite all of that stuff you would want to look at this like buying a car. The moment you buy new, you have instantly lost value the moment you have hooked it up to your truck...so you will never get back what you paid for it....Now buying new isn't all that bad...they come with warranties, that new boat smell, and you can deck it out as you wish...Now buying used has its pros and cons as well...you can buy used from an individual or dealer and it could still come with a warranty. If the factory warranty has run out then you could get one through a dealer...also buying used means that you could get a better deal on the boat...You can find one that has all the fun gadgets and accessories that you are looking for, but you didn't have to take the hit on up-front cost...In the end it is all about what makes you happy and that you are comfortable with. Good luck on the search and let us know what you come up with.

Above is spot on with the new. If you buy used get a good marine mechanic to check the compression and seals. Make sure they have the service documents, I've even made a condition of sale, having the full service done, impeller, seals, tune up and compression check before any funds change hands. Plus, if you get it pre-scratched, it doesn't hurt as bad.

Nothing above is relevant until you decide what kind of fishing you are going to do, where you are going to do it, and if anything that looks like it will suit your needs is available. Then you can decide new or used. If you buy new go with a long term loan to get the payments down and you can always pay it off early.

Way too many opinions, but my biggest word of caution is to find a boat with bare floors - no carpet. When it gets dirty, you can powerwash it and put the scrub brush to it and it will look like new.

I do mainly bass fishing. I fish a lot of big bass tournaments and want to get into a tournament trail. I'm not new to fishing. I just don't want to get screwed over when buying a used boat but also don't think I can get what I want with a new boat and still stay under budget.

You will get more boat for your money buying used with a $30k budget. Do you even have a brand, model or size in mind?

I just want something tournament ready. And don't want to have to sink any money up front in. Preferably low hours,single owner, garage kept. 18-20 ft tandem axle trailer, with swing away hitch. Blue. Very good condition trolling motor at least an 80lb thrust, minimum 150hp motor

Having a predetermined color will drastically limit your options for buying a used boat. I bought an older model used boat w/ a new motor and spent about 1/3 of what it would've cost me to buy it new. I learned how to wire simple electrical and can fix any of the issues that might arise w/o getting off of the water. Everyone loves new boats, but I refuse to pay that much money for one.

Sounds like you're going to need some help. I will find you a used boat in great shape. One that you will come way out ahead in the long run, for a measley 1.75% finders fee. I will do the research and you decide if you want it. For used boats, your best bet is to not limit the purchase due to color, make, or model....but obviously, it needs to be something that you definitely will be happy with. You want to keep most options open. DON'T BUY NEW unless you just like to throw money away. You will need to move on it soon because there will not be the great deals once the bass start swimming close to the banks....

Here ya go. Not mine but a great boat. And she will do around 86 to 90 mph.

http://www.boattrader.com/listing/2005-bullet-20xd-102940559

I'm completely open to any options. The things I listed are more of a wish list than a have to have scenario.

If you're looking to come in under $30,000 then that is very doable for a used fiberglass boat. A couple years ago I was looking for my first boat and originally was planning on a new Tracker aluminum boat. I'm glad (in hindsight) I finally went with a used fiberglass 2007 Ranger Z20. Absolutely loved the boat and just recently upgraded to a newer Ranger since I confirmed to myself I am addicted to fishing. The main thing is make sure the motor is in good shape since that's what will keep you on or off the water the most.

Check out Blazer Bay they are super good boats

Lots of good options and opinions for buying a new to you. Deff would buy used for what you are wanting.

Def check this guys skeeter out...not bad and in your price range...looks tourni ready to me

http://texasfishingforum.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/12071408/97_skeeter_zx202c#Post12071408