Hello everyone. Looking to buy a boat. Need to pick everyones brain. Let me set the stage. I will be retiring in a few months. Saved up a nice down payment on my first boat purchase. In the past I was always in the passenger seat of a boat of several different brands but that was several years ago. While concentrating on my career I got out of something I used to really enjoy so there have been a lot of upgrades and changes in the new boats, graphs, and trolling motors.
I have been looking at the new Nitro Z20pro and the Skeeter ZX225. Will also consider other brands but need some pros and cons or advise. That gives you an idea of the price tag so what do y'all know. Have heard the Nitos don't hold up as well as the Skeeter. But Nitro seems to get you more bang for you buck.
Feel free to give me your take on a new boot.

Have you considered what type of fishing you would prefer ? If you want to fish in fresh water as well as salt , or even just big water .

I would not finance. Find a good 4-6 year old boat and pay cash.

Freshwater fishing. I did think about buying used but honestly the prices for the used boats I was looking at were still such a large investment that it seemed smarter to go with a new boat with the warranty.

To the forum! There are a lot of things to consider before making your purchase. Storage, is my garage big enough or will I have to pay for monthly storage? Insurance full coverage $600.00 and up. Monthly payments or paying cash for a used boat. Resale value over a period of time. Buying a used boat will usually be your best deal as long as you have it checked out. Buying a boat for an investment is not recommended. Avoid long term payments with low monthly payments and high interest rates. You will be upside down before you know it. Dealers make it easy for you to get into a new boat. What options do I want on the boat, dual console, graphs, trolling motor, size of the motor, power poles, etc., all these will factor in the cost. The Skeeter boat will always have a higher resale value than the Nitro. Lots of boats to choose from, both new and used, hope this helps you on your venture.

Phoenix is the best for the buck in my opinion. I’ve owned 3 Rangers and a Triton over the past 20 years. My next will be a Phoenix after having spent some time in them.

I'll put in a plug for Phoenix also but ultimately it has to fit what you want in a boat such as comfort, storage, fishability, etc... Also ask around about customer service from different boat makers.

A friend of mine has a 2018 skeeter ZX250 that she is selling for $47,500 which I would assume is in that price range.

Here’s a couple within that price range that I would seriously consider if I were looking to spend that kinda money.

https://www.hwmarine.com/default.as...amp;t=preowned&fr=xPreOwnedInventory

https://www.hwmarine.com/default.as...amp;t=preowned&fr=xPreOwnedInventory

I have no affiliation with them. Just saw them while looking around some.

At the price point you are referring to, there are lots of options. I would consider all of them.

Charger has not been mentioned but might be something to consider. I think at least some of the Chargers mimic the Champions hulls of the 20 years ago.

I have a 1992 Champion 201 and I will put the ride quality, especially in rough chop, against any 20' boat on the market and it is almost 30 years old.

Wayne

Actually the new Chargers are direct splashes from the Champ 210 and 198.
Bass Cat has a "hybrid" which is a Champ 203 hull, with all new Cat cap, impressive boat for sure.

But the skeeter cost more but a gently used one would be the best.
J D