I've been fishing out of a kayak for the last few years. Now I'm starting to think about getting a bass boat. I'm not sure what I should be looking for in a "starter" boat. I have a family with 2 kids still left at home so I'm thinking that I need something that will pull a skier as well. What are the most important things when buying a used boat to consider? My brother purchased a bass boat several years ago and later found out that the transome was rotten. Any advice to avoid that kind of thing would be appreciated.

Everyone is going to tell you not to get a fish/ski, but if your like me and take your kids alot it is nice to have the cabin area that is deeper for your kids to stay in. I like mine and fish out of it alot. It is a minor pain with the big windshield. Look at the ones with front and rear casting decks, the type without the decks sit to low from the rails. Have someone professional look at it prior to purchase. This is more important than taking it on a test drive.

can't you ski with a tradition bass boat. I was thinking a fish n ski was just a convenience thing

I dont see why you couldnt ski from a bass boat and a fish/ski is an inconvenience for fish. I just like the cabin type area for the kids. I am putting a cover on it next to keep the sun off them too.