Hello,

I am wanting to get into fishing here in Texas, I have been out to Tawakoni a few time and fished from a friends boat, caught mostly Sandbass, and Stripers. From then on I was hooked into this fishing here in Texas,I can't believe how big the fish are and the numbers you can obtain in such a few hours. (if they are bitting). So what does everyone recommend to get started with. I want to buy a boat my budget is below 7,000. I have looked at fish and ski's but am leaning towards a fishing boat.

Thank you

First off welcome! I own a 22 ft bass boat and chase sandies and hybrids
to no end. Now if I had it to do over, I would definitely go with a center console.
7000$ is kinda limiting you, but I'm sure you could find something
to fit. Good luck on you're endeavor , it will change you're life!!


Mike

Just FYI, you new guys should really give more info
on you're background. Mp8251 you tell us nothing. And that sends
up a red flag to me.

Pretty sure you're not as important as the president.

Just give us something!

DITTO!!

Find a smaller center console and budget some guided trips to learn from the best. This forum is full of experts ready to teach you how to have the most fun and stay safe.

Best,

Jackson

Thanks for the info.

- luv to fish, what background info are you talking about? I asked an innocent question on a public discussion forum concerning fishing.

Mike

Name rank etc....lol

I think he wants you to fill out your profile. You will be surprised at some of the support you will get on here from free gear, a backseat and help on your local lakes.

As for your first question, u might consider a fish and ski like a Bayliner in a 19-20 ft model. They're relatively cheap and inboards are low maintenance and sip gas. I had one for years and they're great. Stick u a good trolling motor and a decent graph on there and u may end up guiding like me

Plus, when the fish don't bite or u just wanna chill, they have seats that lean back!!!

I loved this boat. 1999 Bayliner Capri 1950, paid $4200 for it. Never had a bit of trouble...other than finding fish!

Guess you probably should have stuck with the Bayliner cause you still can't find fish!!

I might go with less boat and more electronics.

Agreed! I caught a LOT of fish from my 1950. It's a great first boat. It handles big waves, uses half the gas that my center console does, and the best part - people never followed me around thinking that I was a guide!!!

I'm partial to center consoles myself, they're a great multi-species fishing platform and usually a shallow draft. I recommend a deep-v incase you get caught on the water when a storm blows up on you. Keep an eye on craigslist, boattrader.com, and boat's for sale section on this forum. Don't get in a hurry, drive it first and have it checked out by a good mechinic. I wish you luck in your venture and welcome to the TFF.

FREE GEAR!!! Nobody told me about this!

Thanks everyone for the advice, it is not falling on deaf ears. I will get my profile updated soon (tonight).

Mike

Remember what ever you purchase,
you will have to Sell one day.

CC's are popular for open water fishing.
Look for ones that have been taken care of.