I am new to fishing in Texas..in other words 2 weeks ago at Granger was my first time here. I am looking to get a project boat and have run into a few adds that have good deals, but no title. The TPWD website mentions an Affidavit of fact and states
*NO RECORD EXISTS - An affidavit is required if the original owner never registered and/or titled the vessel and/or outboard m
exemption (i.e. used on private waters, purchased prior to titling act, not required from previous state). The affidavit must be c
original owner, and explain when the vessel/outboard motor was acquired and why it was not registered/titled previously.

Is this required if the current owner bought as salvaged boats and has no paperwork and no idea of how to get any paperwork? Or is just a bill of sale with required info and application through TPWD enough?

Most will tell you no title walk away. It is not worth the hassle trying to get one.

No title means no registration transfer (boat numbers). Some will tell ya its "registered with P&WL numbers". That by itself won't work no matter how convincing they sound. Title for outboard? Not so much a big deal. Will be your choice. Better for resale ta most buyers. Boat title is a must..............

This is straight off the TPWD website.

Purchasing Used Vessels � DO NOT purchase a used boat or outboard motor without receiving a title signed on the front and back along with a bill of sale from the person(s) listed on the title or from their legally documented representative. If a legal representative signs the title for the recorded owner(s), you must obtain a copy of the documentation authorizing them to act on behalf of the owner(s).

http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/boat/owner/buying_and_selling/index.phtml

too much of a hassle with no title. It might be easier if tne original owner willling to go to the office to prove that he has ownership of the boat, if not then I wouldn't buy.

Thanks for the heads up. The boats were a '77 bass boat with a merc 150hp and trailer and a '86 Glastron run about with working sterndrive and trailer for $300. Think I may still buy them to tear down and sell the parts and look else where for a fishing boat project that has a title.

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