doublehemlock

mostly lakes and rivers but occasional trips to the big pond

doublehemlock

probably a V hull, with a small cuddy, I haven't seen many cats with cuddys until you get into the bigger boats, not sure what a tunnel is, deffinately want an i/o.

doublehemlock

I really like that boat. I have looked at the ad numerous times. If it is still available when I get ready to pull the trigger, it will be on my short list.

doublehemlock

I am looking for a stock boat to start. I like the single engine for now because of $. Less expense for me will mean more use and enjoyment of the boat. Less gas to buy and 1 motor and outdrive to maintain should make a big difference. I am leaning toward a 23-25 foot boat w/a 502mpi or a 496 HO and external steering. I have driven fountains, bajas, and scarabs, but I have no 1st experience with checkmate or sonic. Do they both make good boats? I am no snob, but reliabilty, quality construcion, as well as fit and finish are very important to me.

BlackJack58

Say no more. Look for a nice Formula. There are plenty around, a nice 242 or 272 would fit the bill very well. Plenty of people to help you if you need it, great service & support from Formula (even on older models) and they hold their resale value.

More ideas here: http://www.bigbadboat.com/2009/02/th...-offshore.html

doublehemlock

Good Link, TY. It made me feel like I'm on the right track.

BAJA WILL

Yes, Sonic and Checkmate both make nice boats. Both very different, example Sonic will be bigger/heavier built more for rough water. Checkmate, has a shallower (lessV in hull) makes boat faster, but rougher ride in rough water. 502 mpi and 496HO or Mag are all great motors, and I agree stay away from anything molested, their are so many jack ass mechanics that just phuck up motors not haveing a clue to what their doing, just so they can make a buck off a guy.

Some considerations, how much will you use cabin? Will you spend the night on the boat? Some other brands to consider, but may have a hard time to stay in your price range, Pantera, Active thunder, Formula. Just keep in mind the rarer a boat the harder it will be to resell. For your price range I would try to stay with a 1997-2001

doublehemlock

I may overnight occasionally, but the cabin just needs to be there so the wife can get out the elements for a few minutes at a time. I have been boating all of my life, but she is fairly new to it. I am stiill leaning toward the 23 SCS because I d don't think I'll outgrow the power too quickly, and I've been impressed with the scarabs I have been on in the past. I see a few checkmates for sale in my area but I have not had an opportunity to look at any of them yet. I am anxious to get a boat, but I will be patient and look until I find the right boat at the right price.

I appreciate everyones input so far. I have been lurking for quite some time, but just registered. This is a good board.

BAJA WILL

If you really like the 23 scs, take a look at Baja H2X, you can find a nice one in your price range.

doublehemlock

I really like some of the older boats, but after reading your 101 thread, I think I may spend more time modernizing and customizing a boat like that than using it. I love your work that I have seen on here. When I do end with a boat, I would not be surprised if it eventually spends a winter in Toledo. Somewhere in the future I expect to buy a bigger boat w/ twins, but for now I will mostly be boating in the TN/KY area. I feel a slightly smaller and faster single engine boat will be suitable to my needs and bankroll. Keep up your great work, you are very tallented. And keep the singles flowing at the dance accademy.