Category Archives: fishing boats

Offshore Sport Fishing Boats

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Sport fishing                       
Q.  I like to spend time offshore fishing and I am considering an investment in a sport fishing boat.  Is there anything specific I should look for?
A.  There are really a number of factors to take into account.  First, you need to decide on your plan for using the boat.  If you are truly dedicated to using it as just an off shore fishing boat, then the design will need to target just fishing.  In reality, I do not think you will find many of these “just fishing” boats used by recreational boaters.
If you look at the available sport fishing boats on the market, I think you will find that a large percentage of the offshore fishing boat designs are more than just fishing boats.  Most of today’s sport-fishing boats have become weekend and vacation getaways.  A few of the larger ones are even long term live aboard vessels.  
If you are serious about using the boat as a fishing boat, you will want to look at the size and layout of the fishing area.  You will definitely want a roomy section of the cockpit that has accessible bait wells and storage areas for the catch of the day.  In addition, most sport fishing boats need a decent fighting chair.  That means you will need a spacious enough area to accommodate the chair, the crew and the cheer squad for that record catch.  
The next major question you need to ask yourself is what type of waters you plan to spend most of your time in.  If you live and plan to use the boat in the Northern waters (East or West), you will want to shop for a boat that has the ability to handle rougher waters and colder temperatures.  Being cold and wet on a boat with nowhere to warm up will reduce your enthusiasm.  A boat that is too small for your water can make the trip uncomfortable to only the hardiest of the fishing crowd.  Do not buy a boat that you “think” will be big enough.  Test your planned purchase on similar water before you spend the money.
With that in mind, the location and use will also determine a few of the amenities you opt for.  To extend the fishing (or any use) in the Northern areas, the cabin should offer heat for that cold weather warm up.   If the boat is to be in the southern waters where the temperatures can be rather high, the cabin needs to be air-conditioned.  Many of today’s owners move their boat back and forth so they should be equipped for both climates. 
 That choice will come down to the location it is used, the fishing area of the cockpit, the passenger comfort and finally the personal styling preferences.   

Getting the most out of a boat show.

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First you have to ask yourself why you are attending a boat show (or any show for that matter).  Are you attending as new buyer looking for a new boat?  On the other hand, are you attending as an owner looking to upgrade what you already have or just add on to your equipment?  Maybe you are a manufacturer or dealer…. that is a completely different reason.

I am always looking for a location that I like to visit.  I like the local shows but that is not the same as taking a trip to a distant location and using it like a working vacation.  (Just don’t tell my wife how much fun these shows are!)

Probably best to decide why you are at the show and establish an agenda for the time you will be attending.   Reviewing or looking at a boat can take a significant amount of time.  Plan your time accordingly.  In most cases you will want to look over the boat, listen to the sales pitch and, if possible, try it out on the water.

Because it will be a time consuming experience, do a little research ahead of time.  Review models and manufacturers that you have an interest in, on the manufacturers website or at a local dealer.  Go to the website for the show or event you will be attending and get a copy of the exhibitors list.  Review the exhibitor list and rank the manufacturers or dealers by your interest.  It sounds like a lot of work but if you prioritize the models you want to see, you can spend less time wandering the exhibit hall and more time shopping.  You will also find that you will probably have more time to leisurely enjoy the show once you have achieved your “requirements”.

If you are looking at products or upgrades to your existing boat, it is a variation of the same agenda.  Look through the exhibitor lists and develop a plan and route through the exhibit hall.  It is also important to keep track of other things that might be of interested as you are looking at the exhibitor list or walking around.  You can always come back to a booth or visit the company’s website later (or back in your hotel room!).

If you are attending a show that is or has an in-water portion, check the weather reports.  I hate attending a show with the intent of getting an in-water demo and have the weather be cool, windy or raining.  Although, if you want to check the rough water capabilities of a few of the boats look for a day that can provide you with the right experience.

It is also important to go to shows that have what you want.  Why waste precious shopping time at a Strictly Sail Show if you are looking for a new powerboat?  Save the other areas for that extra time, after you have completed your visits to the required list of vendors.

If you are interested in education (seminars, forums, certification classes) make sure that you get the newest schedule of events right when you get to the show.  I have attended a number of shows that have had last minute changes due to weather, speaker schedules and room availability.  Last minute adjustments are not unusual.

One thing to remember about boat shows, you only have a limited amount of time to attend the show.  You might not be able to see everything in detail, even if you go every day the event is open.  However, if you follow a schedule to see the things you want, you should have extra time to see the rest of the show.  Once you have covered your list you can wander through the rest of the exhibits.  Prioritize, write up an agenda, follow it and enjoy the show.  Hope to see you there!