Researching boats, and would like to get some advice from y’all.
I want to get something that I can get into some skinny water, not necessarily super skinny, but 9" or so. I would also like something that i could get out to the jetties and maybe a little further off shore with the right conditions.
I really like some of the skiffs, The maverick, Hells Bay and the older Egret’s. But they seem too specialized and wonder if something like a Hewes redfisher would be a good compromise. looking to buy a used boat, budget is somewhat flexible but would like to keep it around 30k.
This is always a good topic, as I enjoy the ■■■■■■■■ from the more experienced salts.
In my humble opinion, it’d be hard to beat a used Pathfinder. Excellent resale value, they draft pretty shallow, and you could run it all the way offshore if you pick your days. Hope this helps.
“I’m not a hundred percent in love with your tone right now…”
I would visit thehulltruth.com, it has a wealth of information that might help you. Personally I would lean towards a bay boat in the 19 to 22 ft range. Most bay boats if any will draft 9 inches of water but most will get you into 12" with a better ride IMHO.
I agree with the 19-22’ bay boat suggestion. The skinny water / jetty hybrid is always a tough one. With a $30k budget, you should find several legit contenders though (maybe even an actual Contender).
Take a look at the dolphin back country pro 18. It has a deeper vee and heavier than most flats boats but can still deliver a true 10" draft. I can run through most of the slop in the inlets around here or run out to the jetties with the tabs down and not take a beating or get soaked. I dont think I will ever sell mine.
-Albemarle 248xf “Chella”
-Dolphin 18BC Pro
-Miscellaneous boats
I have a 17 whaler and love it inshore and out to 100’! Its a 71 model and has been well used,can’t wear one out!! I just keep puttin the old off shore motors off my other boat when I repower. I now am running a 25" 200 merc. counter rotator with 1800 hrs