BUYING your FIRST Boat??? Here's the 3 THINGS You NEED to KNOW!!!

[@Twangtown7]

"Ohhh Nellie. Oh Nellie". Pretty sure that would've been my reaction, too.

[@derricktrevor3664]

I guess Im randomly asking but does any of you know of a trick to get back into an instagram account..? I was dumb forgot my account password. I would love any tricks you can give me!

[@deandrehugo1103]

@Derrick Trevor instablaster :)

[@derricktrevor3664]

@Deandre Hugo thanks for your reply. I got to the site on google and I'm waiting for the hacking stuff atm. Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@derricktrevor3664]

@Deandre Hugo it worked and I finally got access to my account again. I'm so happy:D Thank you so much you saved my account :D

[@deandrehugo1103]

@Derrick Trevor no problem :D

[@brianhershberger4429]

Just bought my first boat at the age of 66. Got a 16.5 Tracker deep V. She's used but been taken care of. Most fun thing I've ever bought!!!!! Love this video, full of truly good advice, Good Deal Mikey!!

[@edsonsilvadacostasilvadaco5246]

*This makes my old motor look like a toy **enjoyable.fishing** recommend it's well built. I haven't had it on the water yet, but I'm very sure it will perform just fine.*

[@billwhite7099]

STAY WITHIN YOUR BUDGET, is key. Also, if you have the room to store it, don't ditch your paid for jon boat when you get the boat you always wanted. You're jon boat will always have a purpose. You'll get permission to a farm pond your big rig won't fit, or you'll have or know a kid who'll appreciate borrowing it. Mikey doing a rod and reel, budget choice, vid would be good to help some of the up and comers as well. I want to pull my hair out when I see a kid dump all his money into one high dollar rod and reel, that he could have bought 3 suitable rigs that would open up his options.

[@deckmonkey1459]

I got an 87 Ranger Comanche a few years ago for $7200/Can. Humminbird 898 with Ram mount, Minnkota 3 bank on board charger, new seats, carpet, heavy duty cover and 24 volt Maxxium on the bow. It'll be plenty good for a long time. I laugh because I always hear people talk about how expensive they think it is when I basically paid for the extras and got the boat, motor and trailer for free.

[@clarawilliams2052]

Hi dear do you need help getting a new boat?

[@Shanester66]

Totally agree bro. Im very fortunate to be able to fish out of a tournament level bass boat but it wasnt always like that for sure. You just have to make some goals and work towards what is important to you. I consider myself very blessed to have the equipment I have these days.

[@Dbars19]

the most disgusting thing is how normal guys cant afford a new boat now of days. 60k-90k. 100k for walleye boats. Ocean boats are on another level. A 28ft center console is like 200k+. And thats like the min size i would feel safe in goin out in the ocean.

[@shesmydaily]

Bruh bass tracker has boats for 20k

[@upstateangler9575]

I just purchased a tracker over the winter. I go down late March to pick it up. I used a 10ft hard plastic field and stream jon baot deal last year. It got me out on the water 5 days a week last summer and thats all that matters . I cant wait to have the new boat this year going to be nice . I am nervous as can be because never owned a boat but excited .

[@clarawilliams2052]

Hi dear do you need help getting a new boat?

[@DirkDigler209]

I’ve had my 16ft Jon boat with a 50hp jet on it for years and finally saved up enough money to buy a boat I was gonna put a down payment on a 50,000 dollar boat but decided to own it instead and got a 2004 ranger with a 200hp optimax it’s not the best but I own it! And I still find myself taking the Jon boat cause I can fish all day for 30$ bucks in fuel and I’m not worried about hitting something!

[@mikeybalzz]

Congratulations!

[@andrewchilders6320]

You are absolutely right to say fortunate to be in the boat you have. I got my first fiberglass bass boat and sadly the capitalist in me now wants something bigger better and newer. Until I watched this I had almost forgotten that I used to only bank fish then went to a 10' jon boat then to a 15' tracker and now a fiberglass bass boat. It is easy to lose sight of how good what you currently have really is and can be.

[@ReelinTension]

This is what I love about Mikey. The dude is just real and a pioneer of KZbin. I will never understand how he doesn’t have over 500,000 subscribers and I’ve said it from the beginning.I’ve been following Mikey for years I was in the first 1000 subs and learned a lot from his videos. Mikeybalzz don’t never change brother always keep doin you..#thegoat

[@auditrevor]

Bought my first boat a little 15’6” seaswirl fiberglass tri hull. I love this boat it’s super stable on the water, has tons of deck space with taking the old seating out and switching to pedestal seats. Just wish it went faster then what it does but for a starter boat it’s been reliable and great for my needs. Tows awesome, light weight and good on fuel economy for an older 2 stroker.

[@mikeybalzz]

That's awesome man I bet she catches some fish too!

[@auditrevor]

Had a tough start but so far she’s doing pretty well. We went and fished the rock finger on the jetty in Newport Oregon and got 20 total fish that day. Sea bass, sea trout and some pretty good size perch as well. So far our salmon season has kinda sucked this year but I did catch a little jack about a month ago.

[@oscarmeeks9752]

I bought this year a pro team 195. I ordered it in June paid for and the dealer called me saying tracker was going to give me the 2025 pro team 195 for the same cost. They put a new console in now similar to the nitros. I picked it up July 3rd. I love this boat. I have the xs 150 on it and so far I’ve had it to 62 mph and can fish in water so far around 12-15” and still handles deeper water and waves pretty damn good.

[@07slowbalt]

Subbed because I like honest people and honest reviews. Super down to earth and I love how you started from the ground up, literally. I've road in numerous boats, from glass, to aluminum, john boats, canoes and even a kayak. They all have pros and cons and my 1st boat purchase is already made before I own it. I simply prefer the practicality of an aluminum bass boat. The price point is in line for the middle class and you don't have to go in debt on a glass boat at $45k-$100k. I love the fact that if nature calls I can grind an aluminum boat up a rock bank with zero worries. I love getting in super shallow water where the spawning action happens, which glass boats don't like to go to. Getting hung up on a stump in a glass boat is nerve racking and is stress free in an aluminum boat. I also like the advancements in aluminum boats over the years in the development of layouts, haul designs, and HP ratings. 2 boats from ranger stand out at the top of the market for me. The rt188p and the rt198p are phenomenal boats. Speeds from 45-60 mph, dual rod storage, power pole capable, large graph capability on the dash, pad haul design like a glass boat that from what I read claim it rides smooth like a glass boat, handle rough water, foam filled like a glass boat, fiberglass consoles, swing away tongue, recirc, and pumpout for the livewell, lighter weight for towing, tandem axle options with surge brakes. For a starting price of $25k and upwards of $40k is the best bang for the buck for all these overpriced bass boats on the market.

[@rodneyhanbaum697]

Great information Mikey! I've said this for years about an older boat,with a newer motor and a powerful trolling motor! Also if I may add, on your trolling motor opt out for the longer shaft, you can always raise it up if need be. Some boats, especially tin rigs and Trackers sit bow high on the water, the longer shaft helps to prevent your prop from cavitaing when large wake of waves come by. It's made a huge difference for me. I just upgraded to the hatred with 52 inch shaft. Can't hardly wait to try it out. Also got two Elite ti2 9s! I'm stoked!

[@nicolinflorescu3775]

Nice, we all learn same way, we buy an old boat and start having fun on water and discover nature and wild birds, after we upgrade to a more expensive and so on, thanks for your nice video, Nick

[@Jhelfer]

Crestliner 1850 bass hawk.Aluminum deep V. I love it !! Handles big water lots of storage without the $60000 price tag!

[@nealbutlerguitar]

The spine tingling chills when you pulled in that hog 😲

[@Josephguestable]

I love my tracker, I can punch mats in it or find new spots with less pressure buy going where the bigger boats will not. I slapped a power pole on it and I feel like it opened up a new world to me.

[@NickGoesTrucking]

I'm thinking that's going to be my first real boat. Been fishing out of a pond hopper for awhile but also saving towards a boat that'll allow me to fish some tournaments. Which model would you recommend? I like the tournament pro but thats going to take a lot longer to save for.

[@davidpeterson5316]

Man, thanks for making this. Been kayak fishing for a few years and ready to move to a small boat but had no idea where to start. This really helped pinpoint what type of boat I’d want for the type of fishing I like doing and where to think about prioritizing spending.

[@FunkE.Fisherman]

Respect! Started with a float tube, than a two man, than a 1970 14’v bottom modded out with a casting deck deck and ice chest live well. Then I made enough to buy a tracker 175 send updated the trolling motor send electronics several time over the years. Did the same graph trick. Just upgrad3d to the Venus 1880 with the garmins live scope etc. has been a 25 year progresssion.

[@bidkid2020]

Really good video I enjoyed it some really good advice

[@clarawilliams2052]

Hi dear do you need help getting a new boat?

[@kathyfann]

Looks like a seat is improving and sometimes something to hold the rod with a big fish and a rather handy net. And possibly 2 motors one for back up. Redundancies on the Motor could be very important

[@TackleJunky81]

Long time subscriber here...I've been diggin the vids over the years...keep on rollin brother! 👊💪

[@mikeybalzz]

Appreciate it homie!!!

[@ivanmosqueda7947]

Absolutely awesome video. There is other videos out there where people have a always had the money to buy big expensive bass boats and it’s sometimes not like that. Getting your perspective was great because you have fished from a Jon boat to a tracker and to a high end bass boat. You’ve been able to see the pros and cons to owning each. This perspective really helped me as I am in search of a bass boat coming from a built Jon boat

[@mikeybalzz]

thanks for the nice wards ivan - good luck with the new boat! what are you going to get?

[@Hulk-1967]

Very cool guy-- clear and concise--fun to listen to..

[@paparayfishing2000]

I appreciate your videos, personality and information. Tight lines brother

[@mikeybalzz]

Thanks man!

[@wyldbill100]

That ABSOLUTE HAWG you tied into was definitely worth the "LIKE" button, kind sir. LOL! OMG!! And thanks for the advice, too!

[@leaveorlibertyfishing7670]

Mikey your exactly right new reliable motor and the biggest trolling you can have. I have a 16 foot tin rig with a 60 horse tiller mainly fish the glades okeechobee and the Kissimmee chain it’s built like a tank and loaded out with all the goodies but I feel what your saying it’s only disadvantage in my opinion is the big O will kick your ass on those windy days on the ride there or back lol

[@andre2679]

The most important thing I learned from the video is, THAT’S A GOOD BOY! WHO’S A GOOD BOY!?! Even if he takes up a lot of space. Lol.

[@MrWrestler41]

Good video, had a couple mid level 18.5’ bass boats with 150hp engines and loved them. Did not have time and sold my last boat several years ago. Would like another boat with at least a 115 but 150 if I can except prices are stupid now.

[@bobbymorton8816]

I love my 2019 Tracker tournament edition with the 150 merc!!!

[@haciendadad]

I like your angle on this video! Good advice!! I'm a subscriber now.

[@mikeybalzz]

Thanks bud glad to have you

[@kennystats]

i currently have a tin boat as my first bass boat,2018 175 txw tracker w 75 merc, eventually looking to get a glass tho. awsome video!!

[@bullishbear2686]

Bruuuh, dude, this is the gnarliest boat video evar dude! Shout out to Sean in Gainesville dudes. Jus straight up duders! Gotta get the skinny water dudes, big waves big water big boys dudes. Gear up gear out dude it up dudes.

[@michaelmotch6271]

I started fishing local electric only lakes in a newly purchased 1987 12ft Grumman Jon Boat. Separately I bought a JC Whitney utility trailer with an accessory boat conversion kit for $125. Two years later I bought a used 1985 Johnson 9.9hp 2 stroke outboard so I could fish some bigger lakes and rivers. Over anything else, I love the boat because I can launch it anywhere and can fish in the skinniest of water and never get stuck. It's light, but tough as they come. Coming home in a thunderstorm years ago at 70mph on the interstate the front tie down broke loose and the boat on the trailer caught a gust of wind under the bow and it flipped up end over end and wound up under the trailer, topside down. Made the most god awful racket you could imagine. Thankfully, the outboard and everything else was packed in the back of my Ford Explorer and the ONLY damage to the boat was the welds on top of the transom were neatly ground down. That same boat and trailer has made two trips to south Florida and back from Ohio just in the last two years. The 9.9 Johnson has never failed to start and has always run flawlessly with remarkably little maintenance, I just run it out of fuel every time I run it. I've had other boats over the years come and go and in the future I will probably have more, but the Grumman will always stay with me.........

[@Valmontst]

A lot of very practical advice and recommendations. Thanks!

[@mikeybalzz]

Thx for watching

[@MrDanieleMari]

You should do this for your career. You are very talented and able to entertain.

[@bmsovick]

Upgrading from the Tracker to a Vexus 1980 in a couple months. Supposed to be high quality tin boat in big water...super nice

[@TheKodiakWay]

I'm starting to look into Vexus as well. Thinking 2080 since I have little kids/family.

[@bmsovick]

@@TheKodiakWay 2080 is only 4" longer and it's all in the rear deck. Front deck is identical. You get the 200 HP though. I don't fish tournaments so the 150 is gonna be all the speed I need. Shoot people been getting close to 1980 speeds in the 1880 with the 135 Evinrude but I like the extra storage space in the 1980. Definitely a GIANT upgrade from the 2013 TXW

[@TheKodiakWay]

@@bmsovick legit leap up from the tracker! I'm jumping up from an 84 champion.

[@bmsovick]

@@TheKodiakWay champions are good boats too! I been trying to get my head wrapped around what electronics to get. Definitely want the ghost but not sure on which graphs. HDS Live or ti2...need to head to BPS and get my hands on'm

[@TheKodiakWay]

@@bmsovick Go with the biggest/baddest graph you can. For the sheer reason, they'll be supported/relevant for longer... IMO

[@bartcornelius7717]

Great video. I went from a TR21 to a Tracker 190 Tournament Edition. Sold the Triton and stopped fishing for 10 years. The Tracker is ok but I miss the big Triton on Guntersville. I usually fish alone so the Tracker with a 115 4 stroke and 70 lb. trolling motor works.

[@bigrig5906]

Do you have any ideas of what boat would be good for catfishing on rivers?

[@stephennobes3422]

Brings back so many memories my bass fishing journey. Keep up the good work.

[@209brandonb]

He is 100% right I have a 14ft 15hp Jon boat and all I fish is the ca delta and I can go to any shallow back water slough that those fancy bass boats can’t go and I can fish all day for 10$ in gas! I wanted to watch this video because I’ve been thinking about upgrading but now after watching it I’m just gonna keep my Jon boat save that money for tackle and gas and just fish a lot more I don’t look as cool as those guys flying by but I’ll be fishing just as long!

[@kennyhaworth9606]

Mike your opinion would be helpful The lakes I fish in Florida are 15ft deep and less (lake griffin and lake Hernando) will sonar work in these lakes? Thanks

[@bigbassventilatorinc]

Really loved this video, super honest. Thank you !

[@mikeybalzz]

Thanks man

[@jaredhayes1828]

would you put a power pole on a 1990 bass tracker 17 ft 50?

[@mikeybalzz]

If you can fit the pump and you think you need one why not

[@evancarlson7833]

How do you keep the silver aluminum on the fortrex clean?? The aluminum part of my ultrex gets super dirty and it’s really hard to get the dirt and grime off of it.

[@imotogoon9168]

I know this video is already a year old but really appreciate the info. I really want to get a boat but feel absolutely lost on where to look. When the time comes I’ll be out on Lake Erie, Lake Ontario and the lower Niagara River. You deff brought up some tips that’s I’ll take into consideration. Just wish I knew ppl who actually owned a boat lol thank goodness for youtube

[@mojazzn9091]

I know this is a old video, however this is a Keith Kalfas (lawn care) story I hope your still fishing and enjoying the experience.

[@juddlinette9318]

Do you run a 4 blade or 3 blade. Can't decide on which one to choose

[@coosariverking2758]

👏👍 Everything you said was spot on. About the turning around the graph I do that on my pontoon we got a Lowarace 12in I built a custom mount to move it around.

[@jbender1024]

looking to upgrade both trolling motor and graphs, 16ft ranger, think graph first then trolling?? great stuff AGAIN!!

[@mikel2817]

In your opinion since uve had them which would you rather have and why?. A lowrance HDS7 live or any other.... I'm thinking about getting the hds live active imaging but dont know much about it..help me out bub..

[@mikel2817]

And should I buy anything else to make it better or is it fine as is way it comes with the 3in 1 transducer? If you pick this one as a good one that is lol

[@mp5kfisher241]

Just getting back into fishing after a 15yr battle with health issues etc. Is Triton really making a good boat nowadays as far as 2021/22 models? Or should i search for a older Triton?

[@TranslucentJuice]

I'm looking at my first boat tonight. Little nervous but im so excited :D Wish me luck boys!

[@veryangrydodo2376]

How’s the boat? And was it worth it I want a boat I’m looking at on Facebook marketplace but I wanna hear other peoples opinion

[@TranslucentJuice]

@@veryangrydodo2376 Awesome actually. its taken a while to get it to the point of being able to go out but that is next weekend. paid 800 for the boat and 300 for the motor. put about 100 into the motor to get it running and yeah. super fun project. If i was going to do it again, i would have spent a little more to have a full package from the start though. just to get on the water faster. Hope this helps :D Boating is so much fun haha.

[@veryangrydodo2376]

@@TranslucentJuice thanks appreciate it brother!!!

[@proteusxavier9477]

An awesome vid Mikey. Just like you said, there's ALWAYS a way. Know what you want and make it happen.

[@AgentNomikos]

What about Cape Coral canals and Bay Area with a 12 ft dingy?

[@ronanoutdoors]

Awesome video as always bro. That OG clip in the beginning is one of my "go to" vids when I tell people about you. That big girl darn near pulled you off the back!!! LOL!!! I have given the same advice re the trolling motor to SEVERAL people here. Prime example is my good friend Christian who has a plastic 11' boat/pond hopper and he bought a brand new motorguide with foot pedal that came "stock" with a new 19" Crestliner that wasn't going to be used and mounted it on the front of his bad little boat. This replaced his VERY small but "recommended" trolling motor and he couldn't be happier.

[@lancehenthorn17]

Truth be told. I was hoping for the video where you fell out the boat on the hook set. Mikey this video is perfect timing. My son and I have a 17 1/2 Aluminum boat. We just upgraded the Trolling motor from a Evinrude 12v to a new 24v 80lb Fortrex. The Trolling Motor came off a boat that was won in a tournament at Goosepond last year. Now for electronics. Just traded hand poured Jigs for a used Humminbird 858c DI HD. Im mounting it to the boat using a RAM mount 1 1/2 ball system. Just like you said about being able to just spin it around to the front. I told my son the same thing a few days ago. My son fishes on his High School Fishing team. Infact he's got a Tournament on Wheeler lake February 29th out of Engalls harbor. He did good there last year. 8th place in Jr B.A.S.S. Anyways we are upgrading our boat as we can. I will say a 80lb Trolling Motor on a 17.5 Aluminum boat will haul ass. Mikey good video as always and good timing for me. Tight lines bother see on the water.

[@tobiastv4680]

I just bought a 1994 pro craft with a 200 merc and it needs some work but I love it

[@mikeybalzz]

Sweet congrats dude. Project boats are fun cause u really make them your own. Good luck with the ride

[@davidthomas4476]

Thanks awesome video. Do you like 4 stroke or two-stroke motors for your boat.

[@elwoodneener4800]

Nice job, very practical thinking enjoyed your presentation

[@rahuljain-vu7lc]

Way better than minn kotta! Powerfull and efficient. I paired mine with a 100ah battery and could easily troll for fish 10hrs at 2-3 speed. When full at 5 it can easily go 5-7 mph.

[@basswhisperer4803]

What are your thoughts on the Vexus 1980 to run the waters here in the Central Florida area?

[@thegiant573]

John Boat Giants! Love the old school video. I haven't missed a @mikeybalzz video in over 2 years. Soon I will have a boat again.

[@clarawilliams2052]

Hi dear do you need help getting a new boat?

[@zackeryedward6782]

Can we get that story about the Jon boat that broke on Okeechobee?? 😂😂😂

[@evanwoyke]

yes please

[@mosestoledo9184]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video!

[@staceyclark749]

how much for trolling motor mikey

[@clarawilliams2052]

Hi dear our trolling motor is about $6k

[@thomasrobey9851]

Great advice. Do a series on best 3 mods/add ons for electronics, best 3 mods for trailer, etc. there’s always room for Bring On Another Thousand!

[@toddsmith3418]

Been looking at a rt198, almost ready to pull the trigger. Going from a 94 nitro 18fs. Love your vids man

[@ceaster55]

What trolling motor would you recommend? Minn Kota or Garmin and Ghost.

[@jcbk45]

What top speed were you seeing with the fortrex?

[@russellkasprzyk4934]

Downscan, sidescan, 2d sonar, thanks!!

[@alexfares329]

I’m looking to buy my first boat, what do I look for

[@clarawilliams2052]

Hi dear do you need help getting a new boat?

[@StoutSportsmen]

What do you think of the T-H Marine prop nut you have? Been debating on getting one.

[@jelmo1057]

Great video, some of the best advice out there for the aspiring angler! Good job 👍

[@TrippyWheelz]

I talked my dad into a 112lb ultrex when he got his z17 because I told him to trust me and one day he would see why. He went out and the wind got up to 30-40mph and he texted me and said he understood why 😂 even if you have to get small graphs to afford the best trolling motor it is a must.

[@robertw.colemanjr.6617]

Love the videos man! Getting ready to start looking for a big boat, very informative video man. I have had numerous john boats but I got a new job recently and I am going to be in the market for a new boat real soon.

[@clarawilliams2052]

Hi dear do you need help getting a new boat?

[@paul.aragon]

why are you changing trolling motors when the one you have is not that old? What are you looking for in the next one that you feel you are not getting in the current one?

[@britanierodriguez163]

Dang mikey keeps it all the way 💯

[@billwhite7099]

He's legit.

[@kennethelliott2267]

Man I feel I got lucky I had a 89 16.5 aluminum boat and needed just tad bit bigger. Found a 2013 stratus 17ft 6 176vlo with 75 hrs on it for 16,700 and was able to stay well under 300 a month so I don’t have to worry about payments. I can fish more with a boat with lower payment and it bing a small glass boat it’s the best of both worlds . I can still go shallow and take on decent waves. One thing I’d add is a KEEL GUARD it has saved me lots of times.

[@FishOn1]

Love the throw back video! Agree on the big motor. I’ve been jonesing for a new trolling motor. Currently have an X5. I’ll probably end up going with an Ultrex, it the Ghost looks nice too.

[@jasondaniels209]

Mike what you doing with the fortrex when you get your ghost?

[@mikeybalzz]

Selling it.

[@jasondaniels209]

mikeybalzz fishing how can I get in touch with you without putting my cell number on KZbin?

[@mikeybalzz]

@@jasondaniels209 shoot me a message on Facebook or Instagram bud

[@cheetoz6902]

Mike Give credit where credit is due,You are blessed by our heavenly father but you are where you are because of your love of fishing and your dedication to this awesome sport which you are truly great at . I personally think you could go pro at any moment and do really well . I love all your content because it's not about the sell of blah blah but the real excursions of the bass chase and all the ups and downs ,I guess I'm trying to say "YOUR REAL" true to the sport not for show or glory but for the love of it. I'm inspired by your love of bass fishing which my father taught me at a very young age of 4. I'm 48 now and still love it . Thanks MIKE I appreciate you and your great videos of all sorts. It's not so much the content but it's just a real American enjoying our great outdoors put here by all of our fathers ,OUR HEAVENLY FATHER !!!!!!!.Never ever change you for anybody ever . Being true to yourself is very contagious especially when it is done by a great dude like you. Just keep on keeping on

[@mikeybalzz]

Thanks man!!! Means alot, great motivation!

[@Thyago2420]

I am investing because I know one day I will be able to comfortably afford all of this, I have made over $700 k from a $ 100k capital so far since I decided to make and see changes in my money, I have had a succession of payouts from trading Forex, I recently diversified some into dividend paying Stocks and for long term hold

[@Bhawana13]

Smart way to grow your money, but is Forex as easy as it seems

[@Thyago2420]

I employ the expertise of a pro for that, Benjamin ravies because it isn't as easy as it seems

[@inix2057]

Sounds like a great method for retirement planning, I am retired but it is never enough

[@Thyago2420]

Benjamin ravies That’s his gmal alright

[@Bhawana13]

Thank you for your honest response, I have mailed him

[@brealdeal3658]

Mikey is RealDeal! Great Advice Definitely!

[@charlesnoyes3051]

Still running my $3100.00 1974 16’4” Ranger Tri-Hull and Mercury 650, which has been completely rehabbed. New Humminbird Helix 5. Motor Guide Magnum in front. Cannot afford a new boat. This one has been garaged since purchased in February 1975.

[@fishingismydrug1]

For the trolling motor, my last boat was a 17' tin. Put a 75# on it. This boat, a '87 Skeeter 17', putting a 101# maxxum pro on it. I'm gonna cry when I buy three batteries at once !

[@kevinflabouyfishing5739]

Where's the 100k subscribers ???? Dang who else loves the realness I remember watching the tin boat deal its were almost all of us start in Florida!!!! Hay dont forget a good bilge pump !!!

[@johnreis5099]

That is my all-time favorite video of yours🎣🇺🇸👍

[@4investing]

Great videos Mikey...Thank you! Can't wait to fish Okeechobee every February.

[@castingoutfear8197]

Would a Triton 189 TRX to small for fishing the BASS opens?

[@mikeybalzz]

i don't think so. i would definitely get it with a 200hp though. other than that it fishes bigger than most 18ft boats.

[@Rvlegendz]

I fish Chickamaga do you think I need a fiberglass boat?

[@ferrante250]

I’m thinking hard about picking up a Bass Tracker Classic XL. I don’t get to fish enough to justify a big money boat, and at just over 12k they seem like a steal.

[@gonefishin.no.wildlife8035]

One time for Lake Okeechobee!!! Where it is a blessing and a curse to work near!

[@DavidMccallister65]

Great video Mike. This is actually my second time watching it as well lol Great advice. I'm living your story now but I'm ready to buy my first BASS boat to get onto Lanier and Okeechobee and I'm pretty sure that I'm going fiberglass but I want to store it in my garage so it needs to be 17-18ft What do you recommend bro??

[@mikeybalzz]

there's a lot of boat companies making nicer tourney rigged boats in the 18ft range now so you got some options. i like my triton - it's bascially a full sized tournament rig packed into an 18ft 9" boat. ranger offers one like that as well. i'd recommend go as big as you can that will fit. also pay attention to the beam (width) of the boat. the reason i like my boat is it has an extra wide beam, often boats in the 17-18ft range have really slender beams which make the boats fish even smaller when it comes to storage and fishing 2 people on the front deck.

[@shawnferguson6830]

What's up man. Really considering pulling the trigger on a boat. Thinking about the classic xl for 12,000. Wanted the new motor and protection. I could get an early 2000s glass boat, but I wanted that reliability. Thoughts on the tracker XL? Could you talk me out of getting a new aluminum boat with a brand new 50hp for 12?

[@mikeybalzz]

that's a pretty solid deal man and especially if you're not fishing big lakes that works fine. i'm somebody who would almost always buy a used boat these days becauase at least the glass ones lose so much value from new to taking them off the lot but 12k for an entry level boat that's new is pretty sweet. make sure to go big on the trolley and put a decent graph on it.

[@rollievancleave2999]

That Jon Boat video i insane!

[@divorceva1]

Check out the storage space on a Crestliner PT 20. Love your vids.

[@NuteDobbs]

Awesome video bro!! Always quality content.