How To Buy A Used Boat

[@godsdozer]

First thing I check when going to buy a boat is this: making sure the wife is out of town.

[@BcuOchoa]

I swear you guys are mind readers! One day I’m thinking I would love underwater footage and boom it’s there! Now I’m looking into buying my first boat ever and have no idea what to look for and boom there is a guide to buying one!! I love it!!!!!

[@edcygan]

I must have missed the under water footage

[@tms2568]

One inherent problem with buying a used small fishing boat is that it can’t always be test driven like a car. Unfortunately, a lot of times, by the time you get it to your mechanic the thing’s already yours. Watching lots of videos like this can help to know what to look for. Taking a friend or family member who knows boats with you to look at it can also help. I bought my first used boat from an individual private seller and I was extremely nervous. It didn’t help that the seller had like 4 others call about the boat while I was looking at it. It’s amazing how some of our biggest purchases in life have to be the quickest decisions and sometimes and a boat is sometimes no different. This is a great video but I think a bit more evaluation of the motor and lower unit is essential. As my cousin says, you’re buying a motor and getting a free boat with it. Also recognize that most times a used boat isn’t going to be perfect, but a motor issue can mean major money. Do your research, and be as thorough as you can, especially if it’s your first time buying used.

[@GageDrums]

So true about the big decisions being made quickly.. My home that I bought in May of 2022 - we had 15 minutes to walk through it before the next appointment and had to decide that night if we wanted it. Crazy!

[@randysinyard8048]

Guys i love this video, simply for the fact that everyone isn't fortunate enough to have grown up in a family that could afford a boat and they have no idea where to even start with a boat!!! I find myself in those exact shoes a couple of years ago, my family was always tight with money and never had any extra cash for things like boats , four wheelers or things of that nature!! As i grew up fishing from the bank, i loved it so much i decided to purchase a boat a couple of years ago but after all the research still didn't feel comfortable about the deal than GOD it was a decent deal but !!I just thought i would say thank you guys for going into detail about things like this, God bless both of you and yall's family's!! May God continue to shine his favor on yall!!!

[@PaintballShyguy]

A couple months ago I bought my first boat, a '97 Javelin 389FS with a '78 Mercury 150 (lol). The boat sat outside all it's life and hasn't had the best care, the gelcoat is toast. The hull and transom seem to be in good shape, it just looks like Hell overall. I've fixed the trailer up, new wiring, waterproof LED lights, hubs, wheels/tires. I've got the motor running but I'd really like to just pull it and get a more modern one. I've stripped the boat down and pulled a lot of rotten carpet out and getting ready to add fiberglass to the floor and hopefully gelcoat the entire boat before the year is over with. It's definitely a project but I guess that's what you get for $500. 😁

[@mr.skeptical3071]

Hands down the most the informative bass channel ever!!!

[@CB4basser1]

These types of videos make Tactical Bassin the best KZbin channel for bass fishing. There's way more to Bass Fishing then catching fish on one of the best lakes in the United States, and you guys share it well. Can't wait to see more transformation videos of your new to you Champion. Towards the end I could see that LCX unit will be ripped out any day now 😁 Keep it up TB !

[@jpbarnes1]

Just an FYI, everything you guys put out is badasssssss. From boat flipping 8 pounders to buying boats truly awesome

[@albertmcfry6322]

I had two champions, and I can tell you they are the best ride on the water. Would definitely do it all over again!

[@sageturner5524]

I’m glad I came across this video! Getting ready to purchase my first boat and you went into detail for what to look for. Now I feel confident that I can purchase a boat and know what to look for. Thank you for posting this!!

[@stevesteve9202]

This is the best video I've seen on used boat buying. I have to ask why no compression test or check of the lower unit oil? One other thing I would suggest is after you have launched the boat do a thorough check of the traIler including the bunks, etc. Thanks for the great tips.

[@luisgonzalez8423]

Because these are fisherman not mechanics hahaha

[@Bluezkat1]

This is an AWESOME video!!! Would love to see vids on upgrades, modifications, any part of the restoration process! This is quality stuff...hope to see more. Thank you

[@MrPHATSPEED]

I bought a boat this winter. 1989 Yar-craft 1678 with a 55HP Suzuki 2 stroke outboard. Found it on Facebook market place. Negotiated a price before I even went to look at it since it was 3hrs away. Went down with cash in hand. When I saw it in person it was a little more rough than I had expected. But the motor ran good and had only 20hrs on a rebuild. And he did install new hubs on the trailer. I got it for $100 less than our negotiated price. Been upgrading stuff the last month, and it's a solid boat. Hull is good. Transom and floor are good. I upgraded the trolling motor, fish finders, installed new seats. I'm still way under budget with this boat. Can't say that happens every day.

[@randymirando4214]

Dude a whole series should be made on all your upgrades. That would be sick. I picked up a 14' aluma craft Jon boat and trailer for 1600 bucks. 9.9 and 80lb motor guide. Thing is awesome

[@crankinbass5758]

80lb trolling motor on a 14 ft must scoot!

[@shawnmoniz6617]

Absolutely fantastic video. I am currently looking for my first boat and this couldn’t have been better for where I’m at. Thank You!

[@lydiaanderson3312]

@Hello shawn moniz, How are you doing?

[@civilized5734]

Yes definitely videos of installs of the upgrades would be sweet!

[@ruthlesstony2133]

Looking to get my first bass boat sometime next year. This helps a ton as im pretty clueless when it comes to boats. I see a few late 90s early 2000s for 5k or less and can now confidently go look at them.

[@user-mp9xu9of8k]

So many of these tip video's never include the transom, thanks man!

[@jr4233]

You guys are awesome. For everything I'm getting into on the water now as a beginner you guys are loaded with info and class! God bless!

[@fishnetics7929]

This just might be one of the most useful videos I've seen over the past year. Most... if not all of us started (or will be starting) with a used boat. I wish I had this as a reference when I purchased my first 2 boat (both used) ... would have saved me some heartache and pain. Looking forward towards to restoration ones

[@jessecooper9795]

Great inspection of the boat, but should've checked the bearings on the trailer. It's easy to do from the outside. Especially since it was driven a long distance. A good look at the tires also helps. Seen a lot of guys put regular 4 ply tires on when selling. A boat of that weight does need to have 8 ply trailer tires on it (which it does). Also checking the tongue for misalignment and loose wear can save some headaches down the road.

[@jeremynewhouse6530]

Watched a live stream last night and you guys got very high praise. I of course agree because I am here all the time anyway. It was Baitman and Ben N. Nice boat and thanks for the tips

[@seattle6970]

I just started looking for a Bass boat you guys are the best with the best timing! It's like having a personal Bass guru(s) !

[@MrCrybaby95]

This is why your channel should be at the top! always always helpful videos. Fishing or non fishing. I’ve learned sooo much.

[@joshandthejam7806]

Thanks for the info. I'm looking at my first boat tomorrow. I'm glad I know what to look for now.

[@marcuswilliams4352]

Hi dear do you need help getting a good boat?

[@melvidaljr.6055]

Awesome video! I was looking into purchasing my first bass boat in a few months as this helped me into what I needed to look out for. Thank you guys so much for making a video explaining this! 👍🏼

[@sambone1015]

you my freind are my favorite fishing youtuber you and tackle advisors save my life from the drawn out hipster music montage at the beginning of every video from everyone else. that and the fact that you guys are legit fishing nerds who care about the info more than the views. now that ive buttered you up,how much you want for that trolling motor?

[@SnEaKeRSkEr]

I needed this video man. I've been fighting with myself on pulling the trigger on a used boat it's something I'm not well versed in . I was gonna approach it like I would buying a used car and I would have got burned. Now I'm feeling confident thanks guys.

[@larrystolzman9337]

Great video! Matt, so good to see you working on your new boat. Thanks for providing useful information about a very costly purchase. One question, were you able to do some relaxing fishing from your new rig? I sure hope so! God’s continuing blessings on you, Tim and your families.

[@apapay01]

Awesome video. Hopefully going to look at my first boat this weekend and these are some excellent pointers to know before hand! Thank you 🙏

[@bobbarnhill8557]

First would be Compression check on the motor. If the trolling motor was changed from 24 volt to 36 it would need a 4 Bank charger. I just see dollar signs getting that boat up to speed. One good thing I did see was Goodyear Endurance trailer tires. Great tires. The 10 year old bunks will need to be replaced along with The electronics and a new Ultrex. Matt, see if you can score the VIP deal with Garmin. Those will be a step up from the HB’s.

[@aibbincubus]

Thank you for taking the time to publish these videos. Definitely super helpful especially explaining and dumbing the terms for us common folk, thank you.

[@CAN43725]

Champions are known for spider cracks as they were one of the last to switch to composite transoms and stringers as opposed to wood. The wooden transoms rot due to water leaking through engine mounting holes and transducer mounting holes leaking. In addition to rocking the motor, check the tie down hardware on the transom to make sure they are solid. Stringers also rot from being stored wet.. Another thing to look for on Champions is that a lot of their trailers were tubular. Bad news, as they rot from the inside out and are junk. Check for rust coming through on the bottom side of the frames, especially towards the middle where water settles. Even though their trailers have weep holes, they clog up and the fact that it is enclosed, it traps moisture and rusts the metal. Channel framed boat trailers is the way to go.

[@lil_bootbassin5607]

I'm in the market for my first boat. These tips are very helpful. Thanks a bunch

[@marcuswilliams4352]

Hi dear do you need help getting a good boat?

[@williej.allenjr.510]

Wow,I'm selling my boat and looking for a bass boat right now. This was helpful. It's a significant investment I'm about to make so thanks for all the information.

[@mr.skeptical3071]

Always get a compression check!!!

[@mrfish9997]

How

[@dennisnicholson952]

Matt, I know that you are going to take your time and do a thorough job on your purchase. I, for one am looking forward to seeing it fully restored and out on the water.

[@michaelbroussard8402]

Great Video my dude, exactly what I needed to see! Going to look at a boat and will now have some good questions other than "Does it float ?" HAHA

[@proteusxavier9477]

An excellent video guys. Such important information. I really appreciate you taking the time to do this run-through.

[@finestyangable]

Please take us along all the add ons and upgrades 😁

[@Willy3677]

Thank you Matt, Great Video, awesome to see you back looking so good. Cant wait to see some the mods on the boat come along and see some big girls landed on its deck.

[@lydiaanderson3312]

@Hello Jim Williams, How are you doing?

[@hooksta4]

Once again, great video and information. You guys are defiantly the best in the business! As a follow on video/mini series, could you guys talk about boat etiquette for those of us who have been life long bank anglers, who may be moving towards a boat? Thanks and keep up the awesome work!

[@briansiphavong1]

Very nice pick up Matt! Enjoyed the walk through and info.

[@vidter001]

Great Videos looking forward to the extra boat videos/extras Congratulations! Good to see life is starting to get back to a new normal! You’ve come so far in a little time.

[@TheOnailer]

This is amazing. Thank you for going through the process.

[@adamchristman2147]

I’m about to go look at a 98 Champion 181 in Ooltewah this weekend.

[@jamesclark9494]

Great video as always. For those of us who aren't boats experts, what price range would a boat like this fall into with the given condition? Thanks and keep up the great work guys.

[@grantsimmons7995]

i’d assume about 15-20k. not sure of issues or motor hours

[@PigPatrolTV]

Awesome info. Buying boat soon. Thanks for the tips. 👍🏻

[@jimmysamdass2966]

Just bought a 2005 ranger reata 180vs, With a 150 Yamaha 4 stroke. Thanks for the walk trough.

[@redriderwannabe2840]

I REALLY enjoy this type of video. Informative. I grow weary of your videos of you catching fish and listing fishing gear. Tell me water temp, fishing depth, structure, weather conditions, fishing technique. I think these are more important than having the same lures and fishing rods that you are using. Tell us the important stuff.

[@mchevy911]

Great video. Discussed few things I hadn't considered.

[@danhufferdoutdoors]

I might pull the cowling off the motor and check for mud dauber nest. If a nest comes loose, then get sucked into the intake, you can drop a piston. It happens here in SW Missouri with stored boats.

[@jamestinner8996]

Man this was helpful as I'm looking to buy my first boat. Used of course.

[@marcuswilliams4352]

Hi dear do you need help getting a good boat?

[@Luxeee]

I'm actually glad you made this video the timing was perfect because my dad and I were looking to buy a used boat

[@funkfarmer7125]

This probably would've helped me a few months ago. I looked for years at used boats but between not really knowing what to look for and the money pits my buddy's got into it scared me off. I ended up getting a brand new Bass Tracker Classic XL. Tbh I was looking at used boats(many money pits) that were already close to the price of the new Classic so I bit the bullet. Couldn't be happier tho, I absolutely love my boat.

[@guyh.4553]

Good video sir. One thing you didn't mention & that is the difference between fiberglass and aluminum. Major differences. Do a compression test & pull that cowling off! And, take ear muffs with you & test the boat motor BEFORE all else! Also, you were in the boat & never once looked at the floor. I'm speaking from personal experience having to replace the entire floors on both boats. For the most part tho, great information.

[@RedKorn_Approved]

Excellent video guys really love your channel lots of good tips and takes time to really explain things im going down to look at a boat this weekend and this video really helps me go over things i might have not looked at well enough thanks for all your help guys tight lines

[@keenanmoore264]

I don't own a bass boat. Never plan to own one either. But I'm watching the whole vid and as always, dropping a like. Because Tactical is the best

[@RizKrispin]

This is one of the most incredibly helpful videos I've seen in a while. I'm not even in the market for a boat, and yet I loved watching this and feel like it was valuable for me. Well done, guys!

[@richshackelford5793]

Great video Matt. Nice looking boat I've always like champion boats wish they still made them

[@oktroutbum]

I'm in Oklahoma my boat is just in its second year and the skeg is scratched too. Tough not to here, lots of shallow water, lots of dirty water with stumps and rocks. I fished a lake recently where there is a stump about 15 ft from the ramp, that is directly in line with the ramp. I hit it as i was approaching my trailer at idle, but happens here. I know you guys fished McGee Creek last year, but that's a much clearer lake than many around my home.

[@BANFISHINGOKIE]

Nice to come across a video about buy used boats I am really need to get into a boat myself lol I am tired of beating up the banks thanks for post the video guys and the funny things is I am from Oklahoma as well

[@WillSelbyKayakFishing]

Great video, lots of good buying tips there. Congrats on your new boat man, cant wait to see your first toad from it.

[@goodolmanny8198]

I'll definitely be referring to this video when I'm buying my first boat. Hopefully I can buy a brand new one but if not I know I'm okay. Thanks guys!!!

[@funkfarmer7125]

Look into the Bass Tracker Classic XL. Really a great buy, the only new boat I could really afford. Zero regrets, solid value, especially for my first boat.

[@kg6qzx]

I dig these older Champions!!

[@ajjohnson3200]

Hella cool, informative video. Thinking about buying my own used, not to expensive bass boat. This video has eased some of that pressure. Thx.

[@jasonarmstrong2601]

Always great information from you guys! Thanks for all the videos!

[@zachshott7833]

You guys had to go and do this video! Super helpful, but I've got boat fever real bad and you guys aren't helping with the temptation. But thank you so much for the information

[@malcolmzoll7613]

Great video Matt, a lot of good information on buying a use boat 👍

[@johnbaker4847]

Very good video, just bought fish finder, think I like external flex mount for transducer, I currently have 2 kayaks and it makes for easy transfer. 👍😎🎣

[@oldhickory3028]

Doesn't take long to do a complete boat inspection when you're fishing out of a 13'4 foot gheenoe lol. Congratulate on your new boat, and thanks Coop.

[@JPops-ff1me]

Another great video!! Matt wish you the best of luck bud 🤙

[@davidbaker4879]

You guys are the best teachers ever I am 66 years of age you guys rock

[@marcuswilliams4352]

Hi dear do you need help getting a good boat?

[@mriphone1000]

I bought a boat across state lines, don't do it unless your prepared for extra bs, like an inspection and weighting the trailer without the boat. I only did it because boats in my state are overpriced. Also check for stress cracks in the hull by or on the main frame channels, if they ran over anything, thiers a good chance of them being there. Check the engine out, run it, do a compression test, if it's an old worn motor, it may need to be re built.

[@shtty17]

Good vid, can tell Matts been around boats for a while

[@boomerseay9405]

Very helpful Matt thank you bud , love ur videos

[@24bhyn]

You do fantastic work. Excellent explanation.

[@FinkeFishing]

Thanks for the info can you do a video on what we need to know about owning a boat after you buy one

[@jerrycleary3206]

I’ve always wondered what to look for .... I still have questions obviously but this answered a lot of them. I was wondering when people talk about the compression what that means

[@tacticalbassin]

Compression is essentially how much pressure each cylinder is able to hold. As they wear out or near failure the amount of pressure a cylinder can handle will begin to drop, eventually failing and holding 0 pressure.

[@jonathanscavs9334]

This boat for being 10 years old is so clean. It deff is a nice boat

[@davidkeppler8851]

Would be great to see videos of in depth detail of everything you do to upgrade/restore this boat.

[@noahchester96]

Very helpful and informative. I bought a boat last month, and could've used this information then! lol, great video as always

[@joereyes5700]

Ok first question answered. You got the boat. Hubs on the trailer... do you prefer oil bath or bearing buddy? The boat looks solid. Happy for you bud!👍🏽

[@Mightymetalworx]

Great video I am finally at looking at buying my first boat around $5000 , Not sure what that can get for myself and wife and kids when there home out of college. any thoughts on what type of boat I should look for ? mainly for fishing but also pleasure weekends with family and friends also my vehicle towing compacity is 3,000 on O7 Highlander 3.3L , again great video got a new sub here :)

[@clarawilliams2052]

Hello we have more suitable and affordable boats worth $3700 so please kindly drop your email address if your interested so we can contact you

[@erniesanders3724]

As usual another great video. Thanks Matt.

[@lawdogzracer]

Old post I know, but still great info. Would a new power head or lower unit be a deal breaker? If not, why would you ask regarding those? Thanks.

[@beyondfshn2844]

Great video as I might be getting 85 procraft for a cheap cheap steel and it will be my first bass boat thanks

[@DavidMccallister65]

Matt this is a great video bud. Good job!

[@jadenfrye6142]

fantastic video wouldnt even know it was 19 minutes long felt engaged the whole time

[@brianstangel8143]

Great video. My guess is they had an Ultrex on the boat and didn't want to give it up. I would really like to know how you go about drying out a transom if you see dark stains around the engine mounting holes. I've got a 1989 Champion that needs some love and maybe surgery.

[@sinisterblue01camaro]

Nice Champion Boat Matt! Congratulations. I love my Champion!

[@malcolmzoll7613]

Yes keep us posted on the upgrades, and love the video 👍

[@cjr4497]

i would take a wood transom boat over a an early composite transom any day. you can dry out a wood transom and restore it. some of the first woodless transoms incorporated foam into them. the foam rots if it gets wet and the whole transom has to be replaced. there is no repairing or drying it out like with wood. most new new transoms are solid composite with no fillers because of this issue..

[@jonahlawrence2797]

Love your video can wait to see the next video on your boat purchase

[@vhf2582]

This is good stuff to know. Do the trailer bunks need recarpeting?

[@edcygan]

Good video but I would have mentioned a cylinder compression test and to bring your own fully charged battery with you and a volt meter.

[@TCuv14]

YES! I would love more videos like these as you go through the restoration process!

[@richardholovaty9028]

Great video I have other question I have been looking at some older boats what are more major things I should be looking for in the way of two stroke motors and things in the back of the boat?

[@davidmollard9832]

Have you guys ever considered lake of the ozarks, table rock or bull shoals? I know it'd be a bit of a trip for you but worth it good fishing beautiful scenery

[@tacticalbassin]

Yes, we actually did a video on Table Rock a few weeks ago. 👍

[@HuntStewTV]

Awesome video!! What are you opinions of fiberglass vs aluminum boats? Pros and cons of both? Thank you!

[@inigomontoya6968]

If you could when comparing these could you compare a glass vs an aluminum boat that's supposed to compete with the fiberglass market, like the new Vexus?

[@howabouthetruth2157]

If ya wanna see the very BEST bass boat for performance, toughness, and durability.....a boat hull that WILL literally last you a lifetime.....stumpfields be damned, that also has a lifetime warranty as follows: First 6 (or maybe 8) years, ANY damage to the hull is fully covered by the warranty, and any damage after that ( but only if it's serious damage ), you only pay $300, and the company takes care of it, no matter what......FOREVER. (aside from obvious things like running into a tree or dock head-on at top speed, or the boat has been totaled due to a highway crash, etc) Check out GATOR TRAX boats right here on youtube. Gator Trax ch. I forget the name of their high end bass boat line. Gorgeous all aluminum that is NOTHING like all other aluminum boats on the market. VERY pricey too. The thickness and quality of the aluminum they use blows all others away. They have enough aluminum in the deck alone, to build an entire BOAT by all the competition, no kidding. Costs as much as any high end fiberglass boat. But it WILL be the LAST bass boat you ever buy. It blew me away when I seen it. Be sure to watch the videos that really delve into the details. Plus they make every boat CUSTOM to your exact needs. They take their standard hulls, and build the storage and other things any way ya want. Same for all motors & accessories. Literally anything ya want. And they run just as fast & smooth as most bass boats with big motors.

[@monsterwi69]

Strike series bass boats, I intend to purchase one from them in the future. The last bass boat I will ever buy, with a life time warranty on the hull. You can't beat it.

[@howabouthetruth2157]

monsterwi69........Yes......that's it.