You have fished in a Ranger and in a Tracker. Use those experiences as a guide. To me, the layout of the boat tops the list of considerations. A boat can handle like a dream but have a terrible layout and you will hate it. Best advice I know to give is to get in as many different boats in your price range as you can. Once you find one or two that you like the layout and feel of, try to arrange on the water tests. Once you find the boat you like, then you can worry about all the options. I agree with the others, get the best trolling motor and electronics that you can afford to buy. However, don't think you have to have the Lowrance HDS12-Touch or the equivalent 'Bird unit just because its the most expensive. My advice as a younger (29) boat owner is to not break the bank on the initial purchase, get something you like and will be satisfied owning for 5yrs+, buy the best electronics you can afford and upgrade as you can. Good luck and enjoy!!