I bought an older fiberglass bass boat (similar to a ranger) and spent more on the electronics and trolling motor than what the boat cost me. I don't regret buying it one bit(probably the best purchase I have ever made next to side imagining). If you're crappie fishing you want something that is versatile (able to fish shallow, standing timber, hold open water brush and ledges). For me the boat just has to get me there and back. The right electronics and trolling motor are what HELP you find and stay on fish. I'm not sure what all the talk is about getting the biggest motor you are rated for my boat is 19' has a 150 on it and goes 60 its rated for a 200 or 225 I have no interest in going 60 on a lake let alone 70. Maybe they are talking about deep V's??? If you do decide to buy an older fiberglass bass boat do some research on what to look for (i.e rotted transom, compression test, stress cracks, rotted floors), if it has a weak transom or a dead cylinder just walk away. One that has been well taken care of will last you a long time if you do the same. I bought mine when I was about the same age as you are and felt like I made the right decision at the time and still feel that way. Oh and when I bought it I thought going fast was important it's really not it doesn't help you catch anymore fish....maybe more girls