I bought a boat last fall, it's an older Champion '85 18'/150 BlackMax and on some advice from fishing mentors (ksfish99) and others, I did the protection checklist. Good hull, had a couple "dings" very minimal stress cracking, the motor checked out perfect. The trailer looked fine, matched up perfect for the boat. The trailer was my oversight, my boats riding on my new graph. But, after a little investment it's better than expected, I'm not using as much gas to pull it, the fuel savings on three trips is about 15 gal. WOW, that'll add up quick. And tires, thats a story of it's own.
Well, the boat leaked (which the previous owner stated) but I knew where those problems would be. With my trailer down time I proceeded to dry this old girl up. On Champions everythings unconveniently located under the gas tank, so I pulled the tank and drained it. That was a good idea, now there's no water in the tank (about 1pt). I fixed the gate valves for the back livewell, completely disconnected the front one, new check-valve for the overflow, a few feet of hose, new bilge pump and now she's dry with no leakage. When I pull the plug after fishing its dry.
It's an older boat and everything was original, which means replacement things are coming. These are the things between a boat owners best days. But they're managable and after using my new toy I will do whatever I need to. Like I said, I've gotten three trips in and they were good ones with 1 being awesome. I pounded the s*#t out of the wallys yesterday (1-26",2-25",2-24", threw 6 19"-22" back). "I done good" fishing and on my ventures of boat ownership. I think I've sealed my fate and I accept the fact that this boat is gonna die with me, a little upkeep and I"m fishing. Some of the advice and pointers from the forum, mentors, and fellow fisherman have helped immensely. Thanks to all and ksfish99. Good luck
