Where to Start Back (Boat Question)

I sold my last boat some years ago when life interfered. I've had most everything from a 14' Jon up to Ranger's biggest at the time, but that has been a long time. Trying to decide which kind /type of boat to jump back in the game with. I'd like to have something that one or two people can fish out of rather comfortably. Jon boat setups are out due to two hip replacements. Mostly fish for crappie, bass and catfish in lakes and small rivers. Something less than $20k to start with. Very likely used, and I'm aware prices are crazy these days. If I find I use and enjoy it, I might upgrade later. Where would you guys start back? Odd and open ended question I know, but it's pretty much where I'm at. Thank you for your thoughts.

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A few months ago I bought a 2017 Xpress X18 for 22K. I love it. Runs and rides good. Sips gas. Dont have to worry about skinnin it up. I can fish 2 people bass style or 2 persons on the bow crappie style.

Are there faster, nicer boats out there, sure. But this ones paid for and for now suits me just fine. And like you said I may upgrade later, but for now I'm very happy with it.

When it comes to comfort walking around, I like a center console with a railing over the console. When it gets choppy or windy it’s nice to have that to grab onto.

I probably would hit a bass pro shop and see how far my dollar would stretch. Seen a new Tracker 175 with a 4 stroke Merc. Probably a 60hp(small but new) for 20k$. Probably sell real easy in Two years. Good luck and welcome back.

Supply chain is starting to get better and metal prices should drop by February.

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Originally Posted by catchNgrease

I probably would hit a bass pro shop and see how far my dollar would stretch. Seen a new Tracker 175 with a 4 stroke Merc. Probably a 60hp(small but new) for 20k$. Probably sell real easy in Two years. Good luck and welcome back.

Supply chain is starting to get better and metal prices should drop by February.

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That thought has crossed my mind. I saw one in passing with the 75 hp engine not too long ago and it looked nice enough. Not to start a firestorm here, but Trackers didn't used to be known for great quality. Are they better now?

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Originally Posted by Dagwood_55

A few months ago I bought a 2017 Xpress X18 for 22K. I love it. Runs and rides good. Sips gas. Dont have to worry about skinnin it up. I can fish 2 people bass style or 2 persons on the bow crappie style.

Are there faster, nicer boats out there, sure. But this ones paid for and for now suits me just fine. And like you said I may upgrade later, but for now I'm very happy with it.

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Sounds like you got a really good deal. Don't see too many like that in these parts.

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Originally Posted by claytonsdad

That thought has crossed my mind. I saw one in passing with the 75 hp engine not too long ago and it looked nice enough. Not to start a firestorm here, but Trackers didn't used to be known for great quality. Are they better now?

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NOPE!

I would rather have a used Lowe or Triton than a new Tracker. But the lakes are full of Trackers these days.

Not sure what issues you all have against the trackers but I’ve not had an issue with my new one!


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I've already rode in a new one(2 years old). The ride is topnotch and everything is still very solid. He takes good care of it tho. Engine is so quite we have left it running a few times. No firestorm issues here I'm only brand loyal to wives....nonono

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