Advice on first boat.

Good afternoon, I’m starting to look at boats and I’m wanting to buy one in the next year. This will be my first boat. I’m looking at advice on what boat I should get. I know it’s hard to say what kind of boat to get but I’m just looking to see what direction I should go. About 95% of the time it will be just me or me and my wife. I weight 280 and she is around 250. Right now we just bank fish. The boat that has my eyes right now is the Avid Commander 18 with the 90sho. My budget is really nothing over $35k. I want something that will last and something that can be beat up. I do not wishing than crappie here in Louisiana. I also fish for catfish, gar, speckled trout, redfish, and crabs. What are your thoughts? I appreciate it.

If you're going to be in brackish or saltwater ... opt for a big motor & trolling motor suitable for that type of water. Make sure the boat has the passenger weight capacity to cover the both of you (in case you run up on a "green" Green Jeans looking to make a name for themselves) and for insurance compliance.

I'll defer to others on other specifics.

That’s what I’ve been aiming for. I believe the avid capacity is like 800 with a 90hp. What do you think about a hand tiller vs steering wheel? I’m not a fan of bass boats. I do like the extra space of a tiller.

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Originally Posted by TacoTyler4x4

That’s what I’ve been aiming for. I believe the avid capacity is like 800 with a 90hp. What do you think about a hand tiller vs steering wheel? I’m not a fan of bass boats. I do like the extra space of a tiller.

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Sorry :dono ... I have no experience, of late, of running a tiller boat. (all three of the boats I've owned were fiberglass "bass" boats)
I looked up the passenger weight capacity of a Avid18 Commander ... 650lbs ... so you're good to go on that front. Total "carry weight" is 1350lbs (persons & gear).

I've had both bass Phoenix 721 and bay boats Lowe Bay 22. I loved my bass boat when I was fishing tournaments but it was definitely one dimensional. The Lowe Bay 22 has a bit of everything needed for fishing, family, freshwater and saltwater.

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Originally Posted by TacoTyler4x4

That’s what I’ve been aiming for. I believe the avid capacity is like 800 with a 90hp. What do you think about a hand tiller vs steering wheel? I’m not a fan of bass boats. I do like the extra space of a tiller.

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With a 90hp on the back I would go with the center console version of that boat. It's a much better option and you will have plenty of space for two people.

Keep a good job, because by the time you turn 21 you will have at least three!

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Originally Posted by ACAMS

Keep a good job, because by the time you turn 21 you will have at least three!

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I’m 28 and don't have one yet. I have a decent job, just cant decide on a boat.

35K buy a glass boat and never look back, I did 27 years ago, paid cash. One if the Best decision ever made, you’re welcome.

I learned from experience to put the biggest motor you can afford or that the boat is tagged for. Not to go fast. Just helps with boat control in those less then ideal water conditions we always seem to have to fish in...lol..I ran a tiller for over 20 yrs and just got a boat with steering 5 years ago. The tiller is great for boat control around the dock, trolling etc. But, it got old for me (hard on the arm) as I got old. The steering wheel is nice and more enjoyable, just took a little getting used to the fact you cant spin the boat on a dime like a tiller. Exciting getting a new boat! Hope you find one you and your family want to spend time in, fishes the way you enjoy fishing and will enjoy for years to come. Good luck on the hunt!