Good advice so far. I have an 18' glass bass boat w/150hp. Older boat so uses lots of fuel. Learned a lot with this boat though. The front deck needs to be wide enough to fish 2 people, whether you ever do or not. The more storage the better, mine is middle of the road. I wouldn't go smaller than 18', better to get back home in the rough conditions. A 20' with a 4 stroke would serve you well for many years. And the most ponies the hull will stand is also on target. Better to not run them wide open every time out, unless you want to. Must have room for at least 3 batteries and charger system. If you fish rivers or current you may want to go 36 volts and that's 4 batteries. Most important is to sit in the boat and feel how it works for how you fish. You'b be amazed at how well something looks from alongside that isn't worth beans from inside. Good luck,and yes, the perfect boat can be found, and now through the end of February is the best time to buy.