help with first boat

[no problem]

Am starting to think very seriously about the "first boat" which will; be used primarily as a flycasting platform most likely Boston Harbor and environs...North/South River, Rocks outside Cohasett harbor. done a little research and fell in love with Roth-Bilt...(something about the wood)but well outside budget ability...then came across the 17 foot holby skiff...looks like roth-bilts poorer cousin...

Anyone have any opinions or experience with the Holbys...suggested alternatives..thanks in advance --126-3-

[Telliedog]

I looked at them briefly this spring. I think they are still expensive relative to other fiberglass boats. Don't fall in love with looks. Pick the best performing boats (quality, stability, ride, etc) for what you want to do and then pick the best balance of looks and price. For that money a Jones Bros or McKee could be yours.

Fish a lot of boats before you decide ad check this board - there is a ton of good advice and opinions.

[pelkins]

If you are going to spend a decent amount of money. I would get a survey done by a qualified person/yard. Make sure they do a moisture content check to see if the core of the transom has any water content. My .02..

[no problem]

thanks for the guidance...Budget is max of 10K, so I think that severely knocks me out of the new stuff. Can't help but be drawn to the lines the lapstrake skiffs and downeast styles...sort of a getting there must be half the fun..... --127-3-

[tsheehy]

I just upgraded this winter after 6 seasons on a 17' Bristol Skiff. Beautiful and functional boats, in the right conditions. I've posted a number of times on my experiences and opinions on the pro's and con's do a search on my name and you should be able to find them.

Let me know if you have any specific questions that I can answer.

-- Tom

[soundownsam]

With a 10K budget I would look at used boats. A 17 Mako with newer power should do the trick.

Sam

[SamRiley]

If I was in your shoes I'd be all over this one.

http://reel-time.com/forum/showthread.php?t=44045

Right price plus more mojo than any one man should have. I've got a 98 Parker; my first boat. It's been very good to me. Can take on some rough stuff.