Sport wrote:
I was checking out Wellcarft boats, the 180 and 210 and I am pretty impressed. It has a nice open layout, plenty of room in the stern with it being an outboard motor. I may look into them more, there is a boat show this weekend in my area I am going to head to. Well shall see.
Sport, there is a lot more to consider depending on where you will be boating? I gather you're in Delaware. Will you be on fresh water (lakes & rivers) or salt water?? If this is your first boat, buy used.
I need to quickly remark the last thing you want to be standing on while fishing is a padded surface, regardless of what's underneath it.
If you're going to be on salt water, you'll have to go with a bay boat or inshore boat at the size range your mentioned. Or risk life. With one exception - Boston Whaler. Now as for the size range (you mentioned) and rough sea's... Don't let anyone tell you "their boat" is fine on rough open water - if their not talking about a Boston Whaler, they're full of S**t! Or I promise you, I'll be saying "I told him so" upon word of your death. Boston Whaler's are awesome boats in the bay and at sea (especially rough seas). Now keep in mind, since you mentioned family outings, these are not "family fun". If you're strictly going to be in the bay on coastal waters, a center console is the best fishing boat made. I don't know how deep your pockets are, but Yellowfin boats have no equal in that category. Not to say there aren't other good center console boats - there are. But again, a center console is about fishing and not family outings.
If you're going to be on fresh water lakes and rivers, then by all means check out the Wellcraft line. Also be sure to check out Bayliner and Mastercraft. These lines offer good economy and middle class boats. If you actually decide to go with a open bow or bow rider, and you want to step up, take a look a SeaRay and Chris Craft.
Anf if your pockets run deep $$$$$$.00 -- get back to me.
Don't forget to take the USCG safe boating course and get boat insurance!!