CATCHNRELEASE, at this time in my life I would not consider downsizing. I completely updated every system in my boat. 2 new engines, 2 new transmissions, new wheels, all new wiring thru entire boat, new electronics, pretty much a new boat mechanically. I need this size of boat because I live 150+ miles from the lake and use the boat as a lake cottage as well as a fishing boat. But yea, with twin 195 gallon fuel tanks, filling up is brutal. I average .73mpg and that $200 a day fishing is a bare minimum. And the wife loves the boat. Lucky for me! We even were married on my boat. I had it before we met and I told her before we got married that my boat takes every extra penny I have to use and maintain it. She works full time as do I, but we agreed my money is my money, your money is your money. I pay all bills and her only bill is her Cadillac. She has no room or reason to complain.
And yes, I fish alone alot. More so than with others. My wife fished alot with me last year but still doesn't like it when it gets rough. She is pregnant at the moment and probably won't make to many trips up to the lake with me this year.
And in my opinoin, a 24-27 footer with a single small block or twin outboards would be the most economical, if there is such a thing as an economical boat. I imagine thats why most of the charters you see are running 27' Sportcrafts. Being I use mine to stay in for days at a time, wish it was bigger. There is no way I could afford a bigger boat, but its always nice to dream!
Last edited by Island Runner; 04-19-2012 at 08:23 AM.
Wellcraft 3200 Coastal T-454s