I'm just gettin into fishing in the lake on a boat? please give me some advice on a boat...?

Question

i love fishing and want to be able to get into the lake;

my house isn't that big so i was planning on getting something that is 12' long. So do you suggest getting a raft or a aluminum boat?

what brands are good for rafts? aluminum boats? also what horsepower should i get, i would be going fishing with my two sons, and they are about 160 pounds each.. how strong should the motor be?

any other advice would be helpful thanks.

I live in san francisco, california, so if you are around this area, please let me know of some shops? i plan on going to the delta area or sacremento river

Answer 1

aluminum boat 25 or 35 hp sholud be fine

Answer 2

I was going to suggest something with a shallow draft. But with the three of you, maybe a "Boston Whaler" would be a better boat. You get a ton of wind and water gets plenty choppy. You need something that will keep you out on the water safely. Although I have not been in the bay area in many years, I think a Google Map search for Marine supplies and Boats would give you many places to shop.

I think you want a deep draft hull with built in flotation. It would likely give you greater comfort, storage and stability. It would be heavier and may need a trailer, but I think you would be happier with that type of boat.

I hope you and your boys have a lot of fun together. Good luck and good fishing.

Answer 3

Three guys, all adults:

16 foot aluminum, here in Minnesota it would be Alumacraft or Lund.

25-40 hp engine.

trolling motor will help.

Enjoy

Answer 4

I think a 12 ft boat is to small for the three of you. Look at a 16 foot boat with a 35 or 40 H.P. motor. Lund makes a great alum. boat.

Answer 5

i would suggest an aluminum john boat.  12' is just fine.  you can get a trolling motor with a marine battery, or possibly gas.  i prefer the battery.

aluminum boats-  i dont mean to say that theyre all the same, but they are similar.  a starter boat will be fine.

i am not into the raft idea.

good luck and happy fishing.