Fishing Boat for Lower Potomac River?

[alexofoakton]

I'm looking for a fishing boat for the lower Potamac from Aquia down to the bay. It will be strickly for fishing with max 4-5 people. I would like to have a head or porta potty on it (for wife and married daughter). Also, would like captain chairs. My price point is around $30K. Any recommendations/suggestions?

[Vic Holmstrom]

When we lived in Stafford, VA, we kept our Grady White 208 Adventure on Aquia Creek. It seemed like the perfect boat for that area.

[Bruce W]

Look at the Sea Hunt "Triton" series center consoles - the "207" or the "220" - BOTH of which have room inside the console for a porta-potti.

NICE boats and you could get certainly get the "207" for under $30K (boat motor, trailer & some options), MAYBE the "220".

Probably the best value on the market for the money!

If you're gonna' spend much time down near the Bay, I wouldn't go any "smaller" than the "207".

Regards,

[gw204]

How important is fuel economy to you?

The reason I'm asking is, I have a '93 25' Grady Sailfish on the market w/ no power. You could grab the boat and a set it up with a pair of used carburated or EFI engines and be on the water for right around what you are looking to spend. It wouldn't be bad on fuel with older engines, but it wouldn't be as efficient as a DFI or 4-stroke powered boat. Of course, it wouldn't have the price tag either.

There's a link in my sig. if you want to check it out.

[Danimal]

I was also going to say Grady White 208 Adventure (used)

[alexofoakton]

Thanks for the info. I am thinking of the Triton 207. Another question: do boat dealers post list prices that are like car prices - basically meaningless? How do you determine a good price for a new boat like a Triton 207?

[monomoy74]

BTW, the Lower Potomac can get snotty in a matter of minutes, I've found that out a few times.

[My Gal]

Probably a walk. Couple a thousand available at 30k. Do a google on used boats.

[slickster]

I've boated the lower potomac a fair amount...it can turn into the crappiest place in the entire bay...with a strong river current....a strong incoming tide in the bay and a NE wind....lookout....very close 2-4's on occasion...doesn't sound like much but it is nasty....choose a boat accordingly....Mick

[Jamisjockey]

I'm going to say any walkaround in the 20-25' range. Do some research and find something in your price range that has the things you like. Start with boattrader, and the classifieds here. The weather here can turn to crap easily, plus if you want to fish in the winter you can more comfortably from a walk around.

[B-Faithful]

the best fishing in that area is late in the fall and early in the spring. Get a pilothouse and keep your crew comfortable. Walkarounds are great but only a couple of guys will stay out of the weather.

Maycraft
Steiger
parker
c-hawk
Judge Yachts

They all do the trick!

[My Gal]

Think a Pilot House through before you buy. Faithful's is a modified P/H plus he's trying to sell one.

A good walk with enclosures in this hot/humid part of the country gives you multi-season options.

A real P/H like Parker keeps the crew separated from you since the room in the wheelhouse is limited.

P/H's helms are forward, expect a much firmer ride.

They are all very nice vessels though. I like the way they look. Also if you are tall, you may hit your head.

[B-Faithful]

I agree with My Gal that a lot of pilot houses keep you from the crew. I prefer the layout of the Judge, Steiger and Maycraft as they are open back with a level deck to the helm. I also agree that you ride near the bow and most are on mod v hulls that can have a bit of a firmer ride. However on the bay where you dont run 50-60 miles to the fishing grounds it is great to have the long open cockpit, stability and economy of the mod v's. Slowing down a couple of knots doesnt really eat into fishing time when 20-30 miles is a long run. I do have my boat listed but it is only to go from a Maycraft to a Judge that is very similar in function and design.

Where I will disagree with my gal is regarding the hot summers. I have owned two walkarounds in teh past and the Pilothouse like maycraft and judge offer more shade and are cooler in the summer... The small hard tops on walkarounds generally only offer shade to 2 0r 3. The walkarounds do offer easier and better bow access.

Personally, I also agree with my gal on the looks of the boats too but will say that your wife may not. I find that most women dont like the "work boat" look.

[PotomacSouth]

Alex I am moving into a larger boat.* If you are interesed in a complete package check out my website: www.potomacsouth.com* The boat in the pics is it.* The price is $20K with triple axle alum. Trailer.* If you're interested my number is 240 682 1497.Thanks,Daniel Evans.