What’s the appeal of boating, anyway?
When you have a budget to consider and only so much free time on your hands, asking the simple questions off the bat can save you a world of stress. Luckily for you, boating is a classic American past-time that’s yet to go out of style. The United States boasts some of the world’s most impressive rivers, lakes and beachfronts, seeing millions of Americans heading out with families or friends once the weather takes a better turn. If you’ve considered adding another beloved hobby to your repertoire but want to know just how far you can stretch your money out, learning about used boats for sale is a smart first step.
Whether you want to try fishing on for size or just like the wind in your hair, a used boat can really enhance your life in ways you didn’t think possible.
Did You Know?
Think you know everything about boating? You’re likely still brushing up if you’re reading this list! Just the year prior an estimated 50 million Americans went fishing, which doesn’t even scratch the surface of fly fishing, recreational boating and camping trips. Back in 2016 there were an estimated 12 million registered recreational boating vessels, to boot. Americans love taking to the water almost as much as they love a hearty burger and a round of laughter with friends. When you invest in pre-owned boats they do more than fill up your garage. They invest in you.
Fishing
Fishing is a great way to reduce your stress levels and even snag you some dinner for the night. Fishing is considered the second most popular outdoor activity in the United States as of 2016, so don’t think you won’t have any options when you start looking up used boats for sale! Fishing is much beloved not just for killing two birds with one stone (or would that be two fish with one boat?), but for allowing people to shed off the stress of the week. A recent study found people with anxiety noticed a major drop in their blood pressure after a few hours of fishing.
Boating
Perhaps you’re less interested in seafood and want to go out and experience the waves. Used boats will have enough models to make you, your family and your friends happy. An 18 to 20 foot pontoon boat should seat two to six people on average, giving you the flexibility needed to approach both planned camping trips and spontaneous weekends with ease. It’s estimated 65% of saltwater anglers prefer to fish via a powerboat compared to either land or shore. Which one will suit you best means being honest with how often you’ll use your boat, what for and the omnipresent pull of a monthly budget.
Accessories
All boats need to be equipped well. Just like you wouldn’t start your morning with a cup of coffee or a quick jog, so too does your boat need to be sound from top to bottom. People who want their used boats for sale to supplement their fishing escapades need to invest in a quality portable refrigerator as well as fishing utility box. Nothing worse than catching a fish you can’t even keep! A good waterproof floor mat will also keep you from developing mold when you should be padding back and forth in your boat with dry feet and a good mood.
Finding Your Own Used Boat
Now that you’ve done a little soul searching…which boat is truly the one for you? Retail sales for new boats, engines and general marine accessories back in 2016 totaled nearly $18 billion in the United States alone, which means you’ll have no trouble getting pontoon boats that have been gently used and need a new home. Your boat should be of a proper size (buying too small and attempting to crowd it later can cause an accident!) as well as be defined more toward fishing or recreational hobbies. A little research now will mean nothing but fun days and fond memories later!
Used boats for sale come in many different shapes and sizes. Your hobbies more so. Will you find the perfect match in 2018?
More Stories