Boat Tips - Boater USA

Secured vs. Unsecured Boat Loans: What’s the Difference?

Why Loan Type Matters in Boat Financing Financing a boat isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. Two buyers could walk into the same bank, both looking for $50,000, and walk out with very different types of loans: one secured, one unsecured. The difference? Collateral, interest rates, and how much risk each borrower (and lender) is willing to…

Boating Etiquette: 10 Rules Every New Boater Should Know

Why Boating Etiquette Matters Boating is all about freedom: casting off the lines, opening up the throttle, and enjoying time on the water. But that freedom comes with responsibility. Unlike driving a car, where traffic lights and painted lines keep everyone in order, boating takes place in wide-open spaces where courtesy and common sense matter…

Ethanol vs. Ethanol-Free Fuel: What to use in Your Boat

Why Fuel Choice Matters for Boaters Choosing the right fuel for your boat isn’t as simple as pulling up to the nearest gas pump. While most cars run on ethanol-blended gasoline without issue, marine engines operate under very different conditions. Ethanol fuel (most often E10, or 10% ethanol) has become the standard at gas stations,…

How a Longer Loan Term Affects the Total Cost of Your Boat

*BoaterUSA may receive a commission if you apply for and are approved for a boat loan through links in this article. This comes at no additional cost to you and helps support our content and platform. We only recommend financing partners we trust. Why Loan Terms Matter in Boat Financing When it comes to financing…

Lithium vs. Lead Acid Batteries

Introduction Batteries aren’t exactly the most glamorous piece of boating gear, but they’re the heartbeat behind just about everything we do on the water. From starting the engine to powering a trolling motor all day, running electronics, or even keeping the stereo thumping at the sandbar, the choice of battery can make or break your…

10 Bay Boats for under $100,000

Bay boats have become some of the most versatile vessels on the water, blending the shallow-draft capability needed for inshore fishing with the stability and comfort to handle open bays and nearshore runs. They’re designed for anglers who want to chase redfish on the flats one day and head offshore for snapper the next, but…

Best Bay Boat Brands of 2025

Bay boats have earned their reputation as some of the most versatile vessels on the water. Designed to handle everything from shallow flats and backcountry creeks to open bays and nearshore reefs, they’re the go-to choice for anglers who want one boat that can do it all. But their appeal doesn’t stop at fishing. With…

Best Chartplotters & Fishfinders for Under $1000

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Basics of the Garmin Force Kraken

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Best Saltwater Trolling Motors of 2025

When you’re fishing saltwater, your trolling motor isn’t just an accessory—it’s a critical piece of gear that can determine how productive (and enjoyable) your time on the water will be. The right motor lets you move stealthily through skinny flats, hold your position over a reef with pinpoint accuracy, and fight against wind and current…

Top 10 Family Pontoons

When it comes to relaxed days on the water with the whole crew, few boats beat a good family-friendly pontoon. Modern pontoons offer far more than just floating platforms, they’re fully equipped with plush seating, safety features, entertainment systems, and performance upgrades that make them perfect for everything from cruising and tubing to sunset dinners…

2025 Best Aluminum Bass Boats

Aluminum bass boats have come a long way from their bare-bones beginnings, and 2025’s lineup proves it. Lightweight, fuel-efficient, and easy to tow, these rigs deliver serious fishing performance without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a weekend angler looking for value or a tournament competitor needing speed and storage, today’s aluminum bass boats offer advanced…

2025 Best 30′ Offshore Center Consoles

When it comes to serious offshore performance, few boats command more respect than center consoles in the 30-foot class. Ranging from 30′ to just under 40′, these monohull machines are built to take on big water, long runs, and anything the open ocean throws their way. Whether you’re chasing pelagics 50 miles out or cruising…

Single vs. Twin vs. Triple Outboards: Which Configuration Is Right for Your Boat?

Why Outboard Configuration Matters When you’re shopping for a boat—or repowering one you already own—one of the biggest questions you’ll face is how many outboards to put on the back. Should you go with a single high-output engine, or split the power across two or even three smaller motors? Is a quad setup overkill, or…

10 Pontoons for Under $50,000

You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy everything that makes pontoon boats so popular—spacious layouts, comfortable seating, and smooth, stable rides. In fact, the under-$50,000 category is packed with options that deliver big value for families, anglers, and casual cruisers alike. Whether you’re looking for a versatile deck for watersports, a quiet retreat…

10 Center Consoles for the Family

Not every center console is built just for hardcore anglers. In recent years, more and more manufacturers have embraced the idea that a great center console should work just as well for families as it does for fishing. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, cruising sandbars, or pulling a tube on the lake, the right center console…

Aluminum Boats for Under $20,000

Finding a reliable, feature-packed aluminum boat under $20,000 might seem like a tall order these days—but it’s far from impossible. Whether you’re after a lightweight fishing rig, a simple utility boat, or a versatile vessel for weekend adventures, there are still plenty of solid options that won’t break the bank. These boats may not come…

2025 Top Catamaran Style Center Consoles

Catamaran-style center consoles are having a moment—and it’s no surprise why. With twin-hull design, these boats deliver a ride that’s noticeably smoother in choppy conditions, impressively stable at rest, and spacious enough to host both serious anglers and weekend cruisers. Where traditional monohulls trade comfort for stability, cat-style consoles offer both—balancing offshore performance with dockside…

2025 Best Center Consoles Under $100,000

As center consoles push further into the realm of luxury—sporting triple outboards, advanced electronics, and yacht‑like amenities—it’s easy to assume that a six‑figure budget is just the starting point. While the market continues to chase bigger, faster, and more extravagant builds, many boaters are left wondering if high performance, fishability, and family‑friendly features are still…

Stated Income Boat Loans: What Are They and Who Qualifies?

*BoaterUSA may receive a commission if you apply for and are approved for a boat loan through links in this article. This comes at no additional cost to you and helps support our content and platform. We only recommend financing partners we trust. What Is a Stated Income Boat Loan? When it comes to financing…

Basics of the Minn Kota Ultrex Trolling Motor: What You Need to Know

The Minn Kota Ultrex is a trolling motor designed for anglers who seek the precision of cable steering combined with advanced GPS capabilities. It offers a hybrid system that provides the tactile feedback of traditional cable steer with the added benefits of electronic assist and GPS-based features. One of the standout features of the Ultrex is…

Understanding Garmin’s Chart Types: Navigation, Fishing, 3D, and More

Garmin chartplotters and fish finders don’t rely on a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to on-screen mapping. Instead, they offer a range of chart views—each tailored for specific tasks like safe navigation, detailed structure scanning, or visualizing terrain in three dimensions. The different chart types aren’t just visual options—they’re built with distinct data layers and…

Getting Started with the Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2

The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 chartplotter and fishfinder combo aimed at serious anglers and boaters who want a high-end unit without stepping all the way into the commercial realm. Available in 10-inch and 12-inch display sizes, the Ultra 2 delivers crisp touchscreen clarity with the kind of features you’d expect from a modern, high-performance marine…

2025 Best Center Consoles Under $50,000

In an era where boat prices continue their relentless climb and manufacturers seem fixated on producing massive, head-turning center consoles with eye-watering price tags in the high six to seven figures, finding an affordable option has become increasingly challenging for the average boating enthusiast. The market’s obsession with bigger, flashier, and more luxurious vessels has…

Fleet-Based vs. Fractional Boat Clubs: What’s the Difference?

Joining a boat club has become one of the most popular ways to enjoy life on the water—without the hassle of boat ownership. But as the industry grows, so do the options, and not all boat clubs follow the same model. For many prospective members, the choice often comes down to two distinct approaches: fleet-based clubs that…

Top 10 Beginner Center Consoles

Stepping into the world of center consoles can be exciting, but with so many options, it’s tough to know where to start. Whether you’re looking for a boat to fish coastal waters, cruise with friends, or just enjoy time on the water, picking the right model makes all the difference. The best beginner-friendly center consoles offer manageable…

Top 10 Aluminum Boats of 2025

Aluminum boats have long been a favorite for anglers, hunters, and recreational boaters alike—and for good reason. They’re lightweight, durable, easy to trailer, and built to handle a wide range of conditions without the high maintenance demands of fiberglass models. Whether you’re cruising a quiet lake or pushing through skinny backwaters, aluminum boats offer a…

The Impact of Engine Hours on Boat Value

You’ve found it—the perfect boat. The hull is spotless, the price fits your budget, but then you see the engine hours: 400. Is that a steal or a red flag? Engine hours are like a boat’s odometer, ticking away its life story, and they can make or break your buy. Too many, and you’re eyeing…

Planning for a Boat Purchase

Buying a boat can feel like jumping overboard without a life jacket—exciting, but overwhelming if you’re not ready. Timing’s everything: rush it, and you might overpay or miss red flags; drag it out, and your dream ride could slip away. Whether you’re eyeing a fishing rig, a family cruiser, or a sleek speedster, a smart…

Spring Boating Prep: Your Complete Checklist for 2025

Spring is calling, and the water’s waiting. After months of winter storage, your boat’s ready to shake off the cobwebs and dive into the 2025 season—but only if you prep it right. A little effort now can mean the difference between a flawless first trip and a frustrating breakdown. Whether you’re chasing fish, cruising with…

Top 10 Beginner Bass Boats

Buying your first bass boat can feel overwhelming—there are countless options, each packed with different features, price points, and performance levels. As a beginner, you want a boat that’s easy to operate, stable on the water, and equipped with the right balance of storage, power, and fishability. Whether you’re planning to hit small local lakes…

How Boat Prices Work: Base Price, MSRP, and What You’ll Really Pay

Making Sense of Boat Prices Shopping for a boat can feel overwhelming, especially when you start seeing terms like “base price,” “MSRP,” and “out-the-door price” thrown around. If you’re new to the world of boats, you might wonder what all these different prices mean and how they fit into your budget. Understanding boat prices is…

Boat Club Membership vs. Buying a Boat: Which is Right for You?

Join a Boat Club or Buy Your Own Boat? Picture this: the sun is shining, the water is calm, and you’re ready to hit the open waves. But before you can fully embrace the boating lifestyle, there’s one big decision to make—should you join a boat club or invest in buying your own boat? It’s…

Top 10 Boat Shows in 2025

Boat shows are more than just a chance to browse new boats—they’re an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just dipping your toes into the boating world, the top boat shows are must-see events. They offer a unique opportunity to explore the latest boats, compare models side by side, and even score exclusive boat…

Boat Loan Basics: Financing Your Dream Boat

Dreaming of owning a boat but not sure how to make it happen? You’re not alone. For most people, buying a boat outright isn’t an option, and that’s where boat loans come in. Financing a boat can make your dream a reality by breaking the cost into manageable monthly payments. But before you dive into…

When is the Best Time to Buy a Boat?

If you’ve ever wondered, “When is the best time to buy a boat?” you’re not alone. For many boaters, the timing of their purchase can make a big difference in cost, selection, and overall experience. While boating is a year-round passion for some, the market itself ebbs and flows with the seasons, and knowing how to navigate…

The True Cost of Boat Ownership: Beyond the Purchase Price

Owning a boat is one of life’s great joys—picture it: sun on your face, wind in your hair, and endless adventures on the water. But let’s be real for a second: there’s a lot more to boat ownership than just paying the sticker price. Sure, the initial cost of buying a boat is a big…

New vs. Used Boats: Which is Right for You?

Buying a boat is an exciting journey, but let’s face it—it’s also a big decision. One of the first questions every buyer faces is, “Should I go for a shiny new boat or save some money and buy used?” It’s a choice that feels a little like buying a car but with even more to…

Boat Prices at the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

The 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show has come and gone, leaving behind a wake of sun-soaked memories, dazzling vessels, and, of course, plenty of conversations about boat prices. If you’ve ever attended this iconic event, you know it’s more than just a boat show—it’s a celebration of all things nautical, from sleek center consoles…

Top 10 Center Console Brands for Beginners

Choosing your first boat is an exciting journey, but it can also feel a bit daunting. With so many options, it’s important to find a brand that offers a combination of ease of use, quality construction, and features that make your time on the water enjoyable. These 10 center console boat brands cater to first-time…

Top 6 Center Console Brands for Offshore Fishing

When it comes to offshore fishing, choosing the right center console can make or break your day on the water. Center consoles are built for performance, offering ample deck space, high-tech electronics, and powerful engines designed to tackle everything from calm coastal waters to rough offshore conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting…

The Best Coolers for Boat Days

When you’re spending a day on the water, keeping your drinks cold and your snacks fresh can make or break the trip. Having the right cooler means everything from enjoying ice-cold beverages to ensuring your fresh catch stays in perfect condition. Whether you’re looking for top-of-the-line performance, durability, or a budget-friendly option, we’ve rounded up…

Popular Boat Types and What They’re Best Suited For

Boating isn’t one-size-fits-all. The type of boat you choose shapes your entire experience on the water, from the activities you can do to the comfort and convenience you’ll enjoy. A family looking for lazy afternoons on a lake will want something very different than an angler chasing fish offshore or a thrill-seeker carving wakes behind…

Choosing the Right Boat Storage Option for Your Needs

Owning a boat is one of life’s great pleasures, but every boat owner eventually faces the same question: where do you keep it when it’s not in use? Storage isn’t just about convenience, it plays a huge role in how well your boat holds up over time, how much maintenance it requires, and even how…

Top 10 Extreme Center Consoles

The Pinnacle of the Center Console Market Center consoles have come a long way from being purely fishing boats—now they’re serious contenders in both luxury and performance. Today’s extreme center consoles are more than just functional—they’re marvels of engineering and design, blending speed, size, and comfort into one powerful package. Whether you’re heading offshore, cruising the coast…

Top 10 Affordable Family Boats for 2025

For many families, boating is about creating shared experiences, whether it’s casting a line, towing a tube, or simply relaxing together at anchor. But affordability is often the deciding factor in making boat ownership possible. Affordable family boats bridge that gap by offering smart layouts, safe handling, and useful features at prices that stay within…

Understanding Boat Terminology

Intro to Boat Terminology If you’ve ever spent time on the water, you know that boating has its own unique language. Understanding this terminology isn’t just about sounding like a pro—it’s about safety, smoother communication, and making your time on the water more enjoyable. Whether you’re anchoring for a peaceful day of fishing, docking after…

A couple sitting with a loan officer getting a loan for a boat.

How Interest Rates Can Affect What Boat You Can Afford

When dreaming of owning a boat, it’s essential to understand how interest rates can significantly impact your purchasing power. Interest rates influence your monthly payments and the total cost of your loan, potentially affecting the size and type of boat you can afford. Let’s explore how interest rates can play a pivotal role in your…

Understanding Propeller Pitch and Boat Performance

Ask any group of boaters about performance, and the conversation will eventually turn to propellers. One of the most important and often misunderstood factors is propeller pitch. The right pitch can transform how your boat accelerates, how fast it runs at wide open throttle, and even how efficiently it burns fuel. The wrong pitch, on…