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Boat Reviews

In Depth Look: Sea Hunt BX25FS

First Impressions Sea Hunt has made a name for itself by building quality boats at affordable price, and the BX25FS fits that reputation perfectly. It’s a bay boat that leans more into the fishing side of its DNA, with a shallow draft, wide open decks, and all the essentials an angler needs for a full…

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In Depth Look: Ranger Z520R

Overview When you first see the Ranger Z520R, it’s hard not to be impressed. This boat looks like it’s ready to dominate the water with its sleek design and purposeful stance. But the Z520R isn’t just about looks; it’s built for serious bass anglers who want performance, reliability, and convenience all wrapped into one. With…

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In Depth Look: Caymas 34CT Review

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Boat Comparisons

Image of a pontoon boat on a lake

Pontoon vs. Tritoon: Which is Right for You?

When it comes to leisurely boating on lakes and rivers, pontoons and tritoons are popular choices due to their stability, spaciousness, and comfort. But what exactly are these boats, and how do they differ? In this article, we’ll explore what pontoons and tritoons are, and compare their pros and cons to help you decide which…

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Freeman 42LR vs. 43: What’s the Real Difference?

Getting to Know the Freeman 42LR and 43 The Freeman Legacy: Cutting-Edge Offshore Catamarans Freeman Boatworks has built a reputation for delivering top-tier offshore fishing catamarans that masterfully balance performance, durability, and luxury. The Freeman 42LR (Long Range) and the Freeman 43 are two standout models in their lineup, often stirring up debate among boating…

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Sportsman Open 322 vs Sea Fox 328 Commander

Introduction: Two Center Consoles, One Tough Choice When it comes to center consoles in the 30-foot range, the Sportsman Open 322 and the Sea Fox 328 Commanderstand out as versatile, feature-packed platforms perfect for fishing and family adventures alike. Both boats offer impressive layouts, thoughtful designs, and an abundance of features that cater to anglers and leisure-seekers. While…

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Boat Tips

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…

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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…

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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…

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Travel Destinations

Hidden Coastal Towns Worth Trailering Your Boat To

There’s something special about finding a coastal town that still feels untouched. The kind of place where the boat ramp is never crowded, the seafood is caught just offshore, and the locals wave as you idle past the marina. For those who like to bring their boat with them on vacation, those quiet, hard-to-find destinations…

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Your Complete Guide to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Every fall, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show transforms South Florida into the epicenter of the boating world. Recognized as the largest in-water boat show on the planet, it’s a spectacle that draws everyone from first-time buyers to celebrities searching for their next yacht. The scale alone is jaw-dropping—miles of docks lined with everything from…

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Top 10 Coastal Towns to Visit This Fall in the Southeast

Fall is one of the most rewarding times of year to explore the Southeast’s coast. The heat and humidity of summer begin to fade, giving way to comfortably warm afternoons and cooler mornings that make time on the coast more enjoyable. Fishing heats up as inshore species like redfish and trout gather in the creeks…

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How to

What to Look for When Buying a Used Boat

Why Buying a Used Boat is a Smart Choice Buying a used boat can be one of the smartest decisions for boat enthusiasts and first-time buyers alike. Not only can you find affordable used boats that fit your budget, but the variety of pre-owned boats available means there’s something for everyone—from fishing rigs to family…

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Can You Finance a Boat with Bad Credit?

*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. Financing a Boat When Your Credit Isn’t Perfect Dreaming of hitting the…

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Boat Fuel 101: How to Protect Your Engine and Avoid Costly Mistakes

Ask any marine technician, and they’ll tell you—fuel-related issues are one of the most common causes of engine trouble. Whether you’re running a Mercury, Yamaha or other brand of outboard, the quality of the fuel in your tank directly affects how your boat performs and how long it lasts. Unlike cars that burn through fuel…

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