Articles

Boat Reviews

In Depth Look: Sportsman Open 252 Review

Meet the Sportsman Open 252 When it comes to versatile center consoles that seamlessly blend family-friendly amenities with serious fishing capabilities, the Sportsman Open 252 is an excellent option. Measuring 25 feet 3 inches in length with a 9-foot 3-inch beam, this boat offers ample space for both leisurely cruises and offshore adventures.  Designed to…

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In-Depth Look: Sea Pro 210 Bay Review

Meet the Sea Pro 210 Bay The Sea Pro 210 Bay is a boat designed with versatility, accessibility, and ease of use in mind. As an entry-level bay boat, it provides a solid balance of fishability and family-friendly features, making it an attractive choice for new boaters, weekend anglers, and families looking for a multi-purpose vessel. Measuring 20 feet 8 inches in…

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In Depth Look: Scout 425 LXF

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Boat Comparisons

Sea Hunt Ultra 265 SE vs. Sportsman Open 262: Which Boat Fits Your Family Best?

Getting to Know Sea Hunt Ultra 265 SE & Sportsman Open 262 Versatility Meets Style in the 26-Foot Class When it comes to versatile center consoles, the 26-foot category has gained a reputation for delivering the perfect mix of offshore capability, family comfort, and affordability. Two models that often come up in discussions among boating…

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Ranger Z520R vs. Nitro Z20 XL: A Head-to-Head Comparison of Top-Tier Bass Boats

When it comes to top-tier bass boats, the Ranger Z520R and Nitro Z20 XL have earned their places as standout choices for serious anglers. These models represent the pinnacle of innovation and performance in their class, each offering a unique blend of features that cater to different fishing styles and priorities. Whether you’re drawn to the cutting-edge technology and…

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Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX vs Godrey Xperience 2086 SBX

When you’re in the market for a pontoon boat that’s ready to create endless memories on the water, the Sun Tracker Party Barge 20 DLX and the Godfrey Xperience 2086 SBX are two models worth considering. Both are designed with comfort, practicality, and fun in mind, offering plenty of features for family outings, social gatherings, or simply enjoying a…

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Boat Tips

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…

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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…

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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…

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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

Understanding Tides and Currents

Why Tides and Currents Matter If you spend any time on coastal waters, understanding tides and currents isn’t optional, it’s essential. These natural forces affect nearly every aspect of boating, from how your boat handles to where (and when) you can safely go. Misjudge the tide, and you might find yourself grounded in a skinny…

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The Essential Guide to pH-Balanced Soaps for Boat Care

By Noah Corcoran When it comes to maintaining your boat, the products you use can make all the difference!Among the various cleaning agents available, pH-balanced soaps stand out as the ideal choicefor boat owners who care about protecting their investment, extending the life of their materials,and being kind to the environment. Let’s explore why pH-balanced…

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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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