Posts by zelliott
In Depth Look: Sea Hunt Ultra 245SE
First Impressions The Sea Hunt Ultra 245 SE is one of the newest additions to Sea Hunt’s already stacked lineup, and it’s a smart one. Positioned between the 239 SE and 255 SE, the 245 SE bridges the gap in both size and features, offering something that feels a bit roomier and more refined than…
Read More2025 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…
Read MoreSingle 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…
Read More10 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…
Read More10 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…
Read MoreAluminum 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…
Read More2025 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…
Read More2025 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…
Read MoreStated 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…
Read MoreBasics 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…
Read MoreUnderstanding 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…
Read MoreGetting 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…
Read MoreBoat 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…
Read More2025 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…
Read MoreFleet-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…
Read MoreThe Top 10 Boating Destinations in Georgia
Georgia is a boater’s paradise, offering a wide variety of destinations that cater to every type of water enthusiast. From sprawling lakes with endless shoreline to serene rivers teeming with wildlife, the Peach State provides some of the best opportunities for fishing, water sports, and scenic cruising in the Southeast. Whether you’re looking for a…
Read More8 Water Activities That Make Unforgettable Vacation Memories
There’s something magnetic about vacationing near the water. Whether it’s a calm lake tucked into the mountains, a tropical beach with crystal-clear waves, or a vibrant coastal city, destinations with access to the water open up a world of unforgettable experiences. From relaxing boat tours to adrenaline-pumping parasailing adventures, water-based activities offer something for every kind of traveler—whether…
Read MoreIn Depth Look: Carolina Skiff 19 LS Review
Meet the Carolina Skiff 19 LS The Carolina Skiff 19 LS is the definition of simplicity done right. Known for building tough, reliable boats that deliver all the essentials without overcomplicating things, Carolina Skiff has long been a go-to name for boaters who want function over flash. The 19 LS continues that tradition, offering a no-frills, do-it-all platform that’s…
Read MoreTop 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…
Read MoreTop 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…
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