Boat Tips
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…
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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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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,…
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*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…
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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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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…
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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…
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Modern chartplotters and fishfinders pack more technology into an affordable package than ever before. Anglers no longer have to spend thousands to get crisp, detailed sonar imaging, reliable GPS navigation, and advanced features like side and down imaging or integrated mapping. For under $1000, it’s now possible to equip your boat with a system that…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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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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…
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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…
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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…
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*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…
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