Need Help Finding a Boat!

Carl

Carl

Well-known member
Staff member
As many of you know, last fall my wife made the mistake of saying I could buy a new boat this summer. After a couple of months of drooling over all sorts of boats, I calmed down and patiently waited for spring to arrive.
Well, yesterday I got the go ahead for getting down to serious boat searching.
I'm looking for a 14-16' semi-v with a walk-thru floor plan. These are virtually non-existent on the Gulf-coast. None of the dealers here carry them. I have two dealers who seem to be willing to work with me to order one when they order pontoon boats, but not sure how that works out.
Anyway, the boats on my short list are:
  • Smokercraft/Sylvan Alaskan 15 DLX Short Shaft (new or used). Dont need a motor or trailer, plan to use my 18 hp and my trailer, but if I find a reasonable used package, that will work too.
  • Lund 14' or 16' SSV, like the 16' better, can only afford used in these, since my price range is under $3,000.00. For the 14', only really need the hull. If its a 16', need the whole package.
  • Lund WC-DLX, 14' or 16'. Used. If a 14', only need a hull, if 16' need the package.
  • Smokercraft/Sylan 14' Super Snapper, used. I think these are all long shaft boats, so need the whole package.
Like I noted, my budget is under $3,000.00. One dealer in MI has quoted me just over $2,000.00 for anew Smokercraft Alaskan 15 DLX Short Shaft, so I know what ballpark is on that one. If the dealers here can do that plus what it would cost to drive to get one, I'll buy here. But I have not heard back from any dealer here.

Trailers need to be galvanized since I am on saltwater. Prefer electric start 2 stroke motors. Definately tiller steer.

I've been using the Craiglook.com search engine and have been finding lots of Lunds, but most are in MN , WI, etc.. To far to drive unless I find a really good steal that someone can fully inspect for me. If I have to drive, I prefer to keep it along the east coast, around or between here & Detroit (where my sisters live) or within 750 miles. But a longer drive for a killer deal is not a problem.
SO, any help you guys can provide would be greatly appreciated. If you find something, PM me with details or a link and I will check it out.
THANKS!!
Here is the walk-thru floor plan I like:

[inline SmokerCraftAlaskan15DLX_A.jpg ]

[inline LundSSV.jpg ]

View attachment SmokerCraftAlaskan15DLX_A.jpg
View attachment LundSSV.jpg
 
Carl,

I'll keep my eyes open around here, not a huge boat mecca area around here, but you never know. Also If you need help on delivery or inspection, just ask, won't promise anything but I'd be open to help if I can.
 
Carl,
Have you checked in with Bill Rose at Rose Marine? He's right on the West end of St. Johns Marsh (M-29)....not that far from our Sister's marina. Tell him I sent you. There's an ad of his in the SCFlats Brochure that's on the club website: www.scfwa.net
Holler if you need contact info or anything.
Lou
 
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Carl, the boat you seek is the most common in my area. There is practically an aluminum boat at every home. I saw you considered Michigan, so perhaps Wisconsin will do. Check Craigs list in Green Bay and or Appleton. You should be able to get what you want for around $1000 or less.

Do you carve? I have a boat dealership that loves to trade for decoys. My buddy and I get all our service work, parts, and even motors for decoy trades. Mike
 
Mike, I've been noticing that there are tons of boats in WI, only bad part is the drive.
But if I can save enough money, I will consider it.
Nope, dont carve, so trading decoys is out unless he really like old carrylites!
 
Nope, but I did get a quote for the 15 DLX from Wilson Marine, I think Tom Hicks is who I talked too.
I will take a look at Rose Marine as well. Thanks!
 
Carl,

I think you need to find a nice Lund in MN and go walleye fishing for a couple of weeks........

Kill two birds...fishing and boat buying.....

What would be better???

Matt
 
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