[MakoMike]

Originally Posted by zacs

There is no answer to your question.

It is all about personal preference.

Here is what you do:

Figgure you are probably going to spend $2-5K per year on gas and maintenance and upgrades, especially if you are going to have a slip.

So I assume you have that discretionary $ in your budget.

Take that money, and spend $5K this summer and $5K next summer, and get on as many charters as you can, specifically in the area where you plan to do most of your boating/fishing.

What you will learn:
A lot of fishing hot spots
Several boat fishing techniques
Pros and cons of different boat layouts
Boat handling skills
General seamanship

Please do not look past this advice. It will put you eons ahead of most people just starting out.

Best of luck

Zac

Best advice you could get!