Sailor Turned Fisherman Needs Boat Advice

DaBigBamboo · #1 Dec-21-2011, 12:18 AM

Lifetime sailor crosses over to the "dark-side" and needs powerboat advice.
Sailboats are too slow and I need to catch fish and go diving!

I've searched the forums and have gotten some good "best boat" info, makes, models etc. Still on the hunt for the right boat. Basic criteria are:

Trailerable
23-26'
Weather protected helm
Channel worthy
Flush deck
Room for 4-6 on deck
Under 20k

I'm undecided on outdrive vs. outboard vs. straight shaft. Given the choice I would prefer straight shaft. Not too many of those in my size range. Seems like the next choice would be outboard for simplicity and cockpit space. I'm not opposed to I/O but know they have their issues plus the engine box taking up valuable deck space. Any thoughts/personal preferences?

As for fuel economy, I would definitely opt for diesel but most of those boats are above my budget. Gas inboards always seemed like the most expensive to run but there are more boats outfitted with them in my price range than diesel or efficient outboards. Gas inboard is not a deal breaker but I hear the Volvo outdrives are preferred to Merc or OMC. Any thoughts/personal preferences?

Mostly be trolling, diving and making trips to Lana'i so rough water ability and stability are both desirable but seem difficult to accommodate both in a small boat. Seems like the Ali'i Kai's are good for heavier seas and Glasspros for bottom fishing and diving. Some boats other than these two I've been looking at are 23' Seacraft, 22' Hydrasport, 23' Winner, 23' Blackman, 26' Stamas, 31' Parker, 24' Seaswirl. Not everyone of these boats has all of criteria but I'm trying to squeeze alot out of my $$$ so I'm willing to compromise on some things. Not looking for a project boat (just got out of one of those), ready to fish. Flush deck and enclosed helm are the most important other than the budget. Any thoughts/personal preferences?

Mahalo in advance for any of your advice and/or personal experience!

hawaiian hammer · #2 Dec-21-2011, 11:02 PM

Seem like you are on the right track. Keep checking craigslist and the Hawaii boat and yacht magazine, you can find good deals if you have the patience to wait for it. Always get desperate guys trying to get rid of their boat for whatever reasons.

DaBigBamboo · #3 Dec-22-2011, 01:19 AM

Mahalos Dave...I see you have an Arima, I was looking at a 19' Arima for sale on Oahu. I searched online about the builders and nothing but glowing reports. If it was just a skosh bigger, it would be mine. The hunt continues...

popoki · #4 Dec-22-2011, 10:04 AM

I have a 26 alii Kai and I love it just wish they made a 29...

Chancem007 · #5 Dec-22-2011, 01:48 PM

Check these out. http://honolulu.craigslist.org/kau/boa/2761093655.html
http://honolulu.craigslist.org/mol/boa/2758184039.html

popoki · #6 Dec-22-2011, 02:22 PM

the stamas would be a good deal/starter boat provided the running gear checks out.

DaBigBamboo · #7 Dec-22-2011, 04:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chancem007

Check these out. http://honolulu.craigslist.org/kau/boa/2761093655.html
http://honolulu.craigslist.org/mol/boa/2758184039.html

Ali'i Kai looks good and the price is right although 4 guys and 2 dogs might be a bit tight. The Stamas on the other hand looks more like it...after all the boat is here in Molokai. I don't have the ability to tow it currently, but it is in the water...slip transfer? Worth looking in to.

Mahalo for the heads up!

DaBigBamboo · #8 Dec-22-2011, 04:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by popoki

the stamas would be a good deal/starter boat provided the running gear checks out.

It definitely fits the top items on my "must have" list. The Detroit wouldn't be my first choice in a diesel but I know they run forever even if they are heavy, leaky and loud. Might still be the way to go...love that it is a straight shaft!

I'll keep you guys posted! I'm definitely a craigslist, hawaii boats and yachts and yachtworld junkie...let me know if you bruddahs come across anything in your hood.

Mahalos!

popoki · #9 Dec-22-2011, 04:41 PM

just another thought.... when I escort for canoe races I usually have 6 people on at any given point and its pretty tight on my boat. other thing is if your going to slip you'll most likely want a shaft drive of some type. I/O's don't like to be soaked long term.

popoki · #10 Dec-22-2011, 05:15 PM

this sounds like what your looking for the add was up the end of last month might have sold already.
http://honolulu.craigslist.org/oah/boa/2684510409.html