What is the price of a fishing boat? On average a new, fully equipped, fishing boat in the 16 to 20 foot range with an outboard motor, trailer and standard features will cost between $18,000 and $45,000 depending on the make and model. Additional expenses like insurance, licensing, maintenance and fuel can add up to well over $100 a month for the life of the boat.
As I previously stated, the boat’s final sticker price is rarely the last dollar you’ll spend on it. Owning a boat involves many financial decisions. The remainder of this article will discuss the true cost of owning a fishing boat so you can choose the model that best fits your budget.
How Much Does A Fishing Boat Cost?
Typically, a used 20-foot boat costs between $10,000 and $20,000. A new boat of the same size would probably cost between $40,000 and $60,000. The style of the boat is one of the main elements that will affect the price, along with the length of the boat, which also plays a significant role.
Purchasing a used boat will always save you money up front, but maintenance and repairs will almost always be more expensive over the course of ownership.
However, every boat will need maintenance, which will add to the overall cost of ownership. An overview of popular boat types is provided below, along with prices for both new and used versions of each boat type where appropriate.
What Factors Affect Boat Prices?
A boat’s price will depend on a number of factors. Prior to choosing between used and new boats, you must first decide which type of boat you are purchasing. Each will have unique short- and long-term advantages and disadvantages.
Additionally, the time of year that you purchase will affect the boat’s price range. Price differences for the same boat between off-season and full-swing boating season could range from 5% to 15%. Depending on the kind of boat being searched, this could mean a difference of thousands.
The age, the features, the condition, and whether the boat is being purchased from a dealer or a private party will also affect the price. In general, buying a boat from a private party rather than a dealer or marina will be less expensive, all else being equal.
Used VS. New Boats
Many first-time boat buyers ponder whether they should purchase a new or used boat. Both options have a number of advantages and disadvantages. There might be a crystal-clear best choice for you, or you might still need to do some thinking, depending on your time and resources.
Although buying a used boat will initially save you money, which can be very persuasive when shopping, you might eventually discover that the cost of boat maintenance is higher than you initially anticipated.
Depending on the standard of care that the prior owner or owners upheld, this will change. However, if you’re on a tighter budget, a used boat might be the best option because you can save money in the long run by performing your own maintenance.
The cost of a new boat might not be that prohibitive if you have more money than patience or time because it might ultimately result in less shop time and repair costs over the course of ownership. However, keep in mind that purchasing a new boat won’t exempt you from regular maintenance like oil changes.
Fishing Boat Types
There are numerous classifications that can be used to describe fishing boats. Remember that the area is big and that every customer has different needs. We should start by taking a look at the material category.
The cost of fishing boats made of aluminum and fiber varies from model to model and is primarily influenced by design and quality. These two have similar starting prices, but the maintenance costs make a big difference.
Aluminum Fishing Boat
Although lighter and require less energy to move, aluminum fishing boats are not completely stable and safe in choppy water. It’s clear what the equation means. Less power means using less fuel and spending less money to steer this kind of fishing boat.
Your boat’s value and costs may be lower than if you choose a model made of fiber if you choose an aluminum one. One can be had for $10,000, though it’s possible to find them for much more.
Fiber Fishing Boat
The modern and elegant design of fiber fishing boats provides security when the water is not still. On the other hand, using one will require more fuel, which will increase your boating expenses.
Fiber is used by manufacturers to create a variety of boats, from kayaks to speedboats, because it allows for creativity and custom designs. So it’s difficult to estimate the price on a general basis.
Kayaks, which start at around $900, are among the least expensive boats, but some models can cost $100,000 or even more.
Fishing Boat Size
Consider some information that can guide your decision-making before deciding on the size of the boat. Your objective is to avoid overpaying because the size directly influences the boat’s price and maintenance costs. Therefore, it is imperative to decide on a few things in a timely manner, including:
- The type of fishing you are into
- The number of people on the boat
- The storage room you need
- The engine type needed
- Boat capabilities
These will assist you in reducing the large selection of boats available on the market.
Large Fishing Boats
The length of this type of boat is between 32 and 36 feet (9.75 and 11 meters). These boats are best suited for you if you enjoy offshore fishing and competitions. New vessels typically cost between $200,000 and $450,000, but because some models are specially made and have extra features, the price can go even higher.
Depending on the deal and the condition of the boat, you might be able to find one for a little less money. There are a few well-known brands in this category on the market, including Yellowfin and Invincible.
Large Fishing Boat With A Twin-engine
In most cases, such boats are between 26 and 30 feet long (8 and 9 meters). They are designed for offshore trips because they have a twin engine that can move a boat through deeper, rougher waters.
Although models with even higher prices can be found, the price ranges from $150,000 to $300,000. For these sizes, some well-known brands include Contender and Regulator.
It can be a good idea to search for used boats because new fishing boats are frequently too expensive. When compared to some other vehicles, used boats are generally in good condition and their price and quality don’t decline significantly.
Medium Fishing Boats
These fishing beauties can be anywhere between 21 and 25 feet (6.4 and 7.6 meters) long. Boats of these sizes can have a significant value change depending on the brand.
Between $50,000 and $100,000 can be spent on models with just one engine. You should budget more money if you want a car with two engines or more.
Small Fishing Boats
Boats that measure 16 to 20 feet (5 m–6 m) in length fall under this category. The best choice is to purchase a model from a more expensive brand group like Grady-White or a lower-cost brand group like Sea Hunt or Tidewater. Between $10,000 and $50,000 is the typical price range for a small fishing boat.
The majority of the smaller fishing boats only have one engine, making them more affordable and quick than longer boats. However, they frequently lack unique characteristics and extra gear.
Features
The number of features a boat has is one of the factors that will have the biggest influence on its price. A surprising number of features, improvements, and technological advancements can be found on boats, which can significantly increase the price.
Modern chartplotters, integrated media systems, specialized (often LED) lighting, battery chargers and maintainers, swim or diving platforms, hydraulic steering, autopilot functionality, and GPS position holding are a few features that can affect the average boat price.
Higher-end boats may even include extra luxury or comfort features that significantly raise the cost of the boat.
This can include things like climate-controlled cockpits and cabins, custom flooring, countertops, or finishes, vacuum head systems, joystick steering controls, and satellite weather systems.
Fishing Boat Styles
Along with the fishing boat’s size, other factors to consider include your fishing objective, the location you want to fish, and the level of comfort you require.
When evaluating and comparing the boat prices and your financial constraints, you should take them all into account. Let’s examine some various fishing boat designs.
Saltwater Fishing Boat
Most saltwater boats won’t stay just a short distance from the coast, and fishermen frequently sail farther out to sea. As a result, if one motor fails, you should consider installing two.
These boats are typically made of fiberglass for the hull and stronger materials for the interior electronics because they need to be resistant to saltwater and water. All of these raise the cost of saltwater boats.
Depending on the length and brand, their price will vary, but it usually ranges from $30,000 to $60,000. However, some models that are more opulent and feature-rich can cost over $100,000. Additionally, prices can differ significantly from retailer to retailer and seasonally.
Fishing Boat Catching Bass
In the US, so-called bass boats are popular, and there is currently fierce competition in this market. You can thus haggle over the price and look for deals.
A bass boat typically costs between $25,000 and $75,000 in total. But given the size of the market for this fashion, you can get it for even less.
Jon Boat
You might want to buy this fishing boat because of its flat bottom and affordable price. This model’s aluminum bottom makes for simple customization and convenient transportation.
A Jon boat can currently be purchased for between $2,000 and $10,000. It is practical and inexpensive, and you can easily locate the low-cost equipment and parts for them.
Pontoon Boat
Space and comfort abound on this fishing vessel. You can use this model to plan fishing parties in addition to having fun fishing with friends.
A pontoon boat is not particularly swift but is made for fishing close to the coast. Although not ideal for fishing, this model is enjoyable.
These vessels come in a wide variety of brands and price ranges, as you might expect. Depending on the size, brand, and features, their average cost is around $24,000.
Multiple Purposes Aluminum Boat
This style of fishing boat is elegant and timeless, and it will never go out of style. You can use a useful aluminum boat for this purpose whether you like to fish in lakes, marshes, or the ocean.
Depending on the manufacturer, length, and features, aluminum fishing boat prices will change. However, you can determine the typical value, which ranges between $15,000 and $30,000.
Kayak
The convenient and affordable kayak is regarded as a fishing boat even though it lacks an engine and other equipment. Since it serves as both a fishing and a recreational vessel, you can find various brands and purchase them anywhere.
You can see that kayaks are the least expensive fishing boats when you compare their costs to those of other models. They are also simple to transport and maintain. These boats are ideal for novices and budget-conscious fishermen because their prices range from $400 to $900.
Other Costs To Consider
Insurance
While not all boats require insurance, if you spend more than $20,000 on a fishing setup, you might want to think about safeguarding yourself from potential harm.
If you own a motor boat with 50 horsepower or more, some states even mandate insurance. Annual premiums for comprehensive coverage can reach $300, while those for liability insurance, which only covers damage to other people’s property, are typically $100.
If you plan on buying a bass boat in the near future, be sure to read our article on insurance costs where we compare current quotes from several insurance companies.
Licensing
For use on many public lakes, rivers, or saltwater areas, motorboats with motors of 9.9 horsepower or more generally require registration and licensing. Additionally, in order to operate a boat trailer on public roads, registration and a valid driver’s license are required.
Each state has its own registration fees and requirements. According to our observations, the majority of boat and trailer license and registration fees are renewed annually. Around $50 should be your yearly budget.
Vehicle
One of the most frequently forgotten costs when anglers look for boats is the price of towing a fishing boat. If you allow it to creep up on you, this could add up to more than the rest of this list combined.
Boats are heavier than you might imagine, so you need a car that can tow one safely. Before purchasing a boat, always make sure your truck or SUV has the ability to tow it. If you don’t, you might find yourself in a dangerous situation or you might have to upgrade to a bigger vehicle.
It’s more difficult than you might imagine to determine a fishing boat’s combined weight. That’s why we put together a comprehensive article listing 35 popular fishing boat and trailer weights. Check it out before making any purchases, of course.
Maintenance
It takes a lot of work to maintain a fishing boat. The costs will include everything from adjusting the outboard motor to replacing the trailer’s wheel bearings.
The motor is the component that needs the most upkeep. Small outboard motors may require fresh spark plugs and gear lube, both of which only cost a few dollars annually. When problems arise, however, big inboard motors can quickly consume extra cash.
Among the other typical things to fix or replace are: boat seats, electrical devices, trailer lights, trailer tires, wheel bearings, batteries, and carpet to name a few.
You should budget between $200 and $400 per year for general maintenance and minor repairs for the majority of fishing boats.
Fishing Accessories
The moment you bring your brand-new boat home, you’ll undoubtedly want to fill it with the best fishing gear you can afford. For a good fish finder, rod holders, a trolling motor, and downriggers if you require them, make sure to budget some money.
Even though these kinds of items may not need to be replaced frequently, the total cost of replacing them all could easily be $2000 on top of the boat’s purchase price.
Fuel
All of us have a good idea of how much gas costs each month because we fill up our cars up every day. Once you have a boat, it’s time to reevaluate your gas spending to make room for some additional fishing excursions.
Gas will likely be a relatively inexpensive expense compared to other expenses, depending on the motor size and how frequently you go fishing. Even so, depending on how big the boat was, each trip could use up several gallons of gas per hour at full throttle.
Less fuel is used when cruising or trolling, but frequent fishing trips can quickly add up. During the busiest fishing season, budget at least $50 per month for fuel. You’ll pay even more to refuel at marinas.
Of course, kayaks and boats with electric trolling motors are exempt from this expense.
Total Cost Of Fishing Boat Ownership
As you can see, boat ownership involves a lot more than just purchasing a boat. A first-time boat buyer who spends a modest $15,000 on a new boat with a trailer and tows it behind their current car can still anticipate spending an additional $5,400 or more in the first year alone.
Purchasing a used boat could save you money up front, but depending on how the previous owner handled her, you might have to spend a lot of time in the shop.
There are a few ways to rough out your annual ownership costs on a bigger, more expensive boat if you are an experienced boat owner looking to estimate your costs. The most popular is 10% of the purchase price per year, before seasonal storage, which can easily double that amount.
Boat price: $15,000
Education: $100
Licenses: $100
Taxes: $30
Maintenance: $1,500
Fuel: $200
Trailer: $0
Towing vehicle: $0
Insurance: $300
Winter storage: $2,500
Mooring: $240
Equipment: $500
Conclusion
It can’t be brushed off in any way. Although a fishing boat is not inexpensive, with a little research, you should be able to find one that meets your needs for a reasonable price. Before going shopping, determine exactly what you need because it is simple to feel pressured into buying the best that money can buy.
The best way to figure out how big of a boat you need is to consider the areas where you intend to fish the most and the number of people you typically bring with you. A kayak might be the only boat needed for lone anglers fishing in small, protected bodies of water. A larger, more seaworthy vessel is required for salmon addicts fishing in coastal waters with family and friends.
