Getting started for boat-fishing

[Calle]

Hi guys,

the time has come for me to think about buying a small boat, as I experienced how difficult fishing (spinning) from shore is.

But unfortunately I do not have any idea about what I need and what the costs are. So my questions are mainly 1. What kind of boat/engine should I buy to fish close to the shore (maybe few hundret meters)? Where can I find used ones? How much should I spend? What kind of lincense is necessary for what kind of boat/engine?

So far I found this site in the forum: http://www.boatlinkmalta.com/boats_for_sale.html

Am I right that for boats with engines less than 30hp I do not need any license?

Hope to get some answers for all these questions I have.

Cheers

[malvizzu]

Hi Calle

Go through my thread which I started some 2 years ago when I was looking for a boat as well. Maybe you can get some ideas and view opinions from fellow members.

http://maltafishingforum.com/talk/index.php/topic,2475.msg31218.html#msg31218

[Calle]

Thanks malvizzu,

very interesting thread. The Kaptan indeed seems to be a very nice boat. Do you know where I could check for used ones?

Cheers

[benri]

There is a very good one on Maltapark at the moment! A great opportunity and this boat belongs to a forum member!
http://www.maltapark.com/item.asp?ItemID=1533870

[L-Ghaxqi]

it's too much i think...you should check maltapark for a kaptan or Ratal which is simple...if you are going to be fishing within 1-2miles...i think you will not be needing more than 10hp. less fuel consumption and cheaper i would check for a 13-15ft

[Calle]

Thanks for the answers so far!

Has anyone already made experience with the new Seabrave boats? Because it seems like finding a used Kaptan Twin is difficult as many people are searching for it.

What do you guys think about this offer f.e. http://www.maltapark.com/item.asp?ItemID=1529790

How much would be the running costs for such a boat (including tax, a place to park the boat at the water and so on)? It would be my first boat, so I do not have any idea about it.

cheers

[Shaftbomb]

Calle,
Why not speak with fellow forum member Malvizzu about his Petecraft 14.  He has a really nice small open boat by petecraft and he has written great reviews about it on this forum.

[Granitu]

both petecraft and kaptan boats are excellent boats

A 14ft boat can be trailed and launched each time you will be using it and to my opinion, I would prefer that way. There is too messing around on boats when left on moorings.

If you have a place where to store it, it would be ideal.

Additionally I would note that you should seriously consider the size you are looking for. It is true that you are a newbie to boat fishing, but sooner or later after your first boat you will get infected by the 'bigger boat syndrome'.  (we all do)

Bigger boats are more comfortable, spacious and permit to explore fishing grounds further out at sea. Ignore this statement if you are afraid to go out like 20 miles from land. Even if law does not permit, in reality we still do particulary during the dorado season. And wind can pick up pretty fast and it is not nice to be in f5-f6 winds in a small boat.

Furthermore, bigger boats withstand the sea better and can be dedicated to alternative uses.

Ultimately, we are all affected by the budget we have

[malvizzu]

Calle - you're invited to my garage to have a look at the boat if you want to.

[dgal0021]

I personally think that a 14ft boat is perfect to start with. I bought mine last season also with the help of the great forum members here. I never had a boat before so I found it ideal to learn everything step by step. I had a great fishing season and Ilooking forward to the next, I am still learning new fishing techniques etc. The fact that u can take out the boat every time just a quick rinse and thats practically it, so no big maintenance headaches. Also, when it is not a fruitful fishing day with a small motor (15hp) doesn't weigh on your pocket. Good luck on the purchase of your new boat