We’d all love to run out and buy a big, glorious, brand-spanking-new center console, but the fact of the matter is that it simply isn’t an economic reality for many anglers out there. Or, maybe you already have that big boat and want a second, smaller boat for kicking around your home waters. So, what should you be looking for? Different boats are best for different folks, but here are three top used boat picks. None of these are currently in production but all can be found with a little hunting and pecking, and we’ve found each of these to be solid options for smaller waterways and lower budgets.
Aquasport 170/175 Osprey
The Aquasport 170 was an incredibly popular boat from the 70s through the early 90s, then was replaced by the 175 Osprey with a slightly different layout but the same trusted 12-degree deadrise hull. After that production continued for about a decade more. These boats were known for taking on rough seas better than just about anything else in the same size range, and can handle the open Bay on reasonable weather days. Deck rot is a known issue, but most Aquasport 17s still floating today have already had deck replacements. However, the condition of one boat to another can vary quite a bit depending on what level of restoration has been done through the years. Approximate Used Aquasport 170 Price: $3000 with original/no power to $12,000 fully restored with a modern outboard and trailer. FishTalk AIC Lenny Rudow says: he’s been aboard a 170 in the open Bay and it’s tough if not impossible to find a boat of this size that handles rough seas as well.
Carolina Skiff J16
The Carolina Skiff J16 is a classic among small boat lovers, thanks to the simple un-linered design and stout construction. It was introduced in the 1990s and phased out a little more than a decade ago in favor of linered models with a more refined fit and finish. These boats were originally produced as basic hulls then outfitted (or not) with consoles, rails, fore or aft decks, and other pieces-parts by the dealer, so you’ll see used Carolina Skiff J16 boats out there in many different forms. They’re flat-bottom boats with a squared bow and they can get bumpy and wet in rough seas, but on the flip side of the coin they enjoy excellent stability. The most common issue with older boats is foam saturation under the deck. Approximate Used Carolina SKiff J16 Price: $2,000 with original/no power to $10,000 restored with a modern outboard and trailer. FishTalk production manager Zach Ditmars currently owns one, and says: It’s lightweight but solid and handles a medium chop (albeit a wet ride), and it’s easily trailered and launched—enabling you to fish virtually anywhere, including skinny water other boats can’t get into.
Wenzel Skiff 14/16
If you’re looking for a super-simple, super-inexpensive skiff for crabbing and fishing in the tributaries of the Bay, lakes, and rivers, you’ll probably come across a Wenzel skiff. Built in 14’ and 16’ models these boats were built in Western Maryland near Deep Creek Lake from the 60s through the late 80s, so you won’t be seeing any recent-year models. They’re so simple (they were built with bench seats and that’s about it) and so old (meaning that the wood-cored transoms have mostly been replaced by now) that most you see won’t be in need of major repairs. These were lightly built skiffs and they’ll be bumpy if you put more than 30 or so horses on the transom and go faster than 20 mph, but with the 14’ model if you clamp a mere 9.9-hp outboard on the transom you’ll be able to plane with three people aboard and run in the teens with a light load. Note that these were produced under the name “Apache” in later years and you’ll see some bearing that name. Approximate Used Wenzel Skiff Price: $1000 with original/no power to $6000 restored with a running outboard and trailer. FishTalk AIC Lenny Rudow says: he has owned both the 14 and the 16 at different times, and he thinks their best attribute is their simplicity. As long as the outboard keeps running there’s nothing to break, and maintenance is reduced to a squirt from the hose.
If you're interested in finding an affordable used boat or maybe an inexpensive new one, also see: