A unique website dedicated to fishing information from Florida's Northern Big Bend. This includes the area from the Econfina River west to the Apalachicola River
Hard to say on the boat, depends on the application. Personally for the flats I like my Carolina Skiff. I think they are affordable and do what I need. I have had that boat in ankle deep water drifting along dip netting blue crabs taking a break from fishing. I'm still researching offshore. I have a 20" Key West CC and have fished 25 miles off the coast which put me in 50-55 feet. I really need something a little bigger, at least a 23" but at the time could not afford the extra $$$ that three feet was gonna cost me. I like the looks of a big offshore Grady White. My next boat will have a cabin too. I'd like to camp out there catchin' snapper and groupa into the morning.
My first choice of motor would be Yamaha. It's all I've owned on my boats. Besides the regular stuff like an impellor needing replacing, I have had no problems and the warrenty has never been an issue because it's a quality product.
Second choice would be Honda. I have never owned a Honda engine, but the people I have talked to that have are as loyal to Honda as I am Yamaha.
If we are not supposed to eat animals, why are they made out of meat?
I have a pair of Merc Optimax 135hp on my offshore Mako. Bought them new on the boat nine years ago. Other than regular service/maintenance have never had any problems with them. Considering weight, performance, and price I will probably buy another pair when I repower
I am on my second Suzuki. Repowered from a 140 2 stroke to a 150 4 stroke. Huge difference and all good. I think if you look for the best deal on a Honda, Yamaha, or Suzuki you will be happy.
Just got rid of a mercury 250. Had it for about 6 years with not many problems. Only missed a couple of fishing trips b/c of it. The new one is a Suzuki. Hope to get more than 6 years out of it.