Buying a Used Bass Boat: Essential 15-Point Checklist

Buying a used Bass Boat can be a great way to get a boat at a fraction of the price of a new one. Bass boats are designed specifically for fishing, and they come with a range of features that can make the sport more enjoyable.

It’s important to do your homework and make sure you’re getting a good deal on a quality boat before you decide to seal the deal and hand over your money. Here are 15 things to consider when buying a used Bass Boat.

What to Inspect When Buying a Used Bass Boat

Are you considering buying a used bass boat? You may be feeling excited to finally own the perfect boat for your favorite fishing trips and getaways – but before rushing headlong into that, it is important to take a good look at the boat and make sure everything looks right. In this blog post, we’ll give you a list of 15 critical things to look at before making your final purchase. I recently purchased a used bass boat and found it helpful to have this list with me during my visits to the various boats.

General Appearance

The general appearance of a used boat will give you valuable insights into its previous care and maintenance. It is almost impossible to clean all of the nooks and crannies on a boat if there has been a lack of care over time. The cleaner the better!

Overall Cleanliness

A clean boat may indicate that the boat has been well-maintained. Look for signs of neglect like accumulated dirt or mold.

Check the storage areas and all compartments to make ensure they open easily and are clean, dry, and odor-free. Dampness or musty smells can be signs of leaks, mildew, or mold.

The Interior

Take a look at the upholstery and carpet to see if they’re in good overall condition. Inspect the seats for any rips, tears, stains, or fading. Examine the carpet for any holes or stains as well.

Ask if the boat has been covered when it was not in use. If the owner has taken the time to cover and store the boat properly this is a good sign that they have appreciated their investment and taken care of it.

Remember, if the interior is not in good overall condition, you may be able to negotiate a lower price on the boat.

The Canopy

If you plan to go fishing in hot weather or sunny areas, look for bass boats with a canopy or T-top to provide shade. 

Ensure that the canopy is in good condition, with no rips or torn seams, and that all snaps are in place and work. On older boats, the Canopy is likely to be faded a little from the sun but this is not a big concern.

The Accessories

Check to see if all of the accessories (e.g., life jackets, fire extinguishers, anchors, dock lines, etc.) are included with the boat.

If not, you’ll need to factor in the cost of purchasing them separately. It is amazing how costly some of these items can be.

Hull and Deck

The hull and deck of the boat are like the foundation of a home. They are critical components of a boat’s structural integrity and safety, bearing the brunt of the marine environment.

Doing a thorough inspection can help uncover any potential issues that could lead to costly repairs, compromised performance, or safety risks in the future.

The Hull

Check the boat over with it fully lifted out of the water. Look at the hull for any stress cracks or damage. Check the seams and make sure they are sealed. Are there any cracks or damage around the fittings or hatches?

Remember to check the bottom of the boat for blisters in the paint or any other signs of damage or neglect.

Even minor damage could lead to significant problems down the line.

The Deck

Ensure the deck and flooring are solid and without any soft spots that could indicate rot or prior repair work. Check where the seating areas meet the deck for any signs of cracking that would allow water to penetrate the interior.

Check the condition of the handrails. Are they still firmly attached? Is the hardware rust-free and the correct type of hardware for marine vessels?

Examine the transom for any signs of flex or rot. Look for brown stains around all of the bolts and screws. Look for cracks in the gel coat of the transom.

Engine, Propeller and Steering

The engine, propeller, and steering systems are the heart of a boat’s functionality and performance.

Ensuring these components are in good working condition is crucial when buying used boats, as problems in these areas could result in poor performance on the water or substantial repair costs.

The Engine

The engine is one of the most important parts of a bass boat, so it is important to ensure the engine is in good working order. Ask for a test run to verify that the engine starts easily, runs smoothly, and has no strange noises or smoke.

Assess all the fluids and confirm that they are clean and at the correct levels. Check the wiring to make sure everything is secure and in place. Also, examine the belts and hoses for any potential cracks or dry rot.

Ask about fuel efficiency and check the hour counter on the engine. See if the current owner has kept records of any work that was done. It’s also worth checking to see if the boat comes with an extended warranty on the engine.

The Prop

Having the right prop and one that is in good condition is an important consideration. A propeller that is damaged can add drag to the boat and eat into your fuel consumption.

Verify that the prop is not bent or making any odd noises. Even a nick in the propeller can impact the way your boat is going to perform.

The Steering

Since you are looking to keep your out-of-pocket expense to a minimum when purchasing a bass boat it is important to check the steering. This can be an expensive replacement. 

You can turn the wheel back and forth checking to see if there are any rough spots or catches. If the steering feels difficult when the boat is on the trailer it is going to be worse out on the water.

Electrical and Electronics

The electrical system and onboard electronics play a vital role in the safety, convenience, and functionality of a boat.

When buying a used boat, it’s essential to confirm that these systems are in good working order to ensure reliable performance and avoid unforeseen costs or safety issues down the line.

Fishing Features

Since you are buying a Bass Boat, fishing is likely your main priority. The technology on a used boat needs a close inspection. Look for features like fish finders, depth finders, etc. Check the year, make, and model and ensure they are functioning correctly.

The Battery

Find out how old the batteries are and whether they will need to be replaced soon. Ask the seller when the battery was last replaced.

Look for broken terminals or any bulges or bumps in the case. Check for cracks or ruptures in the plastic or any discoloration. Remember a good marine battery can run you several hundred dollars. 

Navigational Aids

Navigational tools are on board bass boats to help ensure there are no surprises beneath the water’s surface that the naked eye can not see.

Check that the boat is equipped with working navigation lights and a GPS to help you avoid any unwelcome surprises.

The Bilge Area

Once you have taken the boat out for a test drive it is important to check the bilge and see how much water the boat took on during your trip. If there is water in the bilge it could mean that there is a leak somewhere in the boat. 

Knowing as much as you can about any possible issues puts you in a strong position to make a wise purchase that fits your budget and to be prepared for any possible future maintenance.

The Trailer

If the bass boat comes with a trailer, examine the trailer carefully to make sure it’s in good condition and doesn’t have any structural damage. Do all the lights work including the turn signals?

Inspect for rust, corrosion, and excessive wear and tear. Is there any damage to the running boards? Are the tires in good condition, with ample tread and properly inflated?

Warranties and Service Records

The paperwork is a critical part of buying a used boat as it provides insight into its history and maintenance. Evaluating these documents can reveal potential issues, confirm proper upkeep, and ensure you’re making an informed purchase decision with a clear understanding of any future obligations or liabilities.

Ask the seller to see any warranties or maintenance records that come with the boat. If a boat seller has kept receipts and a record of the date the repairs that have been done over time, this can give you peace of mind that the used boat you are buying has been well cared for. 

Be sure to get all of the paperwork in order, this includes registration, bill of sale, etc. before you finalize the purchase of any used boat. Make sure that make, model, year, etc. match the title you are given. It should be a seamless process of exchanging your money for the title to the boat and the trailer.

Tying It All Together

In conclusion, there are many things to consider before purchasing a used bass boat. By taking the time to inspect the boat thoroughly and test it out, you can be sure that you are getting a quality vessel that will serve you well and provide hours of enjoyment on the water.

FAQ’s related to Buying A Used Bass Boat

How many hours are too many for a bass boat?

This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on many factors such as the make and model of the boat, how well it has been maintained, etc. A good rule of thumb, however, is to avoid boats with more than 500 hours on them.

What is special about a bass boat?

Bass boats are designed specifically to fish from, with features such as live wells, storage for tackle, and Rod holders. They are also equipped with powerful engines to get you to your fishing spot quickly.

Are bass boats worth it?

This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you enjoy bass fishing and being out on the water, then a bass boat can be a great investment.

Do bass boats handle rough water?

Bass boats are not designed for rough conditions and should be avoided in these situations. If bass fishing is your goal then you are not likely to find yourself in choppy water often.