The Spoonpluggers Forum

I originally posted this in the general thread, but in hindsight I wondered if I should have posted it here.

I was wondering if I could get some boat advice.

My budget for a starter boat is prety low - about $1500-$2000 range.

I found a 14' semi-v hull sea nymph with a late model (2006) 8hp nissan engine. Has a 48" beam. Pretty well outfitted - trailer. trolling motor, 2 fishing seats, and some other minor features like anchor winch, rod holders, etc. No live well. Asking price $1450, which I though was pretty good considering the resale value of the late model outboard.

Will a 8hp do the job as a 'learning boat'. Obviously it woudn't be for jumping from spot to spot across the lake. The idea would be to work the structure in the immediate area where I put in.

Seems like it might fit the bill but I have concerns about stability - is a semi-v with 48" beam desirable for spoonplugging. Will be used primarily on large Tennessee Valley Reservoirs which do have a good bit of traffice on the weekends, including wakeboats, etc. Thoughts?

Just my opinion but this rig doesnt sound like it would be quite big enough for the river system you will be fishing. That can be a rough place and safety has to be considered . It sounds like the perfect boat for smaller waters though. I would keep looking for something a bit larger for those waters. John