It’s Boat Show and Sportshow season across the Midwest. Many anglers and boaters visit these shows to check out the new offerings in the boating world. Some of those folks are interested to see what’s new; others are there to select a new boat for the upcoming fishing season. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re considering adding a new boat to your family.

First, think about how you will be using the boat. Of course we’ll be fishing from it, but will we also be pulling a skier or tuber every now and then? Most of us like to use our boats for double-duty, and if that’s the case, you should probably consider a boat with console-steering as your choice. Console-steering boats are those with a steering wheel. They drive just like a car.

Next, consider how and where you will be fishing. If most of your fishing will be on large bodies of water, again, a boat with console steering will generally be best. It is more comfortable to run several miles behind a steering wheel than it is hanging onto a tiller handle.

If you prefer smaller bodies of water, or want a boat with lots of room, or if the most precise boat control possible is your goal, a tiller boat is the way to go. Tiller boats are those in which the boat operator sits in the back of the boat and controls direction and speed with the tiller handle that is attached to the motor. These boats offer the ultimate in boat control.

Boats are constructed from either aluminum or fiberglass. For most Midwest anglers, aluminum is the way to go. The 2XB hull construction that Alumacraft employs in many of its boats provides performance and comfort comparable or superior to any boat, and aluminum boats are generally less expensive to own and maintain.

You also need to consider the boat’s power. Four-stroke motors are getting more and more popular every year. Four-stroke engines are truly amazing when compared to motors of just a few years ago. They are reliable, quiet, fuel-efficient, and start just like a car. Honda is the leader in four-stroke technology. They produce an outboard that is just a reliable as the motors in their cars, because the outboards are based on their car engines.

Once you’ve selected your boat, don’t cut corners on the trailer. Roller trailers are easy to load and unload anywhere, where bunk trailers require a little more water depth at the loading ramp. ShoreLand’r makes great trailers that you can count on.

Perhaps the most important thing is to work with a dealer that you can count on. A reputable dealer with your best interests in mind can make your boating experience fun and painless.

Ask lots of questions, consider all your options, and have fun with the boat buying experience. You’ll enjoy that new boat more if you do.

For more fish-catching information, visit fishingthemidwest.com