Jerry Cahalan

It’s one of the most fundamental questions when purchasing a boat: should you go with new or used? Just like buying a car, new and used boats each have their advantages. Understanding these differences is essential to making the right choice for your needs. We hope this post helps you make the right decision for you.

Advantages of New Boats

Here are the top reasons to buy a new boat:

Reliability

Reliability is usually the best reason to purchase a new boat. With used boats, especially from private sellers, you really don’t know what you’re buying. The upkeep and maintenance may not have been performed properly—but a new boat is ready to deliver years of reliable service from purchase.

Customize

With a new boat, you also have the chance to pick and choose the specific options and features you want for your boat. For example, you can use our Build Your Scout tool to create the exact boat you want. Add your preferred fishing features, hull color, seating type, electronics, and more. With a used boat, you are basically stuck with whatever is available at the time.

Warranty

Warranties are also another advantage of new boats. Not only are they more reliable, but if anything goes wrong, you are often protected with the boat’s warranty. Scout Boats has excellent warranties, including a 10-year limited structural warranty and a three-year stem-to-stern warranty. Depending on the motor package you select, you will also likely have a warranty that protects the motor itself.

The Latest & Greatest

Finally, with a new boat, you can choose from many of the latest boating technologies and innovations. Yes, these innovations will eventually make their way to the used boat market, but if you buy new, you’ll be the first one to have them on the water.

Advantages of Used Boats

Price is really the most important reason that people choose a used boat. With used models, you can save some money on the purchase. While you may not get the reliability or warranties that come with new boats, the savings can be enough to convince people that used is the best choice.

With used boats, you’ll also get tried-and-true technologies. No, you won’t have the incredible innovations that come with a new boat, but you will get technologies that have been used, tested, and approved by boat owners.

The cost of ownership can also be less, especially insurance. Generally, the cost of insurance will go up with the overall purchase price of the boat. So, if you paid less on a used boat, it will likely cost less to insure.

Let Scout Boats Enhance Your Boating Experience

If you choose to go for a new boat, make sure you browse all the fantastic options available from Scout Boats. With a wide variety of models and sizes, as well as the latest technologies and innovative engineering, we can help you find the perfect craft for your needs!

Build Your Scout

Scout Boats has a stellar reputation as one of the finest brands for saltwater fishing. But our boats also excel in freshwater, including lakes. If you boat or fish in lakes, you need to have a vessel that will keep you comfortable while delivering the features you need to catch more fish. Here are some of the best lake boats from Scout!

231 XS

Sometimes lakes call for a versatile boat that can handle shallow waters and larger waves. The 231 XS fits this need perfectly. The boat has all the amazing feature that Scout owners love, but as the best inshore/offshore craft in its class, it is also able to handle the wide variety of conditions that you meet on a lake.

When you ride in this boat, you’ll enjoy all the fishing features you need for the lake. You’ll have a standard trolling motor plug, and you can equip the boat with a trolling motor of your choice, including four options from Minn Kota, one of the most trusted names in trolling-motor technology.

255 Dorado

If you want to cruise the lake in comfort and style, you can’t get much better than the 255 Dorado. This dual-console boat is perfect for all of your needs, as you’ll have the size required for a group of up to 11 people. They will all enjoy comfortable seating and amenities that make boating more relaxing and luxurious.

If you want to catch fish in your favorite lake, the 255 Dorado delivers. The boat has plenty of casting space and rod holders throughout the craft. You can also add the optional grill, which allows you to cook your catch without ever touching land!

215 XSF

For a lightweight, reliable, and enjoyable lake boat, choose the 215 XSF. This craft has the features you want for excellent performance on the water, and you’ll enjoy comfort and relaxation on all your adventures. It may be one of the smaller boats in our lineup, but it still has a capacity for nine people.

When you head out for a fishing trip, you’ll be able to enjoy a spacious casting deck, a large bait well, and under-gunnel rod storage for up to four fishing rods.

380 LFX

Not all lake boats are small because, quite frankly, not all lakes are small. If you frequent a larger lake, such as the great lakes of North America, the 380 LXF is a wonderful choice. You’ll be able to target all the exciting fishing species of larger lakes, while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a yacht. With 38 feet of elegance and class, this is one of the most eye-turning boats you’ll ever see on a lake, bay, or in the open ocean.

Find Your Lake Boat At Scout

You deserve the best! With Scout Boats, you will be able to build the perfect boat for a lake adventure. Use our Build Your Scout tool and create the boat with the ideal size, features, and luxuries you desire!

Boating on the ocean requires the right craft. You need a boat that can handle the conditions while also giving you comfort and convenience. You’ll likely spend full days on the vessel, so having technology and comfort it essential. Fortunately, Scout has some of the best ocean boats currently available on the market!

What to Look for in an Ocean Boat

Of all the features you need from an ocean boat, you should first start by making sure you have a craft with enough size for the open waters. When it comes to open waters, especially for extended trips, you’ll likely want something at least 30 feet in length. Generally speaking, the larger the boat, the more stable it will be (other factors are at play as well). So, if you need something for open ocean, be sure to select something over 30 feet, preferably 35 or more if possible. 

You will also need advanced electronics. When you are out on the ocean, the stakes are much higher, as you are miles from shore and help or shelter is not within easy reach. To lower risk, you need advanced navigation, radar, weather reports, and other information to ensure you stay safe and avoid dangerous situations.

Finally, you need comfort and convenience. You’ll be on the water for hours, so don’t underestimate the importance of comfortable seating, spacious cabins, and simple conveniences like an eating table and storage.

530 LXF

The largest boat currently available from Scout, the 530 LXF, was made for the open ocean. It has insightful Garmin screens that give you clear access to a wide variety of important boating information. The cabin is also loaded with refinements, including two LED televisions, a queen walk-around stateroom, and an electronically-activated dining table.

420 LXF

The iconic Scout 420 LXF has the right features for long expeditions on the ocean. You can take a luxury vacation on this boat and enjoy all the world-class amenities Scout has to offer, including autopilot systems and CZONE digital switching.

380 LXF

If you want innovations and features when you are on the ocean, choose the 380 LXF, a boat that comes standard with two Garmin screens, Bluetooth capacity, and LED accented lighting. The cabin even has an air conditioner so you can escape the heat, while the advanced hull gives you complete control over this amazing boat.

355 LXF

At just over 35 feet, the 355 LXF still has the length you need for smooth, confident boating in open ocean. It also has an optional Seakeeper 3DC, which eliminates roll and makes for a more comfortable boating experience. It gives you a standard Garmin 7612 display so you can access the information you need for a safer, connected excursion.

Get Luxury and Refinement from Your Boat

You deserve outstanding comfort and luxury when you are on the ocean. With Scout Boats, you’ll get all the luxuries you want, as well as advanced designs that create smoother, more comfortable boating. Build your scout onlinetoday!

Some people like the convenience and maneuverability of a small boat, but if you want more space, more feature, and more options, you need to purchase one of the big boats for sale from Scout.

These are not just large, spacious boats. They are also built for performance and efficiency. Yes, you can find other big boats, but you’ll have a hard time finding a large boat that is as enjoyable and manageable as a Scout.

530 LXF

530 LXF

The biggest boat in our lineup, the 530 LXF is a phenomenon of boat engineering. It has 53 feet of spacious, comfortable deck space, as well as a width that measures over 14 feet. It also has a fuel capacity of 805 gallons, so you can take this amazing craft to remote destinations without concern. If you want a big boat, this is the right craft for you!

420 LXF

420 LXF

For years, the 420 LXF has been the premier craft in our lineup. It has exceptional performance, and amazing features that make it popular for short trips and long, extended adventures on the water. This may be a big boat, but it has the structural engineering to excel whether you are fishing or simply cruising the bay, giving you performance and maneuverability unmatched by other crafts of similar sizes.

380 LXF

380 LXF

Luxurious, stylish, and built for performance, this boat is one of the most popular crafts you can find, and with an overall length of 38 feet, it can give you the space you need to stretch your legs and relax on the water. From electronic hideaway entertainment centers to a berth sleeping length of 38 feet, this boat allows you to enjoy sophisticated luxury and technology in a big vessel.

355 LXF

355 LXF

With an epoxy-infused dual-stepped hull, this boat has the type of performance and maneuverability that you expect from a smaller boat. However, it also has enough room for a large group, and a wide variety of fishing features that allow you to reach greater heights of success on every trip.

320 LXF

320 LXF

You can cruise across the water with speed and elegance in the 320 LXF. It has plenty of room for your group. Whether you are relaxing on the water or trying to catch a world-class offshore trophy, the 320 LXF is waiting to help.

300 LXF

300 LXF

At 30 feet, this is still a large boat that has room for plenty of people. It’s loaded with luxury and convenience, including the removable bow table, six-speaker audio system, and remote key fob. You’ll find it all, from comfort to performance to style, in this big boat for sale from Scout.

Find Big Boats For Sale From Scout Today!

If you want more information about the boats available from Scout, contact our dedicated staff today or visit one of our exceptional dealers.

You deserve a boat that will keep you happy for years, and Scout is ready to deliver the quality, engineering, and performance you expect!

Every boater is different. Some want the fastest boat possible for zipping across the water at lighting speed. Some want a large, luxurious craft for a relaxing cruise across the water. Some want an elite fishing vessel that will create a more successful catch. With so many different options, you may need some guidance to find the perfect boat for you. No problem. Here’s a quick guide on how to buy a boat you’ll love.

Think About Your Preferred Activities

Possibly the most important consideration you need to think about is the kinds of activities you want to pursue on the water.

• Will you mostly be fishing? Then you’ll want a boat with live wells, rod holders, and tackle storage. See our best fishing boats.
• Will the boat be used for casual and leisurely cruising? Then you need a boat with plenty of comfortable seating; perhaps a dining table and refrigerator as well. See our best cruising boats.
• Will you be pulling skiers behind the craft? Then you want a strong engine, and you’ll probably want to add a ski pylon. See our best fish and ski boats.

Thinking about your activities will guide you to the right boat with the right features.

Make Sure You Have Enough Room for Your Family or Group

While having too much space on the boat is rarely a problem, having too little room for your family or group can make your boating experience far less enjoyable. What’s your ideal boating experience: fishing with one other angler, or spending an afternoon with a dozen people? This can help dictate the size of the boat you need to buy.

To make things easy, you can simply check out our best family fishing boats.

Choose a Boat the Reflects Your Experience

Some people have trailered, driven, winterized, and cared for boats for decades. Others have no experience with boats whatsoever. In general, if you are new to boating, you may want to choose a smaller craft, as a large boat may be overwhelming and difficult to manage. However, if you have years of experience and understand how to control and navigate a large boat, then by all means choose a larger craft.

Stay within Your Price Range

Most boat buyers define a price range when they first start shopping, but many go above and beyond the limit they set for themselves. However, over-spending can add worry about payments and concern over whether you made a good financial decision. By sticking to a budget, you’ll be much happier with the boat, even if it doesn’t have all the fantastic luxuries you think you want.

Test Drive Before Buying

Just like a car, you can, and should, test drive your boat to make sure it fits your needs. Especially when you are purchasing a boat that costs tens of thousands of dollars, you must drive the boat first.

If you are interested in a Scout, schedule your test drive, and you’ll be confident that you are buying a boat you’ll love for years!

When looking at boats, you’ll find a lot of different numbers and statistics. Beam, deadrise, and transom height are all stats that boating-industry experts use to describe different vessels. Another term commonly used is “draft,” and it might be one of the most important numbers for your boat, especially if you fish in shallow areas. Learn what makes your boat’s draft so important, and discover top shallow draft boats from Scout.

What is a “Draft” and Why is it Important?

In simplified terms, draft is the measurement between the waterline and the bottom of the boat. Draft is essential for many reasons. It affects the stability, performance, and handling of a boat, and it also impacts where the boat can travel.

While deeper hulls, in general, can provide better stability, a shallow draft is important if you want to fish and boat in shallower areas. With a shallow draft, you can target shallow intertidal areas and flats that are not accessible to larger, deeper craft. A shallow draft gives you better access to species like bonefish, barracuda, and permit, among many other species.

Top Boats From Scout

At Scout Boats, we are dedicated to using the most advanced engineering principles to create vessels that have shallow drafts with greater stability and control. With these boats, you’ll be able to fish in some of the most remote, untouched areas while catching fish that rarely see a lure.

251 XSS

251 XSS

Draft: 13 inches

This is the industry’s first true inshore/offshore fishing boat, and while it has the stability to handle rough waters, it can travel through shallow intertidal areas thanks to the low draft. As a true hybrid, this is a boat that brings luxury and fishing excellence.

231 XSS

231 XS

Draft: 12 inches

This is a dedicated fishing machine with a shallow draft that can help you excel on the water. At 12 inches, the draft allows you to fish intertidal spots while enjoying optional features like a forward bait well, JL speakers, and a Garmin display screen.

175 Sport Dorado

175 Sport Dorado

Draft: 10 inches

As one of the most versatile boats on the water, the dual-console 175 Sport Dorado can be used for skiing, pleasure cruising, and shallow-water fishing. From the aerated live well to the ample rod holders, this boat has everything you need for ideal fishing performance.

175 Sportfish

175 Sportfish

Draft: 10 inches

It may only be slightly over 17 feet in length, but this center-console boat gives you plenty of fishing features over a ten-inch draft. With a spacious casting deck and comfortable chair, this agile boat will enhance your enjoyment on the water.

177 Sport

177 Sport

Draft: 10 inches

If you want a nimble craft that can access virtually any fishing spot, the 177 Sport is right for you. Like the 175 models, it also has a ten-inch draft, allowing you to target many different locations without scraping the hull. 

A World-Class Boat is Waiting for You

Make sure you have the right boat for your fishing adventures. With a Scout, you’ll be able to target intertidal areas that are teeming with hungry fish. Contact us today for more information on our full lineup of world-class boats.

While the traditional purchase location for a boat is a dealership, there are other options. Here are some common places to buy a boat. We hope this information helps you make the right decision for your needs.

Dealerships

A dealership is one of the main places you can buy a boat, and it is typically the ideal place to get a new boat if you are a first-time buyer. The advantage of buying at a dealership is that you’ll get the guidance and service you need to make the right choice. Dealer sales associates can discuss your needs and wants from a boat and direct you toward the right vessel. Other locations may not have this luxury.

There are Scout dealers all across the country, so use our helpful Dealer Locator to find a dealer near you. All of our dealers meet a high standard of service and support, so you can count on them to make sure you purchase a boat that will fit your budget and keep you happy for years.

Boat Shows

Visiting a boat show is a great way to learn about all the fantastic developments and see the newest models from the boating industry. You can often find a great deal on boats, as the show environment lends itself to high competition among dealers. You may also find show-only models, and you can get a first-hand look at specific boats that catch your interest.

However, you should avoid the buy-now pressure of boat shows. If the deal doesn’t feel right, take your time and don’t buy on impulse. Boat shows can also result in a long time for boat delivery, so if you want a craft for next week’s vacation, you may be out of luck.

Check out our events page for upcoming shows that Scout will be attending.

Private Seller (Used Only)

If you are looking for a used boat, you can always purchase from a private seller. However, you need to be aware of the inherent risks involved in purchasing a boat privately. There will not be any warranties, and you are buying a boat that may not have been properly serviced over the past years. You can certainly get a great deal, but you may want to set money aside to deal with any repairs that could come up.

Online

While you’ll need to work with a dealership for final delivery, you can order a boat online. For instance, Scout offers a Build Your Scout tool, which allows you to purchase a boat and choose all the specific features you want for your craft from the convenience of your home. You won’t be able to see the boat in person, but this is a great option if you know exactly what you want.

Scout Makes the Purchase Process Easy

If you need help finding the perfect boat, contact our helpful staff. We’ll be happy to guide you toward a dealership in your area. We can also answer any questions you have on boating features, models, warranties, and more, so contact us now!

In the boating industry, certain terms are often used to position a product in the market. “Bay boat,” for example, is used to describe medium-sized boats that are excellent for fishing and boating in bays. Bay boats fill a niche between smaller flats boats that are excellent for shallow waters and larger boats that are intended for open seas. Flat boats can rarely be used safely in the open ocean, while large off-shore boats can’t reach shallow fishing destinations. With a bay boat, you get a nice balance between the two. Discover some of the fastest bay boats from Scout.

Why A Bay Boat?

Bay boats emerged around 2005 and have become increasingly popular in the market. They are able to fish in shallow areas using a trolling motor, and they are also able to fish in the open waters if the weather is decent. In most cases, they are about 22 to 26 feet in length and have a shallow draft, a center console, and a spacious casting deck. They usually have short gunwales to allow for access to the water. A shorter gunwale will also make it easier to fully submerge a trolling motor. This is because if the gunwale is too tall, the trolling motor cannot reach without a long shaft. The specific features found on these boats will vary by personal needs, but with a shallow draft, decent length, and stable hull, they fill the needs of many boaters across the country.

Fast Bay Boats From Scout

One of the features you need from a boat is speed. By having a fast boat, you’ll be able to cruise across the water quickly so you can spend more time fishing. Here are some of the fastest bay boats from Scout.

251 XSS

251 XSS

The 251 XSS is a fast and efficient bay boat. This vessel can reach up to 56 mile per hour when properly equipped, yet has the ability to deliver efficient fuel use. When cruising at 3,500 RPMs with the Yamaha F300XCA motor, the 251 XSS gets 3.52 miles per gallon. To car drivers, this might not seem very good, but boat owners know this is a great stat for fuel efficiency. This boat isn’t just fast, it’s also comfortable and luxurious. The craft has console seating and a revolutionary T-top glass enclosure, which gives it a clean, modern appearance.

231 XS

231 XS

When you want speed from a bay boat, you need to consider the 231 XS. This craft has the right performance standards to help you travel swiftly across the water. When equipped with a Yamaha F300XCA motor, it can reach a top speed over 60 miles per hour. Like all of our boats, it’s also efficient. With the same engine, it reaches 3.7 miles per gallon when traveling at 3,500 RPM. Even if it has a smaller engine, it can reach speed and efficiency. With the Yamaha F200XCA motor, it has a top speed of almost 49 miles per hour. And when cruising at 25.6 miles per hour it achieves 4.93 miles per gallon.

Find The Best Boat For You

With Scout Boats, you’ll have access to the finest vessels on the water, including our fast, efficient, and comfortable bay boats. Contact us today for more information on our excellent boats.

Heading out into the open ocean for some fantastic fishing? The water can get rough when you go out to sea, so make sure you have a boat that is able to handle the chop. Do you know what to look for in the best center console boats for rough waters? With this helpful guide, you’ll know what features will help to ensure comfort, stability, and performance in heavy chop.

Decent Size

When designed properly (more on that below) even a small boat can handle rough waters. In general though, the larger the craft, the better it will perform when the waves are high. If you expect to be cruising through rough conditions, you will want a boat that is at least 30 feet in length. The larger you go in boat size, the more it will be able to resist the rolling and instability created by large waves. Look for a decent size when shopping for the best center console boats for rough water.

A Well-Designed Hull

Although a larger boat will give smoother performance in general, a small boat with a well-designed hull will give you smoother performance than a large boat with a poorly designed hull. At Scout Boats, we meticulously design all of our hulls in house using our advanced design and engineering department.

This is a phase of the boat-building process that gives us great pride, as our boats are better able to handle and cut through chop with ease. There’s simply no substitute for a great hull design when you are on rough water.

A Dry Ride

Nothing’s worse than being in a boat and getting completely soaked. You need to make sure that the boat you purchase is able to give you a dry ride in both calm and rough conditions. Be sure to test drive the vessel and, if possible, take it through a few wakes to see how well it cuts through the waves. If you notice water splashing into the deck, you will likely not have a pleasant boating experience when you are cutting through open ocean.

Find the Boat You Need for Rough Water

Here are some top picks from Scout to help you over rough waters in high style.

530 LXF

530 LXF

Scout Boats is proudly revolutionizing the boating industry once again, this time with the 530 LXF. This boat has incredible luxury and refinement. It features a world-class hull design that allows it to perform smoothly on the water.

420 LXF

420 LXF

With all the luxury features you expect from Scout, as well as the size and design you need for rough waters, this boat can be your companion on all your adventures. You will have smooth performance and a dry ride that allows you to cherish every moment.

Build Your Scout

If you are looking for a comfortable, luxurious boat for rough water, you can find exactly what you need from Scout. Use our Build Your Scout Tool to create a boat that will keep you happy for years!

Not sure what you should wear on the water? When you go boating, you need to wear the right clothing so you are comfortable and happy. With the right apparel, you’ll be able to enjoy every moment of your fishing or boating adventure. Here are some tips for what to wear on a boat!

Sunglasses

The sun can get very bright on the water. It will be coming at you from both above and below, as the reflection off the water can increase your sun exposure. Most people are aware that they need to protect their skin, but you also need to protect your eyes by wearing high-quality sunglasses while boating. If you are going to do some fishing, you should also consider having polarized glasses, as they will help you see better in the water.

A Brimmed Hat

You’ll want to protect your skin from the sun. While sunscreen is an important part for fending off sunburns, you also want to have a hat with a brim to protect your face. Eventually, sunscreen will wear off. But with a hat, you give yourself permanent shade that goes wherever you go. A wide-brimmed hat is even better for protecting your face from sun damage, but even a baseball cap will provide some protection.

Long-Sleeved Shirts

There are many light, comfortable long sleeve shirts that won’t make you overheat when you head for the water. With comfortable longsleeves, you can keep your arms protected from sun damage while still having the flexibility you need for casting, pulling up anchors, and driving the boat.

Breathable Materials

It can get fairly hot out on the water, so you need to make sure that you are wearing materials that protect your skin from the sun but don’t overheat your body. That’s why you need breathable materials when you head out on the water. Find shirts and pants or shorts that allow the breeze to cool your body. With technology advancements, there are many materials that meet this need.

Shoes With A Slip-Resistant Sole

There are many safety issues on a boat, and slipping or tripping can be among the worst. That’s why it helps to have slip-resistant shoes, as they will reduce your chances of being injured on the water. With water spilling onto the deck, as well as fish making a mess of the walking spaces, it helps to have reliable shoes that won’t slip when you walk.

Something To Keep You Warm

Even on warm days, it might get chilly on the water. Make sure you bring along a comfortable sweatshirt or button-up shirt that you can throw over your shoulders if you get too cold.

Find Excellent Apparel For Your Boating Adventures

If you want comfortable, fashionable apparel for your next boating experience, browse the selection from Scout. Our apparel is made for people who love boating, fishing, and simply being on the water. Check out our shirts, hats, and outerwear for men, women, and children!

Shop now!