[cpuwizshot]

I'm thinking about buying a boat in the near future. I know how to use it, but no idea what it takes to own it. Freshwater fishing, looking for mainly 14 - 17 foot aluminum boat with trailer. I have the following questions:

1. Do I need boat insurance? If so, where and what do you recommend.

2. I don't own a house, where can I store it, how much would it cost. What do you recommend? How do you do it?

3. Boating License? How and where do I obtain one?

Thank you!

 

[wingshooter]

1--insurance is optional..its up to you
2--find a friend that has room in his place or a storage place
3--any powered boat you will need a boaters safety course. they are given by the coast guard
3b--freshwater use if using on non-tidal waters u will need a boat licence get it at motor vehicle

 

[cpuwizshot]

Do you guys have any prices or alternatives to store it. I don't have any friends or family that could help me out with that, so I'm outright looking to pay a monthly cost towards that.

 

[markbrit]

1. Do I need boat insurance? If so, where and what do you recommend.

I have a 15 foot v-hull for lakes. I called my car insurance company and it is covered while it is connected to the car. I called my home insurance company and it is covered while it is parked in the driveway.

So the only place I am uninsured is in the drink, but not many high powered collisions with a trolling motor.

 

[cpuwizshot]

Do certain lakes offer monthly parking or anything like that. I've called storage companies and they don't do it. =(

 

[kmtpr]

just a thought--maybe someone who has a garage to rent will let you rent the space to park in.

 

[PheasantTail]

If you have a lake/body of water that you are going to use all season, you can just rent a boat slip.. For example, I used to dock my boat on Lake Hopatcong for about $800, but based on size and location that will vary.

As for off season storage, basically any marina in the area offers, winterizing, shrink wrap, and storage services. Again figure on some money based on the size etc..

I can only speak to Lake Hopatcong and sourounding areas..

Good luck.. Boats are great, but definitely some work & money to maintain them.. Also you don't want to skimp on maint, etc.. because they wear out quick being in elements and water so much.

 

[cpuwizshot]

Lodi, Bergen County

 

[bucktail]

Insurance is not that expensive for boats. I pay $425 a year for a $25,000 boat. It is all about liabilty, so don't make that mistake and not have it...if and when something should occur while on the water.