Question 1

What is The Marine Web?

Accepted Answer

The Marine Web is a boating resource for buyers and owners across the USA. In one convenient website you can shop dealer boats for sale, find new boat trailers, plan a trip to a boat show, locate a marina, book a charter, and connect with marine services such as boat loans, insurance, surveyors, boatyards and engine repair.

Question 2

Which type of fishing boat is right for me?

Accepted Answer

It depends on where you fish. Bay boats and flats boats suit shallow inshore water. Center console boats handle both inshore and offshore fishing. Dual consoles add seating and windshield protection for family days. Sportfish convertibles and offshore catamarans are built for long runs to deep water. Pontoons are best for calm lakes and relaxed cruising.

Question 3

Why are center console boats so popular?

Accepted Answer

A center console puts the helm in the middle of the boat, so you can walk all the way around it and fish from every side. They are easy to rinse down, handle choppy water well, and come in sizes from small 18 foot bay boats to 40 foot plus offshore boats with three or four outboards. That flexibility makes them a favorite for fishing and family use.

Question 4

How can I find an affordable fishing boat?

Accepted Answer

Start with an 18 to 22 foot single-engine boat, which is usually the lowest-cost way into fishing. Consider an older hull that has been repowered with a newer engine, since the engine is often the most expensive part. Compare boats of the same length and year, check engine hours and service records, and include the cost of storage, maintenance and operation in your budget, not just the price.

Question 5

Where can I find boat shows near me?

Accepted Answer

Our Boat Shows page lists shows in 22 US states, including Florida, California, Texas, New York, New Jersey, Michigan, the Carolinas and more. Boat shows let you compare many brands in one day, step aboard different models, talk to dealers face to face and look for show-only deals.

Question 6

How do I find a marina in Florida?

Accepted Answer

We list Florida marinas by region, so you can search Northwest, North Central, Central West, Southwest, Northeast, Central East and Southeast Florida, plus the Florida Keys. Each region links to marinas offering slips, fuel, repairs and boater amenities. We also list marinas outside Florida and national marina directories.

Question 7

Can I charter a boat instead of buying one?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our Charter Boats pages list boats for fishing trips, day cruises and longer vacations. Chartering is a great way to enjoy the water without the costs of ownership, and a smart way to try a type of boat before you buy one. You can also find licensed captains and crew through our Crew Services page.

Question 8

What kinds of used boats are for sale on The Marine Web?

Accepted Answer

Most listings are pre-owned saltwater fishing boats sold by Florida boat dealers. You will find center console boats, bay boats, dual consoles, sportfish convertibles, offshore catamarans and the occasional pontoon, from about 18 to 46 feet long. Brands include Boston Whaler, Sea Hunt, Scout, Pathfinder, Blackfin, Hydra-Sports, Cape Horn and Invincible, powered by Yamaha, Mercury and Suzuki outboards or Caterpillar diesels.

Illinois Boat Shows

Illinois

Boat Show Dates / Hours / Locations

Boat, Vacation & Fishing Show

Lake County Fall Boat Show

Chicagoland Fishing Expo

Chicago Boat Show