Tundah wrote:
Are the Vantage seat and other design upgrades worth the price of buying new versus a used, well-kept 2011 model for <$2k? I've already gone through the contemplation of PA versus Outback and research clearly indicates I will kick my own rear if I don't go the PA - although I want to want the Outback. The only difference on my end between new and used, is how much longer it will take to save up. Thoughts?
My specs:
6'1" 225
80% freshwater (crappie, bream, bass, cats)
20% salt (tampa bay) - although this may increase in the near future as I may be moving closer to the area
Thanks for the input!
My specs:
6'1" 225
80% freshwater (crappie, bream, bass, cats)
20% salt (tampa bay) - although this may increase in the near future as I may be moving closer to the area
Thanks for the input!
When I was ready for my first PA, I had the same thoughts you have. First thought is why you aren't looking for a good, used current model with the Vantage seat. They go fast, but I see used ones advertised fairly often. You might have to travel a bit to acquire one, but it might be worth it. Now, that being said, I was overly anxious to get out there fishing, so I bought a used PA-14. I loved every trip I made in it. Then along came a deal I couldn't resist, so I bought a new PA-12, mainly for my son and grandson to use. Being a good guy, I tried it out first
to be sure it was good and safe for them! The Vantage seat sold me immediately, so I began wheeling and dealing for a new PA-14 and then sold my older one. Honestly, there is nothing wrong with the older boat if you insure the rear scuppers have been reinforced, but I never did like the seat and had already started modifying it. If you go with the older one, go to your dealer and purchase a set of stainless steel buckles for the strap before the plastic ones break. You won't be disappointed in the older boat, and it will get you fishing much sooner. Then you can still save up and get the new one later on if you still want it...or find a good used deal on a later model with the Vantage seat. Or, for about $75 you can get a seat riser/extender that makes the older seat much more comfortable, especially for a taller person. My brother mounted a padded boat seat in his. The older boat won't lose much value, so it gives you some time to work towards a new one without losing any money on the deal. In my opinion, the upgrades are worth the higher price, but I value my fishing time greatly and wouldn't want to miss out on any of it if I don't have to. Good luck and good fishing!
I am leaning towards new, only downside is will take longer to accessorize, but its more than fishable out of the box.