A quick update FWIW. I recently purchased an '81 H16. It had never been registered like most 15.9's
Florida has a form for Vessel Bill of Sale. It has a spot to explain why the boat was never titled. You need to present the form with signatures, no copies. There is also the Application for Title/Registration. The law was changed in April 2014 to include 16-26 foot, even without a motor. The boat is now titled, registered and insured. One less thing to sort out in the event of a claim or stop on the water. Don't ask my opinion on liars, err lawyers...