My first boat is my new/old boat that's in my garage. It's a 14 foot 1959 jon with a V bow. It was my grandfather's boat and after having sat in his back yard for about 25 years, I asked him if I could have it. It was in horrible shape...painted green which was flaking badly, and the transom was rotting out.

It now has a new transom, new paint job with marine blue paint and I just bought a new 9.9 Johnson 4-stroke. It looks like a brand new boat...even better. Add that to the trolling motor, battery, battery charger, new seats, misc (anchor, rope, net, gas tank w/hook up)...Yes, I have spent some money getting her ready.

She has yet to be out in the water, but come Spring...look out!! I have spent all my life as a "bank" fisherman and the last 7 years wading in the Elkhorn with my fly rod. I'm looking forward to getting on bigger water, being mobile and fishing some cool smaller lakes. I also plan on fishing the Cumberland Tailwater quite a bit this coming year. Can't wait.

I have found as a "new" boat owner that you're going to keep spending money. Just be sure that you get what you want and justify the spending by keeping what you have. Good luck!!!