fishing boats

Question
I'm looking for a fishing boat that is good for inshore and off shore fishing. Is it possible for a 17' to a 20' boat to do both types of fishing? If so what type of boat would you buy?

Answer
Hello Larry-
I personally don't do much true offshore fishing. I mostly run the flats when in saltwater.
But I think the answer to your question depends on exactly what you mean by "offshore." I know plenty of guys with 18-20 footers who do get far enough off the beach to catch kings and near shore grouper. But you definitely have to watch the weather radar and pick your days accordingly if you are traveling very far.

A good friend of mine guides out of a 24 foot Ranger Bay boat. It can go fairly shallow - shallower than you would think - but it also handles the big chop with ease. It is a compromise either way, because there are boats that will run shallower and there are other boats that can get you further offshore safe and sound. But if you want to do both there are some boats that can do both to some extent.

If you want more info., try dropping a line to Frank Sargeant (the Tampa Tribune Outdoors Editor) at tbo.com. He should be able to give you more specifics in this area.

Thanks and good luck/be safe out there!
Matthew T. Drew