2019 Ranger Z518 Bass Boat

Meeting the seller safely

• Meet in person at the boat's location — never wire money to someone you haven't met.
• Bring a friend or family member along to the viewing.
• Verify the Hull Identification Number (HIN) against the title before paying.
• Use a written bill of sale and keep a copy for both parties.
• For higher-value boats, consider ordering an independent marine survey.

Buying a Fishing from a private seller

Buying a fishing boat from a private owner means dealing with the angler who actually fished it. Match the hull to your water — welded aluminum for rocks and rivers, fiberglass for chop. Check aluminum welds and rivets or tap fiberglass for delamination, and inspect the transom for stress cracks. Ask for the outboard's hours and service records, check the lower-unit oil, and confirm the trolling motor and its batteries work. Note the brand and age of any sonar graphs, which are a big part of the boat's value. Test livewell and bilge pumps. With no dealer lot fee in the price, you negotiate directly with the owner. Verify the title, inspect the trailer, and consider a compression test before purchase.