The new model boat year starts in July, a couple of months earlier than automobiles. That means that current year models magically become a year older even though they have never been titled or sold. For a few weeks every summer, some boat models are hard to buy because the current year is no longer being produced, and the new year's model has not been shipped. There is a definite lull in production in late summer while molds are changed or modified for new features.
Spring Boat Shows
All coastal metro areas have a boat show every year, normally in the spring to catch the angler's eye and appeal to those of us with cabin fever. The spring and summer fishing season leads lots of people to new boats when they attempt to run their existing boat only to find out that motor trouble or frozen and corroded connections are causing problems. Boat dealers use this as an advantage to boost pre-summer sales. By the way, it works very well - more boats are sold at these shows than any other time of year.
Fall Boat Shows
Some areas also have a fall boat show, and that is where bargains can be found and some super deals can be made. These late summer and early fall shows are designed to unload last year's models in order to make room for the new ones scheduled to arrive.
Dealers Shed Last Year's Models
The savvy buyer can strike a great buy on a brand new boat at these shows. Dealers anxious to make a few more sales before the summer is over and wanting to get rid of this year's models can often be talked down several thousand dollars.
Check the Web
Look on the web site of the manufacturer that makes the boat you are considering. If the new year model has little or no changes from the current year, you may be able to put yourself in a brand new boat at a substantial savings. The dealers will want full price when you begin negotiating, but if you work with them and let them know you are armed with pricing data like that from NADA, they will quickly relent and get down to business.
Engines
The same thing applies on outboards for those boats. Even if you only need to re-power your existing boat, these fall shows can provide brand new power at used power prices.
Bottom Line
So, check your local paper and look for those fall boat shows. They may be in a convention center or even a mall parking lot. Either way, they are a sure way to save some bucks on a new rig.
More Information on Boats and Buying Boats
