HI Treb don't worry about about buying a new boat you have tons of options when looking at a used boat, make a list of what you want and take some time don't be in a rush.
Get on as many boats as you can to see how they would work if it was yours or what would you change.
If you stay under 150 hp you will be fairly good on fuel, hull weight, size is the factor 17- 20 foot is about right for economy.
You don't need a big boat to fish well, a well setup small boat is deadly . You need a bigger boat to travel longer distances, so trailer a smaller boat and fish the same spots.
Being able to use a boat ramp makes welded aluminum a good choice, but it's more expensive, offset with less horsepower required.
Fiberglass is usually cheaper more choices , heavier often rides better, can be manageable at the ramp, I launch a glass 24 foot alone, but beaching is tougher, more power required.
A Roof , Canopy , number of seats , launching yourself , how far do you typically want to travel, where you want to use it make will help narrow the choices.
Buying a bare boat and rigging it up is costly but you can often get more modern equipment if you look for deals and then pick what you want , lot's of good used stuff here..
I too bought a boat last year after waiting 20 years We drove to the east coast to pick it up , I get the Kids thing I have 3 in University at the same time .
So get out and enjoy the coast while you have your health without that nothing else really matters
Mike
