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When I was 12 my father was in the same situation as you. He got my brother and I a Montauk. That was 1988 and there was only one Montauk model - the 17'. My brother still has the boat.

He made us take boating courses before buying us the boat, so we were responsible with it. That said - we took the boat almost everywhere in the New York area (New York Harbor, East River, Hudson River, Long Island Sound).

We mostly used it for Skiing but would occasionally fish. We got so much use of out it that we purchased a second 1989 Montauk 3 years later. We stored them side by side in our driveway in the winters; still wish I had taken pictures.

I agree with Joe - get the 17 Montauk (either 170 or an earlier 17). I wouldn't worry about the age if the hull is sound and if it has been re-powered.