Dear Jec,

If that is the case a 1448 should be more than adequate. If you find yourself fishing solo it will be easy to launch and recover by yourself, especially if you add guide-ons and glide sticks to your trailer.

If your children are younger you will really appreciate the extra stability that comes from the wider bottom versus a 1436.

You and the wife and children will be able to stand and move around on occasion in a boat the size of a 1448. With a 1436 it would definitely be awkward and maybe even unsafe. You get higher sides with the 1448 to match the wider bottom. That is a key consideration with small children.

If you are looking at a new boat visit a couple of boat dealers and tell them what you have told me about the who, where, and why of your boating needs.

You will quickly be able to figure out if a boat dealer just wants to sell you a boat or if they want to sell you a boat you will be happy with.

Best wishes,
Avalon