Are you going to be on big lakes where it can get rough like the great lakes? Being new to boating I'm going to say jumping right in without experience usually leads to trouble. Getting stuck out there with no experience can literally be a death sentance. If you are on big water I suggest a multi species boat. Much easier to drive and a little safer than a bass boat in big water. I also suggest getting on the MI forum and seeing if someone wouldn't mind meeting you at the lake either before or after you get a boat to show you some things.