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Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Buy a Boat in Western New York

Sep. 12 2025 Buying Guide By Collins Marine

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When most people imagine buying a boat, they picture sunny spring days, warm breezes, and a marina full of activity. But here’s a little secret seasoned boaters in Western New York already know: fall is actually the best time of year to buy a boat.

At Collins Marine, located right in Tonawanda along the Niagara River, we’ve been serving Buffalo-area boaters since 1953. Over the decades, we’ve seen countless customers secure incredible deals and make smarter purchases simply by waiting until the fall months to shop.

And in 2025, our brand-new Warrior, Chaparral, Robalo, and Lowe models — along with carefully selected pre-owned boats — make this fall one of the best buying seasons in recent memory. Whether you’re an avid angler, a family cruiser, or someone looking to upgrade before next summer, there are compelling reasons to start boat shopping right now.


1. End-of-Season Savings Add Up

Every year, manufacturers release the next year’s models toward the end of summer and into fall. That means current-year boats need to make room on the showroom floor. Dealers — including Collins Marine — offer significant incentives to move this inventory, and those savings can be substantial.

In fall 2025, you’ll see:

  • Thousands off MSRP on 2025 boats already in stock
  • Special financing promotions from manufacturers
  • Dealer incentives that may include electronics packages, upgraded trailers, or extended warranties at no extra cost

Because the boating season is winding down, there’s more motivation to offer aggressive pricing. And the boat you buy in October is the exact same boat that would cost you more in April.


2. More Negotiating Power in Fall

In the peak of summer, popular models sell fast, often at or near asking price. But in fall, demand slows down while inventory remains strong. That means you can:

  • Negotiate on price with more leverage
  • Ask about including accessories, storage, or delivery in the deal
  • Explore flexible financing options with fewer competing buyers

Fall creates a buyer’s market. With less competition, you’re in a much better position to get the boat you really want at terms that fit your budget.


3. Expanded Pre-Owned Selection

Fall is also the time when many current boat owners decide to sell or trade in their vessels rather than pay for winter storage. This creates a wave of high-quality pre-owned boats entering the market.

For Western New York buyers, that means:

  • More variety in makes, models, and price ranges
  • The ability to compare boats side by side
  • A chance to find gently used boats with desirable upgrades already installed

At Collins Marine, we inspect every pre-owned boat we take in, so you can buy with confidence knowing it’s been checked and prepped for the water.


4. Time to Customize Your New Boat

Buying a boat in the spring often means you’re rushing to get it into the water as quickly as possible. In fall, there’s no pressure to launch immediately — giving you the luxury of time to make it your own before next season.

You can:

  • Add electronics like fish finders, GPS, or radar
  • Install custom rod holders or trolling motors for fishing
  • Upgrade upholstery or flooring
  • Schedule hull work, detailing, or graphics installations

By the time spring 2026 rolls around, your boat will be fully customized, serviced, and ready to launch on day one.


5. Storage Solutions Make It Easy

One of the top concerns fall buyers have is, “Where will I keep it until next season?” Collins Marine makes that easy with secure winter storage options right on site.

Benefits of storing with us include:

  • Professional winterization to protect your engine and systems
  • Indoor and outdoor storage options
  • Convenient spring launch services
  • Peace of mind knowing your boat is safe all winter long

When boating season returns, you can pick up your boat ready to hit the water — no stress, no scrambling.


6. Beat the Spring Rush

Spring in Western New York is busy at every marina and service shop. Everyone’s scheduling maintenance, launching boats, and ordering parts at the same time. Buying in the fall means you’re ahead of the curve:

  • Service and customization can be done over the winter
  • You’ll avoid scheduling delays in spring
  • Your boat will be in the water before most others

This advantage can’t be overstated, especially if you’re planning early-season fishing trips or want to be ready for that first warm weekend in April.


7. Fall Boating Is Fantastic in Western New York

Buying a boat in the fall doesn’t mean you have to wait until spring to enjoy it. In fact, fall boating in Western New York has its own special charm:

  • Fewer crowds on the Niagara River, Lake Erie, and inland lakes
  • Outstanding fishing — especially for walleye, bass, and salmon
  • Beautiful scenery as the shoreline trees change colors

If conditions are right, you can take your new 2025 boat out for a few crisp, calm autumn days before tucking it away for winter.


Why Collins Marine Is the Smart Buyer’s Choice

When you buy your boat at Collins Marine, you’re getting more than just a vessel — you’re joining a community of boaters who trust us for expertise, service, and ongoing support.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Over 70 years in business serving Buffalo, Tonawanda, and WNY boaters
  • Premium brands including Warrior, Chaparral, Robalo, and Lowe
  • Full-service marina for sales, storage, maintenance, and slips
  • Local knowledge of WNY boating conditions and fishing hotspots
  • Customer-first philosophy that keeps people coming back season after season


What’s in Stock This Fall?

This fall, our showroom and lot feature an incredible selection of 2025 models, including:

  • Warrior fishing boats built for Lake Erie and big-water performance
  • Chaparral and Robalo sport boats for family cruising and watersports
  • Lowe aluminum boats offering lightweight durability and value

And for budget-conscious buyers, we also have pre-owned fishing and family boats that have been carefully inspected and prepped for new owners.


Tips for Buying Your Boat in the Fall

  1. Start early in the season – The best deals and widest selection are available in September and October.
  2. Know your priorities – Whether it’s fishing features, passenger capacity, or storage space, having a list of must-haves will make your search easier.
  3. Take a test ride – Even in fall, we can often arrange on-water demos.
  4. Ask about storage – Bundle winter storage into your purchase for convenience and savings.
  5. Secure financing – Take advantage of fall financing promotions before they expire.


Your Next Boat Is Waiting

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your current boat or making your first purchase, fall 2025 is your moment. With unbeatable pricing, more negotiation flexibility, and plenty of time to prepare for next season, there’s no better time to buy.

Visit Collins Marine in Tonawanda today to explore our 2025 models, browse our pre-owned selection, and find the boat that’s perfect for your Western New York adventures.