One of the biggest concerns of boating fishermen these days is the high cost of fuel. Now, as never before, fuel costs should be an integral part of your decision-making process when thinking about buying a new boat. That's where aluminum boats really shine. After all, the lighter weights of most aluminum-crafted hulls make for more efficient fuel consumption on the water and off. Aluminum boats make good sense (dollars and cents) because their lighter weight requires less horsepower to push the hull through water -- and they are lighter to trailer as well.

Another positive aspect of aluminum boats is that they come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from flat-bottomed johnboats to bigger center-consoles, pontoons to cuddy cabins. Aluminum boats are tough, too, and can handle a rocky river or riprap shoreline of your favorite lake or reservoir. Therefore, if you're looking for a boat this season, here are some of the top aluminum craft on the market for the new year.

1. ALUMACRAFT TROPHY 195 DEEP V
If you fish big reservoirs and lakes for a variety of fish, you'll need a boat that offers you good versatility, comfort and durability. The Alumacraft Trophy 195 Deep V fits the bill nicely. At 19.8 feet in length, it sports a wide 98-inch beam and a maximum depth of 44 inches, which will give you good stability even in a heavy chop of a windswept reservoir. Its transom width of 96 inches will give you plenty of room for all the extra equipment you will need to fish the big water and the waves that go along with it.

Rated for 200 horsepower, this hull will give you all the speed you need to knife through the water on a rough day. Its 40-gallon fuel tank provides you with plenty of range for a day of fishing and then some. Weighing in at 1,805 pounds, the Alumacraft Trophy Deep V is very towable even with today's lighter vehicles.

A full wrap-around, walk-through windshield keeps you dry in rough water. The boat is rated for eight persons or 2,000 pounds. Some extras include two jump seats that fold away when fishing, lighted rod locker, air ride driver's seat cushion, two livewells and canvas top.

For more information, visit the Web site at www.alumacraft.com.