Drift boat build

Sorry, just drifting with the currents of the thread and saw an eddy to pull into for a bit...

Back in the main current and in the thalweg again- have you thought about putting in some type of slick track systems for adjustable rowing seat foot blocks and cargo tiedowns?

 

Do you mean a front casting brace? The brace I have shown is in the rear.

 

Here is a pic of the boat from my shop cam. The boat front is away from the camera.

I want to do something similar for the front fly caster as what is in the rear. Still thinking on it.

 

This is super impressive. Awesome work

 

Thank you. Please be patient for updates. I don't have the time to work on it right now. There is so much more that needs to be done.

 

Yes, I meant to say front.

 

Over the winter, I'm going to put a full lean bar on the front of my boat and get rid of the thigh brace. IMO, the lean bar is more comfortable.

 

Please elaborate.

I don't know if I mentioned, but I have never fished out of one of these boats. I love the look and have wanted one since I saw my first one. Plus, I like to build shit.

What is it that makes a leaning bar more appealing than a thigh brace?

I have the option of changing things as I go and welcome true 1st hand experiences.

A leaning bar image would be appreciated as well.

Thanks

Kirk

 

The photos will give you a better idea of what I'm referring to. You could also make a thigh brace that's wider that you can fit your whole body in. A little higher as well.

If you've never rowed a drift boat before, I highly suggest you watch some videos and practice on some still water first. You're rowing backwards the whole time, so turning the boat is the complete opposite of what you think. Also, stay away from rocks.

 

Yep, that is the plan. No way would I go to my usual river as a newbie.

The leaning bars look nice. They look like an easy fabrication project as well.

Fortunately, I am in a position that allows me to make infinite adjustments as I go.

I'd like to know how they get such huge amounts of cash for oars? Is there some secret oar store I am unaware of?

 

Yeah, oars aren't cheap at all. Don't know of anywhere to get them cheap.

 

Fabbed up the front casting brace. Got to use my fabricators square. This thing is great for doing bench work.

 

Getting ready to weld in place.

 

She looks and feels good. Should work good to hold lots of drinks...err, I mean gear.

 

One last shot from the side.

 

One last pic. Shows my trashed shop.

 

I came across these boat wraps. I really like them, but I don't know if it would make sense dragging brush and rocks down the side scaring them all up.

 

Picked up some used Sawyer composite oars.

My home, made aluminum oars were a complete failure.

I was able to row and fish out of the boat, but the oars were STUPID heavy.

Here is a few pics of the new oars.

 

Nice. I have a pair of Sawyers (Polecats) as well. The rope wrap is very comfortable to row. Those brown trout wraps on your oars are pretty bad ass.

Glad to hear that you were able to get your boat out.

 

Me, too. It seemed to handle good. It took a little getting used facing forward. Row boats have you facing backwards. Once I got past the learning curve, it was fun.

I've got the boat upside down in prep for the Wetlander bottom coating.

Slow progress, but it's still fun.