Altering a Bass Boat

[tablerockboater]

Has anyone here reconfigured a bass boat by altering the front and/or rear fishing decks, and putting in seats?

 

[tablerockboater]

I'm trying to come up with a shallow-draft bay boat that has some decent seating. Most are walk-around center consoles with limited seating.

Not interested in fishing . . . just dolphin-watching and running up on the sandbar at the pass and letting the dog splash around.

 

[Scott Danforth]

most center console boats have phenomenal wrap-around bow seating with optional filler cushions

you would be better ahead to buy what you want than try to modify

 

[DeepCMark58A]

Get a skiff style rather than a V, the skiff gives you more room up front. And pedestal seats that can be moved around the deck.

 

[tablerockboater]

Both suggestions are what I've been looking at, but I guess I just don't see the seating you're talking about.

 

[tablerockboater]

Hmmm!

https://forums.iboats.com/forum/boa...529-adding-2-flush-mount-rear-deck-jump-seats

Now, add two up front.

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[DeepCMark58A]

Yep, I call the front seat, casting the flat.:lol:

 

[Scott Danforth]

you are looking at the wrong center consoles

look bigger than 18'

 

[tablerockboater]

I've seen those.

Trying to stay small, like 16-18', which leads to the bass boat idea. A lot of them, low-priced, smaller motors, etc.

But, so much of possible seating area is the front and back deck. So, I'm thinking take one, or both, out and put in seats.

Since our pontoon crapped out we've been using our neighbor's little 25 HP with a couple of seat boards with portable seats/backs. That's all we need.

 

[chevymaher]

Guy when I got here had a boat like mine and put a fishing seat in the front and back that was removable. So it had full seating when they were out of the way.

 

[tablerockboater]

Like this, with a seat modification upfront:

or

 

[chevymaher]

That is what he did.

 

[tablerockboater]

Like this, with a seat modification upfront:

How about using this in salt water?

 

[tablerockboater]

The opinions run the gamut here and on hulltruth and elsewhere, but I am still waiting to hear what would be wrong with something like this to go out on the bay once a week. The money's certainly right, and launching would be easy.

https://tampa.craigslist.org/hdo/boa/d/tampa-bass-tracker/7096440767.html

 

[tablerockboater]

The opinions run the gamut here and on hulltruth and elsewhere, but I am still waiting to hear what would be wrong with something like this to go out on the bay once a week. The money's certainly right, and launching would be easy.

https://tampa.craigslist.org/hdo/boa/d/tampa-bass-tracker/7096440767.html

https://www.boattest.com/view-news/...er®-boats-match-the-boat-to-the-use-and-water

 

[chevymaher]

If you like it go for it. Just small freeboard in a bay would be not good if the weather turned.

 

[tablerockboater]

The opinions run the gamut here and on hulltruth and elsewhere, but I am still waiting to hear what would be wrong with something like this to go out on the bay once a week. The money's certainly right, and launching would be easy.

https://tampa.craigslist.org/hdo/boa/d/tampa-bass-tracker/7096440767.html

fake ad

 

[tablerockboater]

I asked Tracker Boats about using a Pro 160 or Pro 170 in saltwater, and they said:

Good afternoon, (Me)

Any of our boats can be used in both salt water and fresh water. There are products available that neutralize the effects of salts on metal. Mercury® motors strive to make a superior motor that is usable in any water conditions. However it is necessary to clean out the motors extensively after operating our inshore boats in salt water. It is vital that, after every use, you flush the motor with fresh water and ensure that the salt water is completely out of the motor, livewell systems and bilge areas.

We recommend certain precautions be taken when using an aluminum boat in salt water including the purchase of a galvanized trailer. If you will be leaving your boat docked, we recommend applying an anti-fouling paint or similar protectant to the bottom of boat from waterline down.

The proper precautionary measure should be taken when operating the boat in salt or brackish water.
The boat should be rinsed with fresh water and rubbed with a soft cloth after each use.
Be sure to check the sacrificial zinc anode attached to the motor and replace it when it is over 50% corroded.
You should also take similar precautions for your trailer.

Your local dealer can give you other pro's and con's. I would suggest you contact your local Tracker Dealer for further information.

It’s been a pleasure serving you. If you ever need anything in the future, please don’t hesitate to contact us again. Have a wonderful week and stay safe out there!

Kim W.
Customer Service

 

[tablerockboater]

How about using this in salt water?

OK, how about using this in saltwater?

Alumacraft Classic Deluxe.

First, I am going to put on anti-fouling paint. Since this aluminum boat is painted, can anti-fouling paint go over that paint, or does it have to go on bare aluminum.

2, I need to put on zinc anodes. Where do they go and how do they go on.

3, I've read I should remove the bunk carpet on the trailer and install plastic bunk covers, to prevent "trapped" saltwater from corroding the trailer.

We would like to have it stay in the water at our saltwater canal dock, but since it's easier to manage that our rotted-out-and-junked pontoon was, we can use the nearby ramp if we have to.

 

[tablerockboater]

First, I am going to put on anti-fouling paint. Since this aluminum boat is painted, can anti-fouling paint go over that paint, or does it have to go on bare aluminum.

From my post March 30, from Tracker, giving me hope that this is do-able:

If you will be leaving your boat docked, we recommend applying an anti-fouling paint or similar protectant to the bottom of boat from waterline down.