Author Topic: Mustachian Fishing Boat  (Read 3663 times)

stuckinmn

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Mustachian Fishing Boat
« on: April 07, 2015, 09:18:16 AM »
I'm trying to figure out a cheap way to take my fishing crazed 10 year old out this summer.  Unfortunately, in addition to the substantial initial outlay for a traditional bass boat, it is also a money pit once you throw in the maintenance, storage fees and needing a bigger car to tow.   

I'm thinking of getting a tough inflatable boat, putting a trolling motor on it, and I've got a cheap bass boat that fits in my Ford Focus hatchback when deflated. 

Anyone else on here tried something like this?  Any suggestions on brand, add-ons (plywood floors for standing etc.), size of motor, etc?

I've been looking at the sea eagle 9 which would run $679 plus I'd spend another $100 or so for a battery for the the motor and an electric pump to inflate and deflate it.

https://www.seaeagle.com/MotormountBoats/SE9

 I've also seen some offerings from intex which would probably be cheaper if I got the motor separately and just made my own plywood floor pieces for the bottom.  For some reason the intex just seems less sturdy and prone to getting tears but that might just be my bias since it is so inexpensive.

[url]http://www.amazon.com/Intex-Excursion-Boat-Set-Latest/dp/B00CMBJ1VE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1428418625&sr=8-3&keywords=inflatable+boat+intex[url]


Thanks for any input.


shotgunwilly

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Re: Mustachian Fishing Boat
« Reply #1 on: April 07, 2015, 09:24:48 AM »
I would buy a used jon boat with a small trailer instead.  You could get one for the same price or less than that inflatable, and possibly have an outboard motor on it as well.  It shouldn't be too hard to find one, although I'm not sure about your area.

stuckinmn

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Re: Mustachian Fishing Boat
« Reply #2 on: April 07, 2015, 09:44:17 AM »
thanks shotgun, I thought about that but I also neglected to mention in the OP that we sometimes drive to Texas and Florida from Minnesota to visit relatives.  We'd want to fish while there but I don't want to be towing a trailer of any size that far.  It needs to fit in my hatch, so I'm sticking with inflatables for now.   

JKLescher

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Re: Mustachian Fishing Boat
« Reply #3 on: April 07, 2015, 09:49:59 AM »
Bank fishing and wading would save you a lot. You lose the mobility of a boat, but so what? That just means more lakeside hikes with your kid. You can also fish a lot of places that don't have a boat launch. There's always the option of boat rental for special outings, like visiting those relatives.

My dad and I went fishing a lot over the years. All of my fondest memories are of shoreline fishing. The boat excursions were just extra work and didn't result in more fish or fun. Now, that's my experience; if being in a boat actually increases you and your child's enjoyment then go for it.

Jack

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Re: Mustachian Fishing Boat
« Reply #4 on: April 07, 2015, 10:08:06 AM »
My suggestions, ordered from cheapest to most expensive:
  • Fish from the shore
  • Rent a boat when needed
  • Buy a two-person kayak or canoe (that, if rigid, fits on your hatch's roof rack) and paddle it instead of using a motor

stuckinmn

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Re: Mustachian Fishing Boat
« Reply #5 on: April 07, 2015, 10:35:17 AM »
We have done lots of shore fishing but there are plenty of prime spots that are just inaccessible due to distance from shore or too much shrubbery to get a good cast. I have a couple of belly boats (innertubes that you sit in and paddle around using flippers) and those are fun but a bit hard to get around in, plus the water can get pretty dang cold up here most of the time.     

teacherwithamustache

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Re: Mustachian Fishing Boat
« Reply #6 on: April 07, 2015, 10:55:52 AM »
You can buy a Kayak for $200 on Craigs list.  Then use some pool noodles as a base to prevent scratching and attach it to the top of your car.  I have seen kayak trailers made out of PVC that are pulled by a bicycle.  Any 10 year old can use a kayak.  Turn him loose with one and have him go to town.

 

Wow, a phone plan for fifteen bucks!