21 years old, first boat, recommendations?

[JPM]

Hey guys! I recently found your site once I decided I wanted to modify my jon boat I decided to make an account. I have a couple ideas that I wanted some input on please. The boat is 15ft long, welded, and solid. I have no idea on the year, make, model, etc. so any suggestion would be appreciated. I cleaned the boat very well initially, and stripped the old paint. Primed and painted it with hunter green rustoleum, mounted a trolling motor to the front, and added 2 seats which I bolted on using 4 arch-like clamps and self-drilling screws. I want to add flooring, storage, platforms, carpet etc. but just wondering what you guys opinions were. Which should i do first? price? etc. Thanks!

 

[fool4fish1226]

boat looks great - what are you looking to do with - type of fishing etc. - you have endless possibilities there - let us know we will assist :beer:

 

[typed by ben]

shes a jewel!

add a casting deck to it and youll gain storage naturally- sounds like that would be a good jumping off point. next choice is which material you want to use.

 

[huntinfool]

Personally I stay away from carpet. Holds dirt, sand and fishing hooks. Floors are good if screwed down to the ribs ( at least that's what I like) a front deck is also very nice to get up on and fish.

 

[JPM]

Thanks for the replies guys! I would love to add a casting deck to the bow and stern, but not sure what to do in the middle section. I normally bass fish at lakes in my area but they are also known for catfish and crappie.

I would like to have a sort of flip up floor on the bow and stern that could double as storage and casting decks, but not sure where to put the hinges, what material, that sort of stuff.

If not carpet, what would you guys recommend as a floor?

 

[huntinfool]

I'd build a casting deck with a hatch. Making a hinged deck would be fairly heavy, since it would need to be braced. Or you'd have to have several braces to support the deck. I'd build the deck out of aluminum if possible. If not then wood. Something like skid no more can be painted on and would take the place of carpet and keep you from falling on your can.