In the market for a 14 footer, whats the magic beam width?

[dyeguy1212]

So the 10 footer is on its way out, and I'm checking craigslist every 20 minutes for a 14 foot jon, which leads me to ask, whats the magic number I should be looking for in beam width, if I want to put a casting deck up front? I realize I should be looking for the biggest one possible, but whats the lowest I could go and still be safe?

Thanks

 

[Quackrstackr]

IMO.... 40"-42"

 

[russ010]

I would be more looking at the floor width... you want atleast a 36" floor for stability to put a deck... those 36" floors usually have a 52-56" beam width.

I have a 1236, and the beam width on it is 54", and I have my front decked up to the top of the middle bench and I do just fine.

I just got a 1546, and the beam on that is 70"... and man that thing is wide!

 

[Quackrstackr]

Ooops.. I didn't read that you said beam width.

100% agreement with Russ on that. You need to look at floor width and let the beam width follow.

 

[dyeguy1212]

Well I hope you're right! I'm picking up my 1436 on Saturday morning!

 

[russ010]

you'll be fine with a 1436... a buddy of mine has one of those in my bass club and he and his partner fish out of it like crazy... he has his front deck built to the top of his middle bench as well.

I really wouldn't suggest going any higher than that - keep your center of gravity low and you'll be just fine out on the water