New member & boat owner

[Phylodog]

I just picked up my first boat yesterday, a 1961 12' Starcraft (from what I can gather, the title doesn't have a manufacturer or year on it). It came with the trailer, a 2004 Merc 3.3 (looks like new) a Minnkota trolling motor, Duralast marine battery, two seats, two anchors, oars and a canvas cover for $1200. I don't think I stole it but it seemed like a pretty fair deal comparing other boats for sale in my area. I thought I'd post a few pictures and see what recommendations the experienced members might have to make it more comfortable and enjoyable to use. I'll be putting it in on a few smaller reservoirs with my wife and daughter tagging along.

 

[huntinfool]

I'd start with checking the transom and making sure it isn't rotted. Then I'd fill it with water and check for leaks ( don't want to find those on a maiden voyage). Then, if it were mine, I'd figure out another seat. Possibly something to cover the middle seat as it will get hot and be uncomfortable for your daughter.
Sounds like you got a good deal to me.

 

[ccm]

The floor of the boat will get hot as well & if you like to fish the floor will become noisy ( shuffling feet, dropping sinkers etc... ) which can spook the fish. Maybe a carpeted piece of plywood or some rubber matting. I went with a large piece of rubber horse stall matt. I got it at my local farm supply store ( Tractor Supply ). I like it because it not only cuts out any noise transmission through the hull but it is also non slip & it cleans up easy with dish soap & scrub brush. 1/4 inch would be about as thick as necessary without adding extra weight. There are a lot of products & ideas out there this is just one of them. By the way nice looking rig!!!

 

[pjcalla]

Good to see you over here, Phylo. Boat looks great. Here is a link to some of the projects/conversions that were posted on the site. The list makes it easy to navigate all the builds. Look through them to get ideas for your build.

https://www.tinboats.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=3156

 

[Phylodog]

Brought it up to MI for vacation this week. It's been in the water since Saturday and hasn't let a drop of water in as of yet. She's a little unstable and difficult to maneuver if I'm in the boat by myself but otherwise it's working out great. Just got in from fishing with my daughter for several hours, she loved it and I did too. Hoping we can make a regular practice of it.

I don't think this one is a good candidate for decking. About the only things I can think of adding at the moment would be a couple of the reels to hold the anchor lines and navigation lights.