fiberglasss over wood pontoons

[wade]

I can about imagine what I am about to hear but I have to ask anyway. I was rebitten by the fishing bug this summer and want something comfortable to lake fish in alone and with the lady and our four kids. We borrowed a pontoon boat and I was astonished how comfortable it is. I have been a bit of a snob about them I have to confess. Since I am both cheap and poor and can build almost anything I have been looking at old Popular Mechanics plans of pontoons. My Question,,, What are the cons of building a plywood pontoon and then completely enclosing the pontoon with glass and polyester resin. I can get a real good deal on the resin and feel if I could get 5 to 10 years of use out of them I'd be happy.,,,, okay boys tear my idea apart !
Wade

[JR-Shine]

I think you would use a lot less wood and fiberglass if you built a monohull. If you like simplicity, how about a flat bottom skiff? There are plenty of plans out there for such boats. Also, you should use epoxy for plywood construction.

Joel
Boatbuildercentral.com

[larry v]

Being a wooden boat builder i think it is a cool plan. If you need any advice or designs let me know. I build mahogny sea going kayaks, there tuff as nails and last a lifetime with proper up keep. The biggest problem with polyester resin is it turns white in water. I would put three or four coats of spar varnish over it. By the way katamarans would be pontoon boats if not for the sail. Hope this helps and good luck.