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Discussion in 'Fiberglass and Composite Boat Building' started by jon74, Jun 27, 2005.

  1. jon74
    Joined: Jun 2005
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    Location: al

    jon74 New Member

    I would like a fishing boat to use in the gulf/bay, for salt water use, I have been looking at flats boats between 14-19 ft. I can't afford a new one. I was thinking maybe I could build my own. I found this site on a google search. So is it possible to build this kind of boat and have it be of similar quality and built as a new boat? If it is possible were do I start !!?? :?:
     
    jon74, Jun 27, 2005
    #1
  2. lewisboats
    Joined: Oct 2002
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    Location: Iowa

    lewisboats Obsessed Member

    lewisboats, Jun 27, 2005
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  3. marshmat
    Joined: Apr 2005
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    Location: Ontario

    marshmat Senior Member

    Yes, it is possible. The Glen-L flats boat above looks like a nice one. And if you are sufficiently meticulous in your work, and work from good plans, you can get something as good as a production boat. But you have to be prepared to put in the effort to learn the techniques, and to practise them, and to use them well.

    Where to start... You've already figured out your intended use and size, which is exactly the thing to do before going boathunting. If you want to homebuild, it is indeed possible to build a boat like this yourself. The key is to be patient and meticulous, you won't get a boat overnight. Try to figure out what skills are needed to build a particular design- woodworking? fibreglass? and if you're not familiar with them, then read up, practice on small things, take a course, etc. It is quite possible to learn the skills needed to build a boat, it just takes a bit of patience and a lot of determination and effort. And it is indeed worth it.

    Don't bother buying any of the gimmicks (full-size plans, fastener kits, etc) that some plan salespeople like to offer. A good design can be built well and easily from the standard plans. And most 'specialized' parts can be replaced with cheaper, better ones from local sources (example, ss screws instead of special ring nails).

    Oh, and as for the saving money- Homebuilt will probably end up cheaper than buying new, although you might be able to find and restore a used boat for less. Always budget for considerably more than you expect as boats have a habit of eating cash for breakfast.

    Happy fishing~!
     
    marshmat, Jun 27, 2005
    #3

  5. boat182
    Joined: Jun 2005
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    Location: Texas

    boat182 Junior Member

    I have 3 used demo hulls that can get you started. Call me to discuss 956-237-8075.

    Jay
     
    boat182, Aug 17, 2005
    #4
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