This is a lightweight version of a multipurpose craft used for fishing, waterfowling and general recreation. It works as a layout boat for one or it will support two adults on sheltered water. It has room for dog and decoys, camping gear or a family picnic basket and is also ideal for flyfishing on sheltered water. The hard-chine hull and wide flat bottom provides stability to stand, kneel, or sit and pole the boat.
It will float in about four inches of water with a 300 pound payload which makes it ideal for shallows and exploring small waterways. The hull is low profile and can easily be camoflaged by reeds or riverbank brush. The boat can be carried by one person and with its slick tough graphite covered bottom its can be dragged like a sled with a tether. At just over 11 feet long and less than 60 pounds weight it also makes an ideal cartopper and will also fit in the bed of a small pickup truck.
Many versions have been built with a variety of plywood grades, some using traditional boatbuilding methods and others using hardwood ply with epoxy, fiberglass tape and graphite. Some builders have installed a flat transom for a motor mount by simply sawing off one end and installing a plank motor mount. The cockpit opening can also be made larger for easier access or smaller for weather protection.
Building plans include a 39 page illustrated, spiral bound, step-by-step construction manual.
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Dear Mr Butler,
I just finished and tried out your Montana Guide Boat. Just perfect for my use. I'm 70 years old and needed a boat I could toss up on the Blazer by myself. At your suggestion I did make a few modifications because of where I use the boat. I needed a "Delaware River Rock Cruncher" to fish the shallows in the upper end of the Delaware River for trout and smallmouth bass.
I made the boat from 1/4" Philippine mahogany plywood for extra strength and cheapness ($7.50 a sheet), and I built on a motor mount for an electric motor.
I also installed lifting handles and tie down points on the deck. The boat makes a nice stable fishing platform for working the shallows with a fly rod. Sincerely.
Adam Patarcity.
New Jersey
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