O
OregonApe
Depends on the lake.....and the boat.90 is way to much for lakes $$$$$.
I have never understood the problem with riveted . My first Smoker was riveted and went for 30 years , a lot of it in the salt. No problems .I'm no kinda expert on boats, but I have owned a few over my 70+ years. In fact, I've owned so many I couldn't even count them all (mostly due to poor memory), from kayaks to folding boats, 12footers to my 24 foot sportfisher. At one time I owned three different boats at the same time.
I currently have a 16 foot jon boat with a 25 hp Suzi four stroke. It works just fine for my regular fishing buddy and I on the lakes, rivers and in the bays (for crabbing and jetty fishing) so long as there's not a lot of wind.
From what you describe as your need, I'd say something 16 t0 18 foot with 25 to 30 Hp.
I strongly suggest aluminum (light to tow and so easier on the fuel both on and off the water) and welded aluminum is by far a better choice than riveted.
A 16' aluminum boat works pretty well for two people to fish from, and even three can do so comfortably. 4 people might be a bit crowded, so if you think you may need that much space, go the extra couple feet and the 30 HP.
Did it fail after 30 years because of rivets?I have never understood the problem with riveted . My first Smoker was riveted and went for 30 years , a lot of it in the salt. No problems .
That would be a good "starter boat" for fishing in most of Oregon. Aluminum bounces of rocks and trees well and they beach fine when there isn't a dock at the ramp.Something like this would take care of my needs I think.
your battery and your gas tank are back there. First and foremost, they need to be protected.What do you mean by keeping "things" from sliding in? Do you just mean from making their way under the deck? I was picturing cephalopods crawling over the transom into the boat.