Wooden Boat People

By McKenzieDriftBoat.com

Upper Delaware First Build

Hi gang-
Brand spanking new-bie here seriously considering an over winter first build in upstate New York. I'm still researching which plan to run with for drifting/fly-fishing the upper Delaware system (East Branch, West Branch, Main Stem.) considering that it would be a first build and the water I would fish, can any of you make a recommendation for plans?

Some details I'm already leaning towards:
14-16' able to handle three people plus some gear.
Framed, not S&G
Durable (I'm paranoid of rocking the heck out of this thing)

I have a full wood shop and have built bamboo fly rods and Stickley reproduction furniture, so my craftsmanship radar. Plus, I can finally reach those slobs I could never reach wading!

TIA, I'm pretty excited but overwhelmed by the choices at the same time.
Eamon

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Greg Max on August 26, 2013 at 11:03am

be sure to pick a model that has a symmetrical hull footprint from front to rear instead of a tear-drop shape. Does better with an angler in front of the rower and one behind (unless you plan to fish 2 folks out front). Other than that, it really depends on your water what size you make. Things to consider:

Is it windy on that water? That will help you determine the height of the sides

Is there much technical white water, or mostly slack water?

Will you be doing multi-day trips? If so, 2 days or 3 days or both?

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Permalink Reply by Richard Elder on August 27, 2013 at 9:28am

Hi Eamon,

I think he may be fishing from a rocking chair by now, but Don Hill still sells plans sets with a nice detailed instruction manual for a very reasonable price.

http://www.dhdriftboats.com/driftBoatPlans.html

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Permalink Reply by Ron Shealer on September 28, 2013 at 8:07pm

Get that put together and I think we should plan an Eastern Wooden Boat People festival on the Delaware!

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Permalink Reply by stephen ludwig on October 9, 2013 at 5:26pm

look forward to seeing you in the spring on the Delaware. we saw a few of those slobs in may!!!!!! good luck with the build. buy roger fletchers book.....i wish i had this before i started!!!!!