Looking for comments or concerns here...

I've just started building an economy Trapper. I'm using used 5/8 redwood trim for the frames, 1/4" Arauco 3 ply plywood for the sides and 1/2" Arauco 5 ply plywood for the bottom. Arauco is exterior glue ply made from Monterey pine and has few if any voids. Visible knots and footballs are nearly noexistant on both sides if you are willing to pick through the stack. It is lightweight at 40 pounds per 4x8x 1/2" sheet, but rather soft compared to doug fir ply. It was cheap at $22 for 1/4 and $24 for 1/2". This is an experiment, mind you.

After reading and discussing a bit on this forum, I have decided to cut down the Trapper a bit at the square end. All I've done is shaved a little off the height of the sides starting from zero at the pointy end progressing to 2" shaved off the sides at the square end. So the stem will be the same height but the square end and transome will be 2" lower. The overall length will be reduced by only 1.5".

I did this partially to reduce a little weight (which will probably amount to only 5 pounds) , but also to produce a slightly more ballanced look (as seen through the eves of a wood boat novice). I did not change the positioning of the frames although I wish I would have to allow for custom positioning of a ice chest guest seat. It's hard to find an ice chest narrow enough to set between 14" oc frames but long enough to carry adult springers without cutting them in half! The frames are already done, so it's a little late...maybe.

I Am not sure just how the seats will be arranged, but the rowers seat will definately be adjustable to accomodate trimming the boat with or without a guest. The interior will be oiled only and may or may not have minimal removable floors. I am still in a quandry over exterior finish. I was originally planning on oil only, but I have a bunch of epoxy left over from my past project, so I'm thinking of doing 3 coats epoxy / graphite without glass on the bottom. If I epoxy the bottom, I will probably epoxy and paint the sides...maybe two-tone...varnished wood over burgandy. I am looking for opinions on an epoxy only finish on the bottom (no glass mat).

I have yet to select chine log or shear rail material. Any insight on alternative less expensive choices?

Thanks

Troy