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Permalink Reply by Mike Baker on January 9, 2009 at 5:43pm

Hey Fabrice,
Welcome to the site. I got some plans from Jeff Spira a few years back. I think it was for a 13 or 14 foot boat. The lines of the boat seemed good enough but I didn't care for the way it was to be built (on a strong back with a keelson). It also did not give you any angles for the ribs, you were supposed to fair these as you went. I like his philosophy on boat building in regard to using off the shelf non marine materials and just building a light economical boat to get you on the water.
There are some really great plans out there for the more traditional approach to building a drift boat (rivers touch or don hill to name a couple of the framed variety). Or you could go with a kit from Mckenzieriverdriftboats.
Hope this helps.
Mike

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Permalink Reply by Jason Knight on January 10, 2009 at 6:52am

The starting point for me was Roger Fletcher's book. (Drift Boats & River Dories)
Although I opted to build a Tatman kit - the book really helped me gain understanding of what I was getting myself into.
Regardless of what style you decide to build - this is a really valuable resource.
www.riverstouch.com

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Permalink Reply by jb on January 14, 2009 at 5:21pm

Just joined, so will say hi to all. VERY nice site here.

I purchased plans Mr. Spira last summer and it also did not have the frame angles. A quick call to Jim, and he sent the needed info in a separate pdf. I talked with him at length and feel sure he will help you with any questions you may have. There are many good boat builders selling plans out there, fewer good draftsmen. Roger's book is the exception.

Have enjoyed following this site and hope to contribute shortly. Mostly in the lessons from the school of hard knocks.

jb in nc

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