Hey guys,

So I think it's about that time to start thinking about another project. I have been kicking around the idea of a wooden "jet sled" for the wider/slower waters of some of the bigger slower systems here in Michigan for a while. I have been reading and looking at the styles of jet boats, jon boats with jet pumps, etc. I keep being drawn back to the idea of a framed sled style boat that will still row "fair" when needed, but will run strong under power.

So here is the idea I want to run past you guys. I built Randys/Sandys kit for the 17x52 convertible a couple seasons ago, and I can't say enough great things about it! Thanks guys, and thanks to all the members here who helped me along. That being said, I am thinking of building something in the "power drifter" category by utilizing some of the design elements of the drift boat I already have.  Picture this (assuming you are familiar with the drift boat I built) keeping the same lines from the stem back to frame #5, then continuing the boat back with frame 5 repeated to replace #4-#1 frames, then a beefed up transom to accept an outboard jet.

This would essentially create my drift boat from stem to frame 5, then flat bottomed sled from there to the transom. The boat bottom would be 52" from widest point to the transom. The profile would stay at 22" at the oarlock (low side). The transom height would be dictated by whatever the motor requires. The floor plan would be entirely open for ease of moving about and shooting lines. Overall length 16' or so.

I haven't even addressed the options of deadrise in the hull. Possible a few degrees towards the stem to reduce some wave pounding. (Similar to the way Don Wakefield modified his hull) I discussed some of these ideas with Randy and he has been offering me some guidance.

My first step would be to lift the lines from my current boat, try to make sense of the thing, and possibly do some modeling. I am open to any suggestions in terms of this idea. If I am off my rocker, let me know! (I have been called worse) I have been out in the garage with my angle finder and a ruler to get some dimensions on paper.

Let me know your thoughts, thanks in advance for any input.

-JK-