18' Center Console + Trolling = Seating? Looking for input!

[Lwapo]

I am in the process of starting a project on an aluminum 18' boat.

I intend to use it for inland lake fishing, and some Walleye/Salmon trolling.

What I'm looking to find out is what people do for seating on a smaller center console.

I had been thinking to do "U" shaped seats at the front of the boat, and then a center console with a seat in front of the console.

However - When trolling, that leaves no seats in the rear of the boat. I'm concerned about putting a bench along the splashwell. I'm concerned that between the motor, spashwell, then a bench seat... it would be hard to manage when landing a fish.


Any ideas? How do other people do this?

ANY input would be appreciated! Bonus points for pics!

 

[GA_Boater]

How many people will be along for the ride. CC's are fishing machines and usually don't have much seating.

Bonus points for your pics so we can see what you're starting with.

 

[dingbat]

You want a clean transom when trolling....

Two pretty common configurations to obtain the goal

1. A leaning post and bean bags for seating
2. leaning post with a bench seat in front of console

 

[Scott Danforth]

i would be leaning toward a leaning-post/seat/beer-cooler combo

 

[JimS123]

Look at a Boston Whaler 170 Montauk. Their website has lots of pics. IMHO, there could be no better troller. I would put in the optional stern side seats.

We have trolled with a runabout for 50+ years with good success. My 150 Montauk is one step better, but I wish the jump seats were an option.

In any case, a pair of aft side mounted rod holders are a must. My whaler has them rail mounted, while my runabout had a flush mount that required drilling holes in the side deck. I use Fish-On brand, but I have seen others that work just as well.