I would like to get something for my boy to take out fishing--without using Dad's boat.<br /><br />He's gotten good grades and doesn't demand a lot of upkeep like his brothers, so a little pat on the back might be in order. <br /><br />My problem is this. Our place is wooded. I have a pier that is nearing the end of its life cycle and a ramp. Instead of using a boat lift I just pull my boat up the ramp when I'm not there.<br /><br />It doesn't leave any other room to pull anything up though.<br /><br />My options so far are:<br /><br />An lightweight aluminum v-hull that I could just pull up the ramp and leave it.<br /><br />Advantages: fairly cheap, second hand ones are available, and its a simple solution.<br /><br />Disadvantages: It's a tidal creek, so the water is salty and would probably be hard on the aluminum. Also, while for the first year or so Dad's word would keep him out of the big water (the Rappahannock is 2 mi wide at that point) that wouldn't hold forever, and I'm not sure that is what I want him pushing his luck in.<br /><br />Option 2: Carolina Skiff, bottom painted and left in the water in season.<br /><br />Advantages: solid, self-bailing, sea-worthy and forgiving. Reasonably priced, unlike a whaler, which would be great except for the cost.<br /><br />Disadvantages: bottom painting a nuisance? Is outboard theft (tiller type) a real risk? Davits on the pier might be an option, but I really don't want to strain the aging pilings (hull weight 250# plus motor). I hadn't planned on replacing the pier for another 4 years or so.<br /><br />Any thoughts. Maybe a couple of heads together can figure it out.<br /><br />Thanks<br /><br />Jinx
