tunnel hull

[ddaigle]

Any ideas on installing a tunnel in an aluminum bay boat for shallow running? Down here in south texas the water is real skinny where the fishing is good.

 

[Winger Ed.]

Re: tunnel hull

Originally posted by ddaigle:<br />Any ideas on installing a tunnel in an aluminum bay boat for shallow running? Down here in south texas the water is real skinny where the fishing is good.

It could be done, but it'd probaby be a lot easier just to get a old boat like you want, and re-do it.<br /><br />You've probably seen boats with rotten floors/transoms, and bad motors around. If you can find that combination before it makes it's way to the scrapyard-- they're real cheap.<br /><br />I've seen (project)hulls & trailers that might do what you want a boat to do go on e-bay for 2-300 bucks, with a trailer. <br /><br />Changing a hull like you're proposing is a BIG! project not to be taken on without a lot of pre-planning and some counciling from folks who are expert at doing that sort of thing. <br /><br />Ed.

 

[wezie]

Re: tunnel hull

You might get most of what you want by installing a jack plate or set back. They put the prop back from the transom into water that has begun to fill from the boat passage.<br />Surprising how quickly it fills; allowing the prop to run in shallower water.<br />Tunnels also eat power.

 

[ddaigle]

Re: tunnel hull

Thanks for the replies, have too much time and money in present boat to give up on it. Already have setback and jackplate which helps. Just not as much as a tunnel. Since boat is aluminum I can bolt or weld in a small pocket tunnel, think I'll give it a try. This boat is kind of experimental anyway. Next step is a 350 chevy center mounted. should be fun!