I've been enjoying my '87 Starcraft 18' SS w/ 110HP Johnson O/B that I picked up almost two years ago. It's always been a freshwater boat and that is all I've used it for, but would like to consider using it occasionally for some salmon fishing and crabbing on the Puget Sound.
Will the SS hull handle the rough water that can come up pretty suddenly out on the Puget Sound? Obviously I wouldn't plan to be out on rough days but want to be prepared when weather comes up or have to run out to pick up crab pots on less than ideal days. Haven't been up against rough water with it yet so wanted others thoughts.
I'd probably want to add a kicker motor for added peace of mind. I do have the bow mount electric trolling motor on it as second power source right now....might be tough to fight tidal flow with that electric motor.
I'm just trying to decide if this boat is the right style to be out in the salt doing some occasional fishing and crabbing. I would think a closed bow with a good top to keep out of the weather would be more ideal for potential rough water and weather, but I already have this open bow SS.
Thanks in advance for any thoughts/recommendations.
Will the SS hull handle the rough water that can come up pretty suddenly out on the Puget Sound? Obviously I wouldn't plan to be out on rough days but want to be prepared when weather comes up or have to run out to pick up crab pots on less than ideal days. Haven't been up against rough water with it yet so wanted others thoughts.
I'd probably want to add a kicker motor for added peace of mind. I do have the bow mount electric trolling motor on it as second power source right now....might be tough to fight tidal flow with that electric motor.
I'm just trying to decide if this boat is the right style to be out in the salt doing some occasional fishing and crabbing. I would think a closed bow with a good top to keep out of the weather would be more ideal for potential rough water and weather, but I already have this open bow SS.
Thanks in advance for any thoughts/recommendations.