Drilling hole in fiberglass

[jimh6278]

I want to install a couple flush mount rod holders on top of my gunnel. The gunnel is fiberglass over 1/2" plywood with foam flotation on the underside. I need to drill a 1.25" hole for the holder. Also have to drill a 1" hole for my electric trolling motor receptacle. Question - do I use a hole saw, forsners bit, or something else. A little worried first about penetrating the glass surface then grabbing glass fibers. what do I use.

Thanks, Jim

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Drilling hole in fiberglass

A hole saw will work fine. Spin the bit backwards until you are through the gelcoat and into the fiberglass a little, the go forwards to cut the rest of the hole.