Would there be any complications with installing a poleing platform on an aluminum boat with a tiller handle motor. I’m planning to order a SeaArk once my NauticStar sells 16 ft with floatation pods on the transom. The platform would be mounted on top of the pods
Mark Ingle
NauticStar 1810 Merc 90
Jump I have one mounted on my 16 foot grizzly. I built it with a friend that is a great aluminum fabricator he helped me out on the side. I built the entire platform out of 1 1/2 square tubing using my miter saw and he welded it together. Mine actually stretches from gunwhale to gunwhale and attaches directly to the top of the gunwale cap on both sides. It angles up in the back and towards the Stern so it actually sits over the top of the motor. I had initially thought it would be great for polling as I can get extremely shallow and would not have to worry about any oyster rash on an aluminum boat. It is actually very difficult to pole. While the boat is extremely light and does not take much push effort, aluminum Jon boats do not have much of a keel so getting it to track is next to impossible. I have resorted to using the platform now simply to spot fish. I also find the platform extremely handy during Marsh hen season, I’m capable of standing up there and seeing the birds while a shooter stands ready on the bow. So I guess it really depends on what you plan to use the platform for. Do not plan on extensive polling from up there, I would also consider tying yours into the gunwhales as opposed to the floatation pods as those are typically skinned with thin aluminum and I would not want to try to bolt into those and compromise their integrity.
Great info Contender! Yeah my main reason for the platform is to spot fish but I assumed the poling would work. I need to better understand how much of a V-hull the SeaArk has…Thank you for taking the time to reply!
Mark Ingle
NauticStar 1810 Merc 90
Great post contender. I would add that in my case (14 ft Carolina skiff) the extra weight greatly affected the performance in an adverse way. I fish alone 90% of the time and rarely used it.