Finally started having some success redfishing in the flats using the trolling motor and now I’m considering asking Santa for a poling platform. For as many CS’s as I see down there, I hardly ever see any with a platform and I’m wondering if they aren’t as easy to pole as I am thinking it should be???
I have a 19’ DLX (flat bottom, 8’ beam).
'07 198 DLX Carolina Skiff
FS90 Suzuki
I would’nt think it would be too bad. When I lived in Sarasota, I had an old modified 19’ tri-hull that I poled on occasion. As long as there was no wind, I did’nt have a problem. If the wind kicked up, It was easier to use the trolling motor. I used the poling platform more for sight fishing. It’s amazing how much more you can see standing 3 ft. higher off of the deck.
Bob Van Gundy
Marine Designs,Inc.
Custom Aluminum Fabrication
803-727-4069
I sight fish out of my J16 alot. I much prefer being on the front platform w/ the trolling motor than in the back pushing a pole. I mounted a casting platform on the front which gets me up about 18 inches. it helps a lot. I see flounder, singrays etc that I never saw before. A 19’er would be tough to pole all day. Plus w/ the flat bottom my J16 won’t track that well poling, but just fine upfront w/ the trolling motor.
I’d suggest trying a strapped down cooler on the front deck for a couple of sessions before dropping big dough on the rear platform.
Poling platform with remote controlled trolling motor is the way to go! Also get the casting platform for your buddy up front so that they can see better!
Don’t have a knack for makin motors crank,
But I’m pretty good at drinkin beer
The best way to a fisherman’s heart is through his fly.
2002 Florida Skiff
90 Merc.
PeaPod has one on his (I mean his kids’) J14
2000 SeaPro 180CC w/ Yammy 115 2 stroke
1966 13’ Boston Whaler w/ Merc 25 4 stroke “Flatty”
Stretch has a platform on his and it’s pretty handy. Great place for the gay dog to hang out and show off for the women. I like the idea of the cooler and trolling motor though. If I could fit one on the rapchizzle I probably would.
yella bote
black motor