Boat Question not Aquasports

[CThomps]

I'm in search of a stripped down utility jon boat or modified v-bottom aluminum boat with stick steering.  It'd be a work boat.  That's why i'm looking for stripped down.

Does anyone know who makes such a thing?  I know a lot of aluminum boat companies makes stick steering crappie boat, most of them are dolled up with carpet, live wells, and fishing rod storage.

The closest thing i've found is the 1652 sea ark.  It only weighs 600lbs. Easy to trailer.

Does anyone know of any others?

Thanks in advance.

[CThomps]

Alweld.  Found one anyhow.  440lbs.  Getting lighter.

[slvrlng]

Stick steers are definitely not a rough water deal. My buddy has a fiberglass one, I can't remember the brand but will research it tomorrow. Pretty cool little boat and goes like hell with just a 28 johnson on it, you should see him jumping wakes in it!

[RickK]

What's stick steering? The handle that attaches to the engine with throttle on it?

[smitty 1]

What's stick steering? The handle that attaches to the engine with throttle on it?

Stick steering is remote steering that uses a stick instead of a steering wheel. Push forward for left and pull back for right turn. usually attaches to the gunwhale.

[slvrlng]

No Rickk, this system has a stick on your left side that when pushed forward turns the boat to the left When you pull it backwards it steers it to the right. Of course the craziest looking thing about this is you sit in the front of the boat, passengers sit in the back. Your throttle is usually on your right side.

http://www.royalboats.net/

[slvrlng]

Finally got in touch with my friend, he has a Lancer.

http://lancermarineboats.com/index.html

[RickK]

Oh, I've seen that type before - and wondered then as I do now - Who the heck thought that up and why   Someone that didn't have a steering wheel laying around?


 

[CThomps]

Stick steering on boats is similiar to steering an airboat though I bet stick steering boats handle a 1000 times better than an airboat.  On an airboat you have the stick and the throttle pedal.  Fun as hell to drive but control takes a bit of practice.  

Stick steering boats are definitley not for rough water unless you like getting beat up.  This would be a back bay/river/creek/canal work boat.  

Not sure why fisherman like them but it would make a good work boat for me.  Lots of space in between the driver and passenger and comfortable seating.  When you spend 8 hours sitting hunched over it can get to you.  Sitting on an actual cushioned seat with a back rest is nice.

[DOCREED]

When mounted to the gunnel, they take up less room.  All the diesel launches at my yacht club up north had that steering setup