Bench or Leaning Post 17ft

[MJB1]

Looking at switching from the bench type seat to a leaning post on my 1976 17ft.  Since I finished this project a couple years ago I thought I would at least go with the original bench type seat to see if I liked the bench, but after using the boat for several seasons I find I hardly ever sit while running and only use the bench if I'm anchored up.  Wondering if there are any 17ft owners out there that have a leaning post vice the bench type seat?  If you have, what are the dimensions?  Or any pictures you could point me to so I can get an idea.

MJB
1976 17ft
Atlantic Beach, NC

[Fletch170]

I second that, I have a 74 and I'm looking for a correct size leaning post.

[GoneFission]

Fishmaster is making a leaning post now - and it looks like about the right size:

http://www.fishmaster.com/products/Leaning%20Post.htm

[c master]

Driving my 170, I stand up most of the time and so I considered switching to a leaning post.  But since storage on these little boats is at a premium, I kept my original insulated fiberglass seat, and had a custom s/s "rack" made that raises it off the floor.  It looks good and functions as a leaning post/seat/storage.    The top is hinged/lockable, with an upholstered cushion that matches the front seat upholstery.  I removed the flip-back altogether...it was just in the way.   Added 3 "rocket launcher" style rod holders on the back of the seat.

The raised seat holds life jackets, tools, Q-beam, oil, first aid, extra reels, wallets, keys, etc.  Stays completely clean/dry.   This leaves the space under the console & front seat for tackle-bags, lunch, drink cooler, towels.  I have a 6-gallon tank that I can drop in under the console for longer trips but I rarely take it.  I still use the built-in cooler in the forward deck for fish...when I actually catch fish.  

I do find that I sit on the raised seat a lot when the boat is anchored, and often on long smooth runs such as ICW.  I occasionally stand on it as a nice, high casting platform.  It's also a good flat surface to spread out lunch stuff...work on a reel, etc.  The bimini covers it nicely in the middle of the day.  

My goal was to have a place for everything, leaving the floor clear.  It worked.

[Capt. Bob]

CM,
A pic or two (or a link if you have posted here ) would be great. It sounds like it's a viable option for the smaller Aqua owners.

Because there's three things a man can never have enough of:
Money,
Above deck storage space, and
Well, you know :silent:

[c master]

Let me see what I can do about the pix...worth 1000 words, etc.

[Fletch170]

Capt Bob, I think the 3rd thing is bait.....smells like it at least.


I know Bluewater towers will build a leaning post for rocket launchers for around 650. Some of the best quality out there, hands down.

[SunnyD]

Check out the S. Fla Craigslist.  There's a guy in there that's been advertising Leaning Posts for $375ish, new.

[MJB]

Thanks for the info.  Still looking for a pic of a 170 with a leaning post, anyone have one?  

I found a place in FL makes a standard leaning post 30" wide 34" to top of seat cushion for $275.  I think I'm going to make a mock up of one and see what it looks like.

I am waiting on new console glass which was something I put off for a long time.  Hopefully get it next week and then be able to have a grab rail made for the console/windshield.

[Jayp]

I have a picture of mine with a leanning post. it is in the member gallery under my user name. Ill see if I have some more pic's at the house for you.  I love it. I put it in years ago and would not go back to the flip cooler seat. I stand on it all the time to sight cast.  

J

[Capt. Bob]

First one's free.

http://www.classicaquasport.com/gallery ... 500/page/1

[CTsalt12]

C master a picture of your raised compartment would be awesome!  I like the sounds of it and I also need extra storage space on my 175

[ReelEstate]

Here's one in Ft Pierce.  Saw it on Craigslist...Not Mine
http://treasure.craigslist.org/boa/2804697996.html