New member from the Chicago area

[Greg D]

Well after doing much research and reading a lot of the posts here, I just ordered a J14 to trick out and get ready to teach my 3 year old son some fishing next spring (he'll be close to 4 then). I originally just wanted something to take to some smaller local lakes and ponds that are electric motor only and thought this would be way nicer than an aluminum jon boat or a wobbly aluminum vee boat (I like to stand and cast as well as fly fish). I'll problaby get a small tiller to take on and off so we can hit some rivers and other lakes as well as he gets older. I ordered it with the large front deck and the small rear deck. Don't know what else I'm going to do at this point, but from what I've seen on this board I'm inspired.

I tricked out a 16' War Eagle in the past, but sold it and look forward to working on this.

Greg

[Willie]

Good choice and welcome to the skiffin page....lots of good trickin ideas on here and some good people to share them with.... don't forget to post some pictures of your outfit and your fishing adventures in the spring......*014*

[NOTHING ELSE MATTERS]

Greg, welcome aboard the best site ever. Good luck with your new boat and make sure you spend a lot of time with your first mate, both of you will never regret this.

[Shakespeare]

Welcome to the site Greg! *Cheers*


Mike

[FoodPlot]

Welcome. I'm sure you'll enjoy the commaradarie and knowledge shared at this site. Again, Welcome aboard.

[MartyJ16]

Greg,

I think you have made a good choice for the reasons you stated. I have a 16 and have been amazed how stable the decks are for casting, I would expect about the same from the 14. I have been tempted to do some fly fishing from the decks also. Your selection is very popular in my area with the fishermen who fish the restricted under 10hp lakes and reservoirs.

You will find no shortage of ideas or advice on this site.

[workinprogress]

Greg,
The guys who have been around this site may roll their eyes and say "Oh, this story again." but the only reason I picked up fishing as a hobby was because my then 3yr old son looked at me and very matter-of-factly said, "Dad, I think it's about time you take me fishing". That very afternoon is when I started looking for a cheap little boat that I could power with an electric trolling motor. I' just don't have it in me to halfa$$ things and to tell the truth have become intrigued not only with fishing but also design and construction of my affordable entry level kit boat. CS does a great job of catering to this niche of the market. My evolution in this hobby has been enjoyable, but the best part has been watching my (now almost 5yrs) son evolve with it as a part of his childhood. He loves it! He helps me work on the boat, and I keep the lighter projects available for when he can help. He likes to be on the water and seems to be very content whether fish are being caught or not, and for the priceless time I get to spend with him when he and I just chat about nothing I would give everything I have 5 X over. There might be some people in the world who would tell you 3yrs old is too young to introduce your son to boating and fishing--They are wrong!! Enjoy tricking the new boat and fishing with your son.

I have a j16 that I am constantly tinkering with. If you have any questions about what works and what doesn't or need a sounding board for your latest idea, it will be my privilege to be involved in your discussion.

[Greg D]

Thanks a lot everybody - seems like a great crowd.

WIP - I'm not too worried about what other people might think. I've been fishing for 20 years and have had a decent boat before. I can definitely say my priorities changed - very willingly - when my son was born and I can relate to what you are saying. Your boat progress looks great to.

[FoodPlot]

Your thought process is sound. You will enjoy the skiff for what you got it. I bought the J17 for lakes, creeks, rivers and bay fishing here in the Panhandle of Florida. I would make a suggestion for an addition to the boat. Get a good trolling motor and bow mount it. For Fly Fishing, I would get a foot controlled model. We have many lakes here that are no gas motors so I use the trolling motor exclusively. Enjoy your son and skiff.....That makes a good combination....

http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x95/FoodPlot/2783.gif

[Big Will]

Welcome aboard Greg D!Good luck with your project.

Here's a Hiku poem for the occasion

fresh air good
son story never too much hear
cool water fish son

(like dew to the ear)