How do you put decking on the bow of a jonboat?

Question

I would like to put some decking on the bow of the boat and put a pedestal seat on it. Also i would like to have compartments underneath the decking for storage. I'm not sure how to go about doing it so if you have any ideas i would love to hear them. Thanks.

Answer 1

Is this is an aluminum boat?

Get some stiff cardboard and make templates of the side between the front bench, and bow. Cut pressure treated 2x6's to follow the arc of the bottom. s***w PT 2x4 uprights to the ends, and cut flush at the height you desire. Use the seat to rest the rear portion on, add blocking as needed, then cover the top with PT or marine (or even exterior) plywood.

You will have really just made a "box" with no bottom, or sides that conforms to the inner shape of the boat. You can add access doors as desired, and it can be removed as needed. You also won't have to cut, or drill into the boat!

Answer 2

Friend of mine just did a duckboat last year like that.

I would just bolt some heavy brackets to the sides and front....maybe 3 or 4 per side and caulk them well at the holes with silicone sealer. Then cut a piece of 3/4 inch marine plywood to fit the opening and s***w or bolt it to the brackets. You may have to cut a template from cardboard first to get a good fit and make sure the brackets all line up level with each other. You may also have to put a support beam or another piece of plywood vertically in the center for support with brackets also...sealed well with silicone. Then mount your pedestal seat to the plywood platform and use the space underneath for storage,...doors-- hinged to swing up--- are optional. Gluing outdoor carpet or non-skid strips to the plywood may help also for traction and you could use regular exterior grade plywood if you varnish or seal it before installing.