PORTABOTE?

frankenfish · 02-08-2004, 05:00 AM

I am considering buying one of those folding boats. Supposedly, the 14 footer can comfortably hold 4 fisherfolk, a 10 HP motor, and is darn near unsinkable. I have a motorhome and if we tow the car, we can't also tow a boat. This would seem to solve the problem, as it would easily fit on the car or on a bracket on the motor home. Anyone out there with any info? Thanks.

Fshklr · 02-08-2004, 05:28 AM

I saw a 14' last summer being assembled at a Co. park by 2 guys in a motorhome. 5 mins after launching the seats tipped somehow and it collapes on itself. After 4 of us rescued them, they tried it again only 1 guy this time..again there was a balance issue while sitting and the seat rolled backwards several times over 30 mins. I believe it was installed improperly but I am very leary about how safe they really are especially in the Columbia with Ship wake etc. The same guys a few weeks later had an anchor problem and drifted into a wing dam..the current pinned the boat into it broadside and it suffered considerable damage as it folded up..if they hadn't been wearing pfd's the out come could have been fatal..I think small lakes are the best bet for the porta boats. Not sure how old it was or the manufacturer. Maybe there are some owners of the porta boats here that can help.

ampersat · 02-08-2004, 08:01 AM

I spent some time looking at them but have never been in one. They seem to be well constructed and apparently pretty stable. However, in the end it's a 14ft boat with very little freeboard. Perfectly suitable for slower current and definitely a lake boat. If you're planning on putting it in the Columbia though, keep your PFD on at all times and put a second one on for good measure.

Day Late · 02-08-2004, 02:16 PM

Fish,

Don't let the horror story turn you off to these fine boats. I've had a 12' model for 2 years (they didn't have the 14' at the time). It is a very stable, smooth riding boat for two people. I haul it on the side of my 24' travel trailer for use in protected waters. I think the 14' may be a little too much for one to handle, but 2 men could certainly do it. Make sure it will fit on your motorhome length-wise without covering up exhaust vents, etc. My 6hp Yamaha pushes it at close to 20mph with just me in it believe it or not. I can troll all day on a couple of gallons. My full-timer friends were so impressed with mine that they bought one too and love it just as much as I do. If you want additional info, feel free to e-mail me. Good luck! :smile:

Day Late

P.S. I am no way connected with the Portabote company.

Thumper · 02-08-2004, 03:19 PM

Soozy and I looked into these a few years ago for her Paulina and East lake kokanee fishing. They appeared to be a fine product.