Alluminum boat on the Willy??

[Ryan808]

I was looking into a cheap 10-14 ft alluminum boat and was wondering if a boat of that size would be safe on the Willy. Also what size motor would be sufficiant.

[MattPark]

A 12-14 foot Valco or Gregor would be fine. I had a 14' Valco that I used on the Willy, CR, and for bay crabbing. With a 15 horse 2 stroke, it would plane with two big guys in it. 4 strokes are a bit heavier and don't seem to plane as easily per HP. You can pick em up on craigslist from $1000 on up with a trailer.

[Sunnygx]

I used a 14' jon with a 15hp for duck hunting the last two years. Even in the highest flood waters. Best with one person but works with two and a dog and decoys too. Just sold mine for $1000. Should'nt be a problem to find something in that price range on cl. I wouldn't go less than 15hp.

[Smj]

It's not the length of the boat so much as it is the free-board and transom height. My little 13 Smokercraft worked well on the rivers near PDX in all seasons and weather. But look in the "Ugliest boat YOU'VE owned" thread on the fishing board, the aluminum boat on the trailer would not be a good choice on these same waters, in my opinion

Smj

[Ryan808]

Thanks for the response guys.. I want to be a minimalist, but having a boat strong enough to handle the different type of waters here is my first concern. What type of alluminum brand/boat would you recommend?

[the flyman]

I own a 14' Valco. tricked it out, a 9.9 honda 4 srtoke, its not fast, but it fishes great, I've changed front seat to a seat storage space. Battery for light and an electric downrigger. Willamette river anchor system with float puller. I fish mainly by myself but have it set up for two. If you want more info PM Pete

[12pulls]

I had a 13' Alaskan that worked well for 2 guys, but I am a big fan of the 14' Valco's, very stable platform and will easily handle the Willie (got to watch out for those barge wakes).

[Ryan808]

The more I lookin to getting a boat the more choices I have to make. What make is recomended, what should I be looking for in aluminum?

[NavyRick]

G3, Lund, Lowe, Smokercraft, Valco all have great websites with there entire inventory on them. Most have specs set up so you can compare each model. Might help make your decision...and you can shop with no pressure from a salesman. Pop in your zip code on the dealer locator and go check out the ones you want to see up close and personal

[Ryan808]

Thanks Rick.