Dear All,
I read this thread with great interest.
Ted, I would say that the advice given is indeed sage. I would add that though our MLB Zack Taylor Sneakbox Wigeon is no rabbit when under power, it truly comes into its own in heavy seas.
Having owned a wooden one since 1976, I can tell you that on more than one occasion I have been caught in heavy seas here on the south end of Lake Michigan. There was even a day a few Spring Coho runs back, where I was the ONLY boat out of nearby Portage, IN. Several boats far larger were sitting in the access point, not willing to go out into the Lake, when I passed them. Water temps at 42 degrees and an unusually strong south wind, I headed out for a day with the Salmon and Trout. The only other boat on the water that day was the US Coast Guard. They came over, checked me out, and left me to enjoy the fishing trip.
This boat also shines in shallow water environs. For the last two duck seasons, myself and two others have been laying out in flooded ag. fields with my kevlar Wigeon and a kevlar MLB Classic. The Wigeon is the tender, towing the Classic, all our deeks, guns, and gear 1/2 mile down an access ditch to the flooded bean field where we have been enjoying excellent sport with late season Mallards. One guy runs the rig down the ditch with a trolling motor, while me and the other hunter strike out in wader clad feet. Grassed up, these two boats have accounted for some terrific action.
In closing, if I can answer any more questions, please ask here, or feel free to email me at;
mrongers@mightylayoutboys.com or call me on the toll free; (877)652-3695. I have owned a lot of boats in the past 36 duck seasons. All have come and gone, except for my Zack Taylor Sneakbox Wigeon. I'll never part with it.
God Bless All,
Mark