New boat, New Tactics needed

Time for this old dog to learn some new tricks. Some may recall the boat I have fished out of was a 1960's v-hull with a 1966 9.8, it's not going anywhere, but want to try something new. This old boat has been a beast for getting a limit since Dad got it back in the 70's

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But with my father in laws health issues I have been given his boat to "Use" Its a 2009 Pro Team 170 TX, 40 HP 4 stroke Merc. Bow mount Trolling motor, Depth/Fish Finder. Had a fuel issue where it would bog down after running wide open for 3-4 Min. Father in law had spliced the Mercury fuel line (With the plastic liner) and had crushed the inner liner. She purrs like a kitten now and cruises 30 MPH with 2 souls on board.

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Now to learn to fish all over again. This boat is more suited for Spider rigging than long lining as I am accustomed to. I do look forward to single poling for the bedding Specks as I have never been able to find them when they are bedding, But with this boat searching should be much easier.
First order of business, Rod holders. I need to see some "No Drill" options. Do not want to make any permanent changes, Hope to see my father in law get better one day.
And second, I want a head start on Spider rigging, Any tips? Advise? Thanks a ton guys!

Have fun and ride nice you will have it down in no time

You'll enjoy single poling from the decks.Good looking boat enjoy.

nice new ride.

Good luck in the new ride, it's fun getting used to all the new goodies. I don't know of any no drill options that I trust. I have the hi-Tek rod holders, the extreme version, and like them for everything I can figure out how to use a rod holder for. A member too.

Nice looking rig. Enjoy!:ThumbsUp

That will make a very good longline or spider rig boat. I would go with removable t bars and leave the mounting plates if he gets better. You could also fill those mounting bracket holes and glue a little carpet in them if you remove and you will never know they were there. Definitely a good longlining boat though, I long lined out of a 17 ft G3 similar to it for years. I also had a extra set of mounting brackets in front of the seat for spider rigging. It gets crowded for two grown men spider rigging on the narrow deck though.

I'd be taking that rig right out to the bullrushes and doing a little single pole perch jerkin..

Does it have factory tracks on the gunwales?

The center of the bowl is were I mounted my T bar, just have to mount the plate which involves 4 panhead screws. I am currently needing up that section. Of the front deck with 1/4" aluminum plate to accommodate 2 T bars and will add plates to the rear deck for long lining.Attachment 289477

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That's a great boat, I loved mine! I sold mine, bought a family friendly pontoon and somehow managed to buy a Blue wave bay boat. As far as no drill options, I just got over that barrier myself after trying some market options, fabbing a crowfoot, and wasn't happy with any. I'm waiting on my spyderloks to be delivered today.

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Originally Posted by sliknquik

I'd be taking that rig right out to the bullrushes and doing a little single pole perch jerkin..

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I will for sure be doing that!

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Originally Posted by EWS

Does it have factory tracks on the gunwales?

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No Factory tracks


I did see a boat Sat. at the ramp that had a triple rod holder that was clamped to the top rail of the boat. Have seen some online but WOW are they proud of them.

I own the same boat......and love it.....all 40hp. It’s a long lining crappie catching machine .......on a bad day.

I’m beyond middle aged so I do admit you must have your balance about you as you move around this deck style boat.
The size of the boat makes it great to launch alone, and mostly fishing alone I can see it fishing two guys fairly comfortable. 3 folks with a 40 will be about your max......and 3 guys will be tight.

Being aware of shifting weight is a plus when you step into the corners to grab a pole but really not that big a deal.
I push with 14 footers out front and can long line 8-10 lines out back in a very manageable approach.

I wish I could help you with the set up but mine is Pole holders and transport racks installed on top of base plates screwed into the wood decking.

All in all.......I love the thing......its perfect for me. BEST OF LUCK C-D!! Have some fun!

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No drill- I haven't done it, put I have seen a spider rig set up made from pvc, that slipped over the front seat post. Triangled out towards the bow.I'm sure a quick google search would bring up some pics. Wouldn't be permanent and cheap too.


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‘No drill spider rigging’ @ google ....Images. Shows some great custom options. No doubt more than a few options based off the front seat post.