I got back into fishing just a few months ago and I bought a 16' Carolina Skiff. The boat fishes OK, but that huge flip flop seat and center console makes maneuvering around the boat cumbersome and floor space is very limited. When rods are in the vertical holders I have to lean out over the gunnels to go up front and return.

I'm thinking a more open cockpit may be easier and safer for me. I love sinkermaker's walleye layout and micorps deep V side console Alumacraft looks very fishable and solid (we've exchanged PMs about this). To me, it doesn't get more open than a tiller steer. I know you sacrifice HP and speed, and weight distribution might be an issue. Wind at cruising speed I see as problematic on cold winter days; but having everything either at your finger tips or only steps up the centerline is real appealing. The ability to put a bait tank up front is also very appealing. I'm thinking a deep V aluminum tiller steer might better suit me. Any of y'all have this type boat? Recommendations? Drawbacks? Ideas? Would solo launch be any more difficult than with a wide bow like I have now?

Thanks in advance.