Boat handling on reservoirs

[Hank R]

Hi
I'm a newby to sight so let me introduce myself briefly.  Ive recently retired and am 67 years old. I'm 6'2" and reasonably healthy.  Which leads me to my question.  I've been thinking about putting a boat on one of the reservoirs.  I'm still trying to find a sight I like.  In the process I've had a question about whether one person can put a boat in and out of water.  I know two would make it easier but I might not like being dependant.  I've looked at a Semi V hull at 12'and slightly over 100lbs.  Any opinions from the more experience guys?

[phriday613]

Welcome!

A lot of boats are placed real close to shore, so if you are able to get a place on one of the reservoirs, finding a spot that is easy to drag to the water can be difficult.

My boat is 14' and can no way be dragged by myself. Even the two of us have difficulty, thanks to where its positioned on shore and the boats around us. Remember also that there are rocks and sticks that can cause real damage to the hull. Find a good spot, and you might be able to get away with it.

Bottom line, can it be done? yes.. it can be a real pain though..

Good luck if you can get a spot!

[Tom]

Hi,
While a semi V 12 footer can be handled by one person and is ideal for a "big water" reservoir like Kensico, you can consider a 12 foot jon (flat bottom) boat for some of the other reservoirs. Jon boat weight would be more in the 85 pound range. My 12 foot semi V is on Kensico and my 12 foot jon is on Cross River. The jon works well in low to moderate wind. If you have strong wind a semi V is mandatory ... but in strong wind you probably shouldn't be out anyway. One suggestion: Spring for the extra bucks and get a compact wearable vest that you can wear while you fish.
Good luck.
Tom

[Hank R]

I appreciate the comments and advice. I guess where there's a will there's a way.
Thanks

[joel137]

hank i have a boat on kensico that doesnt get much time on the water cuz it too heavy for me to move myself.i have used those clamp on boat dollys and they help its best to have a fishing partner.Mine moved so im stuck if you want we can go out sometime,turkey season is about to start so im gonna be doing that for a bit but if ya want to get out let me know

[jamesstock]

Hank--I was a newbie two years ago and opted for a jon. They come in narrow and wide versions and i got the wide. I couldn't be more pleased with the boat and it's quite easy to manage by myself.

It is difficult to find the "prime" spots right next to the water. So i do have to move my boat 25 feet or so. But it's quite easy with the jon. When i'm with someone, it's easy to just pick it up. When i'm alone, i just unchain it from the tree, grab the two handles on the stern, tip the back up and drag it carefully on the bow. Within reason, it seems these boats are sturdier than we assume. . .

Good luck,

Michael

[butcherella]

I am 68 and not in great health. Had some cardiac issues. I have two 12ft semi vs and I put them in and out of the water myself. I just take my time and that works. Jon boats are ok but i find them hard to row in the wind and noisy when a little breeze kicks in. It can be calm and then get pretty breezey real quick. Butcherella Good luck