Flat Bottomed Fly Fishing (Pram) Boats
Fly Fishing Boats For Reel
Boatmaker Terry Hunt, Penticton, British Columbia
Have you ever looked at a lake and thought, "If only, if only I could get out a bit further where the fish are rising...?"
It's happened to all of us fly fishers at one time or other - when it would have been perfect to have had a small, light but sturdy watercraft that would enable you to get out further from the shoreline. Far enough so that our casts would land where the rising fish were.
Or perhaps you've just wanted a small boat that was easily transportable so that you could row around your favorite pond or lake.
Terry Hunt of Penticton, British Columbia has been making this dream a reality for many, with his 8 foot flat bottomed fly fishing boat. Sometimes referred to as a "Pram Boat," The Gillie, which weighs in at barely 55 pounds, is made to last. Unlike other similar boats which cost even more, The Gillie is constructed of all marine grade materials including Okourne (Mahogony) plywood.
The Gillie Pram Flat Bottomed Fly Fishing Boat Features:
- Okourne (Mahogony) marine grade plywood
- Plywood completely sealed with epoxy
- Panel seams are fibreglassed inside and outside of the hull
- 8' or 10' length choices
- Lightweight and easily carried at only 55 lbs.
- Flat bottomed means nothing for fly lines to get snagged on
- Beautiful centre bench assembly, corner knees, trim all around and transom boards constructed out of Douglas Fir and sealed with marine grade varnish. (Stained upon request)
- All fasteners are either solid brass or stainless steel.
- Oarlock sockets are solid stainless steel.
In addition to the above, The Gillie has three skids which not only makes the hull stronger, it gives added protection to the bottom of the boat against scrapes and bumps. Most boats of this style have only one skid.
Some people wonder what a flat bottomed boat might have in advantage over a pontoon boat. Actually, there are many reasons to choose The Gillie over the admittedly popular float tubes/pontoon boats including:
- Five minutes to get into the water with a pram or flat bottomed boat. How long would it take you to get into your waders, put on your fins, put together the pontoon boat and get to the water? A lot more than five minutes!
- Pram boats are more versatile. No fins required if you just want to go for a row.
- Flat bottomed pram boats are unmatched for stability
The Gillie makes for a very special gift for that stillwater fly angler that seems to have everything, too!
For more information and to discuss the build of your flat bottomed fly fishing boat, contact:
Fly Fishing Boats For Reel
Terry Hunt, Boatmaker
Phone: 250.493.0544
Cell: 250.809.2232
Email: terry@woodenflyfishingboats.com