I've had the boat roughly a month, and I don't see any immediate end to the spending to get it to where I want it to be... It is not that I didn't anticipate investing some time and money into it, but I guess I didn't expect it to become a "lifestyle".
I just ordered an Evolve v2, tramps, and some other goodies... None the less, for the price I purchased a nearly mint TI for, all these accessories added still have me far under what others have/would pay, so I can live slightly guilt free.
I'm looking forward to evaluating the motor. I actually have plans to be ahead of the curve here and intend to integrate the motor with GoalZero's line of solar/battery products. I figure the ability to daisy chain up to 3 solar panels and 3 power supplies together would allow me all the power I could need to operate some fishfinders and the motor... and they make some pretty efficient folding panels that could easily be laid across the tramps.
Along with the motor I just ordered, I ordered a set of tramps for the TI along with some other accessories to turn it into a serious fishing vessel. I'm a little worried about the quality of the tramps I just ordered, and despite the reviews I've read of their breakage, I went ahead and ordered them anyway.
I figure, if nothing else, great place to stow additional gear, but I'm not so sure about their ability to haul my weight if I want to hike out.
I'm mostly going into this purchase with the intent of using the tramps as a base to make my own, sturdier version, using nylon webbing and stainless cobra buckles in anticipation of failure.
I was curious if anyone has ventured to make anything similar?
I have some serious intentions in transforming my boat into a capable fishing vessel. An aside goal I've set for myself is to land a 200lb shark (and haul it)... though in my mind I know that is a little ways off and I will probably be pushing the fishfinder(s) until next season, as I'm looking to do a dual networked, down-imaging setup from Hummingbird that is a little out of my price range for the moment, seeing that they're not privy to giving out pro-deals.
Besides some other necessities, soon I will also likely be picking up a drysuit from Stohlquist, so that I can extend the season and get some extra use out of the boat.
All things aside, I've got lots of info & reviews on lots of goodies to share with you guys.. from tackle, fishing gear & yak accessories, to electronics and the new Contour GPS camera I picked up... all soon to come. ( Speaking of, anyone know of a decent free pic hosting service? )
So what are your guys plans for your own boats?