small lake fishing craft

Question
hi, i want to purchase a 8'-10' fishing boat. what is the best material, plastic or aluminum, and what should i consider if i plan on transporting it on the roof of my fj cruiser

Answer
Hi Mickey,

Well, right now Kayaks are the hottest thing out there.  But personally I like something a little more stable.  

I'd look into a 8 or 10 foot aluminum Jon boat.  A car-topper type. They are east to handle and stable enough to stand up if you need to.  You can slide them in or out of just about any bank with ease.  They row easy or you can put a little electric on the back.  

A 10 footer will weigh about 80 pounds so it can be handled by yourself alone if needed.  

You will need a sturdy roof rack on the vehicle or some of those foam blocks that clip on the gunwales.  If you have a partner that can help load, foam blocks are fine.  For a one man load you will need a rack where you can get the front end up on the back rack and lift the rear end an slide it forward.  Or, look into a one-man boat loader.  This works off a trailer hitch.  

Once the boat is on the roof you will need a sturdy rope off the front to the front bumper, the same in the rear, and one in the middle.  

Hope that helps,

Good fishing!

Marc