We used marine grade paint (Duralux "Pirogue Green") on our 'rouges but after beaching, portaging, and dragging them through sand, rocks, sticks, etc. we've noticed considerable paint removal from the bottom. Many cajun pirogue owners will tell you that you'll end up having to repaint your pirogue every year or so and thats just the unfortunate fact of cajun life. In order to avoid this issue, I've considered an extremely durable, epoxy based paint specifically engineered for airboats, surface drives, and hunting sleds. Whether its gator glide, frog spit, steel flex, or just clear epoxy...it all does about the same job of creating a slick and durable coating on your boat (or trailer bunks....or even snow shovel...). It could also help fill small voids and cracks where sidewalls connect to the bottom. By hydromat, I mean some EVA foam decking material (usually faux teak) for the seat benches and floor. I think this could make sitting/standing more stable and comfortable and also reduce the sound of sinkers or crab traps falling on the deck.
I agree. Our first builds gave us some experience with what gets used and what doesn't. We had enough foresight (and extra wood) to elevate a portion of the floor in the back to create an "aft" box for keeping things dry (we didn't put running boards like the "cajun secret" plans suggested). Looking back we should have put one in the front too. Or possibly a dry box. We might also consider installing gear track mounting points to accommodate pole holders, go pro mounts, GPS, and other aftermarket gear track accessories. We wanted to keep the first boats traditional and classic looking but I think this next boat is going to have all things functional (i.e. spot lights, anchor trolley, pole holders, seat posts)
There are two types of people who build wood boats , Those who build one and stop , the other's are the ones , like us , who don't know when to stop. We have what I call the Potato Chip[ curse , Just one will not be enough.
