Any factory configuration of an inflatable vessel is usually a compromise between price and basic functionality. Manufacturers strive to create a versatile product that is suitable for cruising and fishing, but for a true fan of fishing, this is often not enough. tuning-boat It becomes not just a whim, but a necessity to make the process more efficient, and a well-designed craft becomes a sustainable platform that allows you to focus on the bite, not on the balance of the body.
Upgrading can include additional floating cylinders, reinforcement of the bottom or the creation of specialized storage areas for gear. It is important to understand that each change affects weight, load capacity and driving performance. In this article, we will discuss the key elements that will help you build the perfect fishing platform without compromising the balance and safety of the vessel.
Before starting to purchase materials and cut plywood, you need to clearly present the final result. tuning It's a creative process, but it's an engineering process, and you have to decide whether you're going to go fishing alone or with a partner, whether you need to be able to stand up to the full height to throw the spinning, or whether you prefer to go fishing on the bottom sitting, and these answers are the ones that make the choices.
Body and floating cylinder reinforcement
The first thing that experienced anglers start with is to protect the bottom of the vessel from abrasion and puncture. The factory floor is often made of fabric with a density of 750-900 g/m2, which may not be enough for rocky shores or a shell. timber perimeter and additional layer PVC or Hypalon This is especially true for models with low pressure inflatable floor (LDPB), where the risk of damage to the bottom cylinders is higher.
The second important aspect is to create a rigid platform, and the standard slate mat or plywood slate quickly becomes unusable from moisture and mechanical stress, replacing them with a solid one. aluminum-leaf Or wet-resistant, reinforced plywood, which creates a flat surface, which makes it easier to move around, to set up crates and just stand while fishing, and a hard bottom also improves hydrodynamics, making it easier for the boat to go sleeve.
⚠️ Attention: When you strengthen the bottom, remember that each extra kilogram of weight reduces the payload and increases the time to go to the plane.
To protect the nose and cylinders from splashes and oncoming waves are often installed nose-trap Not only does this keep things dry, it also reduces sailing, which is critical in the wind. Some anglers go further, welding extra segments of fabric to cylinders to create pockets for anchoring or tools, but it requires professional equipment and PVC skills.
Technology of welding of additional elements
Welding additional pockets or reinforcements uses a building hair dryer at about 600 degrees and a roller roller, and the fabric is heated to a melting state of glue, where the elements are tightly pressed together, and it is important not to overheat the material so as not to damage the structure of the cord threads.
Modernization of the transom and suspension engine compartment
The trayboard is the zone of maximum loads, especially if you use powerful outboardStandard plywood can be separated from vibration and water, reinforcement of the transom with steel or aluminum linings, as well as the installation of additional limberboard It allows you to safely operate higher power motors, which gives you speed gains, which is important when you go to far points.
For convenience of motor control and saving space inside the cockpit are often installed fume-tankIt's mounted on a special bracket behind the transom or on the bow of the boat, and this makes it possible to free up valuable space for fishing gear and reduce the fire risk inside the inflatable space, and the fuel line is then laid through a special valve or process hole in the cylinder.
Another element of tuning. door-wheelAlthough they are often included, their modification or replacement with more reliable bearing analogues makes it much easier to transport the boat on sand or grass. It is important that the axis of the wheels does not interfere with the installation of the motor and does not touch the water when driving, creating unnecessary resistance.
- 🛠️ Installation cross-plate to attach the sonar and sensor.
- 🛠️ Installation antivibrational for an outboard motor.
- 🛠️ Organization of a sealed runduk in the nose for fuel.
Properly reinforced transom allows you to safely use motors with a power reserve, which is critical to overcome headwind and current.
Organization of space: handbags and boxes
Chaos in the boat is the enemy of the fisherman. When the gear is scattered down the bottom, finding the right bait takes time, and the risk of losing a valuable thing overboard increases. box-canUnlike simple seats, these have interior compartments for small things, floats, loaders and tools, and you can make them out of plywood, leather-sheathed, or buy ready-made plastic models.
For a more serious approach to tuning PVC boats use modular systems. They're attached to the PVC. D-rings This allows you to change the configuration depending on the type of fishing: today you put a bait box, tomorrow you put a platform for a cook. It is important to use stainless hardware (AISI 316 steel or quality aluminum), because the usual one will quickly become rust.
Special attention should be paid to the rod attachment. Simple holders inserted into pockets often do not provide reliable fixation when moving. rod-holders They can be attached to the cylinder (using a special fabric-base) or fixed to a transom.
For storing personal belongings, clothes and food, sealers or sealed-containerWater is always available in the boat, even if it is just condensation or splashing, so protecting electronics and dry clothing is a must.
| Type of element | Materials | Function | Complexity of installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box jar | Plywood/Plastic | Seat + storage | Low. |
| The rod-holder | Nerzh. | Fixing spinning | Medium |
| Hanging pocket | PVC | Storage of trifles | Tall (glued) |
| Strokecap | Sling/Velcro | Fixing on board | Low. |
Affixtures and electronics
Modern fishing is unthinkable without a sonar, a navigator and a recharging device for gadgets. sonar Not only does it require the display to be attached, but it also requires the sensor to be wired properly, and it's usually attached to a suction plate or a suction cup, but it's better to stick it in a bottom patch or use a special fairing to keep the water flowing and improve the signal quality.
to power the electronics and possibly electric motorLead acid batteries are heavy and afraid of flipping, so they are often replaced by LiFePO4 They're lighter, smaller and safer, and they have a pendant box or a niche in the bottom sleigh, and they have ventilation and water protection.
⚠️ Attention: All electrical connections in the boat must be securely insulated and protected from oxidation. Use thermal shrinkage with glue and special sea connectors.
Don't forget the lighting. LED tape, run around the perimeter of the cockpit or under the banks, will allow you to fish comfortably in the dark. LED lights They use little energy and they don't heat up, so you better control the lights on a separate switchboard at the cockpit.
Anchor system and safety
An anchor is not just a piece of metal, it's a guarantor of your safety and fishing efficiency. Standard anchors are often too light to flow or wind. Tuning is about picking the right type (above all, for example, the right type of anchor).anchor, Admiralty or floatingFor PVC boats, it is optimal to have two anchors, one main anchor and one lightweight for short stops.
The most important element of the system is anchor-liningThe chain cannot be used because it can damage cylinders, the line must be made of a wicker cord, and its length is at least two depths at the fishing site. anchorage Or the coils on the bow of the boat, which allows you to quickly give anchor and just as quickly select it without getting tangled in the rope.
Safety also implies that lifejackets They should be easily accessible, but not disturbing the movement, often they sew special covers on the seat backs, and you also need to install a false board or a railing if you plan to be active standing.
- ⚓ Installation anchor-roller to protect the board during sampling.
- ⚓ Use of the anchor-stall to fix the line.
- ⚓ Line marking with bright labels to control depth.
☑️ Checking the anchor system
Comfort: seats, awnings and protection
Fishing often lasts several hours and sitting on hard plywood becomes unbearable. Seat tuning The first thing your back will appreciate is that using soft pore linings with water-repellent upholstery or installing full-fledged backrested chairs (like folding fishing chairs with jar attachments) changes everything. It's important that the seat doesn't absorb water and dries quickly.
Sun and rain protection is another level of comfort. umbrella Or a full-fledged running awning that allows you to fish in all weather, and the awning frame is usually made of dural tubes that are inserted into special glasses on cans or sides, the awning fabric should be strong, with UV protection and water-repellent impregnation.
Don't forget to protect your hands and feet. Gloves with cropped fingers will help you control your tackle without washing your calluses, and special mats on cans will prevent you from slipping and warm up in cold weather. Little things that seem insignificant on the shore become defining on the water.
Use Velcro straps to temporarily attach small items to sides or banks, which are cheap, reliable and allow you to quickly change the configuration of equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I glue additional pockets to the PVC boat by myself?
Yes, it is possible, but it requires compliance with the technology. You need to use a special glue for PVC (two-component), degreaser and fabric-based of the same manufacturer as the boat. The surface should be clean and dry, and gluing should be carried out at a temperature of at least + 15 ° C. If you doubt your abilities, it is better to contact the workshop, since poor gluing can violate the tightness of the cylinder.
What is the maximum amplification of the transaxis permissible?
Maximum gain is limited by the boat's load capacity and the engine power specified in the data sheet. Exceeding the manufacturer's recommended engine power is dangerous: it can lead to transom failure, loss of control and even rollover. The gain is for reliability, not for exceeding limits. Usually enough amplification to comfortably use the motor maximum allowed power.
Do I need to take off the electronics after every fishing trip?
Yes, unless you have sealed, waterproof boxes installed permanently, removable sonar and navigator displays are best taken home, especially in winter or off-season, to avoid temperature swings and theft, and the battery is also better stored in a warm room, especially if it is lead-acid.
Which material is better for bottom slug: plywood or aluminum?
Plywood (FSF grades) are cheaper and warmer, but afraid of prolonged contact with water and heavier when wet. Aluminum (relief sheet) is eternal, does not rot, is easier to care for and provides better stiffness, but colder to the touch and can be slippery. The choice depends on budget and operating conditions: for harsh conditions and year-round use, aluminum is preferred.
Does the scoring affect the manufacturer’s guarantee?
Any interference with the design that is not provided for in the instructions (especially gluing, drilling holes in cylinders, welding) can lead to loss of warranty. Installation of removable elements on brackets or D-rings does not usually affect the warranty, but any manipulation of adhesive seams and fabric integrity is a risk. Always check the warranty conditions with the dealer before starting work.