Buying an inflatable boat is just the first step towards creating the perfect fishing tool, and factory equipment is often a basic set that allows you to stay on the water, but does not always provide the comfort of many hours of fishing. tuning-boat It becomes a necessity for every serious angler, seeking maximum catch and convenience.
Upgrades can range from simple rod holder installation to complex sonar-mounted electrification and navigation. PVC boat accessories Not only do they improve ergonomics, they also have a significant impact on the safety of a vessel in challenging conditions, and in this article we will explore the key areas of improvement that will transform a standard inflatable boat into a professional fishing boat.
It should be borne in mind that any intervention in the design requires a balanced approach, so as not to disturb the balance and not overload the cylinders. Weight load It has to stay within the manufacturer's limits, otherwise the performance and stability can be affected. Let's look at the main steps and elements that should be addressed first.
Protection of the bottom and sides from mechanical damage
The first thing that begins the life of any boat on a serious body of water is to protect its vulnerabilities. PVC fabricThe installation of additional protection, often referred to as a "rug" or "tread", is a prerequisite for long-term service of the vessel.
There are several protection options: from simple overlays of dense rubber to complex composite sheets. Overhead sheets They stick to the outside of the cylinders and bottoms, taking the brunt of the mooring and pulling ashore, and it's important to choose materials that don't absorb water, otherwise the boat will become heavy and dry for days.
⚠️ Note: When adhesives are applied, use only specialized polyurethane adhesives, and improperly selected chemical compositions can dissolve the top layer of PVC or cause it to dissect in a short time.
Special attention should be paid to the area of stringers (inflatable tubes along the side) and the bow, these areas are most often in contact with the ground and the sides of the berths. boat-armour You will be able to walk on the shore without fear of a snare.
How to properly put protection on the boat?
The surface should be perfectly clean and fat-free, the glue is applied in two layers: the first one dries to a stick, the second one to a full grasp, and it is important to avoid air bubbles by rolling from center to edge.
Installation of transom wheels for convenient transportation
One of the most sought-after improvements is the installation of trans-wheels, and dragging a boat with motor and gear alone without this device is a heroic but pointless task. transom wheels They are attached to the transom and allow you to roll the boat on a hard surface, saving energy for the fishing itself.
Designably, wheels are divided into several types: removable, foldable and variable geometry. Removable models are good because they do not interfere with the course, but they must be removed and hidden every time. Folding wheels convenient to operate, but require careful installation so as not to disturb the tightness of the transom.
- 🚣♂️ Removable wheels are easy to install, do not interfere with the water, but require storage space in the boat.
- 🚣♂️ Folding (lifting) - always with you, quickly translated into the working position, but more difficult to install.
- 🚣♂️ Wheels with adjustable height - allow you to change the clearance depending on the relief of the shore.
When choosing, consider the diameter of the wheels: the larger the wheels, the easier it is to overcome the roughness of the ground and sand. Small wheels can get stuck in soft clay or between stones. stainless steel Aluminum is preferred, which can be oxidized in salt water.
Renovation of seats and creation of comfortable seats
The factory seats, or "banks," in most PVC boats are simple plywood boards, often without any soft upholstery. It is extremely uncomfortable to sit on them for several hours, especially in cold clothes. soft-plate Or a full replacement of the cans with the chairs.
The simplest option is to use a foam mat with a water-repellent skin that is attached with Velcro straps. A more advanced level is to install full-fledged rotary chairs on platforms. slider Or rotating bases that allow the angler to turn 360 degrees.
It's important to remember that the boat is centered, and if you put heavy seats with backrests, you can shift the center of gravity, which can affect the center of gravity. vigour If you're putting two heavy seats in, you might need to move a gas tank or battery closer to your nose to balance.
Use a water-repellent Oxford material to upholster your seats, which dries quickly, doesn't fade in the sun, and is easy to clean from fish mucus and dirt.
Electrification: Installation of sonar, navigation and light
Modern fishing is unthinkable without electronics. sonarThe GPS and running lights require a smart approach to wires and power supplies, and the main goal is to make the system safe and moisture-resistant.
To attach the sonar sensor, it is best to use a special bracket on the transom or a insert in the inflatable element (if the design allows), to avoid interference from the screw. The wire should be laid in corrugated hoses and fastened with clamps, excluding sagging, which can be caught with the foot.
| Component | Current consumption (A) | Recommended capacity of AKB (Ah) | Features of installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Echoer (5-7) | 0.2 - 0.5 | 7 - 12 | Splash protection, visible screen |
| GPS-navigator | 0.3 - 0.6 | 7 - 12 | Antenna in the sky's visual range |
| Side lights | 0.5 - 1.0 | 7 - 12 | Tight wire connections |
| Electric motor | 20 - 50 | 55 - 100 | Thick cable, safety lock. |
To power all this electronics, a separate tractorIt's a dangerous thing to put a normal starter car battery in a boat because of the potential for acid vapor and shaking sensitivity.
⚠️ Attention: All electrical connections in the boat must be soldered and insulated with adhesive heat shrinkage, twists in constant vibration and humidity quickly oxidize and can cause short circuits.
Arrangement of anchorage and anchorage system
Fishing on the current or wind requires a reliable fixation of the boat. The standard rings welded by the manufacturer are often inconvenient for a quick change of position. anchorage With a winch or ducks on the nose and stern greatly simplifies the process of catching.
The best solution is to install an anchor beam on the nose with the ability to quickly drop anchors from inside the boat, which allows you to instantly respond to changing conditions or danger without getting up from your seat.
- ⚓ Anchor-cat - compact, well holds on stones and a shell, easily removed.
- ⚓ Denforth anchor is a great holding force on sand and silt, but can get stuck in driftwood.
- ⚓ Mushroom anchor is ideal for parking on silt, but heavy and takes up a lot of space.
Remember the length of the anchor end, which should be at least three depths at the fishing site, and the use of a chain between the anchor and the rope (footlin) helps to press the anchor to the ground and improves its engagement.
☑️ Checking the anchor system
Protective arcs and awning frames
Fishing often takes place under the scorching sun or sudden rain. Installation shield-arc It's made of stainless steel or duraluminium, which allows you to pull up an awning, creating a life-saving shadow or shelter from precipitation, and it also provides an excellent base for attaching additional equipment.
You can attach spinning holders, a trifle shelf, or even a sonar screen to the arcs so that it's always in front of your eyes, and it has to be stiff enough to withstand the gusts of wind, but it's easy to disassemble for transportation.
It is critically important to check the points of contact with cylinders when installing arcs. Any roughness or sharp angle of the metal pipe can wipe PVC with prolonged vibration on the wave. Be sure to use soft covers or gaskets in contact.
The frame for the tent is not just protection from the sun, it is a full-fledged organizer that allows you to place navigation, light and gear in close proximity to the angler.
Additional equipment and useful little things
In addition to the large nodes, comfort creates small things. The rod-holdersThe fisherman, the gear knobs, the tables and the organizers make the fishing experience pleasant.
Inflatable tables are popular, mounted on cylinders, and sealants of different sizes, and it is also worth thinking about a life jacket with special pockets for fishing supplies and a safety flap, which should always be on board.
Don't forget the lighting, because a powerful flashlight or LED tape around the perimeter of the cockpit will help you find a fallen item or prepare your gear in the dark, and the main thing is to direct the light so that it doesn't blind the angler or scare the fish away.
How to properly store a boat with installed tuning?
It is better to keep the boat assembled, if space allows, or half-assembled, to avoid crevices on the places of adhesive folds. All removable elements (echo sounders, seats, soft linings) are better removed and stored in a warm dry room. Metal parts (arcs, wheels) should be washed with fresh water and lubricated to prevent corrosion.
Can I cut the pump valve myself?
Theoretically, it is possible, but it requires special skills and tools for gluing PVC. Incorrect insertion will lead to loss of warranty and risk of depressurization on water. For the installation of additional valves (for example, for a keel-balloon), it is better to contact a specialized workshop.
What weight is allowed to be placed on the bow of the boat?
It is not recommended to place heavy loads (more than 10-15 kg) on the nose, as this can lead to burrowing of the nose in the wave and reduce speed. Heavy equipment (batteries, drawers) is better to shift closer to the center or on the stern, observing balancing.
Do I need to register a tuning boat?
Registration with GIMS depends on the weight of the boat in running order and the power of the engine. Installing additional equipment increases the weight, but usually slightly. However, if after tuning the weight exceeds 200 kg (together with the engine), registration is mandatory.
How to clean PVC after fishing?
Use warm water with soft soap or special PVC care products. Avoid aggressive solvents, gasoline and abrasive brushes. After cleaning, the boat must be dried before packing.