1977 18SF Seacraft Refurb

I've always wanted to own a 20 foot classic Seacraft. I cant say that I wanted to restore it myself, but when the opportunity presented itself, I figured it was the only way to get exactly what I wanted. At the time of me looking for a 20 seacraft, there wasn't anything on the market that suited my needs. However, I was able to find a 1977 18 foot super fisherman at the right price and decided to give it a try. In full disclosure, i'm quite handy BUT I've never refurbed a boat before. I spent almost a year researching how other people have done it, learning about epoxy's, fiberglass ex ex....and jumped in. Thankfully I had assistance here and there from an experienced friend who helped develop a plan and guide the process. I'm sure there was better/different ways to do the work, but now that I've had an entire summer behind the helm of my inshore False Albacore chaser/beach boat, I couldn't be happier. She came out awesome with some personal touches that I'm proud of. Its a fantastic riding "pocket" inshore boat. Equipped with Garmin electronics, 4 way speaker system, electronic lenco trim tabs, Hydraulic steering, pop up stainless cleats, 7 flush mounted rod holders, dual battery switch, RGB interior lights, teak wood accents and nearly 100% composite, long lasting materials (coosa board throughout). Console was moved slightly forward and a 10 gallon fresh water tank was installed to offset the weight of her 4 stroke 115hp Mercury outboard. She's stronger and better than she ever was and will last a long time.

[@wesd3742]

Awesome build, you killed it on a classic hull. Love these videos.

[@PKdrifter670]

what a beautiful build. Id love to do this one day

[@OnTheHookTV]

Thanks! I didnt set out to build one myself. Initial thought was, buy the hull, get someone to do it, BUT it was tough to find someone to do it all, within a reasonable price. I was lucky to find a great helper/guide who worked with me and showed me how to do stuff I wasn't familiar with. If your handy, have a good mind for stuff like this (meaning you have done other work like construction, light building, painting, plastering, sanding ex ex...and like it, you can do it) - Good luck, it will take, time, effort, passion...you will be proud and happy you did.

[@benji_tube]

Great work Dave! Had no idea how rotted it was when you started. Great to see the final product in action last summer.

[@OnTheHookTV]

Thanks B!

[@jor4288]

This has always been a dream of mine. Was this a Potter hull?

[@OnTheHookTV]

Yes, I believe Potter hulls were 1968-1980, this hull is a 1977. I wanted this to chase fall albacore in cape cod sound, which is one of my favorite species to chase. It has quickly become one of my favorite boats, mostly because of the work I put into it and I love the classics. Its ride really is awesome. There's a reason guys love these and it stands up to the reputation. This will be a boat we hopefully keep in the family for a long time, get little inshore fishing boat as well as beach/day trip boat. The 10 gallons of fresh water towards the bow not only helps offset the weight of the 4 stroke but also comes in handy when you spend a day at the beach/sand bar.

[@MrFishgamez]

Did you replace the foam in the sides? Or just leave it out

[@OnTheHookTV]

When the deck came off, the foam looked in good shape. However, i still dug it out and replaced it. I figured, hell I had the deck off, why not. Sometimes water is trapped beneath the foam so it was a "better safe than sorry" deal for me. There was small bit of water, so I'm glad I did.

[@teddobol]

At least he knows he has a Seafarer model. You should have found an old Master Angler which is a three-piece construction and rebuilt that one. To each their own