GF16 Questions

[DaveTN]

I'm looking at starting my first build here in Australia and I'm narrowing my choice down - I think the GF16 might be for me but I'd like some information on its capabilities.

The boat will mainly be used solo fishing flat water on our local lake system, the lakes can get choppy but I'm never far from home and conditions are generally fairly predictable. I'd like room enough to take my wife and two children on the occasional cruise in good weather - no need for crazy speeds.

I have a good 15hp motor which is probably just adequate but will look at a 25hp if necessary in future.

I need to keep build costs down as much as possible and while I have some spare time I'd like to keep the build as simple as possible.

I'd really like to hear about peoples experiences with the GF16 and/or whether there is a better option for my needs.

Thanks in advance

[TomW1]

The GF16 should be the a great first boat for you, ir is easy to build. Your 15hp is fine for you now it will get you on plane and depending on the weight of your family them also. I was on my best buds and we weighed 475lb between us, he had a 25hp and we hit a top speed of 32 mph. So you can extrapolate from that for your 15. This was measured on a GPS fish finder. As far as handling a light chop is fine but once white caps start forming it is probably time to start thinking about going in.

Good luck

Tom

[TomW1]

Duplicate

[DaveTN]

Thanks mate,

I’ve bought the plans and cleaned out the workshop. Picking up plywood tomorrow, looking forward to the build.

[OneWayTraffic]

Now might be a good time to read some build threads on it. Cracker Larry's is one but I think some of his photos got lost.

One gotcha I remember is that sometimes a rocker develops when stitching. Screw the bottom panel to a 2 by 4 to keep it straight over the last 2m when you assemble.

[DaveTN]

Now might be a good time to read some build threads on it. Cracker Larry's is one but I think some of his photos got lost.

One gotcha I remember is that sometimes a rocker develops when stitching. Screw the bottom panel to a 2 by 4 to keep it straight over the last 2m when you assemble.

Hey thanks mate that's good advice. I've been reading as many build threads as I can, looking forward to starting

[TomW1]

Now might be a good time to read some build threads on it. Cracker Larry's is one but I think some of his photos got lost.

One gotcha I remember is that sometimes a rocker develops when stitching. Screw the bottom panel to a 2 by 4 to keep it straight over the last 2m when you assemble.

Hey thanks mate that's good advice. I've been reading as many build threads as I can, looking forward to starting

You can also use concrete blocks to hold it flat. The one thing you do not want is rocker developing when you stitch and glue the bottom.

Good luck.

[OlivierP]

Hi

I have experience with the GF14, same boat a bit shorter, and can carry 3 or 4, the 16 will be much more comfortable at 4. It's very nice for fishing on rivers/lakes but you have to slow down in chop or it will hit hard. It's wonderful on flat water. In terms of performance I'm reaching 30km/h (20mph?) solo with a 9.9hp, so a 15 should be good.

When riding solo you have to steer from the middle bench with a long tiller extension. I found the position uncomfortable so I added a small side console and remote controls. If you go this way it is easier to plan for it upfront.

Yes there is a small rocker (1-2 cm), part of the design to keep the cuts of the side panels straight, but easy to get rid of, stitch the side panels loosely in the back half, flatten the sole, glue/tape inside and grind the excess plywood on the side panels.

Good luck