John boat Help/Suggestions ?

[Birddogs1964]

Hey Guys :

I just bought a 14' Aluminum Sears Gametracker John Boat . It came with oars but I would like to put a trolling Motor and other stuff on it for next season . I plan on using it on lakes and Ponds around RI and in and around the EG Cove . I know I can not go very deep with it , but I was wondering what you guys might suggest for Lights , Battery Box , depth finder/ sonar , so I don't hit things , Motors and still have a great season .

I am taking the Boater Safety Course on-line to prepare for the test , and getting it registered and all . Life jackets are a must also I know . Anything else that you could suggest would be great help.
Thanks,
Rebekah

[byf]

I would put a short shaft 36lb thrust minn kota trolling motor, get a good deep cycle battery (optima), pedestal seats, anchor, Hummingbird phirana max fish finder, rod holders, if fishing deep get a cannon portable downrigger. If there is no livewell get a trolling bait bucket, They make clamp on lights that you can get from wal-mart. Check your local laws about life jackets and saftey equipment. You may need a throwable PFD, flares and whistle. This should get you started.

[YungMoney]

yeah he is right.

i have a 14 aluminum boat that i am riggin up for next season too.
i use it alot for crabbing but i do fishing too. just start with the basic stuff to get started and then work your way up the ladder.

what motor do you have on there?

[StarsNstriperS]

And just because you have a motor on the boat, DON'T leave without at least 1 oar in the boat, and a small bailing devise can make the differance between wet and dry feet sometimes...

[BACKBAYJ]

Go with a 2hp gas motor if possible. The trolling motor will suck the life out of the battery and leave you paddeling. You can find 1 on craigslist pretty cheap.