Spring 2018

lock blocks, the rower’s seat, and adjustable rower’s seat frame are
constructed of White Oak. Unlike other manufacturers who simply
draw the side panels together into a point and then use a stem cap to
protect the bow, I use a solid Ash post which is inset for attaching the
side panels flush to the post. Not only does this provide a structurally
sound bow, it also provides a solid surface for attaching the bow eye.
Ash, White Oak and Mahogany have a very long history in wooden
sailing ships and serve equally well in a drift boat.
Q) What are some of the biggest challenges when building a drift boat from
wood versus fiberglass?
Occasionally a piece of wood will have a flaw below the surface that
reveals itself after the start of the milling process and these are to
be expected on occasion. The solution is to mill a new piece. Wood
has very few challenges that can’t be overcome. It can be cut and
shaped with basic tools, steam bent to provide flowing lines, and easily
repaired. It’s quiet on the water, has a natural insulating factor, and
catches admiring glances and comments from everyone who sees it. It
is a wonderful material to work with and when using the appropriate
species and with a little care, will last a very long time.
Q) Do you test float each craft before delivery?
Every completed boat is loaded onto its size specific trailer and taken
to the river for “trials.” I’m not only getting a feel for the boat in the
water, I also want to confirm that each boat sits well on its trailer and
that the loaded trailer pulls easily at all speeds. Once in the water I’m
listening, looking and feeling how everything is responding to the water
and my oar strokes. Each boat is floated several times to ensure that
the product is perfect. My wife jokes that this is not the time for deep
conversations because I’m usually in a world of my own.
MONTANA FLYFISHING