Tips on How to Build a Duck Boat

Duck boats are customized and design for the purpose of duck hunting. And with right planning, you can learn how to build your own boat.

Duck boats are generally small boat which can have a capacity of up to 2 person but it is best used for one person only. It is used in mild and calm waters as it doesn't have the structure to withstand waves.

In building a duck boat you have the option of building the boat completely from scratch or outfitting an existing jon boat or row boat to customize it for duck hunting. These two options are are available and it is completely up to you to choose.

However, if you don;t already have a jon or row boat, I have to say, it is just as easy to build a duck boat from scratch. All that's required is meticulous planning and your willingness to exert the required effert to build a duck boat.

So to go over some of the factors:

BUDGET

Building your own duck boat is way cheaper than buying it. However, you still need a certain amount as an earmark as this will determine the type of materials you will use. This also allows a tight rein on the cash so you don't spend more than what you have to.

MATERIALS

Generally, the most common materials which can be used to build a houseboat are wood, aluminum, polyethylene and fiberglass. Choosing the right materials depends on your priorities and preference. If budget is the main concern here, wood is the cheapest materials to use. You just need to coat it with special paint so it will not easily rot. On the other hand, if durability is high on your list, aluminum and fiberglass are good materials for this purpose. Aluminum is very sturdy but would require some welding skills and fiberglass is not prone to leaks and very durable but budget-wise, it is not exactly the cheapest. Polyethylene is an alternative too but make sure, you haul it right as dragging can cause damage to the material.

DESIGN

Having a good and workable duck boat plan will make the building process easier. You will get an idea of the materials you'll be needing beforehand, the skills required as well as the complete instruction to build a duck boat.

Personally, I have worked with a very good boat plan and I strongly suggest you do the same. It will prevent unnecessary frustration that's usually associated with designing the boat yourself.