I'm planning to start building my first drift boat later this week. I've been narrowing down what I need for this build, and have finally decided on the hull and construction methods. I have access to a large workspace, but at the end of each day my tools, materials, and work in progress need to fit in a 6' by 20' studio. Based on my current Yankee Tender build, I figure I can build up to 15' LOA with a beam of five feet.
The Yankee Tender has over 100 copper rivets and 24 oak ribs that were individually beveled, cambered, tapered, curved, notched, plugged, sanded and bedded; definitely looking for a simpler method of construction on this one. I hope to make a traditional framed drift boat later this year, but am going with stitch and glue on this one. It needs to be sturdy, yet light enough for two people to drag to the river. I found lots of plans that fit these criteria, and ultimately went with the Clark Fork Drifter from Paul Butler.
Incidentally, Highway 200 on the Clark Fork is one of the prettiest drives I've taken in recent years. My great grandfather was born in Thompson Falls in the 1891. And Randy from Plains was instrumental in bringing my wife and me together. I guess it was meant to be.
I'm using Okoume marine grade plywood; 9 mil for the bottom and 6 mil for the sides. The hull will be coated in epoxy and the exterior 'glassed. Chine seams will be reinforced with thickened epoxy fillets and fiberglass tape. I plan to add a replaceable rub rail at the waterline. I also considered a solid wood stem, but need to think through this process a bit further. The gunwales and other trim will likely be CVG douglas fir or white oak, but that's dependent on local suppliers. Butler has pictures of several recently built Clark Fork Drifters. The white hull/bright interior and the all bright examples are both striking. I guess I have a few weeks before I have to make that call.