Aluminum boats are excellent boats for fishing and active rest. They may seem like a beginner's boat and are often called hobby boats, but that's not entirely true.
Some aluminum boats can meet the highest demands. Many of them even have a number of advantages compared to others. Prices can be the cheapest (affordable) or vary, depending on the class of the boat, to exorbitant amounts.
If you are looking for a boat to go fishing often, then an aluminum boat will be good option. When choosing an aluminum boat, you should pay attention to its main characteristics.
- Length (from 3 to 8 m)
- Width (meters)
- Weight, kg)
- Load capacity (kg)
- Deadrise (measured in degrees)
- Transom height (mm)
- Hull draft (m)
- Seaworthiness (wave height)
- Recommended motor power (from 10 to 300 hp)
- Passenger capacity (from 2 to 8 people)
- Housing materials: various aluminum alloys.
Advantage of aluminum boats
You can find out the advantages of aluminum boats with a motor and oars for fishing by reading our article. In order to take a breather from the bustle of the city and gather strength, lovers of active recreation go outside the city to ponds for fishing.
- A significant advantage of these boats is that the material from which they are made, namely aluminum, is very light in weight. Mostly aluminum boats are made for two passengers. The weight of such an aluminum boat does not exceed 20 kg, which means that transporting it to the fishing spot will not be difficult. There is no need to purchase power trailers. Even one person can easily cope with this task. It is also very important that in order to set an aluminum boat in motion, you do not need a powerful motor at all. This is quite possible for engines with a much smaller volume; they are cheaper in price and consume less fuel, and this, although not a big one, is still a saving.
- Aluminum boats for fishing can have a rather original surface configuration, with smooth lines. This is facilitated by aluminum-based technological alloys, which can very easily take complex shapes.
- Another significant advantage of aluminum boats is their fundamental strength. When going fishing on an aluminum boat, do not be afraid to moor to a rocky or rocky shore. There is also no need to constantly monitor the proximity of a sandy or rocky bottom. Weak shocks against rocks are not capable of causing much damage to the boat; the most that can happen is minor indentations on the hull.
- I would also like to note that due to the fact that aluminum almost instantly combines with oxygen from air or water, an oxide is formed, which is characterized by high surface strength. This means that aluminum boats do not deteriorate when in contact with water. And with proper care of an aluminum boat, it can serve its owner for many years. Also, various dyes adhere very well to aluminum, this makes it possible to get an absolutely unique painting of your boat.
- Quite a lot important point is that today manufacturers have learned to make boats that are not capable of sinking. This happens due to the fact that foam plastic is laid between two layers of skin, as a result of which the boat can remain afloat under any conditions.
So, an aluminum boat, what advantages does it have over its competitors? And there are actually a lot of these advantages. From a school chemistry course, everyone should remember that aluminum has extremely low weight, and this gives an undeniable advantage to products made from this metal. For example, specially manufactured aluminum fishing boats for two people they have a total weight of no more than 18-20 kg, which makes their transportation quite simple, since in this case there is no need to talk about purchasing a special power trailer. It is quite possible to transport such a boat alone.
Due to the lightness of aluminum and boats made from this metal, there is another advantage - you do not need to use it to propel such a craft, and therefore, you will spend less money on this integral component and your overall purchase will be cheaper. Moreover, you will also save on fuel, since engines with lower power have lower fuel consumption.
In the production of aluminum boats for fishing, alloys based on this metal can easily be shaped into the required shape. Moreover, this is achieved quite simply with both hot and cold stamping. This production technique allows us to produce products that will have a non-standard surface configuration and smooth lines. When combining parts with each other, welding and other methods are used.
Modern technologies make it possible to achieve truly perfect seams that are not noticeable and do not disturb the appearance.
The next most important quality of aluminum boats is their strength. Moving along the surface of the water on such a craft, you can safely moor to a rocky or rocky shore, to piers and cemented shores.
Moreover, during the fishing process you do not need to constantly worry about a sandy or rocky bottom. Boats made of aluminum and alloys containing it are not afraid of minor impacts on rocky surfaces.
The maximum harm in this case is the small dents that you may notice on the body.
The next important point is the ability of aluminum to withstand the effects of water and the environment. Thanks to its ability to almost instantly combine with oxygen from water or air and form an oxide, which is characterized by ultra-high surface strength, aluminum allows you to preserve products almost forever - they do not collapse under the influence of water. In this case, everything depends on the owner and his handling of the boat.
And the last property of aluminum products that is worth highlighting is the ability to finish them with all kinds of dyes. This feature makes it possible to apply absolutely exclusive designs to the surface. To do this, you need paint in 3-4 colors, a compressor and a spray gun, with which you will turn your own fishing boat into something original and unlike others.
Note that today manufacturers make virtually unsinkable aluminum boats for fishing, the prices of which can vary significantly depending on size, characteristics, and so on. Unsinkability is achieved through the use of foam plastic in production, installed between the layers of cladding. This solution allows the boat to remain afloat even when filled to the brim with water.
Manufacturers of aluminum boats:
Volzhanka, Kazanka, Crimea, Neman, Ob, Dnepr, Voronezh, Progress, Vyatka, Winboat, Tactics, Whaleboat, Smartliner.
The presented companies are among the most popular in Russia, but there are still many foreign companies that provide even higher characteristics of aluminum boats and boats. These include the following companies: Lund, GOevil, LAKER, Malutka, RiverCraft, RusBoat and others.
DIY aluminum boat
One of the most suitable materials for the manufacture of an aluminum boat - this is a solid rolled sheet of aluminum or duralumin. For a medium-sized boat, you can take a sheet with dimensions: 3000 mm by 20000 mm and a thickness of 2-3 mm.
But often, when making boats independently, the dimensions finished design are calculated based on existing material.
The height of the sides must be at least 300 mm, and the length of the front flange - 600 mm, so the design will fully correspond to the angle of inclination to the water area - 35 degrees. To begin with, it is better to use thick cardboard for cutting and make a sketch on it.
Due to the fact that the boat does not have a stem or keel, it is practically considered flat-bottomed, which will help you sail into a backwater, into a quiet place. Also, such a boat’s sides will converge onto a trapezoidal transom.
The advantages of such a boat include:
- durability;
- strength;
- ease.
Due to its lightness and low weight, the boat can easily be moved from body of water to body of water and brought ashore.
When storing the boat, it does not take up much space, it does not require constant special maintenance or a fenced-off place for wintering; you can simply move the boat to the side and cover it with a canopy.
On the water, the immediate advantage of an aluminum boat is its buoyancy or large volume of water displacement, as well as the ease of oaring. After the layout has been made on cardboard, it must be transferred to a sheet of metal and you can begin cutting, but this must be done in several steps .
It is also worth leaving a few “mm” allowance without cutting through the material completely.
All work on connecting parts must be carried out with special aluminum rivets with a diameter of at least 3 mm. Previously, for this it was necessary to make special holes in the stern, in a checkerboard pattern.
Before riveting elements, it is necessary to coat all mating surfaces with thick paint.
Due to self-made boat, it will be possible to fish on it together, as well as install boxes for bait, lures and rods in it.
The transom of an aluminum boat can be cut rectangular rather than shaped to save time and effort. As a result, the boat will have slightly slanted orths, which will give it even more volume.
Also, on the sides of the boat it is necessary to install gunwales made of spruce boards as mooring beams.
I was born and raised on Far East Russia in the city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. On a peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Okhotsk, a region of rivers and lakes.
The main hobby of the population of Kamchatka is fishing and hunting. The work of most residents is also related to the sea: sailors, fishermen, border guards, military personnel.
In 1998, with my friend Alexander Bondarenko, we decided to build our first boat from plywood, based on one of the projects of the Modelist-Constructor magazine.
In those days it was difficult to get good materials(fiberglass, plywood, epoxy resin, etc.), we used what we could find, but, despite all the difficulties, the boat turned out well, the construction process took 3 months. In the summer of the same year, the ship was launched and was used throughout the season. The big disadvantage of boats made of plywood covered with fiberglass is: high weight, problems with repair and maintenance good looking of the vessel (the paint and plastic on the hull were severely torn off during the season). In the late 90s, used aluminum fishing boats from America and Canada began to appear in Kamchatka. This got me thinking, why can’t something like this be built, it’s not the gods who burn the pots. I had no experience in building aluminum ships or boat projects.
The Internet helped, at the beginning of 2000 I ordered an Atlantic Dory project in the USA from the Glen-L company. I had no welding experience, I received a lot of information by studying special literature and consulting with specialists, and most importantly, practice and more practice. The boat, built with a friend Alexander, was launched in 2001. We used Dory for salmon fishing, the vessel has proven itself well, the disadvantage is large size 7.5m had a flat bottom and poor handling. We built 2 more dories at the request of fishermen; the boats were used on the rivers of Kamchatka during the fishing season.
For the open sea and coastal areas in 2002, he developed and built the first boat with trimaran lines, used information, articles, theoretical drawings from the KiYa magazine and other sources, the boat performed well on the water, especially in waves, but the first example in terms of design was very far from perfect. 2 more boats were built, where childhood illnesses were corrected and the design was changed.
In 2005, he moved to central Russia, to the suburbs of Voronezh, and is working in a new place welding work, I cook various hardware made of aluminum, sometimes fishermen ask to build a boat, the latest interesting project is a swamp boat, the prototype was
Now I’m making a skiff boat for myself, no big boat for fishing in the surrounding waters.
I want to tell you how my hobby, building aluminum boats, came about.
I was born and raised in the Far East of Russia in the city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. On a peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Okhotsk, a region of rivers and lakes.
The main hobby of the population of Kamchatka is fishing and hunting. The work of most residents is also related to the sea: sailors, fishermen, border guards, military personnel.
In 1998, with my friend Alexander Bondarenko, we decided to build our first boat from plywood, based on one of the projects of the Modelist-Constructor magazine.
In those days it was difficult to get good materials (fiberglass, plywood, epoxy resin, etc.), we used what we could find, but, despite all the difficulties, the boat turned out good, the construction process took 3 months. In the summer of the same year, the ship was launched and was used throughout the season. The big disadvantage of boats made of plywood covered with fiberglass is: high weight, problems with repairs and maintaining the good appearance of the vessel (the paint and plastic on the hull were severely torn over the season). In the late 90s, used aluminum fishing boats from America and Canada began to appear in Kamchatka. This got me thinking, why can’t something like this be built, it’s not the gods who burn the pots. I had no experience in building aluminum ships or boat projects.
The Internet helped, at the beginning of 2000 I ordered an Atlantic Dory project in the USA from the Glen-L company. I had no welding experience, I received a lot of information by studying special literature and consulting with specialists, and most importantly, practice and more practice. The boat, built with a friend Alexander, was launched in 2001. We used the dory for salmon fishing, the vessel performed well, the disadvantage of its large size of 7.5 m was that it had a flat bottom and insufficient controllability. We built 2 more dories at the request of fishermen; the boats were used on the rivers of Kamchatka during the fishing season.
For the open sea and coastal areas in 2002, he developed and built the first boat with trimaran lines, used information, articles, theoretical drawings from the KiYa magazine and other sources, the boat performed well on the water, especially in waves, but the first example in terms of design was very far from perfect. 2 more boats were built, where childhood illnesses were corrected and the design was changed.
In 2005, I moved to central Russia in the suburbs of Voronezh, in my new place I do welding work, cook various metal products from aluminum, sometimes fishermen ask to build a boat, the last interesting project swamp boat, the prototype was
Now I’m making a skiff boat for myself, not a big boat for fishing in the surrounding waters.
source
shkola-v.blogspot.com
General information
One of the most common models of boats made from fiberglass material is the WaveRunner-285 boat. It is considered a full-fledged planing vessel, which is quite suitable for walking on the sea or tourism. The ship, which is characterized by the fact that it has an increased freeboard, as well as a fairly large width, is also convenient in that its bow can accommodate a comfortable salon with an adjacent toilet and galley. In the stern of the boat, you can make a double cabin with your own hands, the location of which will be located strictly under the cockpit. The unit control department will be located above the engine compartment, and it will also be protected from wind and water splashes by inclined glass.
Boat power
When equipping a boat with your own hands, you need to consider which engine will be installed on it later. This particular model is designed to install either one or two motors. However, it is important to consider here that the total power for the normal functioning of the facility should be in the range from 250 to 500 hp. With. They must also have a direct reverse gearbox, which will allow them to reach a speed of 15-30 knots, which in km/h ranges from 28 to 56. In addition, the vessel may also have propulsion systems or additional outboard motors.
It is worth noting that building a boat with your own hands saves from 50 to 75% of material resources from the amount that would have been spent if the unit had been purchased at a shipyard and not built independently. It is also worth noting that the given technology for building a small vessel is not the last word in shipbuilding. This is just a practice-tested, established method that will allow you to construct an acceptable fiberglass boat with your own hands.
Beginning of work
Starting the construction of a small fiberglass boat is no different from building from any other material. The first step is to lay out the theoretical frames, as well as the contour of the stem, on a plywood panel or on a sheet of cardboard. The breakdown should be carried out in life size these details.
It is also important to note that the board or plaza on which the layout is made must have a width corresponding to the width of the boat, plus 300 mm. The height of this object must be 400 mm higher than the expected height of the housing. Experts recommend first creating boat drawings on which all necessary details with dimensions indicated. This is done in order to avoid mistakes during the manufacturing process.
Another one important detail- the upper ends of all frames must be extended to the height shown as horizontal line, on the plaza. It is perpendicular to the DP line and is called the Shergel line.
Assembling patterns
When carrying out work on plasma marking of patterns, it is very important to take into account such factors as the thickness of the slats and the thickness sheet metal, which will be used as lining of the inner surface of the matrix. In other words, when drawing up a drawing of a boat and subsequent assembly, it is necessary to set aside from the theoretical line of each of the frames the distance inward that will correspond to the total thickness of the slats and sheet metal. It is this marking option that should be used when cutting out patterns and their further assembly.
The individual parts of the transverse patterns must be connected using materials such as linings and brackets made from pieces of plywood with a thickness of 8 to 10 mm. A similar indicator is suitable for a boat whose length will be around 10 m. It is best to glue the linings to the patterns, and then additionally screw them with screws or nail them.
How to make a boat: plating and matrix
Next, before assembling the existing patterns into a matrix, it is necessary to attend to the creation of the outer cladding of the structure. In order to create the most comfortable conditions when working with external cladding boats, it is necessary to provide a part that ensures the tilt of the matrix on both sides of the ship.
If you do everything correctly, you will be able to work while standing on the floor next to the workpieces. The matrix itself, in any case, must have a very strong and rigid structure. This is necessary so that during the construction of the unit the shape of its body is not distorted.
How to make a boat with a strong matrix? Large structures are assembled from longitudinal beams, which will represent the horizontal base of the boat. Inside the resulting frame, it is necessary to install walkways that will facilitate the work of gluing the body. After the longitudinal beams, which are the base of the matrix, have been installed, the future position of all the patterns is marked on them, and a steel wire is stretched along the beams, which will be a string indicating the vessel’s DP.
Installation of patterns
It is recommended to start the process of installing blanks from the midship frame. Before securely fastening this element, it is very important to make sure that the pattern is strictly vertical and perpendicular to the DP. It is attached to the beams that serve as the base. After all the other workpieces have been mounted, the stand located in the transom DP has been installed, and all the elements have been braced with braces to avoid any movement, you can proceed to the stage of covering the inner surface of the matrix using longitudinal slats.
To perform this task, material with a thickness of 12 to 15 mm and a width of 50 mm is most often used. To equip the bottom of the boat, it is better to use slats with the same thickness, but greater width - up to 100 mm.
Aluminum water boat
Low cost starting materials, as well as lathes, led to the fact that many owners decided to independently manufacture certain parts and elements from metal. It is believed that the production of aluminum boats is one of the the most complex tasks, which is practically impossible, but at the factory they are created without difficulty, since they have special tools for this. However, this is not so.
The most difficult thing in making this type of boat yourself is making its pattern from metal. This term refers to the marking of exactly how it is necessary to cut out the necessary parts from aluminum.
When making such a unit from metal, the whole process comes down to assembling a kind of construction set. This is true if the blanks are not cut out yourself, since this still requires a lot of skill and high-precision equipment, but a computerized model of the boat is purchased. Yes, the cost of such a model will also be quite high, but if you compare it with buying a ready-made vessel, you will see significant savings.
High-speed small craft
Another option for a vessel that you can make yourself is a speedboat. A rather important part in the construction of this type of unit is the choice of engine and its location. This part can be placed in the cockpit of the vessel, and the part that will protrude can be covered with a hood.
This definition of the place was not chosen by chance. It will expand the range of devices suitable for installation. You can use engines from cars such as Zhiguli or Volga. In addition to these models, it is quite possible to install a diesel engine from a tractor. However, this is only possible if additional hot air removal is provided. You can use a fake chimney for this.
Air-cooled engines can also be installed. Since a high-speed boat must have good stability when moving quickly through the water, it is recommended to place this part closer to the center of gravity of the entire vessel. The greater weight of the engine will give greater stability to the entire structure.
www.syl.ru
Materials for making a boat
The Internet is teeming with a variety of creative ideas that can easily be brought to life. By entering any query into a search engine, a person quickly receives the answer he is interested in.
And having decided to build a means of floating on the water, you will easily find a lot of ideas that, if desired, can be brought to life. So, what can you make a boat from? It can be made from:
- Tree.
- Plywood.
- Bottles.
- Aluminum.
- Rubbers.
Each listed material is difficult to use, because the density is different, and therefore the quality is different. But it is worth remembering that each material has its pros and cons. Therefore, the choice of material directly depends on the service life of the product:
- For example, the most durable material is a tree. It is more suitable for long-term swimming on the water and can last for seven years. It is worth remembering that you need to take a durable tree. It is best to use oak. So there is a high probability of high-quality production.
- Plywood is no longer as reliable as wood. This will be determined in its subtlety. But, if you don’t go fishing very often and want to save money on manufacturing, then plywood is an excellent choice.
- As for bottles, many people ask a very logical question: how to make a boat out of bottles? Many will think that this is not real at all. But despite all the doubts, the result will be amazing. It will be easy. But in the case of manufacturing, you need to make every effort to ensure that the result of your work does not fall apart while climbing onto the water.
- Aluminum is also an excellent material. It's reliable and can last long time. But production from such material will take a lot of time and effort. Therefore, many people prefer a wooden base.
The last material is very common. After all, all purchased swimming equipment is made from rubber. It floats well and can withstand a lot of weight.
But you need to be careful during production, because one puncture will ruin it. Time, effort, money will be wasted. The process requires complete concentration and maximum attention.
Wooden base
For many centuries, people have used wood as a means of transportation on the water surface. At first it was simple structures in the form of small platforms, later a boat appeared, the production of which took a long time.
After all, it must be of high quality for the safe transportation of cargo. Nowadays, if desired, anyone can reproduce the remedy at home.
Simple step by step plan will teach you how to make a wooden boat. It is necessary to prepare long, wide boards, which will serve as the sides of the shuttle. They must be dry, smooth, and free of cracks.
After preparing the base material, it needs to be processed for easy fastening. The edges of the boards must be cut evenly so that when assembled, the boards touch each other tightly. Next, we begin to make a vehicle. You need to start from the bow. We cut out an additional board that will hold the sides in the middle.
After finishing work on the sides, you need to build seats. The process is very simple, so it won't take much time. Wooden boards, must be nailed to the sides. After this, the bottom should be installed. It may be iron.
Cut from a sheet of iron the required form, thanks a lot hammered nails attach to wooden base. The boat is almost ready. All that remains is to attach the iron chain, which will serve as the basis for the anchor.
Making a boat from plywood
The construction plan for how to make a boat from plywood will be slightly different from the previous one. How to make a boat with your own hands, drawings and descriptions will become reliable assistant during the process, full information drawings can be found on the Internet.
Take a large sheet of plywood and draw the outlines of the product on it, relying only on the drawings. Then cut it out. The layout of the product is ready, all that remains is to secure everything correctly. The work needs to start from the sides in exactly the same way.
If you want to attach a motor, the tailgate must be strengthened. After fastening the bolts well, attach the bottom. You need to use glue and resin. You shouldn’t regret applying the listed products, but you shouldn’t overdo it either. After applying them, you need to wait until they dry completely. Here is the boat almost ready, you just need to paint it at your discretion.
Rubber dinghy
The answer to the question: how to make a boat with your own hands, drawings will be the first answer. Thanks to them, the product will turn out to be the correct shape. Therefore, the first thing you should do is draw drawings, calculating the smallest details.
After this, we cut out a boat of the specified dimensions from a sheet of plywood. Additionally, we will need boards for reliable fastening bottom, tarpaulin for covering. These materials must be connected to each other using the same glue and resin. Be sure to give the glue time to set, otherwise the structure will turn out flimsy. And your efforts will be wasted.
After this, cover the product with a tarpaulin, tightly attaching it to the boards. Remember, the design must be wide. This way you will get a homemade boat. It will not be very similar to the rubber one that is sold, but it will provide you with softness and comfort.
For a better understanding of the manufacturing process, you can see how to make PVC boat with your own hands. There on clear example will explain the principle of operation. After all, reading and seeing an example, repeating actions, are completely different things.
Airboat
Having seen photographs on the Internet of how a boat is made from bottles, many are surprised, asking a natural question: how to make a homemade boat from plastic bottles or how long can it be used?
The manufacturing principle is so simple that even a ten-year-old child can construct it. For production you will need a lot of plastic bottles. They must be in perfect condition, without cracks or holes, so as not to allow water to pass through.
The quantity depends on the desired size of the vessel. Also, the bottles must have lids to prevent water from entering inside and making them heavier. The plastic material must be laid out in the shape of a vessel, carefully secured together with glue.
Here is the swimming aid ready. It is very cheap to produce, but not very high quality. There is a high probability that if you catch on a branch you can pierce the bottle, thus damaging the structure.
Aluminum ship
Having learned the principle of production of previous boats, it is not difficult to guess how to make an aluminum boat. The only difference is in the material from which the vessel will be made. In terms of strength, it can easily be placed in second place after wood.
And on condition quality work, it can last a lifetime.
When doing this, remember that you need to attach the materials efficiently and firmly. Because life depends on the quality of work.
DIY anchor
The anchor is the main element of a floating craft. After all, it helps to stay in one place for a long time, not allowing the current to carry the ship away. In order to attach an anchor, you need to drill a hole in the back of the boat, stretching an iron chain, which will become the basis for the anchor.
Next you need to attach the load itself. This must be big piece iron that can stop the boat. It will need to be attached to the chain by welding. Ten minutes - the anchor is ready. This is the easiest way to make a boat anchor with your own hands.
Conclusion
Some simple ways will help you learn how to make a boat with your own hands from various materials. Even if the attempt is not successful, the experience of making a vessel yourself will definitely be remembered.
But if the boat turns out to be good, then it will certainly be useful both for walks with the family along the river and for fishing. Therefore, do not miss the opportunity to try to make a boat with your own hands.
goldrybak.ru
Boats made of aluminum have become widespread in almost all countries. They can easily compete with products made from polymer materials. And all because aluminum is quite durable. This material is practically indestructible. But an aluminum boat also has a drawback - it is heavy. Another disadvantage is the complexity of repair work.
Aluminum alloys
In shipbuilding, it is not pure aluminum that is used, but alloys based on it. In total, there are 2 types of alloys:
deformable;
foundries
The first type of aluminum alloy is mainly used in shipbuilding. In order for the material to fully meet the requirements, magnesium, copper or manganese is added to its alloy. These substances help give aluminum required characteristics. During the manufacturing process of the alloy, it can have the following properties: soft, clad, cold-worked and semi-workhardened.
Aluminum Sheets for Boat Making
The production of rolled aluminum is not a simple job that requires special technology. The result is sheets up to 6 mm thick. When making a boat no more than 2 meters long, it is best to take sheets whose thickness is 2 mm. For the bottom, 3 mm aluminum is used.
If you want to make a boat with a unique external design, then you can purchase corrugated sheets. It is more often used to decorate horizontal surfaces. This type material ensures the safety of the boat and its passengers.
Aluminum boat manufacturing
All aluminum boats have some peculiarity - they need to be used in fresh water. When sailing in salty waters, the boat loses stability, which threatens to capsize. As a result, people and things will simply end up at sea. To avoid this, you need to swim in salt water close to the shore.
Since aluminum is susceptible to corrosion, products made from it must be used in plain water, otherwise their service life will not be long. However, there may not be problems with corrosion if you carry out proper care. To do this, you need to store the boat in a dry place and be sure to wipe its surface to remove moisture. After each swim, it must be rinsed with water and wiped dry.
Preference is given to making boats with a flat bottom. This uniform helps you move without problems in shallow water, which will make it possible to go fishing and return home with your catch.
If you create a boat mainly for fishing, then you need to think through all the smallest details. It can be made without an engine, or you can provide a place for the engine in advance and, if necessary, attach it to the rear. You can also make a special compartment for caught fish. An aluminum boat has many advantages, however, the main ones are: low weight, strength, and ease of transportation.
Making a boat
To accomplish this, you need to acquire the following materials and tools:
1. Duralumin sheets.
2. Metal scissors.
3. Drill.
4. Edged board.
First you need to create correct drawing, on which all dimensions will be written and even the smallest details will be taken into account. It is necessary to ensure that the finished boat is as stable as possible, small, but at the same time roomy and maneuverable. When drawing up a drawing, you can take any boat that at least slightly resembles the option that you would like to get in the end.
All aluminum boats must have sides at least 350 mm high. It is important to take care of the rigidity of the bottom and sides. To do this, install seats that are transverse elements.
Once the drawing is ready, you can make a scale model of the finished vessel. Cardboard is used for this. All parts must be cut and glued. As soon as the layout is ready, you can immediately notice all the design flaws in the future. Therefore, they need to be eliminated during the design process.
Next, the markings are transferred to duralumin sheets. In order to cut out the necessary parts, you need to use metal scissors. Once the parts are cut out, you need to adjust them, bend them in the right places.
Next, you need to drill holes that must fully correspond to those shown in the drawing. You need to insert rivets into them. As in the plan, the holes should be staggered at a distance of 15 between rows. In this case, each subsequent one should be at a distance of 20 mm from the previous one. Where there are joints, it is necessary to overlap the sheets, and it is important to treat the surface with thick paint. It will provide tightness, which contributes to the durability of the structure. Once the paint has dried, you need to rivet the body.
Now we need to move on to the manufacture and installation of seats. Pine wood is used for this edged board, which must be pre-treated with a moisture-resistant liquid. Next, we move on to covering the surface of the aluminum boat with primer and then paint. After they dry, you can go swimming.
It is an integral attribute among a variety of fishing equipment. This is both a vehicle and a kind of friend, assistant. In this regard, when purchasing a boat, you need to pay attention to its characteristics, so as not to reproach yourself for incorrect choice. An option such as an aluminum boat fully meets the requirements and desires of fishermen with extensive experience.
Advantages of aluminum boats
Aluminum construction, due to the addition of such important alloying elements as manganese and magnesium, has increased strength, hardness and corrosion resistance.
Lightness and practicality are the main distinguishing features of an aluminum boat from one made of steel, while having the same strength. This is beneficial for aluminum as the best material in the manufacture of planing watercraft. To increase the acceleration rate of a planing boat, it is necessary to reduce its mass. Consequently, if the speed changes without resorting to an increase in engine power, the performance of the craft increases significantly and fuel consumption decreases. It turns out that the operating costs of an aluminum boat are insignificant compared to other boats.
Aluminum resists quite well mechanical damage, in particular, impact compared to steel or fiberglass. A property called toughness allows aluminum to stretch rather than immediately tear during impact, which is three times stronger than steel.
An aluminum boat has a fairly long service life (more than 20 years), and Maintenance does not require special effort, because the design does not need interior painting housing to provide additional protection against corrosion.
Disadvantages of aluminum boats
The main trouble is that it is very noisy due to the running engine, and the body itself serves as a kind of resonator for this sound. But this drawback can also be corrected by installing rubber plates on the transom of the watercraft that absorb sound volume. 
There are certain inconveniences during transportation, because in order to deliver an aluminum structure to the water, you will need the services of a car and a special trailer with a hydraulic mechanism. As for a medium-sized boat, one person can handle it.
A garage is quite suitable for assembly. Materials for the production of a boat are selected depending on the assembly method. For example, to create a body with rivets, duralumin is used, and in the case of argon welding, it is necessary to use aluminum-magnesium alloys. It is also advisable to have equipment for bending parts. In addition, you will need assembly tools, sealant, paint, etc.
The easiest type of boat to reproduce is the johnboat. These have fewer curves and details.
To make a boat, you first need to assemble a model from plywood, then make aluminum parts using patterns, drill holes (if using a riveted system), assemble, then coat the joints with sealant and, if necessary, paint.
Video about the boat “Romance”:
Video about making a homemade aluminum boat:
Aluminum boats are designed for fishing and recreation. The structures are light, durable, strong, repairable, with low fuel consumption during transportation. Aluminum watercraft come in different modifications in terms of weight, dimensions, and shape. Popular models are from manufacturers Winbot, Vyatka, Tactics, Smartliner, Lund, LAKER, etc.
Boats made of aluminum and magnesium alloys are distinguished by the following technical and design characteristics:
- light weight;
- durability;
- strength, corrosion resistance;
- affordable price;
- maintainability, etc.
Structures can be transported by car to hard-to-reach areas. The small weight of the craft allows you to install low-power engines and save fuel.
Aluminum alloy has anti-corrosion properties, therefore it does not deform as a result of mechanical damage and does not oxidize from exposure to water.
Aluminum is durable and strong. Aluminum boats have a solid bottom, which ensures comfortable movement on the water.
A large selection of designs allows you to choose a watercraft with optimal dimensions. The average length of products is 3−8 m, permissible engine power is 300 hp.
Aluminum boat repair on a budget. Holes are covered metal sheets with rubber, plastic inserts or sealed by welding. Aluminum is not damaged by water.
The design of metal watercraft is stable on water, the risk of mechanical deformation is reduced in comparison with analogues made of polyvinyl chloride. If necessary, the boat is supplemented with special elements to strengthen the frame and safely transport passengers in large bodies of water. 
Aluminum surfaces can be easily painted with a brush or airbrush. The products are comfortable, multifunctional, and can be used both without a motor and with a powerful motor.
Types of metal boats
According to the manufacturing method, products are divided into:
- riveted;
- all-metal (welded).
Riveted models are easy to transport and repair, because not required welding machine. However, it is necessary to take into account their low tightness, as well as the need to cover the surface protective compounds. In winter, watercraft are stored indoors, sheltered from precipitation.
Welded products are strong, durable, resistant to deformation as a result of mechanical influences. The models are heavy and require repairs. complex work for dismantling elements.
Watercraft are divided into:
- single-console;
- two-console.
Single-console products are small-sized, compact, and optimal for fishing in calm rivers and lakes. The length reaches 4.55 m.
Double-console boats made of aluminum are more spacious, their length exceeds 5 m. The watercraft are suitable for installing powerful motors.
Boats are divided into:- oars;
- motor;
- universal.
Engines can be stationary or outboard.
Models with stationary engines are more spacious and designed for long trips.
Outboard engines are installed in compact watercraft and are suitable for versatile use in calm rivers.
Design Features
The design of the aluminum vessel is intended for freshwater bodies of water. It is not recommended to use the watercraft on the open sea, because... it may turn over.
Defining characteristics for a boat: length (up to 10 m), width (from 1.5 m), weight (from 150 kg). The average load capacity is 150−500 kg, the side height is about 30−60 cm. The buoyancy of the vessel is ensured by built-in foam elements (on the sides of the boat), which prevent excessive immersion.
The structures are available as solid or collapsible.
Solid watercraft are sealed, stable in water bodies, durable, but difficult to transport.
Collapsible aluminum boats are easy to move and transform, they are compact. However, it is necessary to take into account the reduced tightness and reduced shelf life of the structure.
By constructive solution boats are divided into:
- flat-bottomed;
- keel;
- with a V-shaped bottom and rounded edges.
Models with a flat bottom are simple, lightweight, and budget-friendly; controlled using oars or a low-power motor. Flat-bottomed boats are used for fishing in shallow waters.
Handles well in rivers fast current, stable on waves. Models are equipped with a motor and are complemented by windshields and buoyancy blocks.
Models with a V-shaped bottom and rounded contours are comfortable, maneuverable, and can be used when passing through deep reservoirs and in difficult weather conditions. The watercraft are stable on the water.
Additional accessories
During operation, aluminum vessels can be equipped, depending on the dimensions and purpose, with additional accessories.
In the list of devices:
- oars (for boats without a motor);
- steering;
- oarlocks;
- anchor eye;
- guard rope;
- water trap;
- repair kit, etc.
Boats are often supplemented with oars (solid or folding for ease of transportation). The length of the elements varies in accordance with the dimensions of the craft. Compact vessels are complemented by short oars with plastic inserts. Oars for large boats are often solid, non-separable. These products are durable, resistant to mechanical damage, but make it difficult to transport the boat to the reservoir.
Aluminum vessels of a high price category are equipped with steering.
Oarlocks allow you to comfortably steer the boat using 2 oars. Products are made from metal alloys, durable rubber or plastic.
The anchor eye is located in the bow block of the boat, allowing you to protect the side parts from damage by a rope or rope. The eye is designed for reliable fixation of the rope.
The safety rope is designed for fastening objects inside the vessel, and, if necessary, performs the tasks of a rescue device.
The water deflector prevents waves from entering the oars rowing boats. The element is made in the form of a visor, which is installed around the perimeter of the vessel.
The mandatory equipment of the boat must include a repair kit, which includes rivets, means for repairing holes, waterproof compounds, patches, and sealants.
Is it possible to make a boat with your own hands?
If necessary, you can make an aluminum vessel yourself. It is recommended to carry out work in a garage block. The choice of tools and materials is affected by the assembly method.
For a model created using the rivet method, duralumin is required. For models constructed by welding, a combination of aluminum and magnesium alloys is required.
To make a collapsible aluminum vessel "Johnboat" you will need the following tools:
- drill with attachments for metal;
- sheet bending machine;
- hammer;
- metal cutting device;
- welding machine, etc.
Necessary materials:
- aluminum sheets;
- fastenings (rivets, staples);
- sealant;
- dye.
After cutting the elements with a metal (iron) tool, holes are drilled according to the patterns. The structure is assembled and fastened in stages. The joints are coated with sealant. After the compounds have dried, the boat is painted in several layers of special water-repellent paint.
Best models
The best top models:
- Marine;
- Malutka;
- "Romance";
- Surface Drive;
- Smartliner 110;
- Finval 440;
- Starecraft, etc.
Marine boats are lightweight and can be easily transported on the roof of a car. The design has a keeled hull, which ensures good glide through the water. The boat is equipped with a medium-power engine, optimal for boating and fishing.
The Malutka brand model is non-separable, with a rigid structure, the connections are made using rivets. The body is durable, the model moves quickly, is durable, and stable. The vessel has a passenger capacity of 3-4 people, a carrying capacity of up to 150 kg. The watercraft is easy to move when assembled.
The Romantika boat is equipped with longitudinal corners on the outer surface of the bottom to increase stability and resistance to water flows in large waves. The vessel is 2.6 m long, with a maximum beam of 1.1 m, a transom height of 400 mm, and a displacement of 260 kg. The design refers to aluminum boats with a motor with low power (5 hp), most often controlled by oars. Easily transported to the reservoir.
Models of the Surface Drive series from Go-Devil (USA) are equipped with a reinforced transom. The vessel is 4.8 m long, 1.2 m wide, and has a capacity of 500 kg. The improved transom design allows you to navigate through muddy bodies of water. The reinforced bottom is made of 5086 aluminum alloy. The floor surface is treated with a special anti-slip material. The passenger capacity of the vessel is 5 people.
Not the last in the rating of aluminum boats for fishing is the Smartliner 110 model, designed for use in rivers and coastal seas in different weather conditions. The vessel's hull is made of reinforced aluminum. The deck structure is complemented by durable plastic. The model is compact, accommodates 3 passengers, reaches 3.5 m in length and 1.3 m in width. The vessel’s carrying capacity is 350 kg, the thickness of the sides and bottom is 1.5 mm, the transom is 3 mm. Permitted engine power reaches 15 hp. The design has passed European certification (CE).
The Finval 440 model is included in the list of light boats, suitable for large bodies of water, and is equipped with a 20-50 hp engine. The boat's carrying capacity is 400 kg, the thickness of the sides is 2 mm, the bottom is 3 mm. The vessel has medium dimensions, reaching more than 4 m in length and 1.7 m in width. The elements of the vessel are connected by welding. The design is equipped with a two-level deck, steering, fuel filter, switch box and 12V instrument connection.
The Starecraft brand vessel is durable, stable, with a large carrying capacity, designed for fast-moving rivers. Alloy 5052N34 was used to create the design. The model is durable, versatile, and water-resistant.
The UMS-600 Cruiser model is large-sized, the length of the vessel reaches 6.5 m, width - 2.3 m, height of the sides - 0.7 m. The carrying capacity of the vessel is 640 kg, passenger capacity - 8 people. The vessel is equipped with a 170 hp engine, the maximum speed of the boat is 90 km/h. The body is made of aluminum alloys of the AMg5m brand. The model is equipped with railing equipment, electrical panel, fuel tank, steering, stern ladder, repair kit.
The best aluminum fishing boat UMS - 450 DC AL accommodates up to 4 passengers and has a load capacity of 400 kg. The model from the American manufacturer is intended for different types fishing, equipped with specialized equipment. The hull structure is durable, the bottom is reinforced. The speed of the vessel reaches 80 km/h.
Russian aluminum boats from the following manufacturers are perfect for fishing:
- Volzhanka;
- Kazanka;
- Crimea;
- Neman;
- Dnieper;
- Vyatka, etc.
Also on the market for boats made of aluminum and magnesium alloys are foreign manufacturers (Lund, LAKER, RusBoat, etc.).