multiple resources to meet a multitude
of specialized needs.
“Adding extra rod storage depends
greatly on the boat’s design and exist-
ing space. It’s the same story for tackle
storage,” Brown explains. “For exam-
ple, one of our bestselling products is
a free-standing tackle-storage unit
designed to fi t under leaning posts, in
place of the usual cooler. Customers
can opt for drawers or tackle tray racks,
and tool racks and leader holders can
also be added. It off ers a great combina-
tion of stowage space and organization
to make things easier on the water.”
Brown says Boat Outfi tters has
more than 150 pre-engineered designs
ready to fabricate to order. He suggests
visiting the company’s website ( boat
outfi tters.com) to get a feel for possible
options before calling the customer
service department (866-633-7961).
Their experts can then suggest adjust-
ments to better fi t the desired applica-
tion, such as turning the trays, add-
ing a cover latch on top, expanding
the frame to cover existing holes, and
more.
“We have 15 full-time engineers
with access to 3D models and routers,
the same team that makes original
parts for boatbuilders,” Brown adds.
“The majority of our units are made
with King Starboard, but we also in-
corporate acrylic in some applications
to match the fi nish or gelcoat. For in-
stance, fi ve diff erent shades of white
are available. You can save money if
you use a pre-existing design, however
we also have the capability of making
that dream, fully customized box.”
Jason Greene runs Gulfstream
Services, a marine service company in
Orange Beach, Alabama. The compa-
ny specializes in systems installations
and retrofi ts on larger sport-fi shers,
but Greene has several insightful sug-
gestions for do-it-yourselfers who want
to add more storage with units from
Boat Outfi tters or others.
“I’d start by making a template,” he
says. “A paper cutout or a cardboardbox will allow you to move it around
before cutting. That way you can see
what works and what doesn’t. Check
if it will block access or hinder move-
ment, and those sort of things.
“The next step is knowing what
you’re getting into. Before you cut into
a console or gunwale, fi gure out what’s
behind or below it. Are there wires,
plumbing or insulation you’ll have to
contend with or replace? Make sure
before you start cutting or drilling.”
Careful measurements are critical
for both the replacement component
and the gear it will house. Will the
new rod rack stick out too far and im-
pede transit to the bow? Will the tips
of the rods you place on the rack clear
the T-top? Is there enough room for the
doors of the new tackle-storage unit to
swing fully open? Those are factors
to consider with projects of this type.
Structural integrity is another
important consideration. The rod
rack or storage box needs to fi t snugly
into an existing space, otherwise
r einforcements might be necessary.For reinforcement or to fi ll a void,
Greene says fi berglass or composite
materials off er the most strength with
minimal added weight. Metal shouldn’t
be used because of corrosion issues,
and two-part expanding poly foam is
diffi cult to contain and will eventually
absorb water, so it’s not a good option
either.
Fastening the parts is equally
essential. The strongest connection
would be a fi berglass bond, followed by
through-bolting (if accessible), and fi -
nally self-tapping screws. The chemi-
cal composition of King Starboard will
not adhere to any caulk or 5200 com-
pound, so careful measurements and a
tight seal are again paramount.
“If the parts are built to tight
tolerances and your measurements
are accurate, it’s simply a matter of
setting the new rod rack or storage box
in place, and permanently fastening it,”
Greene explains. “It’s not too diffi cult.
Although major structural changes
might require more expert help.”
Increasing your boat’s rod or
tackle storage is not an unrealistic
modifi cation. With the right planning
and measurements, the only limiting
factor is your budget.RACK ’EM UP: Vertical rod racks take up
little room, and are easy to mount on a
bulkhead or console.34 SALTWATERSPORTSMAN.COM SEPTEMBER 2019
COURTESYBOATO
UTFITTERSFLOAT PLAN/ BOAT TALKcontinued from page 32Boost Your Onboard Arsenal