Yoli here, having recently tottered in after a dove hunt and post-hunt toddy (or three...or four.)
Dearest River and/or C.Willi (By the way, may I see your willi? I've seen River's and it's adorable!)
60??? As I stated, The Beast will approach 80 with only me, half-full fuel tanks, and a light "tournament load" of tackle and snacks on board. As also stated I don't do that save on rare occasions.
Life jacket? I never, ever, start the motor without having a PFD on AND the kill switch attached to self. In cold weather I wear standard vest (warmer!) and in warm weather I wear a Mustang auto-inflating one; Much more comfy and if I hit the water...POOF!...it inflates as if by magic.
Shelter? Well, if the boat's on the trailer I can seek refuge under it or put on the custom-fitted waterproof boat cover and cower beneath that. And...the long rod boxes on either side of the casting deck will accommodate one Yoli apiece if the rods or other gear are removed...WITH the lid closed! They will accept rods over 7' in length and I'm nowhere near that. I have to lie on my side but it's rather comfy if a bit claustrophobic.
Wait! Why not, when the Beast is on the trailer, just hop into the tow vehicle and stretch out?
I do like canoes and 'yaks, however, and enjoy fishing from one point to the other on the Guadalupe and other Texiz rivers. In fact, I plan to purchase a Hobie Mirage kayak, the one that you PEDAL or paddle and steer with a little tiller lever. Have you seen them? After I post this I'll find a link and return to update with same.
Yoli
Who wishes to make it clear that she was only privileged to see River's eePeeP (Darn that Dyslexia!) via the internet rather than in person:(.
Delighted just the same to have found that in the original FUBG's "files".
UPDATE! Here's the Hobie Mirage. I've test-pedaled one and it's FAST and fun.
http://www.hobiecat.com/fishing/models_ ... erman.html