Doghouse Alternative
 

Instead of a fiberglass doghouse, my Seacraft had a complete canvas enclosure that would comfortably hold three people. When it got hot, the rear section could be unzipped and stowed. In addition the front eisenglass section could also be unzipped for more ventilation. It was really nice and less tiring to be completely out of the weather on long trips offshore in the cold RI mornings. It should also be less costly than a fibergalss doghouse. Pictures are at http://members.cox.net/asgtech/Seacraft2.jpg and
http://members.cox.net/asgtech/Seacraft3.jpg

Re: Doghouse Alternative
 

Hey Gator-

Would it get as hot as an oven in there? I've run larger downeast boat that had a canvas enclosure on the bridge and I sweat my nads off until I opened the zip-windows! But hey, if it works, why not!

-Hooper

Re: Doghouse Alternative
 

When it gets too hot, simply unzip the rear canvas and front window and you are left with what is essentially a T top.

Re: Doghouse Alternative
 

I know a guide who had something similar made for his Parker. He has a Bimini top that has front, rear, and side curtains. In cold weather he puts the pieces up and runs a small Coleman propane heater that sits on the console. Takes the edge off the cold and there is tons of room to move around inside the enclosure since it is the full width of the boat. As the weather warms he pulls down the curtains--makes for a great 4-season boat.

I've always thought this is the way I would go if I was fishing 365 days a year in an area that had blistering summers and chilly winters like the northeast.

Re: Doghouse Alternative
 

I hate my zipper flapin in the breeze, hard top is the only way to fly. Gull crap would eat threw that in no time. [img]images/icons/wink.gif[/img]

Re: Doghouse Alternative
 

You poor guys. I think if I lived up there I'd just ride enduros or something.