To T-top or not...that is the question
 

Sorry for asking all the questions guys, but you are the experts.
I light tackle fish, especially fly, out of my 18 and while I would like the comfort of getting out of the Florida sun as well as be able to see my electronics screens easier, I don't like the idea of a large structure trying to grab hold of my backcast [img]/forum/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img]
I also love the lines of the Seacraft without a top.

Also, are there alternatives to a full T-top besides the Manta (which doesn't bode well when running)?
I have thought about some sort of small top, like on a buggy, that would fit into the rod holders on the leaning post and be removable.

What do you guys think?

Re: To T-top or not...that is the question
 

Key West style small top. It will be custom made anyway.

Re: To T-top or not...that is the question
 

T-tops are a great option, but If you like the looks without one, then go with a 4 bow Sumbrella bimini top that lets you get it out of the way when fishing. My 18SF had one. I have access to the local marine surplus shop that has them for $300 new.

Re: To T-top or not...that is the question
 

Snook, not a big fan of a bimini top but I may be forced to go that way if I can't come up with something else.

Reel, what makes the top a Key West? Is it the smaller front (I know it's smaller port to starboard but is it also bow to stern) ?

One other thing, I'd have to make it removable or collapsable so it can fit under my boat port.

Re: To T-top or not...that is the question
 

That's what I have learned them to be......narrower front, wider back, but not as wide as a regular top. All that means less shade and still a place to snag a fly line but probably the answer. That Fla sun can be brutal.

Re: To T-top or not...that is the question
 

Re: To T-top or not...that is the question
 

Mark had a custom T-Top made for his SeaCraft here in Stuart, just enough shade for the captain & one. Coupled with custom fly rod holders, we fished many days (some in extreme sea conditions mind you) without ever snagging the top on a back cast, even from amidships. Even I maintained the coil and I suck at fly fishing :eek:

I just visited the local dermatologist on Monday. My years in the Florida sun have taken their toll. I DO NOT like the scalpel :mad:

BTW: If your going to spring for the bucks, get one made your way!!

http://www.classicseacraft.com/marks20/medium/0011.jpg http://www.classicseacraft.com/marks20/medium/0018.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1...k/flychuck.jpg

Re: To T-top or not...that is the question
 

That folding top is the way I'd have to go McGill to clear my boatport but did you see the calender on that website :cool:

Chuck, I'm freinds with the owner of BT's Welding in Titusville so it would be custom built to offer the least amount of obstruction to my less than ideal backcasts :rolleyes:
Having spent 55 years in the Florida sun myself, I know the importance of some protection from it.

From your responses it looks like I should go for it and get a custom Key West style folding top.
I knew this was going to be expensive :D

Re: To T-top or not...that is the question
 

I have had many a conversations with Bobby Birdsall(West Palm Beach "Birdsall Marine") Those hinged/folding type tops are very hard to secure. They like too Shake, Rattle & Break :mad:

Re: To T-top or not...that is the question
 

Murphy's law ,Anything that fold's will eventualy fold in the wrong direction. There is alot of pressure on the t-top from the wind
Waytogo