I'm thinking about getting an 18ft Kenner or similar boat but I really want rod lockers. Has anyone modified the front hatches to hold 7ft rods? Any idea what it would take or cost? Would it be as simple as cutting holes in the front of the hatches? I guess it would depend on the model if there is a enough room. Thanks.

[img]http://texasfishingforum.com/forums/pics...el_2007_ai_2440[/img]

The Kenner is very similar to the Nautic Star 1810 model. I think the rod lockers there are limited to 6' rods. Before you start cutting, you need to make sure that it will take the rod you are looking for.

You gotta look, there's several designs that have rod lockers, Bass Cat and Champion come to mind first, but....BIG BUT...if you're planning on fishing in saltwater you'll hate the trouble they'll cause trapping salty air and water in them.

I'm on a pretty tight budget trying to find something around $7K. I'm fishing mostly fresh. In the salt I'd probably take them out and put them in the console rod holders while fishing. My biggest concern is camping and traveling. I'd love to lock them in the boat so I don't have to move them at night or while at a pit stop. I'm normally traveling with the family

I'd really like a "Florida" style flats boat. Most have rod storage in the gunnels and I like the large decks and seating. But that kind of boat is hard to find here especially in my price range.

I'm just kicking around ideas still. I'm a typical tightwad I want a lake and bay but on a Jon boat budget...

Believe me I get it.
I'm not broke but I am cheap.