Tim, if you are having trouble with the actual construction process with design, function and safety,
just start making some simple pencil sketches of what you would like to see in your boat.
then, cut some cardboard and start mocking up the plan to see how you like it.
Cardboard is cheaper than cutting plywood only to find out it is not what you envisioned.
It is very difficult for anyone with limited woodworking and metalworking experience
and hand tools to get started in the right direction.
If you need a
visual tutorial of how to get started, try viewing some boat mod videos on the
good old
YouTube . . . there are many good videos of how to get started, what tools
and materials to use, and so forth..... this may help you understand the process required
to make your boat like you want it and make it SAFE........
go to: https://www.youtube.com and put "boat casting deck build" in the search box.
we hope you can make a really great project out of your boat
some of the hand tools you must have (more or less).
hammers of different sizes
hand drill with assorted size bits
hack saw
coping saw
jig saw with wood and metal blades
skil saw with carbide teeth
pliers and wrenches
saw horses - milk crates -
cardboard for patterns
whole bunch of stainless screws, nuts and bolts, yada yada yada
and this is by far NOT the entire list (other members will add more)
and above all, you need a
PLAN
and PATIENCE PATIENCE PATIENCE
and - don't get frustrated if things don't fit the first time.
if you bite off more than you can chew - slow down, take a breath and regroup.
Photos of what you are asking questions about help enormously.
good luck !!
.