Ryan, WELCOME to the World of Tin !!
you will find it most helpful if you can provide
photos of what you have for the Gallery to
help you with your vision.
There are literally hundreds of very good builds
with photos for your kind of boat.
modifying your boat is very personal - you should
fix it the way you like it so it will perform to your tasks.
oh, and the size of your boat also, as well as what
you will be using it for 90% of the time.
what size motor ?? rivers, lakes or bayous ??
and, how many people/pets will be with you on your trips.
.