SOLO Revisited

[makobob]

Questions for OEX
Is there a transducer mount area?
Will the Pro Mar nets fit behing the engine when in the run position, YEP looks like a great LOBSTER platform. Thanks.

[Baja_Traveler]

After visiting OEX Mission Bay and seeing it in person, I can say that the promar nets will not fit behind the engine - unless you devise some sort of special holder for them to mount them vertically - and then raising the outboard cant be done because they would be in the way.

But, there are square acres out front - much more room than a PA14. Some sort of holder can be devised to stack them flat up there easily.

I've found out that the only way to mount a transducer is off a bracket, either mounted using a transom mount, or better, using a ram clamp on the rear grab bar so it can be folded up and out of the way for transport. Another option would be to just use one of the ram arms that go over the side - that could easily be swung up and out of the water while underway. Inside mounting is a no-go because of the foam. It was suggested that it could be possible to carefully carve away a pocket down to the hard hull to mount one, but not advised.

[makobob]

After visiting OEX Mission Bay and seeing it in person, I can say that the promar nets will not fit behind the engine - unless you devise some sort of special holder for them to mount them vertically - and then raising the outboard cant be done because they would be in the way.

But, there are square acres out front - much more room than a PA14. Some sort of holder can be devised to stack them flat up there easily.

I've found out that the only way to mount a transducer is off a bracket, either mounted using a transom mount, or better, using a ram clamp on the rear grab bar so it can be folded up and out of the way for transport. Another option would be to just use one of the ram arms that go over the side - that could easily be swung up and out of the water while underway. Inside mounting is a no-go because of the foam. It was suggested that it could be possible to carefully carve away a pocket down to the hard hull to mount one, but not advised.

Thanks Kai, figured the nets would not fit, transducer mount should not be a problem eigther. These would be nice to boat-a-van from Puertocitos to our place or from there to Punta Final. Day trips or camp along the way. Such mobility. DREAMS.

[Baja_Traveler]

Thanks Kai, figured the nets would not fit, transducer mount should not be a problem eigther. These would be nice to boat-a-van from Puertocitos to our place or from there to Punta Final. Day trips or camp along the way. Such mobility. DREAMS.

Believe me, I've already been looking into possibilities. Pulling up Google Earth and using the ruler it looks like it would be 15 miles fishing south to Punta Final (crossing Gonzaga Bay). 30 mile round trip, easily done and with fuel to spare.

[blazian]

I believe it is not recommended to chip away at the foam because it may not come out smooth (ruining the imaging) but another guy on a forum mentioned that he was going to use a hot metal plate to melt down/smooth any bumpy spots. Not sure if that will work though. Saw it down in OEX (Kerry waas really cool and informative) and its a better option if you like running trolling motors on your pro angler IMHO.

[Iceman]

Inside mounting is a no-go because of the foam. It was suggested that it could be possible to carefully carve away a pocket down to the hard hull to mount one, but not advised. this is the same foam that was in the original Malibu Extreme to provide extra rigidity (as well as the Hobie PA 17) as well as flotation. I have removed sections to install transducers on the MK Extreme, sure their disclaimer is because you need to attempt this carefully to not damage the kayak.

[blazian]

this is the same foam that was in the original Malibu Extreme to provide extra rigidity (as well as the Hobie PA 17) as well as flotation. I have removed sections to install transducers on the MK Extreme, sure their disclaimer is because you need to attempt this carefully to not damage the kayak.

Cool thanks for the info! I really only wanted to mount it on the inside like my Hobie. I really want one of these, just need to sell my PA14 or just lie to my wife and say i'm demoing a new kayak;)

[makobob]

Cool thanks for the info! I really only wanted to mount it on the inside like my Hobie. I really want one of these, just need to sell my PA14 or just lie to my wife and say i'm demoing a new kayak;)

You can always tell her that you have the Pa 14 up for sale.

BTW, I went down to OEX mission beach this morning and pulled the trigger. Asked for the 1st one available, so do I get it before or after my Sentri arrives?????

Guy's these are really well built and have a good finish. Now to figure how I want it rigged. Tight Lines and get YOURS, there is a SHOW SPECIAL.........I doubt you will see these USED for sale unless it is a hardship sale.

[defjack]

Bob what motor are you going to use? I think this boat is going to be just right for you

[alanw]

Fishing the domes or Laguna from Dana Point, this thing is looking good. Are there any good seating options for it?

[SDROB]

[QUOTE=makobob;275773]
(BTW, I went down to OEX mission beach this morning and pulled the trigger. Asked for the 1st one available, so do I get it before or after my Sentri arrives?????)

Whaaaat! You lucky dog..... More than likely I will be getting one in the near future too!(within the next year) Were gonna have a blast!

[makobob]

Fishing the domes or Laguna from Dana Point, this thing is looking good. Are there any good seating options for it?

Have to see about the seating options, Jack the Honda is very tempting because of the warrantee, the Tohatsu seems to be the best price point.

[Baja_Traveler]

Mine will be as plain as possible to start off (other than Marine Mats installed), but if I should decide to put some sort of back support in, I'm going in this direction. Unfortunately - my awesome seat in the PA is 6 inches too wide to fit the hatch, or I'd be putting in mounts for it. Heck, I still might when I can get a boat to see if it will work...
Learning a ton from the Texas Solo Skiff guys, seat is from Jackson Kayak...


http://m2.i.pbase.com/g9/85/360685/2/165012772.m5vDIWUD.jpg

[MrPukaShell]

I can't wait to see it. There looks to be a lot of rigging options. I like the one where the guy put Hobie rails on it. Good for you

[Baja_Traveler]

The OEX demo boat at the Fred Hall shows will have the Hobie rails on it, so you can see it there.

[Iceman]

Swivel boat seat would be perfect.

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/y1fK6LZUibA/maxresdefault.jpg

[Baja_Traveler]

Here's a happy discovery - I was shopping around for a SUP paddle to use on the skiff, finding out the decent ones are well over $200. My exploration lead me to the Bending Branches Angler Optimus paddle extension and stake out pole kit for $120 on Amazon - free shipping, and it went out 2nd day air no less. It just came today, and fits my existing Hobie paddle perfectly. Maybe some use for the 8 foot stake out pole in south bay fishing for bonefish, but I figure it will be good to have later in the year on the Mag Bay trip...

Bending Branches SUP Extension (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B8Q8DV2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

http://m2.i.pbase.com/g9/85/360685/2/165015932.McUB3DFP.jpg

[makobob]

I ordered the Solo Skiff in Sea Foam from OEX Mission Bay about $1950 out the door with the H rails from Hobie. I will add a swivel boat seat from West Marine. The Honda 6 will arrive next Friday from the Dingy Doctor for $1900 out the door. I will transfer the Dragonfly 7 between the Outback, the Solo Skiff and the Gregor.
That makes the skiff almost $4K which is a lot of money, but I feel there will be a lot of BANG for that cash. Besides doing Asuncion, and Mag Bay, Puertocitos to Punta final. There would be the afternoons to Isla San Luis, carry over the "0" gravity chair and dinner makings and spend the night. Life is good I HOPE YOU ARE LIVING YOURS, to the fullest. Tight Lines.

[SDROB]

Awesome news Bob! Congratulations... Can't wait to see you back on the water...

[stevie951]

I ordered the Solo Skiff in Sea Foam from OEX Mission Bay about $1950 out the door with the H rails from Hobie. I will add a swivel boat seat from West Marine. The Honda 6 will arrive next Friday from the Dingy Doctor for $1900 out the door. I will transfer the Dragonfly 7 between the Outback, the Solo Skiff and the Gregor.
That makes the skiff almost $4K which is a lot of money, but I feel there will be a lot of BANG for that cash. Besides doing Asuncion, and Mag Bay, Puertocitos to Punta final. There would be the afternoons to Isla San Luis, carry over the "0" gravity chair and dinner makings and spend the night. Life is good I HOPE YOU ARE LIVING YOURS, to the fullest. Tight Lines.

Not bad not bad, and excellent advice :notworthy: .. Especially considering some spend more than that on their hobies and they are using leg power not Horse power :eek:;)

[Baja_Traveler]

I got mine - Bob's got his - who else is going to commit and join the club to be one of the first on the west coast to fish one? This thing is going to be absolutely awesome down at Bob's place, and the more I read about Mag Bay, the more I realize that this little skiff will be the key to an epic time this christmas.

I can't recommend the Dinghy Doctor enough - these guys are awesome and go out of their way to educate you about everything on the motor - even showing you how to do your own oil changes and encouraging questions. To top it off, they are very competitive on price, being only a few bucks more expensive than the mail-order places - but you'll never get the education I got going mail order. Support the Locals! They sell Honda, Tohatsu, Yamaha and I think Suzuki outboards - all there to look at. Bob and I went Honda for the top rate warranty, better build quality/design and quieter motor, but you can spend 4-500 dollars less and get the highly rated Tohatsu.

http://m6.i.pbase.com/g10/85/360685/2/165053346.MR8EozwT.jpg

[makobob]

They do a pre delivery, check and fill oil level, answer all your questions and start them up and make sure they are running right. They also do warranty repairs and they got these two "out the door" for $1900.00 each. Now I need my hull # and dealer paperwork so I can get it regestered with the State of California. BTW San Diego Bay has some skinny bone fish waters and there is "gold" to be found in the San Diego flood control channel. Not to forget these are skiffs, not sit on tops so local lakes are available too.

WHO is going to commit at the SHOW and get their show discount????? I understand ANDY will be placing an order for "SOLD" Solo Skiffs on the morning of the 6th of March, with expected delivery dates starting about the 20th. YOU do not want to miss the BOAT. Tight Lines.

[blazian]

Bob and Baja, where do you guys plan on mounting your FF? on the H rail? or are you going to try and mount it on the front rect pod thing?

[rossman]

I ordered the Solo Skiff in Sea Foam from OEX Mission Bay about $1950 out the door with the H rails from Hobie. I will add a swivel boat seat from West Marine. The Honda 6 will arrive next Friday from the Dingy Doctor for $1900 out the door. I will transfer the Dragonfly 7 between the Outback, the Solo Skiff and the Gregor.
That makes the skiff almost $4K which is a lot of money, but I feel there will be a lot of BANG for that cash. Besides doing Asuncion, and Mag Bay, Puertocitos to Punta final. There would be the afternoons to Isla San Luis, carry over the "0" gravity chair and dinner makings and spend the night. Life is good I HOPE YOU ARE LIVING YOURS, to the fullest. Tight Lines.

Gonna have a landing pad fore the drone?

[goldenglory18]

I ordered the Solo Skiff in Sea Foam from OEX Mission Bay about $1950 out the door with the H rails from Hobie. I will add a swivel boat seat from West Marine. The Honda 6 will arrive next Friday from the Dingy Doctor for $1900 out the door. I will transfer the Dragonfly 7 between the Outback, the Solo Skiff and the Gregor.
That makes the skiff almost $4K which is a lot of money, but I feel there will be a lot of BANG for that cash. Besides doing Asuncion, and Mag Bay, Puertocitos to Punta final. There would be the afternoons to Isla San Luis, carry over the "0" gravity chair and dinner makings and spend the night. Life is good I HOPE YOU ARE LIVING YOURS, to the fullest. Tight Lines.

Bob is my spirit animal....... :cheers1::you_rock:

[Baja_Traveler]

Bob and Baja, where do you guys plan on mounting your FF? on the H rail? or are you going to try and mount it on the front rect pod thing?

I'm not going to put rails on mine - initially at least. I want to see how I like the bare hull for fishing and maneuvering around first since I do alot of fly fishing. I'm going to put an appropriate size Yak Attack rail on that front pad you are thinking of, and use the same mount from my PA.

[Mahigeer]

Just a reminder; if you use a trailer to bring back these, you cannot use the Sentri card lane at the border.

[makobob]

Just a reminder; if you use a trailer to bring back these, you cannot use the Sentri card lane at the border.

VERY TRUE, but with the rack and the truck bed there should be no problem, as kayaks ARE allowed in the Sentri Lane.
Blazian, Not sure, it could go forward or on the rail. It will depend on how my flyline lays in the skiff as to where it is most out of the way. Right now thinking forward bulkhead.
Rossman, landing pad is a definate possibility up front.
Goldenglory18, "SPIRIT ANIMAL" that's a first, but I like it, a lot.
Baja_Traveler, Kai I am thinking the bare rails will help control line on my sloppy retrieve as I seem to have a poblem using a stripping basket. Really want to copy Mike Scales retrieve stance and style, as they are as sweet as any backcast I've ever watched.

For you FLY FISHERMEN out there, I think these craft will be a ticket to paradise. Stand up stable even for us oldsters which allows us to enjoy our passions well into our SEVENTIES. BTW who's going to be next. Tight Lines.

[makobob]

OEX in Mission Bay is a dealer for Boone Dox which means they will be able to sell and if needed install the Landing Gear with hard wheels OR Wheel Eze sand tires. So for you Solo Skiff guy's sitting on the fence you now have a great way to roll your new Skiff to the water in La Jolla, Baja or where ever you launch. Tight Lines. The Boone Dox guys have installed these on the Solo Skiffs and they work well.

[Mike scales]

Been watching these skiffs for a while, I will own one pronto!
Happy to take you to the city of bones, Bob! :cheers1:

[Mike scales]

What kind of deal will they have at Fred H?

[makobob]

What kind of deal with they have at Fred H?

$1750 and free shipping, They are placing order with factory TODAY. Don't miss out. They will be great at our Island. Tight Lines Mike.

[Baja_Traveler]

Been watching these skiffs for a while, I will own one pronto!
Happy to take you to the city of bones, Bob! :cheers1:

Don't forget me! Actually one of the first places on my list during the 10 hour engine break-in will be out of the J street marina...

[5-20]

Nice!!! I looked at the white one at Fred hall for a while. Definitely intrigued by the boat!!!

[Mike scales]

$1750 and free shipping, They are placing order with factory TODAY. Don't miss out. They will be great at our Island. Tight Lines Mike.
:cheers1:

[Mike scales]

Don't forget me! Actually one of the first places on my list during the 10 hour engine break-in will be out of the J street marina...

:cheers1:

[domtesta27]

I think this will have to replace the Hobie I was gonna buy for next Octobers Mexico trip, keep the paddle yak for the short day trips and get one of these for longer range and getting out to those islands in a flash! :luxhello:

[makobob]

I think this will have to replace the Hobie I was gonna buy for next Octobers Mexico trip, keep the paddle yak for the short day trips and get one of these for longer range and getting out to those islands in a flash! :luxhello:

Under normal Gonzaga conditions I would figure 15-20 minutes out and maybe 30 minutes back to and from Island. About an hour straight run to Punta Final in fair conditions. Will not know for sure until we put them into the Sea of Cortez as to how they will take the Gulf wave/chop conditions. Remember the Pangas were specifically designed for that chop. Only time will tell, but I am betting that they will do fine. Testing will take place in Gonzaga this spring as the Spring Break Trips will give us a chance to test them extensively down there. Yes YOU can test drive mine at Campo Turistico at KM 134, if I am there. Tight Lines.

[makobob]

GOOD NEWS from Tom at Solo Skiffs he just told me that OUR skiffs will leave their facility on the 13th (next MONDAY) and should arrive in So. Cal by the 20th of March. Just in time for the Spring Break Baja trips. HAPPY DAYS are here again! Tight Lines.

[defjack]

Thats good news I cant wait to get down there.

[PapaDave]

$1750 and free shipping, They are placing order with factory TODAY. Don't miss out. They will be great at our Island. Tight Lines Mike.

Not including the engine, right?

[makobob]

Not including the engine, right?

The NEW 6 hp Honda was $1900 out the door, the Tahatsu was about $1500 and someone here has a 3.5 used available. Tight Lines.

[Baja_Traveler]

Well, just got the call - The Solo Skiff delivery will be at OEX next Wednesday the 22nd. I was hoping for this weekend, but it will give me time to make last minute preparations for storage and rigging.
Feeling like a kid waiting for Christmas morning...

[makobob]

Well, just got the call - The Solo Skiff delivery will be at OEX next Wednesday the 22nd. I was hoping for this weekend, but it will give me time to make last minute preparations for storage and rigging.
Feeling like a kid waiting for Christmas morning...

DISNEYLAND...................BAJA here we come. I will be in Gonzaga, cannot pick mine up until the 28th. Bummer Kai I guess you get 1st blood. Can't fish mine until the 2nd of April. That gives pleanty of time to get them dialed in right BEFORE Mag Bay.

[CR Yaker]

Under normal Gonzaga conditions I would figure 15-20 minutes out and maybe 30 minutes back to and from Island. About an hour straight run to Punta Final in fair conditions. Will not know for sure until we put them into the Sea of Cortez as to how they will take the Gulf wave/chop conditions. Remember the Pangas were specifically designed for that chop. Only time will tell, but I am betting that they will do fine. Testing will take place in Gonzaga this spring as the Spring Break Trips will give us a chance to test them extensively down there. Yes YOU can test drive mine at Campo Turistico at KM 134, if I am there. Tight Lines.

I don't know, Bob. Just looking at that Skiff, scares the dickens out of me, if caught on open water with some heavy breeze. Hope you guys use a tether and kill switch. I could just see getting knocked off one of those while standing, maybe even sitting. I would imagine those motors will take a lot of abuse, salt spray. Will be interesting to hear your reports on performance.
Even on my motorized trimaran/TI, I get a bit nervous when the wind picks up, hold on tight, getting knocked around, while crossing open water.

The more I read about this skiff, the more I wouldn't choose it as an option for out front.
A Hobie AI with motor mounted (be it smaller), is going to weigh about the same as that Skiff (larger motor). I think I would rather be caught in the open with a trimaran than that skiff, especially Sea of Cortez. You can still do about 6 to 8 miles an hour on the AI, more comfortable seating, safer, additional powering means with sail and pedals. More storage capacity.

Also as a suggestion for a cart. I would check out the C-Tug Sandtrakz (https://www.c-tug.com/products/sandtrakz/). It would just be at the limit of it's suggested max capacity of 176lbs. But you could break down the cart and take with you on the skiff. Would be nice, because then you can just pull the skiff into the water on the cart, release cart and store, on landing, pull out cart and install before landing. I would keep a tether on the cart.

I also like the air cooled Hondas for starting on the beach before pulling the TI into the water, so when the moment is right I can pull the TI forward and jump in/ gun it, especially for heavier surf. NOTE: I leave the cart in place and remove once past the surf. (Sea of Cortez, a non issue)

[cabojohn]

These Solo Skiffs are pretty neat and have their place.
I can see the fun chasing big fish & exotics. Big bang for the buck.
I can also see dangers of this small craft too!
One could get in serious trouble or in waaaay over ones head very quickly when chit goes south. It's only a matter of time...
Pick your days and be smart when you go out. Set your boat up with ALL THE SAFETY GEAR! The life you save may be your own.
BE SAFE.
$.02

[Baja_Traveler]

These Solo Skiffs are pretty neat and have their place.
I can see the fun chasing big fish & exotics. Big bang for the buck.
I can also see dangers of this small craft too!
One could get in serious trouble or in waaaay over ones head very quickly when chit goes south. It's only a matter of time...
Pick your days and be smart when you go out. Set your boat up with ALL THE SAFETY GEAR! The life you save may be your own.
BE SAFE.
$.02

That's all you need to know right there...

This was designed to be a flats / mangrove boat from the start. Not something you would take the the 9 mile bank - though I won't hesitate to take it to La Jolla or off Point Loma on our typical calm days...

[blazian]

DISNEYLAND...................BAJA here we come. I will be in Gonzaga, cannot pick mine up until the 28th. Bummer Kai I guess you get 1st blood. Can't fish mine until the 2nd of April. That gives pleanty of time to get them dialed in right BEFORE Mag Bay.

Hey Bob, How do you plan on setting up the bait tank? I know your running a 6hp, so the gas can would go where we would usually put the bait tank or do you not plan on using one? I plan on using mine in La Jolla but it looks like a pain right now with the launch closed

[sculpins4bait]

So don't buy this for goin to the 9?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Baja_Traveler]

Don't know what Bob's going to do, but here is my plan. The bait tank is already built in and already has a drain, you just need to finish it. All tubing is below deck except where it goes through the rear bulkhead.

http://m3.i.pbase.com/g10/85/360685/2/165213253.LEGCQXNO.jpg

[blazian]

Thanks Baja Traveler! I was wondering how to do a clean install, thats pretty nice! Let me know what pump you decide to use! How do you plan on rigging your FF, I don't really like how the east coast guys run their transducer all the way to the back instead of inhull mounting. just looks messy

[makobob]

Hey Bob, How do you plan on setting up the bait tank? I know your running a 6hp, so the gas can would go where we would usually put the bait tank or do you not plan on using one? I plan on using mine in La Jolla but it looks like a pain right now with the launch closed

My bait tank will be the forward cooler, plumbed by OEX MB. Room for a few greenies or sardines. I am having the BooneDox Landing Gear installed with the Wheeleze Sand tires, yes it is expensive but it will be useable everywhere.

Sculpins, I will reserve answering for saftey sake YOU must know your and your boats limitations. If we are again allowed to fish deep water for REDS, then for me yes the nine might be doable in the Solo Skiff.

On open water I would go SLOWER, and would travel in pairs(buddy boat), and I do plan to chase peligics should they show locally. All safety equiptment MUST be in good condition and COMMON SENSE is essential, if it turns iffy, turn for home. Like my buddy Rossman there are so many fish and I want my fair share so being safe is important. I will be 69 in 3 months and hope to still be fishing well into my 70's.

Again these boats were designed for the flats, and protected water. Please STAY SAFE MY FRIENDS.

[blazian]

How much are they charging for the bait plumbing install?

[Baja_Traveler]

Thanks Baja Traveler! I was wondering how to do a clean install, thats pretty nice! Let me know what pump you decide to use! How do you plan on rigging your FF, I don't really like how the east coast guys run their transducer all the way to the back instead of inhull mounting. just looks messy

Unfortunately the only way to mount a transducer is the way they are doing it. Cant shoot through hull because of the foam. Now, a brave person who is not afraid to cut holes in their hull could install a bottom hull pocket to flush mount a transducer - and I just might be the guy to do it, but that is a future project.

[makobob]

How much are they charging for the bait plumbing install?

Usually if you bought your yak from them you just pay for the materials and the install is little to no cost. It appears to be part of the service. AND they do great work. I could be wrong on the rigging price, so call them. Tight Lines.

[blazian]

Unfortunately the only way to mount a transducer is the way they are doing it. Cant shoot through hull because of the foam. Now, a brave person who is not afraid to cut holes in their hull could install a bottom hull pocket to flush mount a transducer - and I just might be the guy to do it, but that is a future project.

I will be that guy hehehe. I just need a little pocket cut out. Oex mentioned that another kayak co had same material foam and he was able to inhull mount by cutting.

[blazian]

thanks both you guys for all the info. last question, will it be possible and easy to beach land the solo like a panga? Motor in on power and lift the outboard up?

[makobob]

thanks both you guys for all the info. last question, will it be possible and easy to beach land the solo like a panga? Motor in on power and lift the outboard up?

Blazian, we will both be returning from our camp in Gonzaga around the 8th of April, at that time I will let you know the answer to your beach landing panga style question. We have the perfect beach infront of the place. BTW you are welcome to join us in camp anytime.

Kai, Blazain we might have to start a TEAM SOLO.

[blazian]

Bob, thank you very much for the invite, I am getting more and more interested in going down. Just got approved for Sentri, just wish my truck was 4x4.:( Also if you can make a video of the beach landing! that is probably the most important thing to me, I don't like paddling/landing my PA14 in surf. Hope the Solo can take care of surf landing

[makobob]

How much are they charging for the bait plumbing install?

If you buy your yak from OEX and what you want them to install the rigging is usually FREE unless you have something really involved. For instance I want them to install a forward hatch, bait system, Hobie H rails, and my FishFinder. The hatch, bait system and Hobie rails will be free because I bought from them, the F/F install will cost as I bought it elsewhere. SWEET DEAL.

[Iceman]

Hoping to finish this one tomorrow for customer pick up on Sunday.

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/IMG_7081.JPG

[makobob]

Hoping to finish this one tomorrow for customer pick up on Sunday.

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/IMG_7081.JPG

NICE, clean installation. What size round hatch did you use and did you mount the pump on the transom. Thanks Andy. My bait system will be done by OEX MB after the BooneDox landing gear arrive. These are gonna be a great platform.

[Iceman]

Bob,

That is a 6" deck plate. I wish the channel in the center of keel was a little wider to fit strainer in. Trying to figure out how to mount it in the center opening toward the very front of it, thru hull.

[makobob]

Bob,

That is a 6" deck plate. I wish the channel in the center of keel was a little wider to fit strainer in. Trying to figure out how to mount it in the center opening toward the very front of it, thru hull.

Thanks Andy, please post pictures when you figure it out. I leave for Baja tonight so will not be able to get mine done till I get back in a week. Tight Lines, and sell lot's.

[Iceman]

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/IMG_7096.JPG

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/IMG_7097.JPG

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/IMG_7094.JPG

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/IMG_7095.JPG

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/IMG_7109.JPG

[rossman]

Great job Andy. How do you drain it? Is that PVC stub inside removable? And where does the drained and overflow water go?

[Iceman]

The downspout is removed from the base to drain, there is a built in drainhole that I utilized.

[Iceman]

not sure if the impeller will be sitting below the water line, so the 90 pointing forward will be a pick up tube, will test it in the water tomorrow morning.

[Iceman]

tube can be cut if it sits too full and sloshes out. Any water over the top will just run down the deck and right off the stern.

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/solo.jpg

[makobob]

Very elegant solution Andy, Can you pass the info along to OEX MB and please have them order the parts as I leave for Baja in 12 hours and hopefully everything will be in for my rigging when I return on the 9th. Thank you and your team for this AWESOME design.

[blazian]

Andy, Is there a reason why the pump cant be installed in the bow hatch right in front of the livewell? easier access to the pump?

[Iceman]

I wanted to see how it would be riding, so scanned for images and think you would lose prime under way that far forward for sure.

http://img.youtube.com/vi/Vlo9G4nu18w/mqdefault.jpg

[Iceman]

I put it in the water this morning and tested it. The impeller sits below the water line so the pick up tube was not even needed. Even with the long length of 3/4 inch tubing it ran really well with the 6 volt battery, not a big change in height from impeller to aerator head. I think this will be a ton of fun and hope to have a demo at my disposal some day. :D

http://www.bigwatersedge.com/bwegallery/data/500/IMG_7110.JPG

[blazian]

I see! thanks for the explanation. I will have to get that done as well.:)

[Iceman]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CbMDrn1iTGc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[makobob]

Dropped off my Solo for rigging this morning at OEX MB, you can see it Saturday at the Tournament as it will be there.
They will be installing the bait system, Hobie H-rails, Hook 5 F/F and the BooneDox landing gear. Can't wait to get it back to Baja. After tournament on Saturday I load up and head out to Gonzaga EARLY Sunday morning. Tight Lines.

[Denis_Ruso]

I though this was a kayak forum:paddleersmilie:!





JK.... I'm just jealous because I don't have one.

[rossman]

I though this was a kayak forum:paddleersmilie:!





JK.... I'm just jealous because I don't have one.

From what I saw, they paddled a lot last week. We can let em in.

[makobob]

I though this was a kayak forum:paddleersmilie:!





JK.... I'm just jealous because I don't have one.

I paddled mine a couple hundred yards BEFORE I started the engine. It is not fast to paddle, but it works just fine. First two hours with the motor the wind was blowing 10-15 with that short Baja swell. Stable in the swell below 5 mph, but if you put it on plane you had to watch what you were doing. This will be a great fishing platform specially for the flyfishermen. There were cobble stones covering the beach so no panga style landings for me this trip.

[Baja_Traveler]

I though this was a kayak forum:paddleersmilie:!





JK.... I'm just jealous because I don't have one.

I already sent a message to the webmaster that we will probably need a Solo Skiff subforum so we don't annoy all the paddlers with our Solo banter.

As more of these get sold, the more posts that will be made and it will eventually dilute the kayaking posts...

Yea, I paddled mine ALOT last weekend. Sometimes I'm too smart for my own good and end up doing stupid things. I was convinced Avgas was the dream solution to gummed up carb parts, but the motor just cannot handle the high octane and eventually vapor locks. Then when I drained the tanks and switched out to auto gas, the loose nut behind the wheel managed to switch the lever from external tank to internal and the motor wouldn't run (because the internal tank was empty). Once Bob pointed that out I got it running fine - but it was victory at sea with the wind...

[makobob]

I though this was a kayak forum:paddleersmilie:!





JK.... I'm just jealous because I don't have one.

If you buy it at a kayak shop is it not a yak?
Solo Skiff says it is a yak on STEROIDS. Whatever you call it, fun city it is.
Tight Lines.

[MrPukaShell]

From what I saw, they paddled a lot last week. We can let em in.

Classic

[blazian]

If you buy it at a kayak shop is it not a yak?
Solo Skiff says it is a yak on STEROIDS. Whatever you call it, fun city it is.
Tight Lines.

Bob, so what are your thoughts on the Solo now that you have gone on a Baja run with it?

[Baja_Traveler]

Bob, so what are your thoughts on the Solo now that you have gone on a Baja run with it?

Bob's back in Baja all this week, but I can give you my impressions.

First, I bought this never intending to it replace my PA, but supplement it. What the Solo Skiff is going to allow me to do is explore and access locations that were simply out of reach in the PA. Now I can hit the backside of the Island at Bob's place without a 12 mile round trip paddle. I can even island hop the whole chain, which would make for a 30+ mile round trip - Bob and I are talking about camping on the islands. I also bought it with Mag Bay in mind to be able to hit mangrove channels well out of kayak day trip range.
Second, it gives me lots of options fishing San Diego bay with the ability to go anywhere in it on a whim, or head out to Point Loma kelp - easily skirting the MPA without all the paddling - or heading south to I.B. targeting the halibut grounds.

I've been kayaking since the 70's and would never give it up in favor of a skiff - the stealth of a kayak cannot be beat, which is why kayakers outperform every other private boater in our local kelp.
Bottom line, I love the boat - but I'm keeping the kayak.
http://m3.i.pbase.com/g10/85/360685/2/165313353.JPKa4RLR.jpg

[blazian]

Bob's back in Baja all this week, but I can give you my impressions.

First, I bought this never intending to it replace my PA, but supplement it. What the Solo Skiff is going to allow me to do is explore and access locations that were simply out of reach in the PA. Now I can hit the backside of the Island at Bob's place without a 12 mile round trip paddle. I can even island hop the whole chain, which would make for a 30+ mile round trip - Bob and I are talking about camping on the islands. I also bought it with Mag Bay in mind to be able to hit mangrove channels well out of kayak day trip range.
Second, it gives me lots of options fishing San Diego bay with the ability to go anywhere in it on a whim, or head out to Point Loma kelp - easily skirting the MPA without all the paddling - or heading south to I.B. targeting the halibut grounds.

I've been kayaking since the 70's and would never give it up in favor of a skiff - the stealth of a kayak cannot be beat, which is why kayakers outperform every other private boater in our local kelp.
Bottom line, I love the boat - but I'm keeping the kayak.
http://m3.i.pbase.com/g10/85/360685/2/165313353.JPKa4RLR.jpg

Thanks Kai for the reply. I'm more specifically looking at launching and landing in LJ beach conditions. Like you I have a PA14 and wanted to see if it's easier to launch at LJ. Can you drop the motor and break thru surf or do you have to paddle past surf line first? If you have top paddle is it easier than a PA14? and opposite is it easy to land? can you cruise in under power and lift the motor at the last minute?

[Baja_Traveler]

I have not launched or landed in surf conditions yet - still waiting for those pesky back ordered wheels to come in. The Solo paddles just as well or even easier than a PA. I don't see any problem launching at La Jolla - just push the boat out to knee deep water and go, but I have yet to try it...


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[cris]

That photo is great. Love the colors.