Video · DIY Builds & Mods
Backyard Fiberglass Skiff Build Part 3: Gel Coat, Deck and Outboard
In part 3 of my backyard fiberglass skiff build I gel coat the hull, add decking and hardware, and set up a used Yamaha outboard.
What’s in this video
This is part 3 of the flats skiff I built in my backyard with minimal tools. I start by modifying the hull, then do surface prep and gel coat. After that I refine the interior and move on to decking and hardware, including deck hatches and EVA teak.
Then it’s the outboard: a used 1997 Yamaha 25hp 2-stroke with a 15 inch short shaft, on an On The Fly jack plate. I wire up the electrical and bilge, tune the engine and check performance, and finish with some custom mounts. I’m building this skiff for flats fishing my area and island camping trips in the Florida Gulf.
Key moments
- 0:00 Project introduction
- 1:39 Modifying the hull
- 4:09 Surface preparation
- 7:27 Gel coat application
- 9:39 Refining the interior
- 14:23 Decking and hardware
- 16:14 Outboard engine setup
- 19:00 Electrical and bilge
- 21:40 Engine tuning and performance
- 24:39 Custom mounts
Quick takeaways
- My layup used general purpose polyester resin, 1208 biaxial fiberglass and chop strand mat from FGCI.
- I used Douglas fir marine plywood from Lowes.
- The motor is a used 1997 Yamaha 25hp 2-stroke with a 15 inch short shaft on a manual jack plate.
- I added a fuel water separator to the fuel setup.
Gear from this video
Affiliate links: some of these links earn KayakDIY a commission at no extra cost to you. Links and codes are from the original video description, so prices and availability may have changed. Affiliate disclosure.
- FGCI Main Site)
- FGCI Amazon Site)
- Deck Hatches
- EVA Teak
- On The Fly Jack Plates
- PWC Doctor Versiplug #1501
Backyard Fiberglass Boat Build Part 2: New Deck on My Old Skiff
Backyard Fiberglass Boat Build Part 1: Buying and Testing a Skiff
Hobie PA14 Second Seat, Homemade Kayak Trailer and Home Tour