Looking for a river boat

[Lilly001]

I’m looking for a boat for use in the Oconee river near Dublin.
Ive set my loose requirements as.
1. Small enough to handle load/unload by myself.
2. With #1 in mind I’m looking at a 14/42 riveted Jon boat with a 20 hp 4 stroke.
3. I’m going with stick steering from a forward seat.
4. I’ll mount a trolling motor in the future.
Any input would be appreciated.
As additional information I’ve thought of a larger motor/boat but that involves more weight and more cost. I don’t want to go to big as I am not as young as I used to be and I’ve handled larger boats before and I know my limits.
I’ve not fished this river as yet, but I do have a fair history of fishing and running a diversity of boats.
Thanks for any input.

 

[crackerdave]

Sounds like a good boat for that river.
I doubt if there's anything much I can tell you that you don't already know.?
You'll have fun learning the Oconee.

 

[GTMODawg]

Once was the time a 1442 would've seemed about right but it seems small to me now. A 20 HP 4 stroke is about equivalent to a 16-18 2 stroke by weight and performance. It seems like most 1442 are rated about 25 if not 30. With stick steering and foward seating weight won't be an issue but it may take a minute to get on plane....ought to be a servicable rig though.

 

[Lilly001]

I finally settled on a 15’11” x 48” wide Jon boat style w/an old 40 hp Johnson.
Its used but in good condition.
And I’m into it for a low cost so that even if I have to replace the motor I’ll still be way less than a comparable new boat.
I did splurge and put a Terrova riptide with spot lock on it.