Ok...this is a very broad question. If I want a 18-20' boat about 56 wide with a 35ish hp motor and trailer, (will double as a bowfishing rig) that is at least .125" hull and mostly open floor plan; what would be the most cost effective solution. I am at least a year away from this project but am beginning my research early.

Shop around with different builders, test run motors to see which one suits your needs

Since you are in Wisconsin you might look at Phowler as one option. Made in Iowa. Most / all other custom boats are made in AR and LA. I have an 1852 Phowler but they have 56" and now 60" wide hulls that would probably be great platforms for a bowfishing rig.

I'm in the same boat as u pun intended minus bowdeck. I'm also in wi. And been looking really hard at phowler n gator trax I'm gonna visit phowler pretty soon I can let u know what I come away with. Like the fact their only hour n half away

yeah... Right now phowler is still my #1 choice (although I'll probably be picking up a cheapo boat to get me through this season) next year when I'm ready to buy big I'm p retty sure phowler it will be.

Ya I keep going back and forth especially with motor not sure with that either. Hopefully when I visit phowler it will make decision easier