Im in the process of designing a hull and surface drive combination which Ill be building this spring. Im planning on a 3/16 5083 square chine flat bottom mud hull with crown plastics duraslick uhmw on the bottom. Im wanting this hd rig to run some large shallow impoundments where some levees must be winched and from time to time the missouri river and a few large deep lakes with lotsa trees and stumps. kinda multi purpose. Im planning on hanging a small block vanguard making 50+HP on it. Motor choice is result of a trade so my outta pocket wont be much other than mods. Its an 18 that will be modded by ryker racing. would like to run good speeds and be able to carry 2 guys and gear well, yet lighter than the big boats when winching is necessary. Right now im thinkin a 15X44 with a 18-20" hunt deck and 24" sides to be safe. Think a well designed surface drive like i speak of would run 30+ on this hull? any suggestions? advice? dont's, do's? Ive built several small aluminum sneak boats and small alum. frame SDs. 1ST larger boat...thanks!

Shoot man, id go bigger than that to utilize all that hp.

Overall length 17x44 would be my choice. Why all 3/16 and not 1/8 sides?

50hp from an 18?!!! Sounds like time bomb to me.