I have a 1998 Tidecraft Spitfire and I am wanting to put in a recessed pan for my foot control. Does anyone have any experience doing this? I can't tell if there is anything under the deck where I want to install this, I don't want to start cutting into the deck only to find out I shouldn't have.

There's a ton if videos detailing the process on YouTube and pan maker's websites. You're going to have to figure out if your chosen location doesn't compromise the boat structure.

Using an oscillating saw  rather than a jigsaw might be a better option cutting thru the deck. If there's any wires run under the area a jigsaw might chew them up