Looks pretty good for a pond boat. I would be careful in "high seas." I have about $2500 into my boat, though it weighs only 80 lbs. so I can carry it on my roof. Fish to the strengths of such a boat, don't try to be a miniature bass boat, but a well equipped pond/creek/back water master. You can fish comfortably where guys with a big boat are restricted to shore because they can't launch. I'm thinking you won't need the 5 hp much. Leaving it behind will simplify a whole lot.

Thanks for the advice, I really appreciate it.  I just wish it would warm up and thaw out here so I can get on the water. This is one of the coldest winters that I can remember.

That looks like it would be fun to fish out of. I think you should have sprung for the 1197 though. ;D

That looks like it would be fun to fish out of. I think you should have sprung for the 1197 though. ;D

I think I should have too...unfortunately my bank account didn't think so.