"Jim Willemin" wrote in message
.131...
"Dan Listermann" wrote in
:

I need a boat for a very shallow river. Paddles, especially with
stiff rubber tips, seem like a good alternative and a riding lawnmower
drive train would give me reduction, reverse and a variety of gears.
Anybody know of some experience?




seems to me you'd almost be better off poling. Lawnmower drivetrains are
kinda heavy, forcing you to either a deepish draft or a huge boat, and
paddles just don't seem like they are all that efficient. On the other
hand, something like a longish jonboat and a nice 8 foot pole should take
you most anywhere you want to go...

I intend to use a 14' johnboat. As for poling, it might be an option, but
the river can get deep too.

Interestingly, the guy down the street has a decrepit John Deere electric
riding mower. Batteries weigh a lot too, but it would be quiet.

Speaking of weight, this is a big concern because the boat will need to be
hauled up a 10' bank.