Florida Sportsman's Project Dream Boat Season 1 Episode 7 Custom Classics, Mako & Hewes Bonefisher
- May 19, 2016
- 22 min
Florida Sportsman's Project Dream Boat season 1 episode 7, titled "Custom Classics, Mako & Hewes Bonefisher," showcases two classic boat projects that are sure to pique the interest of any boating enthusiast. The episode features the stories of two individuals who take on the challenge of restoring their beloved boats to their former glory.
The first project on display is a Mako, a classic fishing boat that was first manufactured in the 1960s. The owners of the boat, a father and son team, purchased it with the intention of restoring it to its original condition. However, as they begin to dismantle the boat, they realize that the project is much more involved than they initially anticipated. The boat had been previously restored, but some of the work was not done to the highest standards. The duo disassemble every part of the boat, restoring or replacing anything that's not up to their standards.
The father and son team are not trying to change anything about the boat; they want to keep the original style and design as much as possible. They send off the original seats to have new vinyl made and work to source other parts to complete the restoration. The team brings the boat back to life with a loving touch and attention to detail that borders on obsessive.
The second project focuses on a Hewes Bonefisher, another classic fishing boat that was popular in the 1970s. The boat has changed hands multiple times over the years and has seen its fair share of wear and tear. The current owner is passionate about restoring it to its original condition with modern upgrades. He wants to keep the boat's original charm while adding modern amenities to enhance the overall boating experience.
The owner enlisted the help of a company specializing in custom fiberglass work to assist with the restoration. They work to repair any structural damage to the boat and make the necessary aesthetic upgrades. The boat is fitted with modern electronics, including new GPS and fish finders, while not taking away from its original charm.
Throughout the episode, viewers will see the trials and tribulations that come with restoring a classic boat. They witness the persistence and passion necessary to complete such a demanding task. The restoration projects also serve as a tribute to the history of classic American boating. Florida Sportsman's Project Dream Boat showcases how passion and hard work can bring even the most rundown vessels back to their original glory and beyond.