OK! That's the kinda response I'd hoped for, thanks! Some scattered thoughts:
Al looks intriguing and I hadn't thought of that, I'll look into it more, but kinda skeptical about the cost and heat. I also feel like screwing electronics and cables and pockets and junk onto aluminum just wouldn't feel right... Plus, I'd have to hire someone else, and I'm a diehard DIYer... but dang, that looks snazzy and simple... I'll see about that, nice idea.
Weight is a constant struggle but my estimates/experience so far don't seem too scary.
Yeah, I'd love to sell the takeoffs. I'll list if I don't die from resin fumes first.
My craftwork skill level is somewhere between drunken-child and blind-donkey, but my friends are classy, capable and crafty and always seem to stop in for a beer right before I really blow it... so I'm optimistic about style points thanks to their realiably good timing.
Yeah, I carry surfboards sideways, just in front of the outboard, but that really sucks for mixed-use trips and I dream of having them up top (with a dozen rods and all the gaffs/brushes/squid crowder...).
I'm off to Mexico for some family boating fun, will update y'all when I finally get started.
Thanks again and happy holidays