Hints on set up for new 440 Hornet Trophy

[BrettoM]

Have recently bit the bullet and placed an order for a new 440 Hornet Trophy with 60HP Yamaha 4-stroke donk. I have gone for the side box console and will transfer my 55lb bow mount Minn Kota from my existing boat. Have included accessory kit (nav lights & auto bilge pump) but apart from that the rest is pretty much standard.

I did look at a rod locker but was concerned how much room this might take up (and how effective it might be given available space). Also might look at fixing an after market side pocket. Hence, I would be very interested in any hints from the Hornet owner brigade out there re fitout / setup (any pictures would be fantastic).

I would also be interested in comments on performance from anyone that has a similar setup.

As a result of my acquisition, I now have a near new (31 hours) 395 Explorer Trophy (30hp Yamaha 2 stroke & side box console) surplus to current needs. Anyone interested let me know.

Cheers
Bretto.

[Mike Delisser]

Is it too late to get the rod locker?
Though it really depends on how you like to fish I guess.

I didn't think I'd want one but I wish I had a lockable rodlocker now. Sick of either sticking the rods through the car beside the passenger's feet and in the way all the time, or, stowing them in the boat and having to watch it like a hawk when stopped at a roadhouse or shop. At the camping ground you can rig them, stow them and not worry about them getting pinched as well. I've fished in plenty of boats with rod lockers and the loss of floor space hasn't been an issue, in fact we use them as a seat, bench, step, or just walk over them.
Cheers

[BrettoM]

Thanks Mike I certainly hear what you are saying and I think a rod locker has a lot of benefit. Once I have the boat in my possession will have a closer look and can always order one for installation. No doubt people have made their own which I would be interested in. Cheers Brett.

[Steve B]

Agree with Mike, go the rodlocker if you can brett.

NAGG would be the man to tell you about this boat.....and he will!!!! as he has your planned setup.

I found an awesome 440 on another boat selling site which I am seriously considering taking a trip to NSW to check out. Its well worth checking out...I think it has a rod locker. At least it could give you an idea of the layout etc.

Cheers Steve

[BrettoM]

Thanks Steve. Would welcome some input from NAGG and will attempt to touch base. Will certainly invetigate the rod locker further. Cheers Brett.

[Bear001]

Will try to remember to take photo's of internal's on the uncles new 440 next time I'm near it, but some jobs done to his and my 400 include:-

-got Parsons to put a side pocket on drivers side.
- partition off some of the front main bin so one 1/4 is now lined/insulated for esky, the remaining 3/4 is still long enough for a nice big cod/jew etc
- make the sides of the main bin on front deck into hatches, so you can throw some hats, thongs etc down there too.
- make a shelf/bracket under back hatch where power is, slide Plano box's, keep tools etc
- cig plug on front of the box console - handy for the phone charger, spotlight
- rod holder strips across the front of box console, for rods and pliers, scissors etc
- pvc poly under the trailer for rod storage on trips further than the local dam
- my trailer didnt come with walkway, got hubby to fix that!
-havent done this yet, but red under gunnel LED's


Rod Holder on trailer



You can see in this photo the front main bin divided, and also the sides (where the reel is) made into hatches also. You will be amazed how much you can fit under there!

[BrettoM]

Thanks Cindy some great mods. If you get the chance to get some pics at some stage that would be great (just pm them). Cheers Brett.

[Mike Delisser]

Yeh that photo reminded me, get a gangway on the trailer, I wish I had one on mine.

Cheers

[BrettoM]

yeh Mike definitely going with the gang plank as have on my current trailer and find very handy.

[Steve B]

Tip, get to know a good aluminium welder! Geez its strange seeing a photo of a quintrex hull without a crack in it!! must be ultraflat water down your way Cin!!! Sorry, that was a dig at NAGG,...but he just isnt reading this...yet!

Seriously, Are you getting a livewell?? they are always a good option too. bait, comps, bin, esky!! plenty of uses! plus they generally add to your casting deck, and a rear casting deck....good for mates and more storage...ya cant have enough storage!!

Good luck with it, sound like you will get plenty of enjoyment out of it!!

Cheers Steve

[BrettoM]

Thanks Steve, Yeh comes standard with a rear live bait tank (optional for one up front). Think I will go with just the one at the rear which as you said should prove very handy. Cheers Brett.