My first boat and first build

"If you want something nice, build it yourself." I've wanted a boat most of my life but was never in a position to afford or transport one. But, last summer I decided I couldn't wait any longer and attempted building my first boat. 400 labor hours and countless new woodworking skills later it was done! I am now the proud owner of a 15' Rangeley Cedar Strip Lake boat, and it is a beauty. I ordered the plans from Newfound Woodworks but sourced and milled all of my own materials. The boat sports a cedar hull, ash keel, mahogany seats, ash & keel gunnels, and custom cast bronze oarlocks. I get comments every time I take it out.

The Rangeley rowboat floats like a dream and glides across the water. My go-to rowing spot is a large local reservoir with a calm connecting river. This gives me opportunities to row in choppy open waters, windy streams, and to navigate through countless branches from underwater trees.