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Hello again Jakennedy and with regards to my Dauntless 15, the rear seating arrangement was the buying point for me (actually it was my wife who really fancy'ed it).

The casting deck offers some additional covered storage which comes in handy. My wife and daughter loves this area for sun tanning. It makes for a great staging area when prepping for snorkeling or diving because you can sit on it and your feet with fins can rest on the swim platform.
The same applies when I'm ready to exit the water, I have a place to lay my gear while held to the swim ladder.

For my fishing needs I installed 2 - 90degree flush mount stainless steel rod holders towards the outer corners. I can use them for trolling or rod storage to free my hands.

I contacted Mike Stennett (Nautical Lumber fame) for his input on the possibility of reproducing a casting deck for the Dauntless 15. Yes it will probably be out of teak (I did gather you weren't to keen on the wood idea from your post). It's just an idea for now.

For my needs I am glad my Dauntless came with the casting deck. Hope this helps, see ya...