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Greetings

I spent my younger years growing up on a 1974 Sourpuss which we still have (currently being cleaned up and re-powered - I'll post pictures ASAP).

We also have the original blue Mills cushions - all four of them - that went on the seats.

The really nice thing about the back rest, short of comfort, is also the ability to use them for rod holders. My dad rigged ours with two rod holders, one on each side. Not only do they give the boat a great look while cruising with poles mounted (like mini outriggers), but, make for a quick pick-up once you stop for a drift. You never need to stand. Just stay seated, bring the boat to a stop and reach for the pole. Standing astern, you can also work two poles off the transom this way.

Transom access was never too much of an issue and we ran an old 20hp Johnson Seahorse with a pull start for years. If you keep the engine well tuned, you can even lean back and pull start without getting up. The center steering of the Sourpuss is also a nice feature, keeping the boat balanced if you're a big guy.

We love our Sourpuss and think it is really the best configuration of the 13' hull designs. The only thing I would change is adding a small mahogany rear locker behind the rear back rest as long as you can figure out a way that did not mess up the lacing for the Mills cushions. I assume this could be achieved the same way the front back rest is attached to steering platform, with cut-outs to get your hands in there and lace the cushion up.


Drop me a line if there are any questions.


Lil' Joe