Old Cajun boat restoration??

[Nmhuntr]

I am looking at a 1977 Cajun 17.5’ bass boat with an 85hp Johnson Javelin motor. It has not been registered since 2007 and will likely not run. It has been sitting out under a tree in Oklahoma for who knows how long. The guy is asking $450 for it. In your opinion would it be worth it? Does anyone know how much plywood might be used in these boats because I figure it may all be bad. I have a 16’ Crestliner now and want a heavier boat for tougher water. All opinions are welcome.

thanks

[Fishes in trees]

I think that it would be a novel yard ornament.  That being said, $450 is a little steep for a yard ornament.  I'd keep looking.  Is it on a trailer?  Perhaps if you volunteered to move the boat for free.  I don't know.  I'm pretty certain that a 77 Cajun that has been outside for who knows how long would add a certain white trash panache to your lawn.  I'd consider this for myself, however Oklahoma is a long drive and I my lawn already has a few white trash touches.

[Riversidebassin]

To be honest the amount of money you will need to put in the boat to get it water-ready probably will cost just as much as a boat ready to be fished. I may be wrong though, but if I were you I would keep looking. 

[Jig Man]

If you don’t have some pretty serious skills and fairly deep pockets you better stay  away from this project.  It will go into the thousands if you include trailer and motor.  Now if he paid you a grand to haul it off you might have a starting point.

[Nmhuntr]

Thanks for the feedback. I did pass on it. Tooooo much work.