Which boat to use??? New to musky fishing

[Chumba]

Ok so I'm bored here on the off season. Figured I would pick some people's brains.

So I am new to musky fishing, been dabbling the last couple years but never caught one. I'm looking to get serious this year. Got a new rod and picked up a reel at the expo.

So anyway my body of water is up north by Mille lacs. I have access to 2 boats. I have a 12 foot aluminum row boat style with a 5 hp motor and trolling motor. It's a little slow but it gets me around. Because of its size it's tough to stand and cast. There is no casting deck or flat bottom. Trolling bigger baits is a litte easier.

The other boat is my fathers Chapparral deck boat. Sure I can stand and cast, but there is no trolling motor, no way to put one on (deck on back for water sports). It's hard to get close to the weed line. But I was thinking that I could probably put a couple rod holders on the back for trolling. Run one straight back deeper and then use a planer board to troll one close to the weed line? Does that sound like a good plan? I know it would still be tough to net the fish on that style of boat, but I feel like it would be good strictly for trolling.

What would you do if those were your current two options?

[NCLaker]

Sounds like your plan is to troll more than anything else. Either one could work, but a few things to consider.

- I assume the Chapparall sits higher above the water than the 12'er, is your net big/deep enought to reach the water while securing it on the deck to unhook your fish.

- If you want to troll slower, your Chapparall may not troll slower than 3+ mph - may not be a big deal if your plan is to troll faster which is common for muskies

- Any plans to cast at all, especially more than one person - it sounds like the Chapparall is the way to go.

- Most importantly how does your father feel about you casting musky baits from his deck boat - one encounter with a musky sized hook will do quite a number on that nice upholstery which might not go over to well with your dad

I personally would prefer the space and comfort of the Chapparell, best way to find out is try both and see what works best for you.