I agree with most all of whats been said. The only thing I might add is I know you fish out of westport on the Ohio as I have for over 40 years,if you go with a john boat make sure it is a V-hull, a small flat bottom boat won't cut it when the wind kicks up out of the west or the big pleasure boats come callin.Take your time,be aware of your surroundings,and watch out for the other guy.Be safe good luck Chuck