Dianne and I have long dreamed of visiting Alaska. The pictures we have seen always look surreal or extra vivid--plus I want to catch an 80lb halibut.
My stepson paints cars and has offered to apply the clear coat should we go that route. We get a little sun down here as well.
Thanks again for sharing your pictures and thoughts with the uninitiated.
Wolfgang,
The additional reinforcement seems like a good idea to me. Given my questionable welding skills, I plan on doing the same or something like it myself. Hey, you wouldn't be willing to loan me your welding neighbor for a weekend perhaps

I will stick to the 2+2 plans also, as I am too inexperienced to deviate. Fortunately they look like they fulfill my imagined requirements. I am watching your posts with interest, hoping to learn what I can. So Lead ON!
Seriously, good luck with your project. It looks really well thought out so far.
Rhett