Hey Slabquest: If you take this advise about a TR-1 I won't have to go in and out of the cabin so often to steer while you reel in fish. As for the fiberglass repairs, I am pretty well versed on the subject and have completed many minor and major repairs. The real question is whether or not you are good with tools and your hands. If so you should check out West Marine for simple GelCoat repair kits...this stuff can work well if you only have scratches. A polisher can be rented if you don't have one. Matching the color is the toughest part. Warm weather helps too if you can't put the boat indoors for the reapir.