I've thought about leaving it bare metal on the outside...shouldn't it have some kind of protective coating on it though?

The boat is wicked old, any paint job will be an improvement, even a botched rookie effort. I am hoping to learn a thing or two on the boat, its my practice metal really, and apply those lessons to my 63 chevy pickup.

..and yeah, Riley the irony certainly isn't lost on me. Earlier this year I found myself waking up at four in the morning to drive five hours to Cathlamet. On the way I crossed nearly ever river on the OP while the fishing was quite good.

Maybe I just like to drive, eh?

You sound like a painter Dan....explains alot!