I am also considering doing what TomC did for a back platform. Its a very ingenious use of the removable pedestal seats.

I could install this same configuration in the front and use it as a casting platform above my front seat. (I have a 3 seat version of the classic)

 

That IS a neat design. One of my concerns with just having a platform on the front deck is that it will prevent access to at least one of my front hatches, and maybe two. Also, it may make it difficult to access my switch panel. The GREAT thing about the Gladesmen design is that it has a sweep. I envision that I can mount it on each side of the forward hatch and have it sweep forward over the bow. This should allow for hatch and switch panel access, AND get my weight further forward. For me, the further forward my weight the shallower my draft.

Ron

 

You might want to talk to Beavis. He removed the factory Gladesmen platform from his boat a month or two ago.