Barra Rig Build Update – Boat, Motor & Trailer Coming Together With Our Hilux Rugged X Build
- AussieJohn
- Jun 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 6
Boat, Motor & Trailer Coming Together
Exciting times here as the barra boat build kicks into gear. The team at Stones Corner Marine, just on the outskirts of Brisbane's CBD, have my 3.98m SeaJay Creek Masta order well underway and I am pushing for delivery asap now.
This hull is the perfect size to slip into tight creeks and shallow estuaries where big barra love to lurk. It’ll also double as a solid crab-catching platform. I opted for a white exterior and a grey fleck interior to help reduce glare from the harsh Queensland sun—a practical choice after years on the water.
The setup includes a wide side deck for stability and storage, and two rear boarding steps for easier access when wading or jumping in.
The engine side of things is looking just as good—from Brisbane Marine, my 30hp Mercury 4-stroke with electric start and power lift has arrived and is ready to bolt on. Reliable, quiet, and fuel-efficient. It’s exactly what I was after for solo or two-up missions.
The Swiftco off-road trailer is waiting on the hull’s delivery so we can get straight into the fit-out. It's built tough to handle dirt roads and long hauls into the Territory or Cape without rattling to bits.
Next on the install list:
Sounder package (still deciding between Garmin and Lowrance)
Minn Kota 12V Spot-Lock electric motor
Navigation lights
Railblaza accessories for rod holders, bait boards and other modular add-ons
I’ll also be fitting a stone guard to the front of the trailer to protect the hull from rock chips and red dirt damage on outback tracks. Last but not least, a heavy-duty boat and motor cover is on the list—to keep the dust out and the gear in good shape between missions.
Can’t wait to get this rig wet and start chasing metre-long barra, jacks, crabs from impoundments at Lake Monduran, to the Daly. Murray cod are on the menu when i head south too.
Hi lux Rugged X Build Update – The Ultimate Hunting & Fishing Rig
Our Hi lux Rugged X build is really shaping up to be one hell of a setup—built tough, loaded with comfort, and ready for serious off-grid hunting and fishing adventures.
With a Camp-King roof-top tent, we’ve got instant shelter wherever we stop. The canopy is fitted out with a Travel Buddy oven for hot meals, a Dometic upright fridge/freezer for easy access, and a reliable ARB chest-style fridge/freezer for extra storage. Cold drinks, fresh meat, and proper meals—no problem, even on extended stays.
Next up is finding the right one and installing it. Looking at the 200Ah lithium battery system, which will run everything smoothly when we’re deep in the bush.
Once that’s in, we’re locked and loaded for the big trip north—chasing barra and adventure through Darwin and the Top End.
This will be one seriously nice, reliable, and comfortable 4WD hunting and fishing rig—a proper home on wheels built for the long haul.
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