Noah Lochner · Custom Sitka jet boat
Follow Noah on Instagram: @Bear.Creek.Metalworks
“I will never forget it. One of the best moments of my life.”
Which Sitka kit did you build, and why did you choose it?
I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for anywhere, from any company. So I contacted Sitka to help me bring my boat idea to life. I sketched what I wanted and provided some dimensions. We went back and forth dialing in exactly what I wanted. They provided CAD models of my boat design, and after everything was finalized, they cut and bent the material. I now have a one of a kind full custom jet boat.
What was the build experience like?
This was my first boat build, and I think it turned out amazing. I am very happy with it. I learned so much along the way. The hull went together pretty smoothly. If I ever had a question I couldn’t find the answer to, I’d message Matt from Sitka, and he would be prompt about getting back to me with the answer.
What has the boat been like on the water?
I had a lot of engine troubleshooting prior to the first launch. I had purchased a supercharged 2014 Yamaha SVHO engine that was literally a pile of parts. I’d never seen it run or even known if all the parts were there. I fully rebuilt that engine (my first full engine rebuild). Once the issues got ironed out on that, I got to take the boat for the first cruise. I will never forget it. One of the best moments of my life. Since having the boat completed, I have made tons of great memories with my kids and friends. There’s something to be said for a boat that is built 100% around your intended use. I take great pride in my boat and satisfaction in the fact that I did it all myself.
It’s already pretty fast, but the SVHO pump isn’t really as responsive as I’d like. I’m upgrading to a Southern Jet 216 and a 500 hp LS3 engine in the near future. Completely overkill and unnecessary. But it’s going to be fun as hell, and I’m looking forward to how the boat is going to run after the swap.
What would you tell someone considering a Sitka kit?
Even if you don’t have everything figured out, just get the hull started. You can figure the rest out as you go. If you’re getting a larger boat like the Sportsman, I’d run an actual jet boat pump. Not a ski pump. It’ll work, but you will be happier with a real pump with full articulation and better performance. If you have questions, find other guys on Instagram and shoot them a DM. You can DM me @Bear.Creek.Metalworks, or you can shoot Matt a text.
