Exciting project for you mate.
If you are going to peel you need a bigger boat than a 3.5. It is really open water and while you won't normally get into trouble there, on the wrong day you will.
I had a 3.7 for years and did a fair bit of bay work but in 15 knots that area is out of bounds.
My preference is a tiller steer as it gives you more room than a side or centre console but they all work.
If you are thinking of using it as a family day tripper, have a look at a bow rider style. It can give you the best of both worlds. Its the opposite of a mullet hair style, party at the front, fishing business at the back.
anyhow its your money and every mm you add to the boat costs.
I hope you get something you like and more importantly ---- use.
PS Welcome to the forum. It's a great place to learn things and ask questions in. I know I have learnt a lot here about boating and fishing over many years.
