Poling platform mounted folding top for flats boat

Abstract

This invention provides a top for a boat fitted with an aft-mounted, raised poling platform providing protection from the sun for passengers at the vessel's centrally mounted helm, which a) may be easily attached to vessel's existing poling platform, b) allows unencumbered access all around the vessel's gunwales, b) folds up, down or longitudinally for storage, d) may be used at the vessel's intended operating speed, and e) may easily removed. The top shall be constructed of rigid metal, plastic or composite tubing and covered with a flexible or rigid material for protection from the elements. Other options for this type of boat include centrally mounted T-Top designs which interfere with fishing, umbrella designs which cannot be used at speed, and gunwale mounted rigid or folding which interfere with access to the boat's perimeter such as fishing and ingress/egress.

1 . This invention is unique due to its ability to provide shade for passengers via a frame and canvas covering providing rigidity and convenience of mounting entirely to a flats boat's raised poling platform, with no straps or brackets to perimeter of vessel combined with its unique ability to:
 a) Mount to the vessel's existing, aft-mounted, raised poling platform,   b) Provide unencumbered access to walk around the vessel's perimeter gunwales without interruption of the top or its mounting gear,   c) Fold up, down or longitudinally for storage,   d) Be used at the vessel's intended operating speed,   e) Be removed easily.