Finally starting CC Restoration

[Johnsonboat]

I hear you about kneeling to get bait.
Insulating is a great idea although most days I reach for a beer more than bait.
I'm also putting a leaning post and I can fit a livewell there and use the space under the deck for cooler that may work out good. That bulkhead I'm installing is going to seal that compartment. Then extending pvc pipe drain from fwd box to aft bilge. Then install a fitting to a mascerator to pump out the compartment.
Or- I could seal the compartment, keep the drain from fwd box and use mascerator to empty both, then put a plug or valve to close off fwd box when I don't want it to drain.
Thanks for your ideas and experiences.