RE: rc boat - fishing help
If you're using a Nikko boat and going for Smallies, the boat will be toast! No way will any Nikko handle those fighting brutes. Even those under 12" will give a good fight! If you get into Sunfish (Bluegills, Bream or whatever they call them in different parts of the country) they can tear up your little boat too! I used to fish in tournaments years ago before I got myself back into R/C boats. I know how hard even a small Smallmouth can fight. That boat won't have the power to land it even if it stays afloat.
Also, you might want to check with whoever controls fishing in New York State as it may be illegal to try to do this! The fines could be very high, a lot more than your boat cost.