I am new to jon boats and am considering buying a 1436. I have a 15 hp merc. I have always owned v-boats and did a mod that i was very happy with but unfortinatly some one else liked it more than me so they decided to take it off my hands. Now due to cost and simplicity and endless options for mods i want a jon. I am just concerned about how stable it will be on the water. I have never been in one. I will be adding a casting deck and a floor in what ever i pick. I have a 4 year old son that i take with me all the time. can any of you give any input as to how much more stable the 1542 is compared to the 1436. I am more concerned about stability than room. 36" to mee seems like it will feel more like a canoe