Bait well mods?

[aaron]

Hi...I'm the new owner of a slightly used 1976 18 footer. Since there is no bilge or bilge pump access while at sea I was going to cut the bailwell out and was concerned about deck integrity.
I'd like to use the existing hatch cover and make it a quick release hatch. Has anyone done this before? Or is there an available existing water tight hatch cover that would do the job?