Erie Headboats for Perch

Anyone been out on the perch boats this year?  I've never been on a headboat that wasn't saltwater, but it might be worth a shot until I can get my own boat for up there.  Would there be less people if we went up on a Friday vs Saturday?  
 
I read all the older posts, mostly full of advice like "use sabiki rigs" and "use braid."  Both of which I agree with.  Saw a lot of "cut them in half, can't have 6 hooks also.  I looked to see if that's an Erie specific thing but didn't find any info.  The PA reg is:
 
RODS, LINES, AND HOOKS – An angler may use a maximum of three lines fished either by rod or hand when fishing for gamefish, baitfish or both. It is unlawful for a person to fish with more than three fishing rods at a time. There is no restriction on the number of hooks used on each fishing line. All rods, lines and hooks shall be under the immediate control of the person using them.
 
But I think they may have changed this from 3 per recently.  I'm not entirely sure I want six sabiki hooks flapping around on a crowded boat regardless.  When we six pack bottom fish I use my own rigs with 4 hooks, that seems like about as many as you can control without tangles.  
 
I'm curious from the guys who have fished the headboats if they have any room for extra rods, or how much room there is to stow bags and such.  
 
Thanks!
 
 

Ah, that might not have been too clear.  The second rod wasn't for fishing, it was definitely backup in case of some failure.  Which spot would you pick if you were first in line?  The trips I've been on people usually fight for the rear of the boat.  I've not noticed that any spots were better than others.

I would choose the rear just because it's more spacious.

Headboats are not in the water yet.

EJ had some work done.Waiting on the Coasties to inspect, Nothing major, just maintenance that comes with a 50 year old boat.