I fill the weave with epoxy from my seat forward to the foot pegs about 2 ft. wide. It takes quite a bit of abrasion from particles of sand etc. It also makes it easier to slide in and out. Definately varnish the interior. I had one boat that developed a water spot through the epoxy. Epoxy breaks down over time un protected and water can infiltrate especially if a puddle is left in one spot week after week in storage. Believe it or not, epoxy absorbs water. Also don't leave any wet sponges against the surface in storage. Since I' varnished my interiors I never had any problems.