50 Boat Options for ‘24
With COVID lockdowns and supply chain issues disappearing in the rear view mirror, the good news is that there are plenty boats available at local dealers for those coastal anglers who are either stepping up or getting into the game for the first time.
While we’re entering the New Year with elevated interest and inflation rates, many financial pundits predict smoother sailing as we get into the 2024 calendar year, so that’s a plus. Since there seem to be plenty of boats to be had at the moment, let’s take a closer look at some of 2024’s saltwater debutants.
Grady-White
One of the more impressive debutants introduced at this past Fort Lauderdale Boat Show was Grady’s new Canyon 386 bluewater sportfisher. To call it just a center console would be an injustice to this newbie’s true multi-mission capabilities as equal parts canyon sportfisher, weekend getaway SUV, family beach buggy and dockside entertainment platform. The Grady-White design team took the best of the former Canyon 376 and made it even better for this year’s Canyon 386, also borrowing technology from Grady’s flagship 456.
The new Canyon 386 features a 36-foot, 6-inch length supported by an extra wide 13-foot, 2-inch beam, making it the largest of any center console in its size class. That added square footage equates to a roomier cockpit and console interior, as well as an expansive helm and a lean bar full of conveniences. This extra acreage is immediately evident at the helm, where four luxurious adjustable deluxe contoured helm chairs with flip-up bolsters and fold-down arm and footrests are strategically positioned behind the wraparound windshield, providing all day comfort and protection from the elements. The captain sits centered on the sleek black helm with a full view of the large flush mount electronics area and easy access to push button controls. An integrated T-top encompasses the roomy helm area and all four seats and comes complete with standard SureShade, see-through hatch, storage net, radio box, six rod holders, LED spreader and recessed lights. Down below, a large, enclosed head area with sink, china head and stand-up shower provides privacy for weekend getaways. The galley is well-appointed with a stainless-steel sink, microwave, a large refrigerator drawer and a rich cherry dinette table, which converts into a spacious double berth. Other features include air conditioning, natural lighting, lots of storage, storage for eight rods and a standard 24-inch TV.
Cobia
New for 2024, the Cobia 240 CC seamlessly meshes tournament capability, family comfort and style into an attractive center console. Built on a proven hull with excellent fuel efficiency and open water running performance, the intelligent deck layout maximizes form and function. A wide open cockpit with level floor from bow to stern, twin 33-gallon in-floor fishboxes, a 28-gallon livewell and a standard aft tackle station are designed to meet even the most hardcore angler’s needs. When the fishing is done and it’s time to kick back with friends and family, the 240 CC is equally adept for a sunset cruise or casual day at your favorite sandbar or beachside getaway. Passengers and guests will appreciate the big boat amenities like the forward-entry walk-down head, hideaway rear bench seat with backrest and the upgrade cushion packages that include double-bolstered helm seats and forward-facing backrests for the bow. It’s hard to find a better looking and more feature-packed 24-footer on the water, especially at the Cobia’s attractive price point.
The Cobia 240 CC measures 23 feet, 7 inches LOA, with an overwide 8-foot, 10-inch beam. She sports a 21-degree aft deadrise deep-vee running bottom with a max rating of 300 horsepower on the transom, so you can fit her out with either twin Yamaha F150s or a single F300. Either way, the 128-gallon fuel tank should take you a long way between fill-ups. Notable standards on the Cobia 240 CC include waterproof Deutsch electrical connectors; 24-quart insulated cooler under the forward console seat; S/S boarding ladder; freshwater sink in the console and freshwater shower at the transom; a total of seven pull-up cleats and four flush-mount rod holders in the gunwales and more.
Pursuit
New for the 2024 model year is Pursuit’s latest addition to the Offshore line-up, the OS 405. Although the name intimates that this hull’s overall length is 40 feet, she measures in at 43 feet overall counting her outboard platforms situated in each transom corner, supported by a wide 13-foot beam. A standard Seakeeper 6 gyroscopic stabilizer helps keep things on an even keel, whether you are fishing offshore in 3- to 5-foot seas or at a dockside cocktail party with a dozen friends and family leaning over to one side to watch a nighttime fireworks display. Another impressive standard feature on this new Pursuit is her 4kw horsepower bow thruster with separate Group 31 AGM Battery and Joystick Controller at the helm. This Florida girl comes standard with a Zipwake Series S Interceptor trim control system offeing fully automatic pitch and roll control when underway. Since one of her tasks is to take anglers offshore, the OS 405 will do it with real style, comfort and grace. Standard fishing features include both a 50-gallon livewell and a 75-gallon refrigeration fishbox tucked into the transom cap; an additional 89 gallons of capacity split between the port and starboard in-floor fishboxes; full cockpit breathable coaming bolsters with high density foam and much more. The cabin features a standup head, galley and overnight accommodations.
Powered by a trio of Yamaha F450 XTO V8 outboards, factory tests put her top speed at 55.1 mph at 6,000 rpm spinning 21-inch pitch XTO props, with an optimum cruising speed of 28.5 mph at 3,500 revs, drinking 38.9 gph for a fuel efficiency of 0.73 mpg. Operating at this throttle setting will tweak roughly 317 miles out of the 482-gallon tank with a 10% reserve. pursuitboats.com
Contender
Fresh off her re-introduction last year’s Lauderdale show, Contender’s popular 24S is back in production. I was able to do a detailed video review of her plusses and possibilities that’s available at TheFisherman.com. Contender sport series boats are rigged for your specific needs. Custom options for diving, fishing and on the water fun make each Contender unique. The 24S is a great day tripping boat with plenty of range offered from the 130-gallon fuel capacity, depending if you opt for a single or twins. Factory tests show that she gets over 2.5 mpg at 30 mph when powered with a single Yamaha F300!
Some of this reimagined boat’s standard fishing and construction features include a hand-laid fiberglass hull using multi-directional fabrics and foam cored glass stringer system, with foam floatation; integrated dive platform, full transom and transom door; anchor locker storage; forward bench seating; removable forward center seat insert; twin 59-gallon storage compartments set under the forward seats; 94-gallon forward fish box; forward console seat with insulated storage; step down console with optional head; two 30-gallon aft fish boxes; oversized flush hatch bilge access; 26-gallon above-deck live well; plus aft seating with additional bilge access.
The running bottom on the 24S features a deep-vee forefoot that tapers back to 22.5 degrees of deadrise at the transom. This Florida girl has an LOA of 24 feet, 6 inches, a trailerable 8-foot, 6-inch beam and an 18-inch draft with her engine drives up. She’s rated to carry up to 300 horsepower so she’ll accommodate either a single 300 or twin 150s. Contender also introduced a new 26 Bay Boat for 2023.
SOLACE
The Dougherty family name is one of the icons in the boat building business. Bob Dougherty, Boston Whaler’s longtime head of engineering, was a visionary designer of center console sport fishing boats. And Solace Boats is proud of what they call the “Dougherty Difference.” After moving Whaler’s plant from Massachusetts to Florida in 1982, Bob and his son Stephen launched EdgeWater Boats in 1992, then Everglades Boats a decade later. Stephen and Sarah Dougherty founded Dougherty Manufacturing in 2012, and by 2021 had launched three Solace boat models with a line that now includes five boats from 30 to 41 feet in length.
Solace boats are no “ordinary” center consoles. Engineered to harness the heightened horsepower of today’s high-performance outboard engines, Solace offers options, including the technologically advantaged Volvo Penta diesel stern drive, plus Mercury or Yamaha outboards. Using construction methods typically found in the aeronautics business, Solace incorporates the best materials and components along with state of the art manufacturing, employing vacuum bag infusion with carbon fibers and vinylester and epoxy resins, all of which allow their boats to be lighter and stronger. Their newest model, the 37CS, hits the water in January and is their fifth center console model that falls right in the middle of a fleet that includes the 30HCS, 32CS, 41CS and the diesel/sterndrive 415CS. Initial specs indicate she’ll have an overall length of 37 feet, 7 inches with an 11-foot beam. Her twin-stepped running bottom features 44 degrees of deadrise in the bow that tapers back to 23 degrees at the transom. Powered by triple 400 Merc V-10 Verados, she’ll take you a long way with her 515-gallon fuel capacity. Other standard fishing features include twin 30-gallon livewells and a 44-gallon insulated fishbox in the transom cap, 40- and 73-gallon in-floor fishboxes and enough rodholders where you’ll never run out of a spot to keep them safe and secure when needed.
STEIGER CRAFT
This Bellport, Long Island based boat builder has been in the business for over 50 years and is still a fan favorite with the coastal angling community. One of the most popular of Al Steiger’s fishing fleet, and the same boat that he has been running for the past few years, is the 31 DV Miami model. The 31 Miami is one of the most offshore ready fishing and family friendly pilot house vessels on the market today. The 31 Miami’s helm features trim tab controls and a large dedicated mounting space for today’s popular big screen multi-function displays. Aft of the deluxe captain’s chair is a space for the optional refrigerator. The huge cockpit includes a large 120-gallon in-deck fish locker, 100-gallon in-deck livewell, over-head rocket launchers, recessed gunnel sinker trays and horizontal rod storage. The 31 Miami’s spacious cabin features enclosed head with porcelain toilet, large V-berth, stainless sink and counter space, as well as ample storage throughout. Air Conditioning/Heat with Shore Power/Inverter makes the cabin even more comfortable for overnight stays.
The Steiger 31 Miami features a 10-foot beam with a deep-vee running bottom that tapers back to 22-degrees of deadrise at the transom. It’s the perfect size for taking down even the largest fish in most sea conditions, while offering excellent performance with efficient twin 300 outboard power (350s are optional). A 300-gallon fuel capacity gives this Long Island girl a “canyon ready” 400-plus mile range. The 31 Miami’s hull is all hand-laid fiberglass, built around an indestructible “I-Beam” grid system that offers durability and a ridged core that reduces flex even under the roughest conditions. A Seakeeper gyro stabilizer is an available option for the 31 Miami. Steiger Craft builds boats with the confidence that they will last a lifetime, backed with a lifetime hull guarantee.
World Cat
World Cat recently announced the launch of its newest model, the 260DC-X dual console, a next generation replacement to their popular model 255DC. The new 260DC-X began production July 2023 and is now available at World Cat dealers. “We didn’t just optimize,” said Chad Armstrong, VP of Sales & Marketing, “we revolutionized use of space, storage, comfort, and experience for a truly innovative World Cat 26-foot dual console.” Innovations include a swivel cooler seat with cushion that stows in a locked position under the captain’s helm seat, while also swinging out for a convenient and comfortable starboard side-seat.
To ensure an unobstructed navigation from bow to stern, the door to the onboard head pivots out and back keeping the center aisle clear for passengers while allowing easy side entry into the roomy, well-appointed head. Mounted at the back of starboard-side helm chair is an entertainment area with Corian top for food prep, four drink holders and built-in tackle/storage bins and insulated drink box. Like the 260CC-X center console introduced last year, the 260DC-X provides a fold-down 50-inch doublewide transom bench seat that easily folds down for a wide aft deck space and expanded casting deck along with easy on and off stern boarding. Convenient seating features include an optional bow table that’s easily removed, converting the area to a lounge space with an optional filler cushion; and the multi-use port cockpit seat with three seating configurations, specifically forward seating, aft leaning post position or portside rear facing chaise lounge. Owners have their choice of either twin Yamaha I4 F150s or F200s, or Mercury’s 200-horsepower V-6 outboards.
Finseeker
Consistent with the theme of the past few seasons of sport boat companies either introducing new fishing boat line-ups, or just outright purchasing known fishing boat companies (like Pursuit, Blackfin, Parker, Cobia, etc.), this is a growing and robust part of the boating industry at the moment. The folks at Finseeker, which is a brand of Crownline Boats located in the Midwest, took the first route. I spent some time at their booth down at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show discussing with their sales manager the attributes of the new Finseeker lineup.
The initial wave of Crownline’s Finseeker boats included a quartet of center consoles in the sweet spot for most Fisherman readers at 20, 21, 22 and 23 feet in length. Two newbies that were just introduced last season included the 260 and 280 dual consoles. These boats all share a unique family look with their Carolina flare bows that taper aft with broken sheer lines, complemented by a single stepped hull that Finseeker dubs their “Gen 2 Performance Fast Tab” hull. The 42-degree angle of entry featured on all Finseeker boats tapers back to 20-degrees aft, so these variable vee running bottoms are designed to tame the fickle nature of traversing open water. The aggressive 7.5-degree reverse chine angle is designed to keep quartering wind salt spray off the windshield and away from the passengers when underway. Myriad standard features make the Finseeker lineup something to check out if you are in the market for a new ride.
Valhalla Boatworks
Valhalla Boatworks, the outboard sportfish division of Viking Yachts, has introduced a pair of debutants for the 2024 model year, the V-29 center console and the hybrid V-28 Bay. For this update, we’ll focus on the V-29 model. Big boat features are apparent on this latest Valhalla with available Seakeeper 1, bow thruster, thru-stem claw anchor with windlass, Release helm chairs and an electric head with overboard discharge. These combine with bay boat features such as trolling motors, power poles and jack plates. The V-29 also features a 180-gallon fuel capacity, so range is maximized with the pairing of twin Mercury V6 225 four-strokes, a pair of Mercury V8 300 Verados or twin Yamaha V6 F300s.
The V-29 will excel on the tournament circuit due to its fish-focused layout. The aft flip-up bench seat, numerous helm seat options, console lounge and available forward bench seats tout her ability to be a yacht tender. Premium upholstery, available Bentley stitching and teak backrests add to the yacht finish of the V-29. The V-29 features a pair of 26-gallon livewells on the aft casting deck, an optional in-deck 40-gallon livewell aft of the helm seat and optional helm seating module with 45-gallon livewell. The V-29 also includes two insulated in-deck fish boxes in the cockpit that plumb to a Whale Gulper diaphragm pump, two mid-ship lockable storage boxes that will fit a total of 10 rods (five in each hatch) up to 75 inches and owners can fit up to 10-foot fly rods with extended tubes. A large in-deck hatch at the bow adds to the generous amount of onboard storage. Other standards include teak or faux teak helm pod; dual flush mounted 19-inch MFDs or a single 24-inch multi-function display from Garmin or Simrad; backlit labeled Bocatech switches; plus an overhead electronics pod to house a fusion stereo, VHF radio and additional accessories. Additionally, the V-29 is designed and engineered around the weight of the Seakeeper 1 while maintaining storage and deck space.
NorthCoast
NorthCoast has introduced a new queen of the fleet, the 415HT. The basic hull features an overall length of 46 feet, 1 inch (with quad Yamaha F300 XSB outboards, bracket and standard bow pulpit) that supports a 12-foot, 11-inch beam and a deep-vee running bottom that tapers back to an aggressive 25 degrees of deadrise aft. This is the rock on which she is built. However, the 415HT is offered in both fishing and a cruising base layout, with a host of accommodations that support each specific mission. Counting her quad outboards and 619 gallons of fuel onboard, she’ll tip the scales north of 24,550 pounds fully loaded, which will enable owners to fish or cruise further, longer, with more crew onboard and in total comfort. “This is the first model where we have partnered with an outside design firm and we are confident the new Northcoast 415HT will exceed expectations on every level,” said Northcoast Boats Brand and C&C Fiberglass Components owner Jose DaPonte. Thomas Degremont and Sam Howell of Langan Design Partners in Newport, RI were selected to work the NorthCoast team on the new 415HT.
Although Northcoast is no stranger to building seaworthy craft in the downeast tradition that can tolerate the New England coast’s extreme weather conditions, the new 415HT is a radical paradigm shift from the 255, 285 and 315HT models that we have tested in the past. She is on a totally different level. According to the Langan Design Partners, “The hull sports a deep-vee profile with 25-degrees dead rise at the transom, while keeping a subtle round-off at the keel, which gives the hull a little more lift aft and allows for a smoother transition to planing. The hull’s volume is optimized to handle multiple outboards and the top speed with quad F300s will be more than 50 mph.” That is some serious fast-lane traveling for a comfortable cabin sportfisher that exceeds 12 tons of displacement, sort of like a wolf in sheep’s clothing. northcoastboats.com
Sailfish
I spoke with Sailfish National Sales Manager Matthew Vetzner at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show where he mentioned that hot on the success of their new-for-2023 model 226 DC, they plan on introducing the center console version of this hull sometime in the spring of 2024. The new center console will feature the same sixth generation VDS running bottom as her dual console sister. Other design nuances planned for the center console version are a fully integrated T-Top; built in vertical rod holders on the console sides; head access from the bow via a large and roomy swing-out companionway; a reversible helm seat arrangement; full bench seats aft; transom doors both port and starboard; and convenient access to the bilge area to inspect and perform periodic maintenance on critical pumps and wiring. If the new center console is anything like her dual console sibling, she should be a real head turner and popular with coastal anglers.
In case you missed my review of the Sailfish 226 Dual Console in the August issue of The Fisherman, the family friendly layout can fit a minimum crew of seven onboard without breaking a sweat. There’s a wave gate and a three-step folding stainless steel boarding ladder set in the starboard corner of the transom, with a convenient 18-quart Baja Beach Cooler in the port corner of the platform down at sea level and a 21-gallon circulating baitwell up above. Your passengers will feel secure with 27 inches of thigh-high cockpit depth. An ergonomic flip-up aft bench seat in the transom bulkhead lifts up to reveal convenient access to the bilge and batteries. This is complemented by a front/back lounge seat to port that is equipped with a gas-assist retracting backrest that converts it into a full-length sun lounger, along with insulated storage down under. Look for the full review online at TheFisherman.com, and keep an eye out for Sailfish’s newest center console later this spring.
EASTERN BOATS
Sisu boats have been bouncing around Northeast coastal areas ever since designer Royal Lowell drew up their lines back in the 1970s. Originally, the three hulls that he drafted were 22, 26 and 30 feet in length. The majority of these were slated to be work boats and run single inboard powerplants at displacement speeds. Fast-forward to 2024; the company that originally manufactured the Sisu lineup is long gone and the molds were sold off, never to be seen or heard from again; that is until the 22 Sisu mold was purchased by Eastern Boats a few years back and the darling little 22 Sisu is back in business, albeit with a few contemporary tweaks.
Modern composite materials plus a couple of design tweaks have made her even better. Recessed chines reduce spray and add dynamic lift to her round chines as she accelerates, while a transom-mounted outboard frees up a huge amount of usable space in her cockpit. Owners can choose a traditional framed bass boat windshield with Bimini top at the helm or an open-sided hardtop pilothouse. On deck, the only fixtures are helm and companion pedestal seats mounted on storage boxes that double as aft-facing lower seats. The rest of the cockpit can accommodate a full-transom fishbox with a cushioned seat on top, a couple of folding chairs, or a portable livewell. The open pilothouse offers shelter from the elements, with optional roll-down sides and rocket launcher on top for additional rod storage. The cabin offers a 6-foot, 9-inch V-berth with a portable toilet and 69 inches of standing headroom. Performance is great with a modest 115-horsepower four-stroke outboard, fueled by a 60-gallon tank. With numerous standard and optional features, this New Hampshire girl continues to be a winner.
Skeeter SX2350
This bass boat builder from Kilgore, TX recently introduced a new addition to their Bay Boat series, the SX 2350, which now includes a six-pack of models from 21 to 25 feet. Storage abounds on the Skeeter SX2350, with a door on the port side of the console opening to reveal access to your system wiring, battery access and plenty of dry storage for tackle boxes and safety gear. The wide 8-foot, 5-inch beam complements her 22-foot, 9-inch overall length. The raised forward casting deck offers a wide, flat elevated perch to sight cast to your favorite gamefish. A quartet of flush hatches down below reveal a rod locker to port, and insulated fishbox to starboard, a dry storage locker on the centerline and a vertical anchor locker forward. There’s yet another storage area under the cockpit sole forward of the front console seat, which includes a 14-gallon livewell down under. The leaning post offers additional stowage under its flip up cushion seat for handy access to your fishing tackle and other requisite accessories. The leaning post also includes a six-rod rocket launcher.
The aft casting deck features twin 20-gallon livewells under each corner hatch, in addition to a flip-up twin bench seat for added crew comfort when underway that includes an ingenious tie-down lid to keep it locked in place when underway. The bench section flips up to enable access to all pumps, plumbing and wiring in the bilge area, which includes a beefy aluminum transom brace interconnecting the transom to the stringer grid to distribute engine torque. A quartet of power options from Yamaha includes the F200, F200 V6 SHO, F250 and F250 SHO. Whatever your choice, the 55-gallon fuel tank should give you sunup to sundown performance. Notable standards include a 12-inch manual jackplate; a pair of flush-mount rodholders in the covering boards; Seastar tilt hydraulic steering; and a retractable boarding ladder.
Blackfin
Celebrating 50 years as one of the top bluewater fishing boat brands, Blackfin recently introduced their newest addition to the lineup — the highly anticipated 400CC. Making its debut at the 2023 Miami International Boat Show, this new center console is the de facto flagship for Blackfin Boats. With a 40-foot length supported by a 12-foot beam, the 400CC provides a tremendous amount of space onboard and can handle just about any reasonable water conditions with her twin-stepped deep-vee running bottom. With a max rating of 1,600 horsepower, you can strap a quad of 400-horsepower outboards on the transom and travel in the special type of fast lane that few boats can keep pace, with standard 475-gallon fuel capacity to get you to the edge and back pronto.
Some unique standards include Dual Row Helm Seating (two rows of three for a total of six) with heated seats and an electric power adjustment on the captain’s chair; removable transom seating with three additional rod holders; a forward facing console lounge with intergraded armrests and cup holders; a huge cockpit with standard 80-gallon livewell in the transom, bait rigging station and tackle storage; twin Yeti slide out coolers; a fully-appointed cabin with A/C, standup head, refrigerator, forward vee-berth freshwater sink, smart TV and more; plus over 30 standard rod holders. This girl can fish hard, play hard and look good when doing either task with elegant appointments that will “wow” your guests and crew. Outfitted with quad Merc V-10 Verados, she’ll hit a top speed of over 67 mph, cruising at 36 mph/4000 rpm drinking 52 gallons per hour (gph).
Sea Pro
Sea Pro Boats introduced their new 292DLX Offshore at the 2023 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show and I was able to jump aboard to get a better feel for this South Carolina built bluewater sportfisher. This purpose-built offshore machine gives anglers the confidence to pursue gamefish from near offshore waters and out to the edge of the continental shelf. With its sharp bow entry, classic Carolina flare and 22.5-degree transom deadrise, the 292DLX chops through the rough stuff and delivers a dry, solid ride in all types of conditions. Combined with its broad 9-foot, 10-inch beam and spacious cockpit design, this boat feels and fishes much bigger than its 28.5-foot overall length, yet it is still easy to operate with a small crew.
The 292DLX’s long list of standard fishing features includes large side entry door; port and starboard in-floor fish boxes with macerator pumps; twin pressurized 25-gallon livewells; underwater lights; a fiberglass hardtop with integrated windshield; two heavy-duty electric reel ports; built-in tackle storage; a bait rigging station, plus a generous amount of rod storage. You’ll also find a fiberglass leaning post with premium captain’s chairs, a deluxe folding rear bench seat and forward seating with backrests. Additional features include a console dry box with two USB ports; rainfall freshwater shower; macerator toilet with pump out and overboard discharge; a standup head with freshwater sink; raw and freshwater washdown; and fully adjustable RGBW cockpit lighting. The new 292DLX is also packed with advanced fishing and boating technology, including automatic trim for pitch and roll, a 16-inch touchscreen Simrad MFD, Audison Marine Audio sound system, digital switching, smart battery management and Sea Pro Connect by Boatfix vessel monitoring and security.
Yellowfin
Warbird Marine Holdings, who also owns Invincible, purchased Yellowfin Yachts in 2021, making this association a formidable one-two punch in the world of offshore sportfishing. For years, the 36 Offshore has reigned as the company’s most popular model and it’s easy to see why. The 36 is at the head of the competitive pack when it comes to running offshore in a chop, due to its twin-step hull design and its near perfect blend of balance, efficiency and one of the driest rides on the water. I have been at the helm quite a few times on the 36 Yellowfin CC and have nothing but raves for the speed, ride and roomy cockpit fore and aft on this midsized sportfisher. The 36 runs great with twin or triple outboards and can be highly customized to create the perfect boat for everything from hardcore offshore tournament fishing to weekend family sandbar outings and everything in between. That’s why so many savvy boaters consider the 36 Offshore the perfect solution to their boating, fishing and family waterside entertainment needs as it does everything well!
For 2024, the proven 36 Offshore CC has been upgraded with a new console, cockpit liner and transom arrangement. Standard features include a canvas T-top with five rod holders on the frame and two kingfish rod holders outboard; AmeraTrail aluminum trailer with electric-over-hydraulic braking; hydraulic steering; C-Zone digital switching; spreader lights; leaning post; saltwater washdown; insulated fish box with Gulper pump out; 14 Gemlux titanium rod holders; titanium cleats and through-hulls; plumbed transom livewell with second plumbed livewell in the leaning post; Gemlux Belloca S/S steering wheel and Livorsi trim tabs. Her standard 477-gallon fuel tank will take you and the crew to the edge and back with plenty to spare.
Boston Whaler
Just introduced during the holiday season, Whaler’s new 210 Vantage is sure to be a big hit with the coastal boating community. The 210 Vantage is an all-new, keel-up dual console model designed with premium features core to the Boston Whaler brand, as well as intuitive technology to attract the next generation of boaters. As the smallest “entry level” member of the Vantage dual console series that also includes 240, 280 and 320 models, the 210 Vantage will get prospective customers into the dealerships with a relatively affordable and easily trailerable package that will allow folks to grow within the family as their needs might change in the coming years. According to Dennis Tilden, Boston Whaler’s Senior Director of Sales & Customer Service, “The 210 Vantage embodies the core values that define Boston Whaler’s legacy – quality, innovation, unsinkability, reliability and simplicity – and was designed to cater to young families and empty nesters with its manageable size, thoughtful design, weather protection and spacious seating.”
The 210 Vantage is a boat designed to meet the needs of the widest possible range of boaters, from fun-on-the-water families to hardcore anglers. A dual console cockpit with wraparound windshield provides functional comfort for passengers. Comfortable seating in the bow, cockpit and stern allows for family-sized crews to relax all day. And roomy storage throughout the boat means you can load in all the gear you need for any type of adventure on the water. At just 21 feet, it’s easily trailerable, but an optional 250 Merc V8 on the transom means you can get up and go when you’re ready to ride. Notable 210 Vantage features include a wrap-around glass windshield to provide maximum protection from the elements; flip up backrests for stern seating and additional cockpit space; stern platform for sight casting when the twin transom corner seat backrests are folded down; a convenient portable head in the portside storage compartment; spacious cushioned bow seating with roomy storage down under; an anchor locker for a convenient access to the hook and rode; plus twin pedestal helm seats with an optional port lounger.
Jupiter Marine
The good news coming out of the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show is the highly anticipated return of the 26FS center console, now packed with an array of standard features designed to exceed your expectations. The FS in the name stands for “forward seating” which adds a long bench seat to either side of the bow area of this 26-footer with 65-gallon dry storage areas down under. When you add cushions and a padded backrest, this transforms the bow of this serious sportfisher into a more family friendly platform for a relaxing day in the sun.
When it’ comes time to fish the 26FS shows her Jupiter DNA, with an overall length of 26 feet, 5 inches, complemented by an 8-foot, 8-inch beam. The 26FS sports a no-nonsense deep-vee running bottom with a wave-piercing 60-degree entry angle that tapers back to 23 degrees of deadrise aft. Her 150-gallon fuel tank will offer 100-fathom range for Northeast blue water aficionados and she’ll burn about 15 to 16 gallons an hour with her twin Yamaha F200 I4 four-strokes. This Florida girl tips the scales at 5,460 pounds with power, so that translates to about 4,400 pounds of boat and 1,060 pounds of engines and rigging. She features a freshwater washdown system that is fed by a 20-gallon tank. Notable standard features include coaming bolsters; fresh and raw water washdown; a 102-gallon aft in-floor cockpit fishbox with macerator pumpout; 35-gallon recirculating livewell in the transom; bait prep center with drink holders and tackle cabinet; a six-pack of gunwale rod holders; and a walk-through transom door. jupitermarine.com
Regulator
I first set eyes on Regulator’s latest debutant, the 30XO, while at the 2023 Miami Boat Show last February and was introduced to her by Regulator’s President Joan Maxwell. What struck me initially was her size — she is a huge bay boat powered by twin Yamaha F300s that will turn and burn faster than just about any other competitor in skinny water. Yet on the right day, this hybrid can still fish near offshore coastal waters, courtesy of her Regulator DNA. The 30 is Regulator’s biggest XO to date, becoming the flagship model of the hybrid series that also includes the smaller 26XO introduced a few seasons back. The 30XO is equipped with every bit of inshore/offshore attitude you’ve come to expect from the XO Series, along with big boat features to meet your every fishing and comfort need. Twin Yamaha F300s, optional Half Tower Station and convertible Tackle and Entertainment Center lead the suite of amenities on this powerhouse crossover.
Anglers will love the 1,363 quarts of fishbox, livewell & storage space, 10 rocket launchers on the helm station and optional under gunwale locking rod storage. When you are ready to kick back, plush seating abounds, with the option to upgrade to diamond-quilted upholstery and add teak accents for a rich, classic look. The standard forward console settee delivers 218 quarts of cooler space, while the flush-folding rear cockpit seats house integrated dual bucket holders with custom buckets port and starboard, along with oversized bilge and mechanical access center. Add a versatile 96-inch trolling motor with GPS Autopilot and dual 10-foot Power Pole Blades for shallow water anchoring and get ready to go with the flow.
Albemarle
For 2024, there are no new boats on the agenda for this North Carolina boat builder. Last season’s Spencer Edition 53 Convertible has gone into production and boats are being delivered. On the outboard fishing boat side of the equation, the 25 outboard Cuddy has been taken out of the line-up. Albemarle will still produce their 30-foot Express outboard, along with the 27 and 31 dual consoles.
The 30 Express offers the ultimate in hardcore fishing amenities in a compact express package. Serious anglers will appreciate its offshore ability, exceptional handling in rough seas and fuel economy. Featuring a modern helm area with forward facing seating for three, mezzanine style seating aft, large in-deck macerated fishboxes, transom livewell, tackle center and a standard transom door, this express delivers blue water capability in a big way. With a full galley, a stand-up head, in addition to an A-bunk down below, the 30 will also overnight quite comfortably. Keith Privott, Albemarle’s Director of Sales and Product Development, describes the 30 Express as having a custom Carolina look with unsurpassed visibility from the helm and a standard rigid acrylic enclosure, along with standard anchor windlass system with through-stem roller and polished stainless steel anchor. Every boat will be Seakeeper 2 ready, with the requisite stringer beds in place. A triple 300-horsepower Yamaha option provides the low-end torque needed to maintain slower cruise speeds on those sloppy days making her the fastest Albemarle ever built. With a dry weight of 13,000 pounds, 24-degree aft deadrise and a 320-gallon fuel capacity, she has both the range and toughness to get you to the edge and back. albemarleboats.com
Southport
Southport is introducing their new flagship model 38 FE for the 2024 season and from what I’ve seen of the initial drawings and specs, she’s a real beauty. Her overall length is listed as 37 feet, 6 inches, with an overwide 13-foot beam. Her hull features a sharp deep-vee angle in the bow that tapers back to 20 degrees of deadrise at the transom. Her dry weight outfitted with a pair of Yamaha F450 XTO V-8 outboards is 18,000 pounds, with a draft of 25 inches (engine drives up). The Southport 38 FE’s fuel capacity should give you true 100-fathom range, but that will really depend on how you power her in conjunction with your throttle hand. Optional power on this Maine-built sportfisher covers the gamut from triple Yamaha F450s, a trio of Mercury 400-horsepower V-10 Verados, or a pair of Merc’s breakthrough 600-horsepower Verado V-12 outboards. The max rating of 1,350 horsepower is achieved by the triple Yamaha F450 XTO set-up, but factory tests have yet to be produced to detail the top speed, optimal fuel economy and range for each power option.
Notable standards include Helm Master EX with joystick controller and integrated auto pilot with the standard twin F450 XTO power setup; Zip Wake 600 automatic trim system; a 12v LiFePO4 house battery bank with 900 Ah capacity with battery monitor system and 3000 watt inverter; 10-gallon hot water heater; triple forward facing mezzanine seating with adjustable helm chairs, port and starboard aft facing helm style chairs and twin double wide foldable aft bench seating for a total of nine crew; twin 22-inch Garmin MFDs, tilt-element through-hull transducer and Garmin GSD 25 sounder module; Garmin Vesper VHF/AIS with a pair of 8-foot antennas on S/S ratchet mounts; a comfy cabin under the center console that includes a 6-foot double berth, refrigerator, enclosed head area, freshwater sink, counter top and microwave; and much more.
Wellcraft
Built for a purpose when pushing the limits offshore, Wellcraft had dedicated its focus to enhance the comfort and convenience of its center consoles. The brand-new 2024 Fisherman models, the 243 and 263, were unveiled at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. Also included in the new Fisherman series line-up is the 223, which was not present at this year’s show. Wellcraft has redesigned the Fisherman series to include a fully bonded glass windshield with a power operated vent which provides enhanced visibility and protection while facing the elements of the offshore waters. The support legs of the fiberglass T-Top are recessed into the center console creating more space for maneuvering around the boat and the cabin is now accessible with a lateral opening door. The helm station has been reworked to incorporate additional screen space and advanced technology. The hardtop features an integrated accessories box in which boaters will find easy access to electronic devices. The rest of the console is designed to provide unobstructed views of your desired destination.
Maintenance and equipment management has never been more straightforward as all 2024 Wellcraft models will come with a 1-year pre-paid subscription to SeaNapps allowing you to track engine hours and maintenance needs right from your phone. Dual upholstered helm seats with adjustable bolsters now feature a dedicated “Cooler Cave” where you can conveniently store a cooler with an additional storage area perfect for keeping tools and tackle within easy reach. Forward-facing backrests are now included as part of the bow seating package enhancing comfort for passengers and the transom seat has been reworked for easier access to the bilge.
Sea Hunt
This South Carolina based boat builder started back in 1995 and has evolved to become the largest center console boat builders in the U.S. market judged by annual sales. Every season I see more and more Sea Hunt center consoles working the near offshore and blue water fishing grounds, so it’s obvious that there are many anglers getting into coastal fishing that are being brought there on Sea Hunt boats. I spoke with Sea Hunt Sales Manager Robbie Coates at the Fort Lauderdale Show and he mentioned that there is a new Gamefish slated for introduction at this February’s Miami Boat Show. The Gamefish lineup current consists of a 30-footer (with either forward seating or a large coffin box), twin 27-foot platforms (forward seating or coffin box arrangement) and a 25-footer. All five of these models offer deep-vee running bottoms that carry 21 degrees of deadrise angle aft to the transom. The new Gamefish to be introduced in Miami will be a 28-foot hull that will feature twin in-floor insulated fishboxes, a Lazarette hatch in the aft cockpit to access critical pumps and wiring in the bilge area, plus a host of next-gen gear that will set the new standard for this series.
Other tweaks to the Sea Hunt lineup for 2024 include a new electrically activated bow table for the 265, 275 and 305 Ultra series of family center consoles, with some boats now getting dual dive doors for easier access either at the beach or dockside, the option for all-white factory painted motors from Yamaha for a more seamless style match for some boats, along with integrated Yamaha electric steering for select models.
Mako
There have been a few transitions happening with Mako boats over the past 18 months. Mako is part of the White River Marine Group owned by Bass Pro Shops’ Johnny Morris. Other notable brands that fall into this group are SeaCraft, Ranger, Triton, Hatteras, Tracker, Kenner, Astro and ProCraft. There is a new saltwater boat production facility that will be located on the grounds of the old Hatteras Yacht manufacturing plant in New Bern, NC. The former Mako (and some of the other brands) production plant located in Oklahoma is being dismantled and migrating east to coastal Carolina and as such, Mako has ceased to produce their 41 and 33-foot offshore models, in addition to taking the 236 CC out of production for the time being. As of the 2024 model year, Mako will be producing the 214 CC, along with the 13, 15, 17 and 19 Pro Skiffs, along with the 18 LTS.
The 13 Pro Skiff is the latest Mako and sports a new center console for the 2024 model year. The newest addition to the Mako fleet boasts all the heritage, quality, and trusted performance of its larger siblings in a super shallow-drafting, easy-to-maneuver package. It features all the Mako Pro Skiff DNA in their smallest package ever with a wide footprint that delivers a trio of advantages: a super stable casting platform, only 8 inches of draft and maximized interior storage. Its reduced hull profile slides easily onto sandbars and into marine slips and is the perfect starter boat for those just venturing out into saltwater. Topping this package off is reliable and economical Mercury FourStroke power that’s ready to take you across the skinniest flats. Some interesting standard features include a raised bow deck that provides huge in-deck storage and an elevated casting platform; five vertical rod storage racks on either side of the console; plus a wide, stable hull design for maximum stability and fishability.
Sportsman
This South Carolina boat builder has introduced a pair of new debutants for the 2024 model year, the 252 Open and the 232 Open center consoles. For this summary, we’ll focus on the more trailerable 232 Open. Designed to be the ultimate family fishing boat in the 23-foot class, the Open 232 offers a level of fit, finish and features typically not seen in this category of boat. The fishing amenities check every box for a day offshore fishing including ample rod storage, Gemlux rod holders, a large insulated aquarium livewell and more. When it’s time for the family to jump on-board you’re greeted with safe comfortable seating, insulated coolers and storage to multiple anchors to make sandbar trips a breeze. All of these features are wrapped up in an easy-to-trailer 23-foot center console that will bring years of memorable trips for you and the family.
What’s interesting about the new 232 Open plus all other Sportsman models 26 feet and under is that they all come standard with Seakeeper Ride tabs, a proprietary, first-of-its kind, Vessel Attitude Control System (VACS). The key benefits are that Ride tabs eliminate up to 70% of pitch and roll motions when underway; automatically adjusts the heeling angle of your boat during turns; uses a customized Trim Command Curve to automatically adjust the running angle at any speed; prevents vessel list from movement onboard, wind, uneven load, prop torque, and the like. Plus it’s optimized to allow for faster acceleration, getting the boat on plane more quickly, improving fuel economy. That’s some impressive built-in next-gen technology that you wouldn’t expect to find as a standard feature on a boat size with such a reasonable price tag. The Sportsman 232 Open also includes a console wrapped with a glass enclosure on three sides for weather protection. Made out of high-quality tempered glass, the integrated windshield protects the helm of excessive wind and rain while maintaining excellent air flow, while the top section opens up manually to let in cool air.
Parker
New for 2024 is the Parker 2420 Sport Cabin. Especially popular with Northeast anglers, the Parker Sport Cabin provides shelter from wind, rain, sun and changing seasons. Step inside the cabin, open the windows and cool off or close them and warm up. And when you are in-between fishing frenzies, open the overhead cabin hatch and take a nap on the forward berth. Built on the proven 21-degree aft deadrise deep-vee Parker hull, the 2420 Sport Cabin provides a soft, dry ride and its large versatile cockpit the Parker Sport Cabin sets the standard for boats in this size range. The cockpit can be set up as a hardcore offshore fishing boat or a family cruising boat with the optional cockpit lounge seat and sunshade. The 2420 SC measures 24 feet, 2 inches in length with an 8-foot, 8-inch beam. She is rated to carry 10 passengers and can carry up to 400 horsepower on the transom in either single or twin configurations, supported by a 140-gallon fuel tank. Engine options include a single Yamaha F300 V6, twin I4 F150s or dual I4 F200s.
The cabin area includes a 57-inch by 84-inch vee-berth with 40 inches of sitting headroom with storage down below and cushions above, an overhead ventilation hatch with screen, porta-pottie with dockside pump-out and an anchor locker door. Stepping up to the pilothouse, this area offers glass windshields (starboard is hinged for ventilation), sliding side windows with screens, ladder back seating with footrests, interior storage and grab rails, non-skid pilothouse floor and cabin lighting. Four gunwale-mount S/S rod holders are standard, as is raw water washdown, a pair of insulated in-floor cockpit fishboxes with macerator, plus another fishbox situated in the transom cap.
Tidewater
One of the most intriguing boats that I was able to jump aboard at the recent Fort Lauderdale Boat Show was Tidewater’s new model for 2024, the 3100 Carolina Bay. According to the Tidewater reps that I spoke with at the show, in their view the new 3100 Carolina Bay has changed the bay boat market forever. After taking a closer look at this platform at the show, her room onboard and comprehensive standard features list, I’d tend to agree. Her length overall of 31 feet, 1 inch, an overwide beam of 10 feet, 2 inches and race boat speeds over 70 mph outfitted with twin Merc V-10 Verados set this model apart from anything in the industry to date. Her twin stepped hull provides users with not only speed but also efficiency. The optional Mezzanine seat leaning post is a great choice for families and friends who won’t be doing as much fishing.
She tips the scales at a whopping 7,200 pounds dry, yet she runs like the wind with her modest 17-degree aft deadrise running bottom. With a fuel capacity of 220 gallons, she’ll take you a long way in the bay between fill-ups. A fiberglass T-Top with full glass enclosure and aft support is standard issue, as is a 30-gallon fiberglass aquarium livewell in the leaning post that also includes a tackle center and cutting board countertop. Other notable standard features on the 3100 Carolina Bay include Mercury electronic steering with joystick controller; a 20-gallon livewell in the bow; a Bobs Machine 10-inch dual jack plate; freshwater shower with 19-gallon tank; raw water washdown; Zipwake 450-S Interceptors on the transom; digital switching and more.
Invincible
Although there are no new boats for 2024 for this south Florida boat builder, Invincible introduced the 43 Open Fisherman last season. Replacing both the outgoing 42 Open Fisherman and Center Cabin models, the 43 Open utilizes the same proven Michael Peters Yacht Design SVVT hull with an evolved interior. “We designed the 43 with the tournament and master anglers in mind,” said John Dorton, Invincible CEO, while adding “Technology has advanced so much from even a few years ago and we’re always striving to be at the forefront of what benefits the sport fishing community, both on their way to the bite and when they have their lines in the water.”
Designed by SVP of Engineering Scott Wood, the new 43 Open is equipped with everything important in a large fishing center console. The cabin has a full sleeping berth, a vanity sink and head compartment for those overnight tournaments. The innovation comes in how the space has been reimagined and some of these new design features include: the all-new extended console, helm and cabin are moved forward to accommodate dual row seating without affecting fishability from the cockpit; the standard extended console lounger houses the largest fish box on-board; a new hardtop option has been added to accommodate additional electronics for the cockpit/helm areas and a rear-entry second station; a second live well with aquarium windows has been added to the transom to complement the optional in-floor well. “This boat really showcases a lot of features that you have seen in some model enhancements over the past few years but there are also items that we’re showing for the first time,” added Wood.
NauticStar
I talked with the NauticStar factory folks in Fort Lauderdale where they mentioned hw they have introduced two newbies for the 2024 season. One of these is the 332 Offshore, which is slated to be the flagship of that line-up. The other debutant is the all-new 274 Bay, which is designed for serious fishermen who want to explore large open shallow bays, back waters, inlets and estuaries during the course of their inshore fishing pursuits. The 100% composite 26-foot, 2-inch hull is designed around a modified-vee running bottom with a 40-degree entry angle that tapers back to 16 degrees of deadrise at the transom. This shape offers excellent stability at rest, with only 16 inches of draft and provides a solid ride when underway.
The wide open fishing deck is courtesy of her 9-foot beam and commands ample space for casting and reeling in your catch. Simrad technology provides an intuitive interface for navigation and fish-finding. The 274 Bay is equipped with a 42-gallon aft livewell, 43-gallon insulated fishbox set under the bow casting platform, plus a second smaller 13-gallon in-console livewell. Her dry weight without power or T-Top is a respectable 4,200 pounds and her max horsepower rating is 450 horsepower. Her 79-gallon tank will provide for a sunup to sundown experience for your bay and inshore fishing adventures. Hardware package includes stainless steel through-hull fittings, rub rail inserts and latches, a quartet of S/S gunwale mount rod holders, a total of eight S/S drink holders, plus a six-pack of S/S pull-up cleats. nauticstarboats.com
Sea Fox
There are a number of new things happening for this South Carolina boat builder for the 2024 model year. The 248SC side console is new and is a unique interpretation of a center console/dual console family entertainment hybrid of sorts. Both the 231 and 251 Bay Fox models have been upgraded using the same hull as their predecessors, but with new deck layouts and a wider choice of hull color options. The 288 Traveler DC is a brand new offering from Sea Fox and with is size takes dual console capabilities to the next level. It is now the largest and the flagship in a growing fleet of dual consoles that also include the 228 and 268 Traveler models.
The 288 Traveler is equipped with a 28-foot long hull that is supported by a 9-foot, 8-inch beam and features a vee-bottom that tapers back to 18 degrees of deadrise aft. She’s rated for a max of 600 horsepower on the transom (twin 300s), is Yacht-certified and is equipped with a 147-gallon fuel tank that will take you on bunch of inshore family adventures before you need to refuel. One of the neat features that I like about the 288 Traveler is her anchoring arrangement in the bow. She is designed with a stainless steel bow eye/anchor chute setup; windlass anchoring system with controls at both the helm and the bow; a bow compartment with anchor roller chute, chafe plate, safety strap, rope storage and access; plus a freshwater washdown outlet at bow to clean up the mess when anchoring in a muddy bottom. When it’s time to entertain family and friends, the JL Audio custom sound system is equipped with twin amplifiers, two 10-inch subwoofers, a total of six 7-inch speakers featuring sport grill and digital lighting, totaling 1,200 watts of rocking sound.
Robalo
One of the most impressive Robalos in the fleet is their R317 dual console. With a length overall of 31 feet and a generous 10-foot, 6-inch beam, there’s a lot of entertainment space on this family based multi-mission platform and the Robalo engineers have put it all to good use. While many boats of this size class in the dual console genre try to outdo each other with electric seats and other bells and whistles with a limited shelf life in saltwater, the Robalo designers kept this ergonomic layout fairly simple, and extremely flexible. For starters, the aft transom area is equipped with what Robalo calls its Vista-View lounge seat with dual reclining backrests that convert into a sun lounger, back-to-back seat for eight adults, or either forward or aft facing inclined sun loungers. The bonus is that there’s a molded cooler/fish box underneath with an overboard drain and a 25-gallon livewell tucked in the port aft corner.
Outfitted with her standard twin Yamaha F300 V6 outboards, the R317 tips the scales at 9,100 pounds dry. Her generous 260-gallon fuel capacity will translate to a month of weekend trips to your favorite sandbar, beach or watering hole, plus it will allow you to explore near offshore waters if fishing is on the menu. The 21-degree aft deadrise deep-vee running bottom will get you back to home port with confidence if the seas kick up a bit. The R317 has a 25-gallon freshwater tank, plus an 8-gallon holding tank for the standard porcelain marine toilet. The bow area is unique in that it offers a bench seat to port, with a single forward-facing seat to starboard. This complements the interior layout perfectly, with a head area under the starboard console and a single bunk under the port console that extends under the bow’s bench seat. It also makes for a roomier area to sight cast for the catch of the day.
EdgeWater
I spoke with the EdgeWater factory reps at the Fort Lauderdale Show and they confirmed that there are no new models for 2024. The 340CC has been upgraded with a few features requested by dealers and consumers that include an optional second steering station on the hardtop and standard items like Seakeeper Ride tabs, a Seakeeper 2 gyro stabilizer and Yamaha Helm Master joystick controller with auto pilot. One of the latest newbies to hit the marina last season was my favorite EdgeWater boat, the former 280CC that was revamped to the next-gen 285CC.
The 285CC is the fullback of the EdgeWater fleet with a deep-vee running bottom that warps back to 20 degrees of deadrise at the transom. She measures 28 feet overall with a generous 9-1/2-foot beam. I have taken this boat out in the usual sea conditions and she is rock-steady and handles it like a true champ. This large center console boat, coupled with Single Piece Infusion (vacuum bagging), leads to a strong, superior performing fishing platform in a variety of friendly and often unfriendly sea conditions. Her twin F300 Yamaha V-6s will hit a top speed in excess of 53 mph, but what I like about her most was the ability to super-cruise at 3,500 to 4,000 rpm at relatively fuel efficient numbers between 30 to 36 mph, netting 1.5 to 1.65 mpg. Another neat feature is her under-console area with porcelain marine head, freshwater sink with pull-out shower nozzle, plus a convenient double berth that tucks under the forward cockpit sole for a fantastic place to change out of wet clothes or to take a cat nap in between feeding frenzies. She offers a dozen flush mount gunwale, vertical and transom mount rod holders, another six-pack in the T-Top framework, a 28-gallon recirculating livewell in the port transom corner, twin 100-gallon insulated fishboxes with macerator pump-out in the cockpit sole, a 30-gallon freshwater system and a generous 200-gallon fuel tank.
Century Boats
As mentioned in last year’s Boat Buyer’s Guide as a “coming soon” model, the Century 4100CC has arrived. The Century 4100 CC’s hybrid hull design is an engineered balance between a traditional “Vee” hull and a stepped hull design. Century blends the best of both worlds with a unique strake geometry, a dynamic keel pad and a multifaceted transom. This hull has been designed to minimize bow rise while reducing drag and increasing lift. To make this engineering feat possible, high performance materials are used throughout the manufacturing process. An exclusive carbon fiber/Kevlar hybrid fabric was developed for the hull of to provide extra stiffness while reducing overall weight. All composites are vacuum infused to achieve optimum glass/resin ratio.
Twin transom doors open to an oversized swim platform providing complete 360 degrees of fishability. Engine rigging is hidden below the platform for safe, unobstructed maneuverability. A semi-enclosed console area provides climate controlled isolation from the elements while still being open to the rest of the deck space onboard. You can actually seat a total of 13 to 14 adults on this boat when underway. Convenient zip-up canvas converts the console space into a fully enclosed, weather-protected pilot house. Twin berths below deck comfortably sleep three to four, while a second row lounger in the console area converts to sleep a fifth crew member above deck in the air conditioned space. A pair of 50-gallon (forward) and 100-gallon (aft) in-floor insulated fishboxes will chill the catch of the day, plus there’s a 70-gallon pressurized livewell in the transom cap. The 4100CC measures 41 feet LOA, supported by a 12-foot, 4-inch beam and deep-vee running bottom that tapers back to 23.5 degrees at the transom. The 535-gallon fuel tank should provide adequate offshore range, depending on how you power her and how you ride the throttles when underway.
Maritime
Maritime Boats are based in New Hampshire and are built by Chislett’s Boating and Design. Their coastal fishing boat lineup includes five different styles of layouts from 14 to 25 feet. Maritime’s 14, 18 and 20-foot rolled edge Skiffs are simple, basic, uncomplicated boats with maximum interior space, self-bailing cockpits and hulls that are fuel efficient and easily propelled with low to moderate horsepower. They are built strong and “unsinkable”, are dry-running with a seaworthy ride. The distinctive feature of the Defiant center console series is the wraparound non-skid deck that facilitates easy boarding, installation of flush mount rod holders, pop-up cleats and self-bailing cockpits. Models 21 feet and larger have a large step down area under the console that provides room for storage and an optional porta-pottie or marine head. The Patriot and Voyager Center Cabin models combine all the benefits of a center console with the convenience of a full cabin. You can walk and fish around the side decks of the cabin without tripping over elevated steps.
Additional weather protection is provided by each of these models giving you the opportunity to cruise, play, or fish longer in comfort and security. The 23 and 25 Challenger cabin models feature a composite laminated glass windshield for strength and good looks. These boats have large versatile cockpits ideal for cruising and comfortably accommodating friends and family. Both Challenger models feature excellent visibility from the well-designed pilot house, a large comfortable V-berth that easily accommodates two adults and has a variety of seating, galley and cockpit configurations to meet your needs.
Pro-Line
Although there are no new Pro-Lines for 2024, the newest member of the Pro-Line family, the 23 Sport, has become a very hot item. Big on both features and performance, this fishing machine will get you offshore in a hurry and back home with a boat load of fish and many happy memories. Standard features on the Pro-Line 23 Sport include a Euro-styled center console with a large enclosed head with Porta-Pottie below; forward console seating with storage; forward bench seating with bow cushions and bolsters; twin insulated fishboxes under the forward bench seating; an integrated dive platform with ladder; a large lighted 18-gallon baitwell integrated in the transom; raw water washdown; under-gunwale rod storage for six saltwater outfits; and enough cockpit space for a bunch of your angling buddies to bend the rods along her deep gunwales, supported by cushioned cockpit bolsters.
Other built-in features on the Pro-Line 23 Sport include a leaning post/rocket launcher bench at the helm that includes a cushioned seat and backrest, enclosed storage box for lures and rigs and an additional quartet of vertical rod holders aft; marine compass; Deutsch waterproof electrical connectors; hydraulic steering; AM/FM stereo with iPod, Bluetooth and four speakers; T-Top with radio box and LED spreader lights; BocaTech accessory switches; recessed trim tabs w/indicators; plus a vinylester resin barrier coat in the hull and deck to prevent osmosis in the fiberglass laminate. Engine options include either single 250s or 300s, or twin 115s or 150s from either Mercury or Suzuki. Her 20-degree aft deadrise running bottom should tame an afternoon chop and the standard 118-gallon fuel tank on this North Carolina girl will give you easy 30- to 40-fathom range in near offshore waters.
Everglades
Everglades introduced the new and exciting 315cc for 2024, offering power and style in a very classy fish boat. Measuring 31 feet, 6 inches in length with a 10-foot, 4-inch beam, she tips the scales at a beefy 11,510 pounds dry, counting her twin outboards. Powered by twin Mercury 400 Verado V-10s, factory tests indicate that she’ll hit a top speed of over 56 mph at wide open throttle. But what I really like is her projected fuel economy and range. Running between 3,500, 4,000 and 4,500 rpm, she’ll hit a perfectly linear 27-33-39 mph respectively at these throttle settings, all while getting between 1.3 to 1.37 mpg. With 300-gallon fuel capacity, the 315cc will provide between 364 to 391 statute miles of range, using 95% of her stated tankage. When it’s time to fish, she’s all business with a single level cockpit with unobstructed 360-degree gunnel access; dual 25-gallon transom mounted circulating live wells with LED light, clear acrylic lid, stainless steel friction hinges and latch; a forward 80-gallon insulated in-deck fish box with macerator pump and overboard discharge; dual 40-gallon insulated in-deck fish boxes with macerator pump and overboard discharges; a dozen stainless steel rod holders that are bedded and through bolted for rod security; a quartet of stainless steel combination rod/cupholders also bedded and through bolted; under gunwale rod racks (two per side) with toe rails and a pair of under gunwale power ports.
Notable construction features include a lifetime hull warranty and three-year component warranty; a variable deadrise deep-vee hull that tapers back to an angular 25 degrees of deadrise at the transom; patented closed molded RAMCAP construction process with high density, closed cell, structural foam flotation; no wood composite construction using premium gel coat, a vinyl-ester barrier and knitted bi-axial fiberglass reinforcements with a high density composite transom; and the hull liner and deck are mated perfectly for a rigid one-piece construction.
Scout
There are two newbies in the Scout lineup for the 2024 model year, the 35 LXF S-Class luxury center console and the signature edition 281 X bay boat that’s equipped with an innovative second steering station. The 281 X Signature Edition is an inshore/offshore crossover built with carbon epoxy construction throughout. As with the 281 XSS, this model is set apart with notable features such as the large casting fore and rear deck, dual stern bait/fish boxes, ample rod storage, and port and starboard tackle storage. This limited-edition signature edition boasts additional standard features in addition to those of the 281 XSS which include exposed carbon fiber in the hardtop legs and lids; carbon fiber Edson steering wheel; two 10-foot Power-Poles in black; fishbox conversion to release livewell on the starboard side; bow rod/cup holders; and more. Also included on this model is a custom interior color package, which includes black and red accents throughout and diamond stitching that is only available on the 281 X Signature. Additionally, this model comes standard with a Scout white hull and is powered by a Mercury 400R engine that allows the boat to reach top speeds in the high 50s.
Scout’s LXF Collection is comprised of luxury sportfish models that showcase a unique blending of high-performance fish boats with high-end cruisers. The cross between these two popular recreational marine mainstays allows one to enjoy amenities in this collection normally only found on much larger sportfishers. The 357 LXF is the ninth current model in this category to date, joining the 260, 277, 305, 330, 377, 400, 425 and 530 LXF models. The 357 LXF is built on Scout’s epoxy-infused, double-stepped fuel-efficient hull. Standard on the 357 LXF is a fully walkable swim platform with a starboard side walk-thru door; 60-gallon transom fishbox/storage; both raw and freshwater washdowns (25-galllon tank); 50-amp battery charger; key fob remote controlled lights; three captain’s helm chairs with heated seats and individual flip-up bolsters; an electrically actuated bow table/conversion sun lounge; anchor camera in the bow; an aft facing bench seat that converts into a raised prep table and much more.
Carolina Skiff
This popular Georgia-based coastal boat builder announced that there is a new and improved E-Series Carolina Skiff being introduced for the 2024 model year. The E-Series lineup includes the E18JVX CC; E18JVX TH (tiller handle); E21DLX CC; E21DLX TH; E24DLX CC; and E24 DLX TH. The E-Series DLX skiffs are a reimagined and improved version of the classic Carolina Skiff DLX models, redesigned to redefine boating journeys with enhanced durability, stability and affordability. Crafted with precision and built to last, the E-Series boasts an upgraded construction process that ensures it can handle the rigors your time on the water. Boating is once again affordable. Whether you’re new to boating, a seasoned angler, a family seeking adventure, or a workaholic needing a stable platform on the water, E-Series is the vessel that’ll take your waterborne needs to new heights at an unmatched value.
Looking at the new E21DLX CC model, she features a LOA of 21 feet, with a 93-inch beam, 20-inch internal gunwale height and driving a 25-inch shaft outboard. Although the E21 is rated to carry up to 140-horsepower on the transom, she will definitely perform well with lesser outboards in the 75- to 90-horsepower range, depending on how fast you want to travel and how many crew you are bringing aboard. The boat weight is 2,472 pounds, so she’s easy to trailer, with an onboard fuel capacity of 12 gallons. She’s rated to carry up to 14 persons or a max weight of 2,750 pounds. Standard features on the E21DLX CC include binnacle controls with wiring harness; a console cushion set; full engine instrumentation (speed, volt, tach); control and steering cables; a quick disconnect windshield; S/S grab rail and steering wheel; horn; two three stage rod holders and a pair of grab rails. Other notable features include a bow eye, two stern eyes, four cleats, a 1,200 GPH bilge pump, LED bow and stern lights, a rigid rub rail with insert and a swim platform.
Key West
For 2024, Key West offers 14 outboard-powered family fishing boats ranging in size from 17 to 26 feet that feature center console, dual console, bay boat or family-oriented center console layouts. The largest in the Key West fleet is the 263FS, which is a family-friendly center console that is equally adept at bending rods or taking a crew out for the day of beaching it and the associated watersports activities. With emphasis on comfort, fishing and safety, the 263 FS (Family Sportsman) features added seating and storage, with a changing area and porta-pottie under the larger console. It doesn’t shortchange you on the fishing side of the equation, with a total of 22 rod holders, dual livewells and horizontal storage racks under the gunnels to hold up to 8-foot long saltwater rods. A macerated fish box is set under the cockpit sole in the bow to ice down the day’s catch.
Some of the notable standard features on the Key West 263 FS include a thru-hull windlass, hardtop, side entry door with hidden ladder, twin bilge pumps, high-pressure washdown, spacious forward seating with built-in backrests, cockpit bolsters, an eight speaker stereo system and Sea Star hydraulic tilt steering with power assist, plus 12-inch trim tabs with indicators. The 175-gallon fuel tank will take this Carolina girl a long way in between fill-ups, especially if you opt for twin 150s or 200s on the transom. According to factory tests, she’ll hit a top speed of 52.5 mph at 6,100 rpm with twin Yamaha I4 F200s on the transom, getting 34 mph/13.7 gph at 4,000 rpm netting 2.48 mpg.
Twin Vee
New for the 2024 model year is the 240CC GFX catamaran from Twin Vee. At first glance, the 240 looks like a leisure cruiser ready for the family. The bow has ample wraparound seating, complimented by the double-wide cooler seat forward of the console. Armrest cushions double as headrests for dual lounge chair sunbathing. A triple-wide bench at the stern is a great spot to catch some rays and a breeze when underway. The motor configuration allows for a swim deck that makes getting in and out of the water a breeze and the transom walkthrough insures smooth passage when reboarding. For family members or crew that need a private place when nature calls, there’s a spacious private head inside the console.
When it’s time to go fishing, the 240 is up to the task. The rear bench drops to give you a full wall of cushion to lean on, with a massive livewell, cooler and rocket launcher within reach. The bow cushions store out of the way in the console to reveal a spacious casting deck with insulated under-seat storage, a second baitwell and gunnel-mounted rod holders. Another cooler is close at hand under the console bench seat. Two more live wells are neatly recessed on the floor on either side of the center console. Port and starboard rod lockers are recessed in the walls. Additional gunnel mounts and the console rocket launcher bring the total rod capacity to 18. Tackle storage abounds and the Twin Vee design team has put every square inch of space to good use. Standard fuel capacity is provided by twin 45-gallon Florida Marine Tanks situated in the port and starboard sponsons. There are 10 standard rod holders with three flush-mounted in each gunwale and a four-rod rocket launcher in the T-Top.
Release Boats
This Florida-based boat builder introduced a new center console last season, the Release 295 Sport. Based on an overall length of 29 feet, 5 inches with a beam that’s an inch over 10 feet in width, she tips the scales with a dry weight of 7,800 pounds. Rated to carry up to 600 horsepower, the standard 180-gallon fuel tank will give this sportfisher comfortable blue water range with her 21-degree aft deadrise deep-vee running bottom and the speed to get there, pushed by a pair of 300 four-strokes.
Notable standard features include dual 12-inch Simrad NSS EVO3S Combo displays; Simrad 4G Radar; Simrad RS20 DSC VHF radio and antenna; Simrad 1kW transducer; JL Audio MM100 Source marine stereo with quad JL Audio speakers; powder-coated hardtop with handrails, spreader lights and overhead lights; twin Llebroc helm seats with flip-up bolsters and arm rests; 36-gallon livewell; tackle storage drawers; PRO Charging Systems 3 bank battery charger; a quartet of flush-mount gunwale rod holders; electric head with holding tank and overboard discharge; a sink with fresh water in the leaning post; and much more. Desirable options include a windlass system complete with a stainless steel anchor, chain and rode; full boat coaming bolsters; a quintet of flush mount rod holders installed in the transom cap; swim platform extensions with boarding ladder; and more.
Sea Born
Sea Born boats is a division of Composite Research Inc. in Blackshear, GA. Introduced a few seasons back, the LX26 Center Console is the largest of four vessels in the company’s LX series. According to Sea Born engineers, every boat in the LX lineup successfully merges family-centric features with let’s-go-fishing readiness. Standard features on the LX26 include an easy-boarding port-side dive door, multiple charging ports, in-console head, LED lighting throughout, along with convenient passenger grab rails for improved safety. From the helm, the pilot and co-pilot will appreciate the two-position leaning post when standing, but as the need arises, the unit easily converts to a captain’s style chair with backrest. On the console, there’s an endless array of information via two glass-mounted, multi-function displays.
Other notable standards include on-console toggle switches, a phone-saving dash pad and a large shade-providing hardtop with overhead storage. When it’s time to bend the rods, the LX26 provides additional cockpit depth compared to Sea Born’s bay boats, giving it big-boat energy and allowing owners to run near shore or offshore in bumpy seas in complete comfort and safety. At the bow, there’s an anchor pulpit and chain, ideal for keeping the boat steady over a wreck or reef. As with any fishing boat, storage is at a premium and the LX26 delivers with ample gear and tackle bins, under-and-in-gunwale rod holders and a rounded port-side aerated baitwell.
Bayliner Trophy
Building on the successful Trophy Series and its strategy to increase boater participation through its intuitive and feature-rich designs, Bayliner recently introduced the launch of the Trophy T24 Center Console (T24CC). The T24 is the newest model of the Trophy lineup, which also include 20 and 22-foot center consoles. With an overall length of 24 feet, the Trophy T24CC brings a high-performing, family-friendly center console fishing boat to the market at a price that will attract entry-level and experienced boaters alike. Built on a deep-vee hull foundation, the T24CC expands Bayliner’s center console capabilities accommodating up to 12 people onboard with increased fuel capacity, rugged fishability and more storage.
Some of the notable T24CC standard features include a beam-forward hull design with the deepest freeboard of all Trophy models, offering improved fishing ergonomics; increased fuel capacity (100 gallons), livewell (21 gallons) and baitwell (15 gallons) for a full day of fishing fun on the water; central command center featuring dual 6-foot insulated fishboxes and standard canvas T-top with an optional fiberglass hardtop; fold-away rear bench seating offering a transom walkthrough for easy swimming platform access. The T24CC is powered by a standard 225-horsepower Mercury V6 outboard with optional packages up to 300 horsepower. bayliner.com
BERTRAM YACHTS
Iconic American boat builder Bertram Yachts recently introduced a trio of outboard powered fishing boats, specifically the 28CC, 28XC (crossover dual console) and the go-fast 39CC. Bertram has also signed an exclusive outboard engine supply agreement with Mercury Marine to power its new outboard fleet. The 28CC is one good-looking machine with an Italian flair due to its parental ownership by the Gavio Group who took the helm in 2015. Combing the exhilaration of the ride with the comfort and reliability of a Bertram, the 28CC is ready, no matter where the day takes you. Featuring all the essentials a fisherman needs and room to entertain friends and family, this boat is as comfortable chasing the sunset as it is chasing that trophy fish. The comfort and fishing features abound on this stylish sportfisher and include 35-gallon baitwell with 1,100-gph pump, advanced circulation setup, LED lights, and clear lid; twin 244-quart insulated in-floor fish boxes with pump out; a dozen stainless steel flush-mounted rod holders (4X transom, 4X gunnel, 4X bow); console utility center with cutting board, sink, and integrated lockable cooler storage with removable Yeti cooler; a six-pack of substantial 10-inch pull-up cleats; plus the roomy and functional fishing cockpit that’s typical of a Bertram.
The twin Merc 300 V8 Verado engines will push this Florida girl to a top speed of over 53 mph at wide open throttle spinning 17-inch pitch Revolution 4 props. She’ll turn a very comfortable cruise at 4,000 rpm, hitting 35.3 mph at 19 gph, for a net of 1.86 mpg, which is outstanding for a boat of this length, beam (9 feet, 8 inches) and displacement (9,056 pounds) that features a deep-vee running bottom with 23 degrees of deadrise at the transom. Her 200-gallon fuel tank offers 334 miles of range, so trips to the edge and back are definitely in her wheelhouse.
CAPE HORN
One of the latest Cape Horn center consoles to split the offshore seas is their all-new 39T. This is a well-designed and durable offshore machine with one singular purpose, to catch large pelagic fish. Everything on the 39T was designed to outperform. A 9-foot long, 400-gallon insulated fishbox will support you on your best days catching them up in the bluewater. The two massive, pressurized live wells provide 115 gallons of live bait capability. The oversized hardtop adds to an already sleek and modern design and protects the crew from the elements on the long trips to the 100-fathom line and back. Two large overhead electronics boxes will satisfy your need for a comprehensive multi-screen marine electronics suite, plus the helm area can mount additional big-screen MFDs. A host of lighting options, flush mounted speakers and telescoping outriggers come standard. Her 39-foot, 6-inch length coupled with a relatively slim 11-foot, 3-inch beam gives this sportfisher a knife-like profile to tame opposing head seas, with a 52-degree entry angle that tapers back to 21.5 degrees deadrise aft. Her dry weight with power is 15,500-pounds.
Factory tests powered by a pair of fire-breathing 600-horsepower two-speed Verados showed that this Florida girl can really boogie, hitting a top speed of over 69 mph. For maximum range out of her 565-gallon tank with these thirsty V-12s, you’ll probably want to dial the electric throttles down to 3,500 rpm, where she’ll head offshore at 35.1 mph while gulping 35.2-gph, for a bottom line of 1.0 mpg and an impressive range of 509 miles keeping 10% of her fuel capacity as a reserve. The 39T gives you the speed and range that few other under-40s can match.
PIONEER
The latest and largest Pioneer sportfisher is the 270 Pelagic Center Console. One of the most popular power configurations is a pair of Suzuki DF250 four-strokes. She sports a dozen flush-mount rodholders in the gunwales and across the full height transom cap, a powder-coated T-Top with a six-rod vertical rocket launcher, a large recirculating livewell set aft of the leaning post, full cockpit coaming bolsters, twin raised bench seat forward, a roomy cockpit and much more. Other notable standards include stainless steel steering wheel with speed knob; recessed trim tabs w/indicator light; a white powder coat package; 13.5-gallon freshwater tank; a six-pack of flush-mounted gunwale rodholders; twin insulated in-floor macerated fish boxes; a 52-gallon lighted live well with sea chest; 80-quart Engel cooler with cushion; an anchor locker with windlass, anchor and rode; a single Garmin 12-inch MFD; dual battery switch with battery isolator; deluxe fiberglass leaning post w/tackle storage station; a deluxe hard top; walk-in console with Porta-Pottie; a dozen stainless steel cupholders; a fold-down rear bench seat; cockpit coaming bolster cushions; a bow cushion set and more.
Choose from twin Yamaha F200/I4s; twin F250/V6s; a single Yamaha F350/V8; twin Suzuki DF200/I4s; dual Suzuki DF250/V6s; a single Suzuki DF350; twin Mercury FourStroke 200/V6s; a pair of Mercury FourStroke 250/V8s; or a single Mercury 350 Verado. Wow, that is some selection! The current 2021 Pioneer lineup includes a total of nine outboard-powered center consoles, bay boats and dual console designs ranging from 17 to 27 feet. All Pioneer boats are backed by a transferable 7-year/10-year original owner structural hull warranty.
CHRIS-CRAFT
Chris Craft is one of America’s oldest and most prestigious boat brands now approaching 150 years in the business. Their Catalina lineup of Center crossover consoles to date included 24-, 30- and 34-foot models. The Chris-Craft design team received some valuable dealer and customer feedback on this series and decided to expand it for the 2024 model year with a new model, the 28 Catalina, introduced at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. The elegantly styled helm on this elegant crossover features flush-mounted electronics with a 12-inch Garmin Multifunction Display with CZone Switching, with an option to upgrade to twin 12-inch Garmin screens. The Garmin displays a custom Chris-Craft home screen that matches the look and feel of the boat. The high gloss teak accents and steering wheel add another touch of classic styling to the helm.
Although she’s definitely a pretty girl that will get some looks dockside, she also performs when it’s time to bend the rods. She is equipped with an in-floor fishbox, a quartet of vertical flush-mount rodholders in the transom cap, tuna doors in the starboard transom corner and starboard aft cockpit, coaming bolsters, an optional livewell, plus a handful of gunwale-mount combo rodholder/cup holders if trolling is on the menu. Standard power is courtesy of a pair of twin Mercury 225-horsepower V-6 FourStrokes, with an option to upgrade these to twin 300-horsepower Verado V-8s. Her 160-gallon fuel tank will get you to 50 fathoms and back with plenty to spare, and looking good while you do so.
MAYCRAFT
MayCraft recently introduced a pair of new center consoles, the 208 CC and the 238 CC. The larger of the two, the 238 CC features a 23-foot length supported by an 8-foot beam. She displaces 2,300 pounds and carries an 81-gallon fuel tank. Drawing only 13 inches of water, she is rated to carry a max of 225 horsepower on the transom. Standard features include custom upholstery, an aluminum leaning post, foam flotation, flush-mount rodholders, livewell, horizontal rod racks under the gunwales and hydraulic steering.
Popular options include a choice of hull colors; trim tabs; bow cushions with padded backrests for the twin forward bench seats; an upgraded leaning post with internal livewell; a T-Top with radio box; Fiberglass upgrade for the T-Top; rear jump seats and a raw water washdown system.
DEFIANCE BOATS
Defiance Boats based in Bremerton, WA constructs some of the toughest boats in the Pacific Northwest, backed by a lifetime structural warranty on their hulls. The boats most associated with Defiance are the Admiral pilot house series that includes the 220 NT (notched transom design), 220/250/270 EX models, plus the 29 Guadalupe. Defiance also manufactures the Commander series of center consoles with 220 NT, 220 EX and 250 EX models. But the little darling that caught my eye is one of their latest CCs, the 210 Catalina. She’s a “big” center console, with an overall length of 21 feet, 4 inches with a wide 8-foot, 6-inch beam, tipping the scales at 3,200 pounds with a 150 on the transom. The deep-vee running bottom tapers back to 21 degrees aft and she is fueled by a generous 100-gallon tank.
The Catalina 210 provides a surprising amount of fishing space for a 21-footer, with thigh-high cockpit freeboard and all of the features that serious anglers are looking for in a boat, like a leaning post/rocket launcher; flush-mount stainless steel rodholders; livewell; insulated fishboxes; trim tabs; hydraulic steering with stainless steel steering wheel; removable cockpit coaming bolsters and more. The Defiance 210 Catalina also provides the comfort and seating amenities you are looking for when cruising around the bay or just relaxing with friends and family. Optional features include either a Weblon or fiberglass T-Top with overhead rocket launchers, raw water washdown, a Lewmar Pro-Fish Windlass 1000, overhead electronics box, porta-pottie and fold down transom bench seat.
BLUECAT 30
BlueCat USA, a prominent player in the world of catamaran innovation, has made a resounding entrance into the U.S. market with their spectacular debut at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The company proudly unveiled their groundbreaking 30-foot Catamaran, featuring an impressive 12-foot, 6-inch beam with quad 300 Mercury Outboards. The BlueCat 30 takes spaciousness to new heights with its class-leading 12-foot, 6-inch beam.
Offering an expansive deck layout, it provides an unparalleled level of room for both fishing and family fun. Whether casting lines, landing that big catch, or simply enjoying the sea’s tranquility, there’s always space to move freely and safely. Experience unimpeded fishing adventures or create lasting family memories on board. Blue Cat USA’s entire model range is offered as semi-custom vessels with a large range of options allowing customers to customize their boat to how they fish or boat, all with a level of luxury unmatched in its class. Blue Cat USA builds performance center console catamarans ranging from 17 to 43 feet in length.
ECONOMIC ALTERNATIVE: SEA EAGLE FISHSKIFF 16 INFLATABLE
This remarkable inflatable fishing boat redefines angling convenience, offering a perfect blend of portability and performance. The FishSkiff 16 is both stable and spacious, making it ideal for solo or tandem fishing adventures. Crafted with durability in mind, its drop-stitch technology and reinforced fabric ensure a rugged yet lightweight vessel. Set up is a breeze at only 17 minutes with the BTP Two Stage Electric Turbo Pump, and the boat’s inflatable design means you can take it anywhere your fishing heart desires. Don’t fret about the durability because the boat is made out of 1000 Denier Reinforced Fusion Welded Drop Stitch for a ‘tough as nails’ construction. Additional features include Scotty mounts, a comfortable swivel seat, and ample storage. This inflatable really gets moving with a 10-horsepower gas engine (100 pounds max, 15-inch short-shaft) pushing her up to 21.5 mph with one person, and 12 to 18 mph with two to three people (max capacity). The hull weight comes in at 84 pounds (95 with the transom).
