Boat Buyers Guide 2020 9 U.S.A

BBOATOAT BUYERS POWER W PL E A N N 6 T GUIDE S N 30 E W S 22020020 B O A T

FROM THE EDITORS OF + TOP GEAR TO ALWAYS KEEP ON BOARD P.26

PRESENTED BY EXTREME POWER ISSUE ////LESS MAINTENANCE, MORE FUN

// START THE SEAKEEPER, ELECTRONICS THAT MAKE THE BEST STOP THE BARFING P.16 BOATS INTEGRATED VESSEL SYSTEMS MEAN EASIER OPERATION P.34 // 4 0 INSHORE/ COASTAL S S Prospective bay-boat buyers want a hardcore fi shing-specifi c boat fi rst, and multipurpose cruising and watersports took second place. Dual-console afi cionados were attracted to a T T boat’s multipurpose nature fi rst and fi shability second. N E T T 62OFF N N O O SProspectiveH buyers wereO somewhatR undecided onE the boat they would consider, but in the realm of our survey, offshore boats were of top consideration, followed by bay boats, then C C walkarounds, sport-fi shers, fl ats skiffs and dual consoles. 16EDITORIAL/18NO REGRETS 0 26GEAR/34ELECTRONICS 2 114THE LAST CAST 0 Yamaha’s XTO Offshore, the world’s largest displacement outboard, will change boating and fi shing forever.

2 COVER LEGENDARY ICONIC CLASSIC TIMELESS

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Yamaha’s XTO Offshore: Powerful, Advanced, Elegant

LOTS OF POWER, LESS HASSLE, INTEGRATED DESIGN. ONE MOTOR FEWER IN MANY APPLICATIONS

It’s a powerful outboard, the motor reaches about the new Yamaha XTO Off- 2,500 rpm, after which shore®, and it’s brought big exhaust passes through change—to sport-fi shers, the propeller hub. This center-console lovers and thrust-enhancing exhaust even to water taxis. routing provides maxi- Built from skeg to cowl mum power and control in to team-power yacht-class reverse instead of asking offshore boats, this 425 hp, props to bite into already 5.6L V-8 has won fans in frothy water. The reverse single and twin applications thrust increase—about 300 on smaller craft with big percent more than with the offshore ideas too. F350—helps plenty when Chain-driven dual maneuvering dockside or WHAT’S NEW? overhead cams are backing down on a big fi sh. Yamaha calls its newcomer oil-bathed for long life. Exhaust pressure controls an “integrated power sys- the fl ow; there’s no mecha- tem,” and backs the claim nism to fail. with many innovations and Plasma-fused sleeveless industry fi rsts. cylinders—another Yamaha The XTO Offshore’s Outboard innovation—are electric steering system lighter, more compact and eliminates cables and 60 percent harder than hydraulics. Internally Above-water exhaust steel, making it possible to keeps props in housed electrical motors undisturbed water produce bigger-bore power boats in salt water. There’s less worry directly move the outboard, to increase reverse within the same-size pow- trailering too. resulting in instant repower by 300 percent. erhead, all while reducing Come maintenance time, no need to sponse, simpler rigging and friction and weight. Cam haul out the boat to change the gearcase fewer components. shafts and lifters boast new lube either. Your technician withdraws In the XTO Offshore technology too. the old oil with a vacuum line at the —boating’s fi rst direct- A high-output alternator power head, and pumps fresh back in. injection four-stroke—two cranks out 90 amps gross fuel pumps spray atomized and up to 72 amps net A WINNING NUMBERS GAME fuel directly into combustion charging at around 1,500 Yamaha envisioned the XTO Offshore chambers at up to 2,900 psi, Placed low forward, rpm. as a team player on big, multiengine maximizing combustion and cooling water pickups Power tilt lifts the motor boats (50-footers and up.) Boaters have effi ciency. keep strong fl ow to clear off the water on most found that with this big-displacement The XTO exhausts above dual impeller pumps. boats, making for less powerhouse, they can opt for fewer out- the cavitation plate until maintenance, especially on boards—three outboards instead of four,

REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal fl oatation device and protective gear. © 2019 Yamaha Motor Corporation, SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Dual engines instead of triples give better thrust and control by reducing drag, keeping props deep below the keel and allowing them to be widely spaced for better reverse steering.

haust-exchange feature of the XTO is a Yorktown, or simply view pelicans and decided advantage, in both power and dolphins. steerageway. Its twin-outboard 40-foot Corinthian “Trim up a little in reverse, and it catamarans run all day, every day, and actually lifts the transom out of the for more than 10 years, those outboards water instead of pulling it down,” said have been Yamahas—a surprisingly low legendary Florida captain Rick Murphy. number of Yamahas! ”You can make the boat actually dance The original taxi is on its third set of in reverse!” F150s, having upgraded them, proactive- The exhaust system pays off in a dif- ly, at 6,800 and 8,700 hours* of service. for example, or two instead three. ferent way too, believes Capt. Murphy, A third pair is nearing 4,000 hours*. One triple-powered Contender® 39, producing smoother water in which to The second taxi has its original pair of with its center motor off and fully offer baits and lures. Trolling, you’re not F200s, five years in. trimmed-up still hit nearly 65 mph. sending exhaust bubbling through the A backup boat, a 27-foot Carolina Boaters to whom speed is important prop hub, so you’re giving fish a better Skiff, is powered by one of those first might still want three XTOs, but those look at your offerings. 150s, nudging a cumulative 10,000 for whom a mile-a-minute is plenty will With Yamaha’s new design, he hours*. (Yamaha bought back the other be happy with a two-pack. says, “white water is 50 to 60 percent original motor.) The XTO Offshore has surprised many less. I can see it; I’ve been shooting When the company commissioned its folks by emerging as a great single underwater video for 30 years.” new 50-footer, it spec’d it with Yamaha solution for 25- and 26-foot boats. Murphy, by the way, is having a new XTO Offshores. They’ll provide the ferry 35-foot fishing boat built, with twins service with Yamaha power, durability FISH ON! instead of triples—twin Yamaha XTOs. and dependability, along with the new, When the biggest fish is on the line, easy maintenance of its in-water gear captains must sometimes concede to “TAXI!” lube-change feature along with the dock- the rampager and back down to shorten The Charleston Water Taxi provides ing and traffic-handling agility provided the distance between fish and angler. Charleston’s residents and visitors a by its full reverse thrust. When that happens, the reverse-thrust novel way to view historic sights and *Results are based on commercial use, and increase provided by the thrust-ex- attractions, salute aircraft carrier USS may vary for traditional retail consumer use.

EDITORIAL RANDY VANCE EDITOR AT LARGE, MARINE AND FISHING MEGAN WILLIAMS MANAGING EDITOR DOUG OLANDER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, SPORT FISHING GLENN LAW EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, SALT WATER SPORTSMAN SAM WHITE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, MARLIN CHRIS WOODWARD EXECUTIVE EDITOR, SPORT FISHING 2020 ALEX SUESCUN SENIOR EDITOR, SALT WATER SPORTSMAN JIM HENDRICKS PACIFIC COAST EDITOR STEVE GRIFFIN CONTRIBUTING EDITOR MILENA WAMBOLD ART DIRECTOR FISHING CINDY MARTIN COPY EDITOR SALES AND MARKETING SCOTT SALYERS GROUP PUBLISHER 305-253-0555 DAVE MOREL CALENDAR PUBLISHER 407-637-3658 NATASHA LLOYD PUBLISHER MARLIN 954-760-4602 JEFF ROBERGE DETROIT ADVERTISING DIRECTOR 248-213-6154 ANDREW W. TOWNES III MIDWEST/TELEVISION/EVENTS 407-571-4730 BILL SIMKINS CHARTER BOATS/MARKETPLACE 407-571-4865 DAN JACOBS TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR AND EVENT PRODUCTION 407-571-4680 MISSIE PRICHARD EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT 407-571-4692

BONNIER MEDIA GREGORY D. GATTO EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT SHAWN BEAN EDITORIAL DIRECTOR GLENN SANDRIDGE VICE PRESIDENT, MANAGING DIRECTOR DAVE WEAVER CREATIVE DIRECTOR STEPHANIE PANCRATZ EDITORIAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR CINDY MARTIN COPY CHIEF HALEY BISCHOF GROUP MARKETING DIRECTOR FRANKI GIORDANO SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER CHRISTINE SILEN MARKETING MANAGER MIKE STALEY DIGITAL STRATEGY DIRECTOR MARK MACKENZIE DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR JACKIE FRY DIGITAL CONTENT STRATEGIST MICHELLINA JONES DIGITAL CONTENT PRODUCTION AND PRESENTATION DIRECTOR All your BRIAN DAUGHERTY DIGITAL PRODUCER

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Seven-Year Itch

fi shing won’t buy a boat with just two, one or two satisfi es more players than we expected. So, if you’re looking for a new boat, start here. It’s the compilation of over On the Way 3,000 anglers’ personal bibles on fi shing in boats. This is the place to scratch to Tropic Star your itch. Just for giving us your best advice on how to buy a boat, you were entered to GYRO MAGIC win a fabulous fi shing trip at Tropic As a kid, you must’ve played with a Star Lodge in Piñas Bay, Panama gyroscope, a top spinning in a frame (tropicstar.com). You’ll be hosted for that resisted everything you did to four nights’ lodging (airfare, trans- try and tilt or turn it. A few years ago, fers, meals, alcohol and gratuities Seakeeper gyrostabilization burst onto excluded) in luxury, and treated to the recreational boat market, promis- three days of the best pelagic fi sh- his is the seventh year of our ing to stop the nauseating roll of boats ing in the world. Second place gets a TFishing Boat Buyers Guide. For in waves. Patriot cooler, and the third-place six years, we tweaked the survey to With units designed for boats from prize is a Patriot tumbler. It’s all great sharpen our insight into your percep- 27 to over 40 feet—a category over payback just to talk shop about boats. tion of fi shing boats to get a clear idea of half of our survey respondents were what would hook you on your next boat. considering—and in spite of prices WINNING BOAT-BUYING This year, we fl ipped the theme and ranging from $19,900 to over $200,000, ADVICE—FIRST PLACE asked you not what you thought of 200 boatbuilders added them to their Take a long time to decide where boats on the marketplace, but what you factory-installed option list. As we you want to fi sh and how frequently. thought of your boat. You’re loyal to it— see it, for 10 to 15 percent more on the Buying an off shore boat for the Gulf most have owned their boat 10 or more purchase price, boaters can add 100 of Mexico can limit your opportuni- years, but still look wistfully at the new percent more fun to their boating. Start ties to fi sh due to sea and weather models built with new technologies and the Seakeeper. Stop the barfi ng. That conditions. Be sure you understand new style. So, the central theme of this has ring to it. that you may not be able to go off shore benchmark survey is: Based on what as often as you wish. A bay boat for you know and love—and maybe hate— inshore and nearshore will give you about your current boat, what demands much more fi shing time. will you make of your new one? Not every revelation was a surprise, SECOND PLACE but some were. In spite of editorial Think realistically about how you infatuation with horsepower, 150 to will use the boat and what capabilities 200 horsepower satisfi es most of you. you need, then fi nd the best option in Dazzling glass cockpit displays with your budget. dual or triple touchscreen interfaces? Most of you want one combo rig in the BY RANDY VANCE THIRD PLACE dash or on a gimbal. And while those Editor-at-Large, Marine and Fishing Max out the horsepower rating for who want three livewells for live-bait [email protected] the boat. COURTESY SEAKEEPR (LEFT); JON WHITTLE (TOP) COURTESY

16 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 FISH FORREAL Our 2020 fleet has arrived with big boat features like wraparound windshields and leading-edge Garmin® electronics now standard on every model. Build yours today at regulatormarine.com

FAVORITE FEATURES The power and speed to outrun a storm No Perfect Many of our bay-boat owners seemed to ranked high on the list of favorite features be frustrated off shore fi shermen. They for one of our survey respondents. Safety Boat? sang the praises of their vessels as it per- ﬁ rst, of course! tained to ease of trailering, launching and WE LOVE OUR BOATS BUT loading, as well as features and versatility, The smooth ride, even in 4- to 6-foot but still lamented how often rough seas seas. (Hell’s Bay) [4 to 6 feet? The heck STILL SEE THEIR FLAWS kept them from bluewater fi shing. you say?] By Chris Woodward Here are their comments and some of our editorial asides: Dual-console owners liked the creature Illustrations by John W. Tomac comforts, space and stability of their rides. oats display elegant shear lines and Fishing is a way I escape with my B innovative designs. We love to show wife for a few days. (Carolina Skiff ) It fi shes well, and the ladies like them off and spin tales of high-hook days. [Note, he typed “with.”] the front chaise longues. (Boston But boats also have tight spaces, fl awed Whaler Vantage) systems and quirky layouts. Boats have Kind of a Swiss Army knife of a boat, trade-off s. As one of our survey respon- does a lot well. (Robalo Cayman) It starts and goes. It fi ts the needs dents put it: “It’s easy to fi nd the perfect of my wife and dog. Keep It Simple boat to do one thing. As soon as you want I can use it like an old pickup. Stupid. (Aquasport dual-console) to do two things, you’re compromising.” (Winner bay boat) [Is he carrying crab Our survey asked boaters to list favorite traps or hay?] Wide, with enough space to fi sh, features, biggest disappointments, and and places to sleep overnight for up what their current boat has taught them Bass-boat style fore and aft, with to eight friends, with kitchenette to look for in a future new boat. More than pontoon boat features in the middle. and toilet. 1,800 of you provided answers. (Lowe Bay 20) (42-foot dual-console)

18 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Those with flats skiffs liked the shallow-water capabilities, of course. Since most small skinny-water boats lack a lot of storage and comfort amenities, their comments centered on backwater fishability, practicality and sheer enjoyment.

My favorite feature of my boat is the history and the memories that come with it. (Sea Nymph) [The last one was made 22 years ago—you should be thinking upgrade!]

I am older, and this is easy to board. Seating is at butt level, so I don’t have to try to get up and out. Easy to see where you are going...easy to fish from. (Carolina Skiff) [Another nod to this indestructible workhorse.]

On bigger inboard sport-fishers, owners laud the open layout, creature comforts, and ride in rough seas.

Great to live on. Great to fish on. ( Riviera) [Well, it’s a yacht—it better be!]

Built like a tank. (Rampage) [Have you seen the movie Fury?]

Excellent trolling boat, stable in rough water, and rides like a Cadillac. (Bertram) [Well, duh. It’s why they call them classics.]

Still can push her 30 knots at full are caught. And plenty of rocket Some boats can do many things, but none rack. I love my boat. I give her all launchers for storage of rods. can do all things. Trade-offs and compro- my money! Portable cutting boards with gimbal mises are inevitable. Buyers should make mounts that can be moved around the lists of their top needs and wants. Offshore center-console owners waffled boat. I really like the Taco outriggers between speed, 360-degree fishability, for separation of lines. As much fishing scenarios. It is an overnighter ride and fuel efficiency in their list of storage space as possible for stowing or a dayboat. It can be an offshore favorite features. equipment. Plenty of icebox/fish-box troller or inshore explorer. (Grady- space, and a nice 40-gallon baitwell White) [Man, we like that cuddly part!] It has plenty of power to outrun a is a must. (Sailfish Boats)[Nice list! storm and pretty comfortable to fish Well-thought-out. All the judges give this My wife loves cruising on it while I on. (Sea Pro) a 10!] fish. She does not fish. (Boston Whaler Conquest) [Sounds like he has found the Perfect combination of seaworthy, Walkaround owners liked their spacious perfect boat for a trouble-free marriage, comfortable, good-looking and cockpits and the ability to overnight but how does she settle for a 6-knot economical! (Sea Hunt) [Is this a boat or comfortably aboard their boats. cruising speed?] the description of a frugal spouse?] I have a 30 WA with an 11-foot beam, My boat is an absolute jack-of-all- As I grow older, the windlass is my which makes for a pretty spacious trades when it comes to versatility favorite feature. Will never buy cockpit. Having a lot of uncluttered and capability. It has strength, speed, another boat without one. (Sea Fox) room to work is one of my favorite comfort, range, and can handle seas [Judging from the average age of an features. (Pro-Line Boats) [Bigger is like a larger vessel due to its wide offshore angler, there should be plenty of almost always better!] beam and weight. It’s no wonder I’ve windlasses on the water.] owned two of them. (Grady-White) The walkaround cuddly [sic] cabin [With over 60 contiguous years of I love having a raw-water washdown. covers all bases and all activities well, boatbuilding, it’s no wonder Grady-White Comes in handy when bloody fish as well as family activities and all gets so many comments.]

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 19 NO REGRETS

BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENTS We’re quite pleased to report that the single-most-common answer to the question of what disappoints you about your current boat’s build was… nothing, none, nada. Of course, we did hear about issues, chief among them: “I need a bigger boat.” But many answers also reflected the age of the boat, and in many cases, problems with older hulls have been remedied in new designs for the same model. Here are a few of the disappointments, listed by boat type:

BAY BOATS Needs different dry storage, but hell, this is a fishing boat. (Skeeter) [Have you looked at them lately?]

Has good baitwell...livewell...but no fish box for icing down catch! Always have to take a cooler, which takes up space! [They build in coolers now, buddy!]

It leaks. [Uh-oh. Have you heard of Flexi-Seal?]

Not enough freeboard/low gunwales. (Bayboats) [Several similar remarks reveal a few owners should’ve looked at the new hybrid boats, such as Regulator XO26.]

No windlass. [If wishes were fishes. In a bay boat?]

DUAL-CONSOLES Cruises at 18 to 20 knots. Would like Some buyers would like a bigger boat, a Not very much unfavorable about it faster. [Repeat after us: Must buy a bigger berth, more freeboard, and bigger, this boat. If anything, it’s that it has a Yamaha 425 XTO Offshore outboard!] better dry storage; others simply covet a single motor. [See page 72.] smaller console. Small enough; however, large enough. The soft top gets in the way at times. [Can you say “oxymoron”?] Old and outdated. Newer boats seem [Go topless.] to have much-better-thought-out I am 6-foot-3 and need a little more features. FLATS SKIFFS headroom, and like most boats this It doesn’t wash itself. [You don’t make size, the captain’s bed is never long WALKAROUNDS your crew wash it? Seriously?] enough for my wife and me. Can be challenging to get to the bow due to my feet, which are bigger than If it were 2 feet longer, it would be OFFSHORE CENTER-CONSOLES the walkaround. perfect. [If it were 2 feet longer, it would A herd of cats got in my boat and be a bay boat. Start reading on page 42 to destroyed every piece of my new Difficult to fish off the front.[We’ve find your perfect bay boat.] marine deck. (Mako) [We’ve heard that heard that about walkarounds.] cats had started traveling in herds.] Can’t go offshore...but I knew that. Needs more fishing room. I would [You need two boats—37 percent of our Not enough space between seatback rather have a center-console, but respondents have more than one!] and transom baitwell. Tough to walk my wife wanted privacy when use of through, especially while fighting the port-a-potty is needed. Also, I’d INBOARD SPORT-FISHERS a fish. like to have a second control station Rocks and rolls on the drift if there’s on the hardtop for sight-casting red any kind of sea on. [You sound like a Height of console (hard to see over for drum and cobia. [We know. It’s all about candidate for a Seakeeper.] short people). [Ahem, I feel your pain.] compromise.]

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LESSONS LEARNED We like it when boaters help boaters. Many of you answered the question about what you have learned from your current boat that you’d apply when shopping your next boat with some useful advice for other boating anglers. Here are some of your words of wisdom for the future (grouped by boat type):

BAY BOATS Look for build quality and builder reputation.

A solid platform and motor that’s well-maintained will be a workhorse for a long time.

Quality of construction and ease of access to common maintenance items (pumps, seacocks, batteries, filters, etc.).

Buy the best boat you can afford. [It’s almost always cheaper to buy the boat you want than to compromise and try to trade up two years later. That extra $50 a month the smaller boat saved will cost you an extra $200 a month in two years.]

Organization and placements of wiring can make or break things. INBOARD SPORT-FISHERS Maintenance ease and a solid build rank Want a 40-foot bay boat. [Has he looked Variable deadrise to moderate roll on high on our boaters’ list of lessons learned at pontoons? Or floating docks?] the drift. from previous boats. Many reminded us: Spend the money and get what you want. DUAL-CONSOLES A lot of space and plenty of storage is a Spend the money and get what you must for my next purchase. WALKAROUNDS want the first time around. My wife and family are adamant about Look for an easy-to-maintain engine a walkaround, so I look for function Next time I’ll opt for wider beam and room with easy access to all areas that over form as far as actually using more storage. [We hear this again and require timely maintenance. the walkaround feature safely in the again. We repeat: Buy the boat you want if ocean conditions in which I fish, and you can; skimping now costs more later.] OFFSHORE CENTER-CONSOLES we boat as a family. [Sounds like you like Craftsmanship in the builder, to actually walk around your walkaround. Complete a full inspection of all baitwell pumps that are adequate, Refreshing!] systems to assess boat value before and comfortable layout. making a purchase. Comfortable riding is extremely im- Determine the primary use of the portant. The fatigue at the end of the FLATS SKIFFS boat. If offshore is primary, get as day is greatly reduced by a good ride. It’s taught me that I can’t get much boat as is practical. everything I need in one boat. Easy-to-access and well-documented [Our kind of boater—buy two!] Look for comfort so your family and systems. Better preventative-main- friends can get out of weather. Also, tenance schedule and logs. A reliable Rod holders out of the way under always check for electrical wiring support system and parts availability. gunwales. Self-bailing, if possible. done well, because as boats age, Emergency wheels under the hull wiring can become expensive and I look at the wiring leads to see if they when you run aground. [Oh, how tricky time-consuming to repair. are neat and if they are labeled. would that be?] Quality construction and design I need only a bathroom, livewell Spend more time on test ride in becomes glaringly apparent in and cooler. [I’m trying to picture it…or rough conditions. rough conditions. maybe not.]

22 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020

Your time on the water is precious. You return, season after season to make unforgettable memories, fight a few fish, reconnect with friends and re-center yourself. If you count on having this time, you need an outboard you can count on to power it. That’s why boaters choose Yamaha for the long run. For life. Because reliability starts here. GEAR

Gear Up for the Water YOU DON’T NEED IT UNTIL YOU NEED IT, THE OLD SAYING GOES. GRANTED, SOME OF THESE PROD- UCTS MIGHT OCCUPY THAT GRAY AREA BETWEEN WHAT YOU NEED AND WHAT YOU WANT, BUT ALL WILL SERVE IN VARIOUS WAYS BOATERS WHO FISH. By Doug Olander and Alex Suescun

MONSOON WEAR STYLE ON DECK The Grundéns Buoy X Gore-Tex Xtratuf women’s 15-inch Legacy jacket is designed for functionality boot now comes in black, with and comfort, and made to withstand Groovy Grayling pattern by the rigors of extreme weather. FisheWear, an Alaska-based maker Utilizing Gore-Tex three-layer of fi sh-inspired apparel and gear for laminate, the 150-denier face fabric women. Also available in brown with is treated with C6 DWR for maxi- seven other cuff accents from sizes mum water beading, and prevents 6 to 11, the Legacy boot incorporates wet-out caused by oil, blood or fi sh- slip-resistant, nonmarking outsoles slime contamination. The Buoy X for superb traction on deck and wet jacket includes neoprene-shingled surfaces; triple-dipped shells for cuff s, dual-zippered storage pock- durability and watertight protection; ets, kill-switch anchor, and more. and hand-layered construction, Available in three colors and in sizes adding fl ex and strength to critical small to 3XL. $479.99–$499.99; stress points. $135; xtratuf.com grundens.com

KEEPING IT REEL From jigging and live-baiting to high-speed trolling for big-game EASY ON THE EYES pelagics, Penn Reels’ new Torque Few anglers are foolish enough to lever-drag two-speeds have it cov- venture off shore without a good ered. The TRQ15LD2S holds more pair of polarized sunglasses. Costa’s than 400 yards of 30-pound braid new Sampans off er both style and for live-baiting and medium jigging function for any boater. They’re duties. It off ers 20 pounds of max available with 580G (lightwave drag, and gear ratios of 2.8-to-1 and glass) or 580P (polycarbonate) 6-to-1. For billfi sh and wahoo, the lenses in seven colors, with the OFFSHORE TRQ60LD2S holds nearly 400 yards blue mirror particularly popular RECOMMENDED of 50-pound mono or 860 yards among off shore enthusiasts for of 80-pound braid. Max drag is 40 the lenses’ performance in open, pounds, and its gear ratios are 2.5- refl ective water. Starting at $269; to-1 and 5.1-to-1. $549.95-$599.95; costadelmar.com pennfi shing.com

26 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 MAGNETICALLY SEALED With its HydroShield technology, featuring a strip of ultrastrong magnets along the top, Yeti’s Hopper M30 is a handy accessory for use anywhere on any boat. It can hold 28 pounds of ice or twenty 12-ounce beverage cans, or some combination thereof. The Hopper’s Coldcell closed-cell-foam insulation keeps beer cold all day. Its Dryhide shell is made to stand up to a ridiculous level of abuse. $299.99; yeti.com DEEP DIVE The range of off shore and reef-loving gamefi sh that Yo-Zuri’s BELT ON BOARD 3D Magnum sinking deep-diving A fi ghting belt is one of those things lures appeals to makes having them you might not need—until you need in one’s arsenal almost requisite. it. Keep a good belt on board with- Think wahoo on both coasts, as out spending a fortune: Check out well as tunas, kingfi sh, groupers, the Calcutta 15-inch fi ghting belt. amberjack and yellowtail, and more. It’s constructed of a specially for- The heavy-duty through-wired mulated impact-resistant polymer Magnums with 3x trebles come shell. Foam-padded backing keeps in 5½- and 7-inch sizes, and eight it from slipping. The belt features color patterns (with Yo-Zuri’s an adjustable heavy-duty mesh belt Color Change technology), and can with quick-release buckle and a dive to more than 20 feet. $16.99 OFFSHORE stainless-steel cross (gimbal) pin. RECOMMENDED (5½-inch) and $18.99 (7-inch); $49.99; calcuttaoutdoors.com yo-zuri.com

INSHORE RECOMMENDED

LOCKING ORGANIZED AND HANDY PORTABLE PROTECTION BATTERY-SELECTOR Keep essential fi shing tools secured Keep your phone, credit cards SWITCH and handy with the Two Knife, Plier and other valuables handy but The Perko locking battery-selector and Boga Grip holder from Boat safe from the elements and drops switch prevents a thief from stealing Outfi tters. Compact, constructed with a Pelican Personal Utility Go your boat; the switch prevents him of durable King Starboard, and de- case. Crushproof and watertight from starting the motor. Leave your signed to hold a pair of fi llet knives, (submersible to 1 meter for 30 boat with the switch in the “off ” fi shing pliers, and a Boga Grip minutes), Pelican Go cases feature position, and remove the key. With release tool, the holder is available a divider tray with credit-card this system in place, even a hot-wire in white, arctic white, and seafoam, pockets, integrated latch, cushioned job won’t allow for ignition. The in both permanent-mounting and EVA liner, and easy-carry handle. Perko locking battery-selector switch removable (with suction cups) ver- Available in six colors and two sizes. retails for $49.44; perko.com sions. $32.84; boatoutfi tters.com $29.95-$39.95; pelican.com

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 27 TOP GEAR TO ALWAYS KEEP ON BOARD GEAR GEAR UP FOR THE WATER

SAVE IT FOR A ANY WAY YOU RAINY DAY SLICE IT When storm clouds loom in AFTCO recently added some your path, having reliable foul- impressive blades to its tackle weather gear is paramount. Salt inventory. The 8-, 10- and 12- Life’s new Thunder jacket fi ts inch fi shing fi llet knives feature that bill with a zip front, hood, distinctive gold Böker 4115 Ger- and waterproof polyester fabric man stainless-steel blades with construction. The jacket is fully full-tang construction and 56 to lined with underarm vents for 58 Rockwell hardness to ensure breathability, and features that blades stay sharp and keep pouch pockets in front, plus their edge. The textured poly- pockets in the chest and sleeves. propylene/TPR grip provides The single color is ebony, and a fi rm grip even when slippery. sizes run from small to 2XL $69.00-$89.00; aftco.com (men’s). $176; saltlife.com

OFFSHORE RECOMMENDED

WI-FI IN THE STORAGE POCKETS PORTABLE SHOWER FAST LANE TackleWebs—weatherproof mesh A freshwater washdown system Put an end to unreliable Wi-Fi with pockets designed to provide storage lets you keep the deck and tackle the Shakespeare Stream marine in otherwise unusable spaces— clean and the crew cool during long, cellphone signal booster. Place a attach via bungee cords to leaning hot days on the water, but it’s not phone, tablet or mobile hotspot posts, T-tops, casting platforms and always an option on fl ats and bay near the antenna, and your connec- other accessories, or with adhesive boats. Big Kahuna portable show- tion improves. The weatherproof hook-and-loop strips or suction ers off er an aff ordable solution. exterior antenna is ideal for open cups to coolers, bulkheads and other They are durable, easy-to-carry, boats. The plug-and-play Stream fl at surfaces. Available in a range self-contained units that plug into is compatible with most cellular of sizes and confi gurations, with any 12-volt outlet. A sprayer with devices and major service providers marine-grade hook-and-loop strips, a coiled hose that extends to 8 in the United States and Canada. bungee, and stainless grommets. feet comes included. $134-$174; $799; shakespeare-ce.com $14.99-$49.99; tacklewebs.com bigkahunashowers.com

SPRAY AND WIPE OFF STAY LEGAL Formulated to penetrate the SeaDek fi sh rulers make it easy toughest crud, Star brite’s to comply with gamefi sh size Ultimate Xtreme Clean contains limits, off ering an attractive, special agents that attack road long-lasting alternative to decals grime, bug and bird deposits, and tape measures. Available in grease and more, breaking their four colors, SeaDek fi sh rulers surface bond so they can be are 4 inches wide by 36 inches easily wiped away. Sold in 22- long, and come in a 3 mm thick- and 32-ounce spray bottles, this INSHORE ness with a brushed texture, all-surface cleaner/degreaser RECOMMENDED laser-etched numbers that doesn’t damage your fi nish. It is won’t fade, and peel-and-stick safe for use on fi berglass, plastic, adhesive for easy installation on rubber, leather, chrome and all any bulkhead, deck or gunwale. metals. Starting at $12.99; $25.95; seadek.com starbrite.com

28 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 BUILT FOR THOSE ALWAYS ON THE HUNT

27cc: THE PERFECT CATCH

Whether you’re far offshore or tucked away in the bay, our new 27cc offers the range and versatility to fish all your favorite spots. With a spacious deck that can be configured for any family’s needs, it’s a fishing machine you won’t want to miss.

VISIT BELZONABOATS.COM FOR MORE INFO TOP GEAR TO ALWAYS KEEP ON BOARD GEAR GEAR UP FOR THE WATER

INSHORE JUMP-STARTER PLUS QUIET POWER RECOMMENDED Don’t let a dead battery leave you MotorGuide’s Xi5 wireless stranded. The portable, four-in- saltwater series trolling motors one Weego 66.1 jump-starts your include handheld remote, com- boat or tow vehicle, and charges posite shafts up to 72 inches, and cellphones, tablets, laptops and up to 105 pounds of thrust. They other mobile devices via 5-volt, feature Responsive Electric 19-volt and USB outputs; it also Steer for faster maneuvering and powers 12-volt accessories such greater control, Digital Power as air compressors, and includes Management for longer battery a built-in, 600-lumen dual LED life, and navigation options such ﬂ ashlight, complete with SOS as Jog, Route Playback and GPS functions and emergency strobe. Anchor. $1,809.99-$2,169.99; $159.90; myweego.com motorguide.com

OFFSHORE RECOMMENDED

RIG AND FILLET SCOOP AND STOW If your boat lacks a bait-prep A landing net is an important tool, station, the bait and fi llet table by but many are cumbersome and Ocean South is a great alterna- BOOT CAMP hard to stash on board, so anglers tive, featuring an easy-to-clean, XtraTuf’s 100-percent-waterproof often leave them behind. Frabill’s one-piece, molded polypropylene leather ankle deck boot with breath- Power Stow nets are the answer. top, with a rigid and stable rib-core able membrane is designed specifi - They are tough enough to subdue design. Available with rail mount, cally for sport fi shermen. It off ers big, powerful fi sh, and collapsible lock-fast mount or rod-holder a molded EVA insole, and comes in to conveniently stow out of the mount that fi ts into any rod holder, half sizes, from 7 to 14 (men’s) and 5 way until needed. Available in fi ve and incorporates an adjustable to 11 (women’s). The single color for confi gurations with extendable knuckle to set the proper angle. men’s boots is brown; for women, handles to match the target species. $35.99-$39.99; oceansouth.us it’s olive. $125, xtratuf.com $49.99-$179.99; frabill.com

STAINS BE GONE JACK IT UP SeaDek and similar EVA foam Available in six models with 4- to fl oorings have gained immense 14-inch setback, Atlas hydraulic popularity among boaters, jack plates raise the outboards however, cleaning them is not (up to 625 pounds) vertically an easy task. That’s why SeaDek several inches for shallow- created Dek Magic, a cleaner water navigation or improved specifi cally designed to keep performance and speed. Built your SeaDek and similar materi- by T-H Marine with USA-made als clean and looking like new. hydraulic actuator, each Atlas Safe for the environment, and features a transport-plate de- great for fi ghting tough stains sign, super-fast (eight seconds) such as blood, grease, oil, wine lifting, pre-drilling for shallow- and more, Dek Magic is sold water anchor, and a safety only in 32-ounce spray bottles. cable. $1,473.67-$1,789.46; $24.99; seadek.com thmarinesupplies.com

30 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 #ROBALONATION

2020 R230

23’ 8’6” 4,000LBS 12/1,725kg BUILD YOURS AT (7.01M) (2.59M) (1,814kg) (12/782kg)

ROBALO.COM LENGTH BEAM WEIGHT PASSENGER CAPACITY

INSHORE OFFSHORE RECOMMENDED RECOMMENDED

SE 300 SPORT CUTTING-EDGE TAKE A SEAT HYDROFOIL TACKLE SOLUTION Anglers looking to upgrade their Sport Marine Technologies’ SE 300 Not enough storage for your lures seating in large center-consoles will Sport hydrofoil minimizes cavita- and terminal gear? The best solu- want to consider Nautical Design’s tion and prop blowout, improving tion to date: Plano’s new Edge tackle Premier helm unit, with high-end hole shot and cutting planing time, boxes. Their Dri-Loc seal keeps salt seating, tackle storage, rod and cup which is particularly important water out and lures dry, and their holders, and a host of other ameni- in shallow water. It also stops proprietary Rustrictor coating ties. The unit includes bench-style porpoising, increases stability, and further ensures that. An ingenious seating, dual and triple ﬂ ip-up improves tracking. Installation is system of recessed, precision- bolster seats with outside folding easy, and with the optional SE Sport molded dividers maintains gear arms, a tackle-storage system with clip, it does not require drilling into separation, preserving the angler’s drawers and hanging-lure racks, a the outboard’s cavitation plate. system of organization. $19.99- drop-down rigging table, and more. $69.99; sesport.com $49.99; planomolding.com $6,500; nauticaldesigninc.com

RUGGED | VERSATILE | PERFORMANCE

32 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 INSHORE RECOMMENDED

THE CONNECTED BOAT JIG MANAGEMENT LOADOUT GOBOX 30 Siren off ers an easy-to-use app, Long metal jigs don’t always fi t into Keep your gear protected, organized global 3G connectivity, and the standard tackle boxes. Keep yours and accessible with Yeti’s LoadOut choice of wired and wireless sen- organized with Mustad’s waterproof GoBox 30. Available in charcoal, sors, allowing you to track your jig pouch. The large pouch holds white and desert tan, it’s just the position via GPS and set geofences 35 jigs—fi ve slots for jigs up to 11 ticket. Waterproof and nearly to know where your boat is at all inches, 18 slots for jigs to 7½ inches, indestructible, the LoadOut GoBox times. The MTC also allows you and 12 slots for jigs to 6 inches. The provides 30 quarts of storage, and is to monitor bilge levels and engine pouch also off ers various pockets built to endure years of exposure to functions, and control your lights, for assist hooks, leader material and the sun, extreme temperatures, and air conditioner and other systems more. The 500-denier waterproof the abuse of lugging it in and out from anywhere. $599.99, services material includes a carry handle and of the boat. Accessories included: starting at $17.97 monthly; quick-lock strap closure. $61.99; divider, caddy and pack attic. sirenmarine.com mustad-fi shing.com $249.99; yeti.com

$ BOATING 300 FUEL CREDIT

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 33 WHAT READERS WANT FORTY-SIX PERCENT OF SPORT-FISH AND CENTER-CONSOLE ELECTRONICS OWNERS HAVE MULTIPLE DISPLAYS 12 INCHES OR LARGER.

at least a 500-watt chirp system, if Many anglers prefer a single, large Offshore not 1 kW, suggests Raymarine/FLIR display, particularly since they can split marketing manager Jim McGowan. the screen to show a variety of windows. More-powerful units mark bottom at vs. Inshore greater depths and support a wider array units have up to 1 kW built-in chirp sonar, of transducers. which covers most bases, he says. The By Chris Woodward “The way technology has changed, 8600 series, in particular, can split its a standard 50/200 kHz transducer has main window into six separate screens. hen it comes to electronics, many almost become an antiquated tool,” says Dunn says his preference is to mount W anglers prefer simplicity—one Tom Zambetoglou, regional sales manager two MFDs side by side, and dial in one unit that displays charts and sonar. In for Navico, which owns the Simrad to sonar and the other to his charts with truth, that could be considered the main and Lowrance brands. “Wide-beam radar overlay. However, he says the trend electronics necessity for off shore fi shing, technology has given the fi sherman a is for anglers to purchase one large display. save a properly set up VHF radio. broader view under the boat.” In some regions, radar also is necessary Zambetoglou recommends a 1 kW UNDERWATER ROAD MAPS because of weather impediments. In our Airmar B175HW high-wide transducer, Zambetoglou stresses good cartography survey, 69 percent of inboard sport-fi sh which pairs with Simrad’s Go Series and because current charts have become so owners had or planned to buy radar, as did evo3 multifunction displays—all feature user-defi nable. “You can target areas, 53 percent of center-console owners. internal 1 kW sounders. “The reason the and do color shading and contouring, and For inshore fi shermen, electronics B175HW is popular is it does a fantastic really defi ne where you’re fi shing,” he says might seem superfl uous. But just because job inside 300 feet, fi shing wrecks and about Navico’s C-Map products. you can see land, that should not lull you trolling, and when you’re off shore, it does In addition, live-mapping apps such into false security. You too need at least a fabulous job in the upper water column, as Raymarine’s RealBathy or Navionics’ GPS and communications. distinguishing bait [from] tuna.” SonarChart Live let you build your own For Garmin, the GPSMap series of contours, McGowan says. OFFSHORE ESSENTIALS multifunction displays best addresses Garmin GPSMap units come pre-loaded For sonar to provide detailed returns off shore-fi shing needs, says David Dunn, with the company’s new g3 cartography. A

in depths of more than 500 feet requires director of sales and marketing. Those recent upgrade to g3 Vision cards provides GARMIN COURTESY

34 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 SE� 'tHASER� liET MORE FDR LE!i!i

A MULTI-FUNCTIONAL BOAT THAT COMES W ITH MORE SEA CHASER HFC CC BLUEWATER SERIES STANDARD FEATURES THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE.

The Sea Chaser HFC CC Bluewater Series is a bold, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: versatile bay and offshore vessel designed for family • Self Bailing Deck • Swim Platform comfort and fish-ability. Cushioned bow seating, aft fold • Diamond Pleated Upholstery • Stainless Steel Flip Up Cleats away seating, and adjustable helm seating keeps everyone • Stainless Steel Cup Holders • Marine Board Lids with Friction Hinges at ease with comfort. Large bait-wells, in floor fish-box • Rear Seating • Molded-In Storage with Overboard Drains with macerator pump, rod holders, and roomy open deck • Molded-In Anchor Locker • Starboard and Port Rod Storage spacing to keep everyone excited about fishing. Loaded • LED Lighting Package with more standard features than most boats in its class, SEA CHASER HFC CC BLUEWATER SERIES SIZES: and delivering the greatest value for families who enjoy MODEL LOA BEAM MAX. HP FUEL CAP. every aspect of the boating lifestyle. • 27 cc 27' 3" 114" 600 237 Gallon

• 30 cc 30' 114" 700 237 Gallon THE $SUZUKI ULTIMATE • 35 cc 35'8" 128" 900 255 Gallon MARINE OUTBOARD MOTOR LEARN MORE AT f w@ a � CAROLINASKIFF.COM Call and Find Your Nearest Dealer: 1-800-422-7282 Carolina Skif LLC. 3231 Fulford Road, Waycross Georgia 31503 • 1-800-422-7282 All right reserved. ©2019 WHAT READERS WANT SIXTY-ONE PERCENT OF BAY-BOAT OWNERS AND 38 PERCENT OF ELECTRONICS FLATS-SKIFF OWNERS CURRENTLY HAVE A VHF RADIO. high-resolution Relief Shading, which shows remarkable details in reefs, wrecks and other bottom structure off shore, and in a few nearshore zones. Navionics has introduced SonarChart Shading, and C-Map now off ers Reveal. While coverage remains select, this data from NOAA multibeam sonar surveys can truly change a captain’s perspective and show new fi sh-holding features.

EVEN INSHORE, WHEN YOU CAN STILL SEE LAND, YOU NEED VHF COMMUNICATIONS AND GPS.

SAFETY SOLUTIONS “In my humble opinion, nobody should go off shore without a fully functioning and set up VHF radio,” McGowan says. “I’m also shocked at how many boaters never activate the digital selective-calling feature on their VHF.” Off shore, the VHF is the only device other than an emergency beacon that can reliably summon help, and it is directly connected to those personnel equipped to assist boaters in emergencies. All VHFs must be DSC-enabled; many also come with built-in GPS and AIS re- Above: Electronics companies now offer ceivers. In many cases, a fi xed-mount VHF small displays with key inshore-fi shing can network with the boat’s multifunction features for skiff and bay-boat owners. display for full control on one screen. Side- and down-imaging functions, live “If it’s hooked up properly, the screen sonar, and aerial-photo overlays help can walk you through what’s going on in the shallow-water angler fi nd more fi sh; an emergency. It gives you a script, and it detailed charts create a safety factor. gives you your coordinates, as well as put the VHF into DSC mode and send out a about 900 feet. “You can determine which signal,” Garmin’s Dunn says. side of the boat the fi sh are on, and display In a recent announcement, Vesper 3D pictures of structure,” Kauzlaric says. Marine debuted its Cortex system, which Garmin’s LiveScope reaches only 200 combines a VHF radio with a smartAIS feet, but it gives a real-time look at what’s SAFETY FIRST transponder as well as remote vessel beneath anglers. “If you’re bottomfi shing, While a VHF radio is the fi rst electronic line of monitoring. Cortex already provides built- you can actually see fi sh swimming up and defense for safety, emergency beacons, such in, properly set up DSC distress calling. hitting the bait,” Dunn says. as EPIRBs and PLBs, play a critical role. A SiriusXM weather is another near PLB—personal locator beacon—costs less BONUS BUYS necessity; it requires a subscription and a than $300. “Radar is an obvious addition, and many satellite antenna. Sirius and Garmin just PLBs and EPIRBs use satellites to transmit times a necessity,” says Jeff Kauzlaric, launched Fish Mapping, which overlays emergency signals to the appropriate marine Furuno advertising and communications sea-surface temperature, weed-line rescue agencies, and they don’t need ongoing manager. “The great thing about today’s concentrations and plankton maps via subscriptions. Other devices, such as the radars is all the options. For example, satellite, and even proposes likely fi shing Spot X, Garmin GPSMap 86sci and InReach Furuno off ers both powerful magnetron areas for specifi c species. satellite messengers, can cost a little less but radars with its X-Class series, which bring require service plans. However, they also deliv- a lot of power for fi nding fl ocks of birds, INSHORE OPTIONS er more than emergency services, such as the and also solid-state NXT Doppler radars Furuno says its GP1871F (7-inch) and ability to check in with family and friends. Our survey showed that at least among that excel at navigating.” GP1971F (9-inch) units work well for confi rmed offshore anglers, the majority own Furuno’s DFF3D multibeam sonar inshore anglers. Both feature multitouch an EPIRB or PLB, while inshore anglers do not. shows anglers what’s under the boat displays with a GPS/WAAS chart plotter,

120 degrees port to starboard in depths to plus chirp and conventional fi sh fi nders. (LEFT) AND GARMIN ACR COURTESY (TOP), RAYMARINE COURTESY

36 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020

ELECTRONICS

DigitalDigital signalsignal processing,processing, commonlycommonly usedused inin sonarsonar technology,technology, can optimize stereo systems by adjusting output settings to each speciﬁ c speaker and amp in the setup. 1 Polk offers an optional DSP module that can be connected to the UMC1 controller. 2 Fusion’s DSP is integrated into its Apollo series stereos. 3 JL’s new multicore DSP ampliﬁ er—MVi—can work with any source unit, including this JL MediaMaster 100. 2 POLK, FUSION AND JL AUDIO COURTESY

38 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Popular features include bottom dis- what’s beneath the boat that’s so clear, PHOTO OVERLAYS crimination, which helps locate low relief. anglers can ID fish species. “Traditional Inshore anglers need a plotter or app with Easy add-ons include Furuno’s DRS4W sonar shows you where the fish were satellite-image overlay, side-scan, and wireless radar, which overlays onto MFD when your boat passed them,” he savys. super-bright displays, says Raymarine’s charts or networks with smart devices. “Panoptix is game-changing.” McGowan. “The charts are good, but Dunn says sonar and GPS rank as the nothing beats the satellite image to see the top needs for inshore anglers—sonar to DIFFERENT VIEWS flats, sandbars and channels,” he says. find fish, and GPS “because you can mark Side- and down-scan sonar view, such Side-scan lets anglers image more area your dock and your favorite spots, and you as those from Lowrance, can help show than downward-looking sonar. Today’s don’t have to worry about getting lost.” snook under docks or locate other species units offer incredible clarity at a distance GPS also allows you to pinpoint your exact near jetties and in sloughs. Transom- farther than anglers can cast. Bright location in case of emergency. mounted transducers work fine for that displays are important because many “The hottest setups we have right now kind of low-speed prospecting. smaller boats lack T-tops. are the EchoMap Ultra 106sv But when considering a Interestingly, our survey showed that and 126sv,” Dunn says. “They WHAT READERS WANT chirp transducer, Lowrance only 30 percent of bay-boat owners and have high-resolution IPS THIRTY PERCENT recommends an in-hull or a 21 percent of flats-skiff owners have displays, come pre-loaded OF BAY-BOAT through-hull version so anglers side-scan on board. The percentages are with coastal g3 cartography, OWNERS SAY can better track the bottom similar for those owning chirp sonar. have our UHD sonar (ClearVu THEY HAVE SIDE- at high speeds and through Raymarine’s Axiom RV (RealVision) and SideVu), and they come SCAN SONAR. low- and high-speed turns. units support a wide variety of charts with the GT54UHD so you get A VHF marine radio (at least with satellite-overlay options, including midband chirp too.” a handheld) remains a necessity Standard Mapping’s super-high- Adding Garmin’s Panoptix inshore, despite today’s better resolution aerial charts, McGowan says. brings 3D technology to sonar, cellular signals. Also, a smart- In addition, RealVision 3D sonar provides particularly with the intro- phone can’t directly connect chirp SideVision, capable of reaching duction of LiveScope, which you to the proper marine 300 feet port and starboard in water as delivers a videolike view of emergency personnel. shallow as 1 foot.

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 39 B B G INSHORE/COASTAL COURTESY RANGER COURTESY

erhaps no other style of boat has as Overall, respondents were about evenly split as to the type many varying demands made on it of fishing they enjoyed, with 47 percent most interested in as does the coastal fisherman under fishing bays, flats, wrecks and reefs, and 51 percent expressing a 26 feet. preference for offshore fishing. Forty-two percent of our survey While this category includes smaller center-consoles—often respondents preferred a boat in the scaled-down offshore models—and dual-consoles, which excel 21- to 24-foot range. Among current when buyers are willing to sacrifice dedicated fishing features boat owners, 25-feet was the ideal size, for a family-focus, clearly the king of the versatile midsize boat, while among first-time buyers, 22.9 built for inshore fishing, capable of safe offshore ventures, and Pfeet was the median for consideration. is family-friendly, is the bay boat.

50 Carolina Skiff / 52 Caymas / 54 Pathfinder / 56 Ranger / 58 Robalo / 60 Skeeter

40 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 433918 43% 39% 18%

10%

HOW OFTEN 10% DO YOU FISH WITH LIVE BAIT? 43% 11% Less than 50% of the time More than 50% of the time Nearly 100% of the time 4326% r261110 WHAT EQUIPMENT WILL YOU MOUNT ON YOUR CURRENT PRIMARY BOAT?

Trolling motor One shallow-water anchor Two shallow-water anchors 16% 22% Push pole None of the above

13% 34%

5% 1610% r341051322

HOW FAR AHEAD DID YOU PLAN YOUR BOAT PURCHASE? 47467 Less than 6 months 47% 46% 7% 6 to 12 months INSHORE OR OFF? 13 to 18 months HOW MANY With the larger new bay boat 19 to 24 months LIVEWELLS DO like Ranger’s 2510, many an- Over 24 months YOU NEED? glers venture far offshore when I’m always planning the inshore bite flags. Boats like my next purchase One is enough this draft just over a foot and Two, one forward and one aft provide a stable offshore boat. Three to keep different baits separated

“If you can get one boat to do it all, that’s where it’s at,” says Capt. Larry L. Jett, manager of saltwater business for Ranger “IF YOU CAN Boats. “We take that into consideration and recognize that you buy a bay boat for a range of fishing and family use.” GET ONE BOAT To wit, 61 percent of survey respondents said “to fish more” TO DO IT ALL, was their primary purpose in buying a boat; 62 percent want a hardcore fishing machine; 36 percent felt that the company THAT’S WHERE of family and friends was an important consideration; and 38 percent were after a multipurpose boat. IT’S AT.” The bay boat checks all of those boxes.

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 | INSHORE | 41 WHAT READERS WANT DON’T SETTLE FOR LESSER QUALITY BECAUSE OF PRICE. YOU BAY BOATS WILL REGRET IT, AND IT WILL COST YOU MORE IN THE LONG RUN.

Do It Right By Glenn Law

oat shows and dealership showrooms Bare great places to drool, with one hand on your checkbook, but a wise decision takes some time and thought. The comments made by our respondents regarding the correct approach to fi nally making a purchase boiled down to simple and straightforward advice: “Fish the boat”; “Talk to people who own the boat you are considering”; and “Do some in-depth sea trials.” In short, “Do your research” was the overwhelming advice expressed by survey respondents and experienced buyers. When making the buying decision, quality and durability are important considerations, and well worth paying for initially because the median age of bay boats owned by survey respondents was nine and a half years. It makes sense to choose a manufacturer with a stellar reputation. If all you want a boat for is to fi sh, your choices are simplifi ed: Add nothing that doesn’t contribute to the chosen mission. If, on the other, that mission is split, or diversifi ed—as is nearly infi nitely possible with bay and inshore boats—then the buying choice requires a fair amount of ACCOMMODATIONS entertaining, then comfortable seating well-considered choices. Deciding on interior layout and seating for nonanglers becomes more important, The fi rst step in a boat-buying decision becomes a primary consideration. perhaps even if compromising fi shability. defaults to determining what kind of “A lot of our customers are not sure Our survey revealed that interest in fi shing you want to do, and how you will what they want,” says Alan Lang, director forward seating was mixed: A third of use the boat. of sales and marketing for Scout Boats. respondents considered forward seating Those decisions clarify the type and “Do you have kids? How many people of moderate importance, and another 20 model in your sights; next comes zeroing will you typically carry? Is a head impor- percent of low importance. Only about in on the particulars that put those goals tant? How are you going to use the boat?” 20 percent considered it high importance. within reach. This is where abundant If fi shing is paramount, look no further Cockpit space was most important to research, sea trials and simply looking than the signature fore and aft casting 73 percent of our survey respondents. at as many boats as possible that fi t your decks that typify the bay-boat design. If A tribute to bay-boat versatility, no desired parameters come into play. your boat will share its fi shing time with single layout eliminates options. “While

EDITOR’S TIP One the lessons learned by experienced boat buyers, as opposed to fi rst-time buyers, is the importance of getting what you want with the initial purchase. Planning to add desirable features later sounds good, but every week your boat is in the shop, or under renovation, is one less week you have it to enjoy on the water.

T SCOUT (3) COURTESY

42 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 drain overboard. They are foam-insulated ON A SCALE FROM 1 TO so they can be used as a fish box,” which 5, WITH 1 BEING “LOW allows for versatility. IMPORTANCE” AND 5 BEING Bear in mind: The more dry storage “HIGH IMPORTANCE,” HOW aboard, the more options you have in how IMPORTANT IS FORWARD it’s utilized. Dry storage may be used for SEATING? storing wet items, but wet storage will never keep things dry. 1 2 3 4 5 LOW HIGH TOOLS OF THE TRADE Efficient rod storage is extremely important in this class of boat, and it needs to be carefully designed to keep gear 17% 20% out of the way when playing, yet handy to fire off a cast when fish are sighted. 16% 18% 2029% r18291617

HOW SKILLED ARE YOU AT USING YOUR ELECTRONICS? An expert Well-versed in technology Somewhat of a novice

Uninterested (1%) 4%

48% 447% r47481 our 2350 Bay Ranger has a full back seat in it,” Capt. Larry L. Jett says, “you sacrifice ON A SCALE FROM 1 TO the rear of your boat to comfort.” 5, WITH 1 BEING “LOW But that might be of little consequence. IMPORTANCE” AND 5 BEING “We find that most inshore fishing is done “HIGH IMPORTANCE,” HOW from the front of the boat,” he says. IMPORTANT IS AFT SEATING Larger bay boats handle offshore duties THAT FOLDS AWAY? handily (left). Abundant livewell space STORAGE guarantees plenty of ready baits (above). Our survey indicated that second behind 1 2 3 4 5 safety and comfort, onboard storage was Because of the day-use nature of bay LOW HIGH the priority for buyers. boats, the majority of respondents found “Experienced boaters know what locking storage unimportant. Still, 27 per- they need in terms of storage,” says Jeff cent carry three or four rigged outfits for a 21% 19% Vaughn, VP Sales, marketing and service day’s fishing; 65 percent pack along five to for Boston Whaler. But the company 10 outfits; and 7 percent carry 11 or more. configures its storage so even those who Before you buy, consider how much 13% haven’t had the time on the water to deter- rod storage is enough for the kind of 23% mine their needs won’t be caught short. fishing you plan to do, and make sure you “Everyone needs dry, protected have enough for efficiency and safety of 24% storage,” Vaughn says. “All of our storage passengers and tackle alike. 19r13242321 areas are finished in class-A condition and Gunwale rod holders are standard issue

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 | INSHORE | 43 BAY BOATS

Hulls designed for shallow draft and lateral stability provide the ideal platform for fishing inshore and nearshore on deeper flats.

that 24 percent, a single small well might suffice, but when live bait is your game and the success of the day depends on keeping baits healthy and frisky, additional wells or additional capacity become essential. Forty-eight percent of our respondents felt that a single well serves their needs, with 45 percent preferring to have one well forward and another in the stern. TWO-THIRDS OF RESPONDENTS CARRY A FEW DOZEN LIVE BAITS ON A TYPICAL FISHING TRIP.

Many of these decisions are based on where you live and how you fish. Large capacity, strong flow and the option to recirculate water in the well are all important when frisky live baits are the mainstay of a successful day. If a dozen pinfish and a few dozen live shrimp are all you need, a small well in the stern and a crustacean well in the bow will certainly be adequate. Livewells are a subjective and personal decision. “We have different options based on different fisheries,” Jeff Vaughn explains. on any fishing boat, but supplementing but pride in ownership plays a big part in “In southwest Florida, a larger well is them with additional holders, placed buying the right boat and impacts resale. more desirable. In the Northeast, we where they suit your fishing style, is Styling shouldn’t be un- don’t use livewells; a livewell is always an option you should consider. derrated when envisioning WHAT READERS WANT used for trash. We try to match Only a quarter of survey respondents the boat you see yourself in. IT’S A GREAT the livewell configuration in used more than four gunwale-mounted ALL-AROUND our boats to the market area— rod holders. LIVEWELLS BOAT. I GO OFF- the place the buyer will most But among bay-boat owners who Both standard and essential, SHORE ON CALM often be fishing.” routinely fish offshore, over 80 percent livewells and inshore boats DAYS, FISH felt that they need up to six gunwale- go hand in hand. The con- FOR REDFISH POWER UP mounted holders. figuration, capacity, number IN THE RIVER, Fuel efficiency and range, as Rocket launchers—either on a seatback, and purpose of those, how- AND TOW THE well as a comfortable, solid ride, leaning post or T-top—offer a dditional ever, vary as widely as styles KIDS AROUND. topped the list of important con- safe storage, and is an option worth of fishing and geography. siderations; 63 percent of survey considering. Two-thirds (68 percent) respondents agreed. Scout’s Lang says: “Rocket launchers of survey respondents rou- A solid, secure ride depends are not always standard, but we see a lot of tinely carry a few dozen live on the hull design as well as them added on a new boat. They also help baits on a typical fishing trip, construction. Suffice it to say, with the aesthetics.” and only 24 percent usually top builders leave nothing to Aesthetics might seem superfluous, carried less than a dozen. For chance here, which leaves fuel

EDITOR’S TIP Don't underestimate the convenience and versatility of the livewells. One fore and one aft should be the minimum. T It's a pain to have to walk the length of the boat for a fresh bait in the heat of the action. The days when you need only one will be far outnumbered by those days when the added convenience of a second well makes life easier. COURTESY PATHFINDER COURTESY

44 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Unforgettable Adventures.

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GREEN NEW DEAL Politicians often demand revolution, but engineers are scientists who knew marine propulsion would benefit most through evolution. Over 25 years, that evolution has satisfied the most stringent environmental demands, while also improving the boating experience. Four-stroke outboards from Yamaha, Mercury, Honda and Suzuki enhance boaters’ experience by being more powerful, quieter, and more fuel efficient, while emitting fewer pollutants into the air and water. Much of those accomplishments have been enabled by new, electronically driven ignition and timing systems, and those have evolved into effortless, integrated electronic steering like Yamaha’s XTO Offshore and digital throttle and shift systems enjoyed by all brands. efficiency and range a variable, both of which are a function of the outboard power and fuel capacity. All boats are rated with a maximum horsepower allowance for that particular hull. But just because you can doesn’t necessarily mean you should. Powering to the max certainly gives you top speed, but that’s not always the most important consideration. Fewer than 20 percent of those surveyed ranked maximum speed as the most important considering when choosing a boat/motor combination. Hanging the largest possible engine off the transom will certainly give you speed, and perhaps a shorter time to jump on plane, but the additional weight of a larger engine might not be worth the limited Within our polled sample, WHAT READERS WANT feature. Sonar leads the list benefits. More power might allow you to 67 percent of current owners’ I WANTED A of popular installations, with cruise at a lower rpm, but that has to be boats are equipped with a 24-FOOT BOAT 83 percent of owners having balanced against a possible decrease in trolling motor. Forty-two per- BUT BOUGHT A it or planning to purchase it. range, depending on the fuel-consump- cent are fitted with a shallow- 21-FOOTER. I A VHF radio/essential safety tion differential between maximum water anchoring system, and SHOULD HAVE is second in popularity, with horsepower and acceptable horsepower. 17 percent have a pair of them. STAYED WITH 67 percent of respondents Jordan DeLong, director of marketing Our survey indicted that 65 MY ORIGINAL having it on their boats. for Contender Boats, explains that while percent of buyers want their THOUGHT. The formerly minimalist the company’s bay boat is rated for 400 hp, boat fully equipped with the layout of the bay-boat helm “the most popular motor on our 25 Bay option of choice at purchase, a is rapidly expanding, as buy- is the 300 Yamaha, due to the weight growing trend among buyers. ers opt for more and bigger and reliability. And you don’t lose much Those who choose to add multifunction displays and speed. That engine runs superbly in the the gear later would do well to wider variety of electronics. mid-60 mph range. Most of the time you set up the boat properly, with Traditionally a 9-inch screen don’t want to go much faster than that.” backing plates and wiring in was large on a bay boat, but place and accessible. that’s changing. MECHANICAL SYSTEMS “One thing we do at Scout “We are putting more Gone are the days when stainless fittings is install Deutsch waterproof connectors and more space at the helm for bigger and sound constructions were consider- on our wiring harness,” Lang says. That screens,” Vaughn says. “There is a lot of ations. In a competitive market, subpar makes it easier on the dealer’s additions customization at the helm, and we make execution writes its own demise. later, and for the owner, it provides a sure we provide enough space to make However, an additional set of plug-and-play installation. that easy to do.” mechanical considerations has emerged, Overall, the trend in electronics is to with once-luxury-but-now-standard ELECTRONICS replicate what is on larger boats, from accessories such as shallow-water Right along with livewells, electronics is a side-scan sonar to radar.

anchoring systems and trolling motors. personal choice and a highly customizable “The movement is the bigger the RANGER (OPPOSITE) (ABOVE); ROBALO COURTESY:

46 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Bay-boat features, such as casting decks, THINK AHEAD THE BAY-BOAT HELM give sight-casters a better view, improv- With time, effort and agonizing rolled into IS EXPANDING, AS ing accuracy. Deeper deadrise and longer the final boat-buying decision, it’s important BUYERS OPT FOR length add the option of offshore fishing. to recognize that someday you’ll put your boat up for sale. That’s when you’ll discover MORE AND BIGGER Raymarine electronics,” Vaughn says. the true cost. The initial price of a boat is MULTIFUNCTION As well as simply getting what you want secondary to the actual cost, which you DISPLAYS AND A when you buy the boat, having a factory- realize once you sell it. The price is what you WIDER VARIETY OF installed electronics suite allows servicing negotiate up front for a new boat; the cost of or replacement later to be much simpler— that boat is the difference between the price ELECTRONICS. and more economical. you paid and the amount you are able to get “People are increasingly buying all out of it when you sell it. better,” DeLong says. “Our boats have up their electronics with the boat,” DeLong It makes little sense to skimp up front on to 16-inch MFDs. We get lots of requests says. “Our electronics installations have the purchase price; every feature on the boat for dual sounders—chirp and such.” increased. We see a real trend in factory makes it more valuable to the next owner— Buyers are also trending toward installations, and we like it that way. It your buyer. And you’ll have the enjoyment of purchasing electronics with the boat, keeps other hands—over which we have no using those features over the course of your rather than adding specific items later. control—off the wiring when there’s one ownership. “Over half of our boats go out with group of people who touch it.”

EDITOR’S TIP The quest for the elusive one boat that does it all continues, and the increasing popularity of dual-console designs attests to the versatility of the layout. More than ever, manufacturers are turning out dual-console boats that T incorporate important fishing features as part of the design rather than as an afterthought.

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 | INSHORE | 47 WHAT READERS WANT OF THE 518 FLATS- AND BAY-BOAT OWNERS SURVEYED, 50 PERCENT REQUIRED ONBOARD STORAGE FOR SEVEN TO 12 FLATS/SKIFFS RODS, AND 32 PERCENT CONSIDERED FLY-ROD STOWAGE A MUST.

Shallow Ventures By Alex Suescun

f you fi nd sight-fi shing in shallow water Ifor fabled inshore game like bonefi sh, redfi sh, permit, snook, striped bass or tarpon especially appealing, a fl ats boat or technical poling skiff is the right choice for you. Not only do they fl oat shallower than other boat types, but they also superbly negotiate tight quarters in coastal creeks, marsh bayous and backcountry lagoons. The fact that they’re a breeze to trailer, can be stored in a garage, and require less horsepower are major bonuses, especially for the budget-minded. POLE OR TROLL Should you plan to focus primarily on aboard fl ats boats propelled by a bow- Flats boats and skiffs have the single- stalking species that forage in water a mounted trolling motor, which allows minded purpose of bringing you face to scant few inches deep and are endowed greater water coverage in less time. face with your quarry before you cast. with seemingly supernatural powers of The popular Hewes Redfi sher 18 or detection, a poling skiff will be hard to Carolina Skiff ’s JVX CC Series exemplify propeller—trimmed higher. Others accom- beat. Boasting a narrower, more light- the fl ats-boat category, off ering more plish the same with a hydraulic jack plate, weight hull than a fl ats boat, a poling skiff versatility—a desirable trait among which raises the outboard vertically and is designed to draw less than 8 inches of inshore boaters surveyed. Along with its also helps takeoff in shallower water. water and glide stealthily—with no hull bigger footprint comes more storage, fi sh- Of course, knowing how much water slap to alert fi sh in the vicinity—propelled ing room and seating; increased stability; your fl ats boat or poling skiff draws is by a push pole, as the name implies, while a larger fuel capacity—which translates crucial to avoid getting stranded far from the occupant tracks down their target. to greater range—and more amenities, the nearest channel when the tide ebbs It can also turn easily with a stroke of like a bigger or additional livewell, sizable or a strong wind blows all the water out of the push pole to quickly respond to the insulated fi sh box/cooler, and perhaps rod the fl ats or marshes you’re fi shing. quarry’s sudden changes in course. lockers; and integrated spray rails or a pro- Going by a boat’s published specs The Maverick 17 HPX-S, Yellowfi n 17 nounced bow fl are to mitigate sea spray. could prove costly. There’s no regulation Skiff and Spyder FX17 Flicker are good dictating how boatbuilders must measure examples, providing the desired shallow- BENEFITS AND LIMITATIONS draft, so some list that of the empty hull; water performance, and equipped with Venturing way up the fl ats or deep into the some the draft of the boat with motor, spacious fore and aft casting decks, pol- backcountry—far from the Intracoastal fuel and actual fi shing-situation load; and ing platforms, and all the necessities for Waterway and other high-traffi c, high-fi sh- others fall somewhere in between. As you what amounts to skinny-water hunting. ing-pressure areas—is perhaps the greatest narrow down your boat choices, contact Flats boats still draw less than a foot, benefi t fl ats boats and poling skiff s aff ord. the builders to learn how each measures but they aren’t meant just for poling. In Some models incorporate a tunnel or tran- draft. Then ask boat owners for their fact, it’s common to see anglers fi shing som pocket in their hull design, enabling real-life assessment before fi nalizing your shorelines, channels, docks and jetties you to run shallower with the motor—and short list.

EDITORÕS TIP Shallow-water access was essential for 15.7 percent of surveyed ﬂ ats- and bay-boat owners, but a lightweight, shallow-drafting boat isn’t always better. If you don’t fi sh only shallow ﬂ ats, or must cross open water to reach the T fi shing grounds, a hull with a bit more heft and somewhat of a “V” at the bow will make the ride more comfortable. COURTESY MAKO COURTESY

48 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 FOR THE BAY AND BEYOND

FAMILY PACKAGE

FISH PACKAGE

Visit SkeeterBoats.com to locate your nearest Skeeter Dealer.

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY Limited Lifetime Structural Warranty 10 Year Limited Transferable Structural Warranty 3 Year Limited Component Warranty *Warranty compared against three of our leading competitors.

Boats shown in photographs may include additional features not included in the available list of options. See your local Skeeter dealer for complete details. *Nationally Advertised Price; actual sales price determined by dealer. Price does not include freight, dealer prep, and T.T.L.. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Prices may vary due to supply, location, freight etc. Actual prices are set by the dealer. ©2020 Skeeter Products, Inc. All rights reserved. This document contains many of Skeeter’s valuable trademarks. It may also contain trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only, and are not intended to be an endorsement. Remember to observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and ride. Dress properly with a USCG approved flotation device and protective gear. READER RESPONSE BUILDER “ROOMY, GOOD-RIDING CRAFT, EASY WALK-AROUND FOR FIGHTING BENCHMARK LARGE FISH” Survey Says:

ON TARGET Aft seats convert to casting deck, maintaining comfort and ﬁ shability

Step-in console is family-friendly Rod and tackle storage are ample

OWNERS SAY Rides great

Fishability, comfortable and economical Ease of maintenance and efﬁ ciency

NEW BRAND SAYS 2020 Quality, value and style Most features and best functionality on Carolina Skiff the market arolina Skiff proclaims 26 ULTRA ELITE Anglers might eye options Cits boats to be “the most Largest in the series, the new such as a trolling-motor panel, SPECS durable, versatile and aff ord- Carolina Skiff 26 Ultra Elite additional gunwale-mounted rod LOA: 26' able…on the market,” with more comes standard with a step-in holders (to please the 70 percent Beam: 8' standard features than most, console with a port-a-potty, of CC respondents who said four yielding a tremendous value for lockable storage, rear jump seats, rod holders, the 26 Ultra Elite’s Fuel Capacity: 78 gal. every boating family looking for self bailing deck, stainless steel standard, aren’t quite enough), Dry Weight: 3,734 lb. an extension of their boating hardware, rod holders, and and a 6-inch hydraulic jack plate. plus power lifestyle. U-shaped bow seating with Comfort and entertainment Max HP: 300 They’re virtually indestruc- drop-in table (36 percent of options include canvas Bimini Certifi cations: NMMA tible and consequently among respondents say they need bow or T-top, stereo, electric fl ush- most-commonly-seen brands seating). able head, freshwater tank with nearly everywhere, and among Like its Ultra Elite slip-mates, shower nozzle, and raw-water those most represented in our the 26 has lockable console washdown. Pick from nine hull survey. doors, full instrumentation, and colors to create your dream boat. A Solid Fiberglass construction quick-disconnect windshield produces, durable, non-fl exing for easy storage. Also standard MORE INFO and wood-free Carolina Skiff are plenty of LED illumination, carolinaskiff.com hulls, now warranteed with a 10 high-capacity bilge pumps and year structural hull warranty, in high-speed water pickups, pre- addition to a 5 year limited bow to mium gelcoats, and fully molded stern warranty. liners with nonskid surface. The Ultra Elite Series Standard fi shing features expanded its lineup with the all include an aerated livewell new 26 Ultra Elite. Ready for (meeting the needs of 63 percent family fi shing, tubing, and other of respondents; an optional watersports along with cruising leaning post’s 32-gallon livewell Wide walkways around inshore, off shore, in the bays— satisfi es nearly all of the rest), and the deck ensure plenty and don’t forget large rivers an insulated aft fi sh box. A dozen of cockpit and foredeck and lakes, this boat does it all. undergunwale racks alone meet fi shing space. Versatility, says the company, is the needs of all but 20 percent of the hallmark of Ultra Elites. CC survey respondents.

50 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 ª WINTER SALES EVENT

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To learn more, visit www.suzukimarine.com. Gimme Six Extended Protection promotion applies to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/20 and 03/31/20 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings applies to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/20 and 03/31/20. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Instant Savings must be applied against the agreed-upon selling price of the outboard motor and reflected in the bill of sale. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on creditworthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/20 and 03/31/20. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2020 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. READER RESPONSE BUILDER “CAN TAKE A SEA BETTER THAN MOST BOATS ITS SIZE” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Dual 35-gallon livewells

Michael Peters’ hull delivers solid ride, speed and efficiency Dual swim platforms, one with a ladder

Aluminum backing plates for major components add lifelong durability

BRAND SAYS Will provide great memories and a phenomenal ride

Does it all for the serious fisherman and for family fun NEW 2020 Designed for family fun and a day’s comfort

Caymas Boats SPECS ormer world-champion boat- tournament-fi shing features with stainless-steel rod holders (the LOA: 25'7" Fracer Earl Bentz founded and family-style creature comforts; minimum for 30 percent of Beam: 9' nurtured the Stratos, Javelin and both enjoy a velvet-smooth ride. respondents; two more are op- Fuel Capacity: 90 gal. Triton fi berglass-fi shing-boat Caymas says that most hybrid tional), and a 4-inch jack plate. brands to combined sales of more or crossover bluewater boats For the family, there’s cush- Dry Weight: 4,100 lb. plus power than 200,000 boats. leave out such key fi shing fea- ioned seating at bow (one-third Now, Bentz has founded tures as suffi cient livewells and of off shore CC respondents asked Max HP: 400 Caymas Boats, dedicated to me- baitwells, lack enough interior for it) and stern, wide-beam- Certifi cations: NMMA ticulous design and construction room and comfortable seating for provided extra elbowroom, high of the highest-quality, best- passengers, or deliver a ride rang- freeboard, and deep gunwales performing custom fi berglass ing from bumpy to bone-jarring. for added safety and security, a OPTIONALLY POWERED bay and off shore fi shing boats Not so with the Caymas 26 HB, Bluetooth stereo system, and a possible for uncompromising the company says, with its com- port-a-potty in the console. inshore and off shore anglers. bination of pro-level fi shability, It’s fi shing-ready and Caymas boats are produced in distinctive contemporary styling, family-friendly. Ashland City, Tennessee, by an and family-focused comfort. expert team with an average of 30 Construction standards MORE INFO years’ fi berglass experience each, include fully fi nished fi berglass caymasboats.com making a combined total of more console, lids, boxes, doors and than 1,500 years! bilge area. The boat’s hull carries Saltwater boats will arise a limited lifetime warranty, and from Michael Peters’ patented components a three-year limited Stepped-Vee Ventilated Tunnel warranty. hull, or SVVT, which provides in- Fishing-minded features creased speed and fuel economy include a nonskid casting deck, by reducing water drag, as well as massive built-in storage com- producing a more luxurious and partments, including lockable Tackle storage is drier ride. storage in the bow (requested generous, including by 34 percent of survey respon- compartments under the CAYMAS 26 HB dents), two 35-gallon livewells, leaning-post seat. This new crossover center- multiple aerated livewells and console combines premium baitwells, four gunwale-mounted

52 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 MAKES YOUR BOAT BETTER

Evinrude® engines are faster and stronger, to get you up to speed and to power through anything in your way. More efficient, so you can go further on one tank of fuel. Smarter, to make owning and operating it easier than ever. And cleaner, to protect the water for generations to come. Simply put, Evinrude makes your boat better. READER RESPONSE BUILDER “DESIGNED FOR FISHERMEN” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Lockable rod storage

Raw-water and freshwater washdowns

OWNERS SAY Very versatile

Rides quite well and can go in about 17 inches of water Easy to ﬁ sh out of, great looks, cleans up great

Can go skinny water or nearshore comfortably

BRAND SAYS Born to do one thing: put dedicated anglers on ﬁ sh

Pathfinder defined the Pathfi nder Boats term “bay boat” athfi nder, in keeping with its importance to 73 percent of fl ush-mounted rod holders line P“angler-driven” descriptor, bay-boat fi shers—is retained the gunwales. (A rod rack on SPECS designs each boat model from a thanks to in-fl oor storage and the optional hardtop holds four LOA: 26'2" challenge: comfortable and safe large, lockable storage areas for more.) mastery of a specifi c angling ap- rods and other gear, which is Inside the fully fi nished Beam: 8'10" plication, informed by pro guide something 38 percent of our bay- console is room for storage, Fuel Capacity: 78 gal. staff members and its legion of boat respondents require. The privacy for changing, or it can be Dry Weight: 3,350 lb. loyal customers. console contains fl ip-out storage rigged with a head. Other options with power Pathfi nder is part of the compartments for neat contain- include Power Poles, cushion Max HP: 350 Maverick Boat Group with sibling ment of more tackle and tools. packages, hardtop or T-top, upper Certifi cations: NMMA brands Maverick, Hewes and The boat is wired and ready for station, Garmin electronics and Cobia. a 36-volt trolling motor, favored more. And for the moment that

gear of two-thirds of bay-boat begs for neither cruising nor EXCLUSIVELY POWERED PATHFINDER 2600 TRS anglers. Raw-water and freshwa- fi shing? Well, there is an optional Pathfi nder’s 2600 TRS is a ter washdowns make keeping it tow pylon. charmer of a bay boat, with clean a breeze, even when fi shing the good looks and comfort action has been frantic. The MORE INFO amenities that suggest an evening livewell measures 36 gallons. pathfi nderboats.com of island hopping or dinner. Seating is both generous But it’s more than ready for and fl exible, with spots for up tournament-level hardcore fi sh- to 10. The deluxe helm seats, ing the next day. with backrests, have fold-down A double-stepped hull armrests and fl ip-up bolsters. —lightweight thanks to vacuum- Forward console seating has infused construction—pops onto a cooler beneath. Up front, plane, swift and fuel-effi cient. It’s fl ip-up forward-facing back- 1 Rod lockers store 8 ∕2- stable at drift or anchored, and a rests disappear when fi shing. inch sticks, and forward standard Atlas jack plate makes it Integrated rear deck seating seats fold up from the shallow-water versatile. Despite provides perches for three, each hatches. its bay-boat designation, it’s with an independent fl ip-up ready for some bigger waters too. seat; they fold out of the way and Open space—of major create a large casting deck. Four

54 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 The road to paradise Isn’t Actually a Road.

Where you’re going there are no roads.

No stop lights. No traffic jams. Because paradise doesn’t have a street address.

It’s the water kissing the sky along the horizon. The sun on your face.

Paradise is out there for you to find.

You just have to pick a Cobia and go.

www.cobiaboats.com READER RESPONSE BUILDER “HANDLES LIKE A DREAM IN ROUGH SEAS” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Upright, level ﬂ otation tops US Coast Guard speciﬁ cations

Livewells exceed expectations Raw-water and freshwater washdowns come standard

OWNERS SAY Perfect for not only saltwater fishing, but bass fishing too Wide-open ﬂ at casting deck fore and aft

Fishability, room and stability

BRAND SAYS Wide-open layout and Ranger Boats organized storage everywhere

panning more than 50 years, for its soft ride and Carolina holders total eight—more than Big-water capability SRanger Boats has crafted fl are, reverse chines, easy-access most off shore and inshore survey throughout an extensive lineup of fi berglass head compartment with a large, respondents say they need. and aluminum saltwater and shock-supported door, diamond A larger hydraulic jack plate, freshwater boats, plus fi shing and nonskid surface, and raw-water trim tabs and a Ranger Trail SPECS cruising pontoons. and freshwater washdowns. trailer are standard; hardtop, LOA: 24'9" Each new boat fi lls a specifi c Lockable rod storage with rod or- second station, shallow-water Beam: 8'6" niche, while classics are continu- ganizers are included in port side anchors, trolling motor, bow Fuel Capacity: 97 gal. ally tweaked. Ranger-pioneered and accomodate rods up to 9’. cushions, backrests and handrails innovations are now industry A 40 gallon recirculated are optional. Dry Weight: 3,600 lb. plus power standards. It famously led the livewell with 2200gph aerated way toward new US Coast Guard fl ow, a handy crustacean well aft MORE INFO Max HP: 400 fl otation standards, through its and a 26-gallon forward livewell rangerboats.com Certifi cations: NMMA addition of safety-foam fl otation give plenty of bait-keeping material. Ranger also patented options. A 210-quart insulated the aerated livewell, which keeps fi sh box with a large drain can OPTIONALLY POWERED fi sh frisky for post-tournament alternately supply dry storage. release. Now the 2510 comes refreshed, Ranger’s fi berglass boats have with deft touches including a a patented pultruded fi berglass larger back deck that drains water transom, fi berglass knee braces, from the rear deck box channels. and a fi berglass stringer system The bow cooler/livewell latch that dampens engine and rough- is now stainless steel, and the water vibration, optimizing its console door’s larger gas shock stable ride. eliminates slamming in rough seas. Dual circulation pumps RANGER 2510 BAY A massive fuel tank and plus a recirculation pump Ready to step up your fi shing horsepower-rating boost to are at the heart of one of game in a big bay boat? The rede- 400 means you can go far and the best livewells afl oat. signed 2510 Bay Ranger will take get there fast. Fold-down aft you there. seatstuck away quickly at fi shing The 2510 is already famous time. Gunwales and transom rod

56 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 The AIRMAR Chirp Advantage

Unleash the true power of your fishfinder! AIRMAR Chirp-ready transducers will take your fishfinder to the next level…superior target resolution and amazing detail such as lure tracking and thermoclines…that’s the AIRMAR Chirp advantage. Visit AIRMAR.com or call one of our AIRMAR Certified Installers to find the right transducer for your boat.

, DEFINING CHIRP TECHNOLOGY READER RESPONSE BUILDER “GREAT FISHING PLATFORM WITH LOTS OF STORAGE” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Ample family seating

Roomy fishing cockpit Generous storage

OWNERS SAY Stability is great

From fishing to scuba diving, I can do it all

Style

Stable and versatile

BRAND SAYS Cutting-edge technology with timeless styles NEW 2020 The [Robalo] goal is to make boating easy One of the driest and Robalo Boats smoothest rides on the water today obalo, a leader in the marine upholstery. Robalo also makes its aluminum or powder coat, and Rindustry since 1968, calls own hardtops, storage-compart- Taco Grandslam outriggers. building world-class fi shing boats ment lids, dash consoles, doors Standard are an aluminum- SPECS “a passion and a way of life.” and interior components. framed glass windshield, lockable LOA: 23' It builds center-consoles, console door, forward console Beam: 8'6" Cayman bay boats, dual-consoles ROBALO R230 seat and bolster, bow cushions, Fuel Capacity: 90 gal. and walkarounds. What they The Robalo R230—which is two insulated 23-gallon storage share are super-tough, Kevlar- near the midpoint, lengthwise, compartments, portlight, port- Dry Weight: 4,000 lb. plus power reinforced Hydro Lift hulls, of its eight-boat center-console a-potty and premium audio. in variable deep-V designs line—has both fi shing and family You can add LED underwater Max HP: 250 with straight-tracking 22- or boating in mind. lights, electronics packages, and Certifi cations: NMMA 23-degree transom deadrise and The fi shing focus is in vertical trim tabs with indicators. a wave-splitting bow. storage for six rods, and horizon- The Hydro Lift design tal-tubes storage for four more, MORE INFO EXCLUSIVELY POWERED produces quick plane times, along with the four gunwale- robalo.com thrifty fuel effi ciency, and a soft mounted stainless-steel rod ride. Robalo traits also include holders that meet the minimums high freeboard, so anglers and for about one-third of our center- others feel secure even in deep console survey respondents. cockpits. The aft seat’s folding backrest Robalos are hand-built converts to a casting platform. in Nashville, Georgia, in a The aft cockpit livewell holds 1.2- million-square-foot produc- 25 gallons. Serving the helm, tion facility that has earned the standard is an anodized lean- company the title of world’s larg- ing post with backrest, four rod est single-site boatbuilder. holders and a 72-quart cooler; The company prides itself leaning-post options include The centered helm is on its use of stainless-steel powder-coated models with dual comfortable, with leaning hardware, loom-wrapped wir- fl ip-up bolsters. post seating and large ing, triple O-ring waterproof Up top, options include dash for electronics. electrical connectors, standard a Bimini top, console heavy-duty rub rail, and premium cover, hardtop in anodized

58 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 COMPACKED.

AVAILABLE IN BLACK OR NAVY BLUE

HX890 Floating 6W Class H DSC Handheld VHF/GPS

New Ergonomic Design with the Most Advanced Features

Standard Horizon is proud to introduce the new HX890, • Floating, IPX8 Submersible Construction our high-end Floating Class H DSC VHF/GPS that packs a • Extended Range 6W Transmit Power ton of features into a sleek new ergonomically-designed • 700mW Loud Audio and Noise Canceling case. Some prominent new features include two scrambler • Two Scrambler Systems Built In systems built in to ensure secure communications out on • Built-in FM Broadcast Band Receiver the water, and a built-in FM broadcast band receiver for • Group Monitor Function with Digital times when radio communication is not necessary. Selective Calling The HX890 also features a new rounded case design that • Oversize Full-Dot Matrix Display provides excellent ergonomics and has been rigorously tested to conform to Military Standard. With its advanced • Versatile Scanning Operation design and features, the rugged HX890 is an industry leader, • Rugged New Ergonomic Case Design backed by Standard Horizon’s 3 Year Waterproof Warranty. • Available in Black or Navy Blue

Nothing takes to water like Standard Horizon READER RESPONSE BUILDER “VERSATILE OPEN BOAT” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Rod holders meet or exceed expectations

Forward seating meets/ exceeds expectations

OWNERS SAY Runs in skinny water

Comfortable for four to five people to fish

Great ride

Lots of walk-around space

BRAND SAYS Performance fi shing or a family dayboat, this is NEW your boat 2020 High-performance features signature to Skeeter’s top-quality Skeeter Boats bay boats keeter, a Yamaha boat share: Yamaha F300 four-stroke standard with a two-tone Omni Quick, comfortable, Scompany and leading builder outboard power; a larger, taller hardtop, Fusion audio with four convenient of performance fi shing boats, oversize console with full-size speakers, leaning-post baitwell, has been building boats since side entry door; space enough bow handrails, Omni swim 1948. It has received 18 con- to accommodate a portable platform, aft underwater accent SPECS secutive NMMA CSI Customer toilet plus serve as a changing lights, and freshwater washdown. LOA: 24'6" Satisfaction Index awards, and room; and within the bow deck a It also features removable bow Beam: 8'5" its boats are certifi ed to meet 145-quart fi sh box with macera- deck cushions. Fuel Capacity: 76 gal. US Coast Guard, NMMA, and tor, and aft a 43-gallon livewell. The Fish package off ers a Dry Weight: 3,660 lb. American Boat and Yacht Council A three-position step converts deluxe coastal white leaning post plus power standards. from step to deck extension to with fi xed backrest and 80 quart table, as you like. Fore and aft Engel cooler underneath. Lifted Max HP: 300 SKEETER SX2550 seat pedestals are also standard. forward, these seats create extra Certifi cations: NMMA At 24 feet, 6 inches, the new Four gunwale-mounted storage compartments. SX2550 is the largest in Skeeter’s rod holders meet or exceed SX bay-boat family, an inshore/ expectations of 53 percent of MORE INFO EXCLUSIVELY POWERED off shore boat with the high- off shore-fi shing-of-bay-boats skeeterboats.com performance features trailblazed respondents, 72 percent of by its siblings. It boasts plenty of inshore. Counting those on the space (top concern to 73 percent leaning post, there are nine verti- of bay-boat survey respondents), cal rod holders. The SX2550 also a powerful ride, and family- features a 12-inch manual jack friendly fi shability. plate, built-in LED lighting, trim The brand-new boat comes tabs, and raw-water washdown. in Family and Fishing packages. Tall gunwales and a Carolina fl are Rest assured: You can have plenty hull add a distinctive look and of family fun in the Fish model, create a smooth, dry ride. Both The Family edition and do plenty of fi shing from models include stowable rear seating includes a the Family package. They’re jump seats and removable rear removable cocktail table. just tweaked a bit more in their deck backrest and cushion to seat respective directions. up to four. Here’s what the two models The SX2550 Family comes

60 | INSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Mia, nice meeting you last night. About our date...would you like to join me on my boat tomorrow?

12 sec ago

It has a Seakeeper, right?

4 sec ago

ONCE YOU FEEL IT, YOU’LL NEVER BOAT WITHOUT IT.

SCHEDULE A DEMO RIDE TODAY

seakeeper.com B B G OFFSHORE COURTESY YAMAHA COURTESY

ome have likened offshore waters to a vast as it attacks bait. Schools of mahi, charge the boat. Blackfin tuna blue desert. Indeed, you can troll for miles explode in a feeding frenzy. This is no desert. Hands tremble and miles without seeing anything. But as you pin a live bait to your hook. You cast. Your bait lands in suddenly things change. You happen upon a the epicenter of the action, and in a nanosecond, line whirls off patch of ocean that springs to life. Flying fish your spinning reel in a blur. You close the bail, the line cinches skitter above the waves. Frigate birds swoop taut, and the drag screams. This is what you’ve come for. This down from on high. Schools of ballyhoo is offshore fishing at its finest. Getting here, however, is often a Sshower across the surface. You spot your journey that begins well before you leave the marina or launch quarry: the unfurled dorsal fin of a sailfish ramp. For many anglers, it begins as a quest for a boat that fits

76 Aquasport / 78 Belzona / 80 Cape Horn / 82 Boston Whaler / 84 Cobia /86 Contender / 88 Everglades / 90 Fountain 99 NorthCoast / 100 Pursuit / 102 Regulator / 104 Scout 106 Sea Fox / 108 SeaVee / 110 Solace / 112 Yellowfin

62 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 463816 8% 7% 46% 38% 16% 28%

HOW OFTEN 19% DO YOU FISH WITH LIVE BAIT? 38% Less than 50% of the time 28r381978 More than 50% of the time Nearly 100% of the time HOW MANY GUNWALE ROD HOLDERS DO YOU NEED WHEN YOU FISH OFFSHORE? 4 6 8 10 19% 27% More than 10

10% 26% 196% 12% r261261027

HOW FAR AHEAD DID YOU PLAN YOUR BOAT PURCHASE? 6335 Less than 6 months 62% 33% 5% 6 to 12 months DREAM CATCHER 13 to 18 months HOW MANY 19 to 24 months An offshore boat can capture LIVEWELLS DO Over 24 months more than fish. It can capture YOU NEED? your dreams, build memories, I’m always planning and help create family stories my next purchase One is enough that pass from one generation Two, one forward and one aft to the next. Find your dream Three to keep different baits catcher in the pages that follow. separated

their type of fishing, their taste in design, their boating lifestyle and, of course, their budget. Plus, for blue water, having a boat LINE CINCHES that offers offshore capabilities, sufficient range and key safety features such as self-bailing decks and navigational electronics TAUT; THE DRAG is critical. Helping you find the right boat that fits your prefer- SCREAMS. ences for offshore fishing is what this section of the 2020 Fish- ing Boat Buyers Guide is all about. You will find the guidance THIS IS WHAT you need in the pages that follow. So get out there and find the boat that will enable you find the fish amid the vast blue desert. YOU’VE COME FOR. 92 Grady-White / 94 Invincible / 96 Jupiter / 98 NauticStar

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 | OFFSHORE | 63 WHAT READERS WANT IN OUR SURVEY, 21 PERCENT OF OFFSHORE CENTER-CONSOLE OFFSHORE OWNERS CONSIDER FORWARD SEATING UNIMPORTANT, BUT 19 PERCENT LOVE IT.

Center- Consoles By Jim Hendricks

oday’s most popular off shore fi shing Tmachine takes the form of an outboard-powered center-console boat. More than 30 percent of respondents in our survey own such a model—more than other kinds of saltwater fi shing boats, and three times the number who own traditional inboard sport-fi shers. The reason is simple: The center-console off ers unfettered 360-degree access to the rail to cast, net bait, fl y kites, troll dredge teasers, deep-drop, man the anchor, and battle big, powerful fi sh. But there’s more. Center- consoles have grown to sizes that imbue them with off shore capabilities that few could have imagined a decade ago. Some new models in this genre are pushing into the 40-, 50- and even 60-foot range. POWER AND COMFORT The trend toward bigger center-console boats is spurred by the introduction of ever-more-powerful outboards. Motors ranging from 300 hp all the way up to 627 ponies—bolted to transoms and brackets in triple, quadruple and even quintuple confi gurations—enable the development of big center-consoles, many of which refl ect lightweight fi bers and vacuum- infused resin construction. Big outboards, full-height glass windshields to safeguard combined with advanced computer-aided THE TREND TOWARD the helm from wind blast and spray, a running-surface designs such as step-hulls BIGGER CENTER-CON- benefi t that anglers and nonanglers alike and multihulls, smoothly propel off shore will appreciate. center-consoles to speeds that leave SOLES IS SPURRED BY Though there are many elements to lumbering diesel sport-fi shers well astern. EVER-MORE-POWER- consider in the purchase of these boats. Yet, this trend extends beyond FUL OUTBOARDS. Let’s take a closer look at four of the performance and fi shing. Off shore rapidly evolving and practical features center-console boats allow more room for console interiors with convertible berths, contributing to the growing popularity creature comforts such as posh loungers, marine toilets, showers, air conditioning, of the category. These include joystick foldout cockpit benches, supportive helm and even galleys, expanding opportunities systems to ease docking of bigger boats chairs with fl ip-up bolsters, mezzanine for cruising and overnighting. Plus, many in tight quarters, and to maintain boat seating, and roomy, well-appointed consoles now come with three-sided, position and drift angle while fi shing;

EDITOR’S TIP: VIRTUAL-ANCHORING CAVEATS If you use a virtual anchor to hold the boat in position while you fi sh, pay close attention to the direction of the current. While the boat won’t move, the current underneath might be running strong and could possibly carry your fi shing lines into the T outboard propellers, which are constantly working to maintain the boat’s position with engines in virtual-anchor mode. COURTESY: SOLACE (ABOVE); WELLCRAFT (RIGHT) WELLCRAFT (ABOVE); SOLACE COURTESY:

64 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Helm Master for outboards, when buying ON A SCALE FROM 1 TO 5, WITH 1 a center-console boat for offshore fishing. BEING “LOW IMPORTANCE” AND Designed for multiple outboard 5 BEING “HIGH IMPORTANCE,” configurations, these systems allow you HOW IMPORTANT IS FORWARD to slowly and precisely maneuver a boat by SEATING? simply pointing a single joystick control in the direction you want the boat to go— sideways, backward, forward or any angle 1 2 3 4 5 in between. You can also pivot the boat LOW HIGH on its center point in either direction by twisting the joystick control. Outboard joystick systems work by turning and shifting each outboard inde- 20% 22% pendently, and they are generally offered as factory options on new boats. One ex- ception is the SeaStar Solutions Optimus 360 system, which is available either 16% 18% factory-installed or as an aftermarket addition by a certified installer. 2224% r18241620

HOW SKILLED ARE YOU AT USING YOUR ELECTRONICS? An expert Well-versed in technology Somewhat of a novice

Uninterested (1%) 4%

34% Elevated second stations—such the ones on the Solace 345 (left) and Wellcraft 352 61% Fisherman (above)—make it easier to spot birds, weed lines and fish from a distance. 4r61341 Ease of docking is a great benefit, but there are others reasons to consider a networked digital marine electronics that joystick system. Station-keeping functions allow access and control of a wide range —also known as a virtual anchor—on the ON A SCALE FROM 1 TO of onboard systems via multifunction dis- Mercury, SeaStar and Yamaha systems not 5, WITH 1 BEING “LOW plays; built-in high-capacity livewell sys- only let captains automatically maintain IMPORTANCE” AND 5 BEING tems for effectively transporting live bait position in wind and current, but can also “HIGH IMPORTANCE,” HOW to the offshore grounds; and expansion of lock in a heading, whether holding the IMPORTANT IS AFT SEATING rod and tackle stowage, allowing anglers boat in place or drifting over structure. THAT FOLDS AWAY? to capitalize on a wide range of fishing Yamaha’s Helm Master system includes opportunities if and when they occur. a Stay Point, Bow Hook, Heading Adjust 1 2 3 4 5 and Drift Hook. The multifaceted LOW HIGH JOYSTICK SYSTEMS SeaStation system integrated into the Even a moderate-size center-console boat SeaStar Optimus 360 joystick steering —say, one of about 30 feet in length—can package features Position Hold, Heading 24% 21% be handful in a crowded marina when Hold and a combined Position/Head- trying to depart for a day of fishing or ing Hold. Yamaha’s Helm Master system docking at the end of a trip, especially features include Stay Point, which holds with a strong breeze or powerful current the vessel’s heading and position; Fish 14% (or both) affecting the boat. As boat size Point, which aligns the boat with the 21% increases, so can the difficulty factor. current and wind to stay put but without 20% That’s why you should consider a joystick maintaining heading; and Drift Point, 21r1420224 low-speed control option, such as Yamaha which maintains the boat’s heading while

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 | OFFSHORE | 65 CENTER- CONSOLES

allowing it to drift over structure. including fishing boats, and especially new Left to right: Conventional deep-V hulls Such systems also available from offshore center-console models. The trend remain popular today. Digital integration Mercury, Evinrude and SeaStar Solutions is centered on touchscreen multifunction offers easy systems control at the helm. use multichannel GPS positioning data, displays, or MFDs, which serve to access, Tackle stowage is as important as ever. sophisticated electronic heading sensors, view and control a wide range of onboard onboard processors, and the joystick in- systems, including electronics, lighting, With offshore center-console fishing dependent outboard steering and throttle propulsion, batteries, pumps, enter- boats now sporting multiple outboards, control. Activating virtual-anchor systems tainment, security systems and more. integrated MFDs reduce clutter and requires only the tap of a button or, some- Over 40 percent of owners of offshore wiring at the helm. One MFD can cover times, two. One of the coolest applications center-console fishing boats have an MFD multiple engines. would be holding the boat over a wreck of 5 to 9 inches, and nearly 30 percent Available engine data includes rpm, on a windy day, allowing anglers to fish have an MFD that’s 12 inches or larger, speed, fuel consumption, fuel level, mpg, straight down. per our survey. C-Zone and Naviops rank alternator output, battery voltage, engine With features like Drift Hook, Heading as two of the leading companies in this temp, trim angle, engine hours and more. Hold and Drift Point, you can keep the revolution, working in coordination with Displays will also show maintenance boat’s bow pointed in whatever direction boatbuilders, MFD manufacturers and reminders, system warnings and alerts, you wish while drift-fishing, marine-accessory companies and engine diagnostics. With all informa- which can help when kite- WHAT READERS WANT to design customized digital tion in one place, MFDs also prove easier fishing. With the Position/ OFFSHORE CEN- switching networks. Heading Hold, Heading Adjust TER-CONSOLE As you sea-trial a new boat, DIGITAL INTEGRATION and Stay Point, you have the FISHING-BOAT you might not notice any dif- ALSO MEANS ACCESS benefit of a virtual anchor BUYERS OVER- ference versus conventional while also maintaining the bow WHELMINGLY analog switches. But it’s the TO A WEALTH OF heading. Systems can be digi- PREFER OUT- versatility of digital integra- INFORMATION ABOUT tally integrated and controlled BOARD ENGINES, tion that makes a difference. YOUR BOAT. with third-party multifunction TO THE TUNE For example, rather than displays. SeaStation, for OF 96 PERCENT using a switch panel to turn on to read, allowing captains to quickly rec- example, is compatible with IN OUR SURVEY. an accessory, you can access ognize relevant engine data at a glance— current Garmin, Raymarine controls on a networked MFD. an improvement over having to scan a and Simrad displays. Digital integration also sprawling array of dials and gauges. Info Mercury’s Skyhook interfaces means access to a wealth of can also be shared with other displays. with Simrad displays, and information about your boat. Yamaha’s system networks For instance, many outboards LIVEWELL DESIGN with Garmin displays. now output vital informa- Thirty-six percent of survey respondents tion via a digital network, said that the size of the livewell was a DIGITAL and outboard brands such as more important aspect to fishability. INTEGRATION Evinrude, Honda, Mercury, Suzuki and Bigger is better when it comes to carry- The digital revolution is permeating Yamaha have developed displays to read ing an abundant amount of live bait on an virtually every aspect of our lives, this data. offshore center-console.

EDITOR’S TIP: WIRELESS WONDER Your boat has analog gauges, but you want the capability of an engine MFD. If the outboard is a recent Mercury of 40 hp or greater, you can add a compact VesselView Mobile module to the engine and download the free VesselView Mobile app to T turn your tablet or smartphone into a de facto engine MFD. VesselView Mobile (for iOS and Android) lets you access and read engine data on your mobile device. VesselView Mobile also displays maintenance reminders, engine alerts and diagnostics. COURTESY FROM LEFT: PURSUIT; INTREPID; CONTENDER PURSUIT; FROM LEFT: COURTESY

66 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 32 A NEW LEGEND IS BORN

Yet baits such as ballyhoo, blue runners, goggle-eyes, mackerel, pilchards, sardines, speedos, pogies and threadfins require more than sheer capacity. They demand carefully designed livewell systems. One of the most important considerations is the geometry of the livewell interior. It should be taller than it is wide—a column shape, so to speak—to minimize sloshing that can slam live baits against the sides of the tank and injure them. This is especially critical for boats that might run in heavy seas. A column of water with a round or oval interior also promotes “milling”—the tendency of the bait to swim in a relaxed circle. Most new offshore center-consoles have the livewells located in the aft area of the boat, such as the transom bulkhead. This location provides the softest ride to pam- per the bait. Transom livewells are also easy to access while fishing in the stern. Nearly 40 percent of offshore center-consoles have two more livewells, our survey indicates. Some boats have two separate wells in the transom, and some have one in the transom and another behind the leaning post. A well under the aft deck is also common, and it’s easy to drop a cast net full of bait into it. The livewell should be free of interior obstructions, such as an exposed standpipe. More-advanced wells have the side drain at the top, plumbed overboard on the outside of the tank. In other wells, the standpipe resides inside a baffle within the wall of the tank. by almost totally eliminating WHAT READERS WANT more fishing gear in anticipa- Pressurizing a livewell is a relatively new any air voids. This, in turn, IN OUR SURVEY, tion of finding a wider range method. It keeps bait in better condition eliminates sloshing. Pressur- 54 PERCENT OF of fishing opportunities. For izing requires a pump system OFFSHORE CEN- example, the crew might start NEW HULL CHOICES that slightly overfills the well, TER-CONSOLE out the day jigging sabiki rigs and a sealed hatch to keep wa- OWNERS SAY to catch live bait with light While many boat models still feature THEIR BOATS conventional deep-V hulls, two offshore hull ter from spilling onto the deck. spinning rods, then switch to designs have gained tremendous popularity Builders often use clear acrylic HAVE ADEQUATE conventional outfits for kite- in recent years. Stepped monohulls use steps hatches that let you see the bait TACKLE STOW- fishing or heavier spinning to separate the running surface into three without opening the top. A few AGE; 46 PER- gear for wreck-fishing. Or a parts: bow, midsection and stern. This divides offshore center- consoles now CENT SAY NOT. yellowfin tuna might show up, the hull’s pressure wave into a trio of ridges, feature tuna tubes for keeping requiring trolling tackle. to minimize bow rise and draw in air from the large baits such as bonito alive What is the best place to sides, reducing friction to boost efficiency—a until needed. Today’s most ad- stow rods and reels? Many top consideration for 70 percent of survey vanced offshore center-console new offshore center-console respondents. Multihull boats, aka cats, might fishing boats use pump boxes boats feature vertical rod also feature steps, but the key lies in having to purge air that the water holders along the sides of the two slender hulls versus the single beamier pickup ingests while the boat center console. These keep running surface. The two hulls knife smoothly is underway. Otherwise, the livewell water the rods out of the way yet accessible. through seas and experience less deceleration can become excessively aerated, which can Front entries to the console interior (as after crossing waves. These boats tend to have kill bait. opposed to side doors) and Key West-style wider beams for more lateral stability. Cats tops that narrow forward help maximize often remain flat or lean outward in turns, but TACKLE STOWAGE the number of rods that can be stowed the semi-asymmetrical cross-sectional design Over 50 percent of survey respondents along the console. of Invincible Boats’ cat hulls allows these rank rod stowage as the most important Many offshore center-consoles feature offshore models to bank inward in turns. aspect of fishability, and 48 percent say rod holders along the transom, which

it’s tackle centers. Bluewater anglers need is great when you’re not fishing. But INVINCIBLE (OPPOSITE) EVINRUDE (ABOVE); COURTESY:

68 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Above left: Increasingly powerful out- That’s because using gunwale rod holders helm seats. This way, you can quickly boards have led to ever-more-capable while underway can expose expensive access tackle and rigging items while offshore center-consoles. Above: Cata- gear to corrosion-inducing spray. prepping lure and baits at the station. maran hulls are growing in popularity. Most new offshore center-console Some boatbuilders locate tackle stowage fishing machines abound with drawers in cabinets and in drawers on the sides for unfettered access to the stern while and cabinets for stowing lures, spools of of the leaning-post module, and many fishing, you’ll need to move them to other leader line, terminal tackle, needles and center-consoles are equipped with tilt-out locations. Rod stowage abaft the helm rigging tools. These lockers are located lockers in the inwales with trays designed seating, in the area known as a rigging to stow two or three plastic tackle boxes. station, is also common. These rod racks— LOOK FOR A What about when you need to leave the sometimes call rocket launchers—are CENTER-CONSOLE boat tied up and don’t want to haul all of angled slightly aft and are easy to access. your tackle home? Look for lockable rod Many center-consoles also sport rod BOAT THAT OFFERS and tackle stowage. racks along the aft edge of the T-top or LOCKABLE ROD AND For rods, these are sometimes built hardtop, but these can more difficult to TACKLE STOWAGE. into forward compartments under the access because they are up so high. bow deck, below the forward lounges or Gunwale rod holders are generally re- in different places on different boats, but inside the console. General tackle lockers served for outfits that are actively fishing, one of the most common and convenient can be equipped with keyed locks to help be it trolling, drift-fishing, kite-fishing, etc. spots is in the rigging station abaft the prevent pilferage.

EDITOR’S TIP: GYROSTABILIZERS It might surprise some readers to learn that 37 percent of our survey respondents would consider a gyrostabilizer such as a Seakeeper on their next new-boat purchase. Gyrostabilizers effectively eliminate roll (side-to-side motion) experienced in T rough seas, and this is particularly helpful aboard an offshore center-console fishing boat. A gyrostabilizer greatly increases the comfort and safety when bluewater angling. Think about such an option in your next new-boat purchase.

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 | OFFSHORE | 69 WHAT READERS WANT STABILITY IS IMPORTANT: THIRTY-ONE PERCENT OF SURVEY RESPON- WALKAROUNDS DENTS WOULD CONSIDER A GYROSTABILIZER IN A WALKAROUND.

TURNKEY READY? While the majority of our survey respondents indicated that they preferred purchasing a boat that was already fully equipped with options, many also reported they wanted to add a host of additional items. Among these in popularity were gyrostabilizers, especially for those who said they were spending one to three nights aboard during ﬁ shing trips or while cruising with the family. Electronics were another key consideration: A majority of respondents said that they wanted to upgrade from standard sonar to chirp and/or side-scanning sonar units in their walkaround boats. They wanted to add radar and autopilot capability as well.

boats can just as easily off er cruising options for friends and family as fi shing; among the popular options are a small generator for power and to allow for air conditioning belowdecks, a great choice for overnight trips. Also of growing importance is the increasingly aff ordable Seakeeper gyrostabilizer for crew comfort in seas. An anchor windlass is an option almost always checked on the order form. SAFE AND SOUND Although top speed is not among the strong suits, a soft, dry ride is certainly in the wheelhouse for a good walkaround design. In our survey, a majority of respondents wanted fuel effi ciency and a comfortable ride in rough sea conditions Walkaround boats can provide a very (69 and 74 percent, respectively). Because comfortable ride thanks in part to excel- the crew is protected from wind and spray, A Step lent protection from the elements. these boats are among the safest and most comfortable on the water. baits and lures across the water column, For power options, the overwhelming Ahead and trolling or live-baiting is a breeze majority of walkaround boats are pow- By Sam White from a walkaround. In fact, 84 percent ered by single, twin or triple outboards, of the Fishing Boat Buyers Guide survey off ering terrifi c reliability, fuel economy alkaround boats have been popular respondents noted that a large cockpit was and performance. W designs for decades, off ering boat- their No. 1 demand of walkaround boats. Our survey respondents were divided ers the best of both worlds: a large, un- At the helm is ample space for one or more nearly in half as to whether a walkaround obstructed cockpit aft, with a substantial multifunction displays as well, while a fi - was best for hardcore fi shing (53 percent) windshield or curtains forward for protec- berglass hardtop provides plenty of shade or as a comfortable, family-friendly tion from the elements, plus accommoda- on those hot, sunny days on the water. multipurpose vessel (47 percent) capable tions belowdecks for an enclosed head and In fact, the survey revealed that comfort of fulfi lling a variety of roles, including a V-berth for overnight trips. As the name was another key point. In addition to diving, beachcombing and cruising. implies, bow access is via alleys alongside cockpit shade, 43 percent of respondents That speaks volumes to the walkaround or set inboard of the gunwales, making it noted that having ample aft seating was design’s ability to easily switch gears from much easier to handle the anchor while of high or very high importance to them. one role to another, doing so safely and in off shore or bow lines at the dock. Given their multipurpose nature, these style along the way. Walkarounds are effi cient fi shing platforms that typically feature a large cockpit, with many off ering in-deck fi sh IF YOU WERE TO boxes along with multiple livewells, and PURCHASE A NEW ample storage for tackle on board (no BOAT, WOULD YOU No more toting heavy boxes of tackle on and CONSIDER A Undecided Yes 30 39 31 off the boat each day). Add a set of outrig- GYROSTABILIZER? 30% 39% 31% gers and/or downriggers to spread the WHALER BOSTON COURTESY

70 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020

WHAT READERS WANT OUR SURVEY RESPONDENTS NOTED AMPLE SEATING IN THE BOW, DUAL-CONSOLES STERN AND HELM, PLUS SAFETY FLOTATION, AS VERY IMPORTANT. Multi- purpose By Sam White here is truly no such thing as a perfect Tboat, but there are a few designs that can expertly fi ll multiple roles, easily switching from hardcore fi shing machine to family sandbar cruiser to tow boat for wakeboards and infl atables. One of the most popular of these is the fast-growing category defi ned as dual-console. With a walk-through windshield for weather protection and easy access to the bow, plus helm and companion seating and additional seating in the stern, dual- consoles are perfectly suited for hosting families or larger groups of friends. And because there is no need to roam around an outer deck, they are also inherently safe for small children.

FISH AND CRUISE While dual-consoles might not have the fi shing reputation of a center-console, don’t dismiss them entirely. Because of the forward, off set helm, the cockpit is remarkably wide open, lending itself to a variety of angling pursuits. Switching gears from trolling to anchoring on a Ample seating, especially in the bow, is a pose platform that seamlessly transitions wreck or reef for bottomfi shing is quick hallmark of the dual-console design. from an outstanding fi shing machine one and easy, in part thanks to safe, easy ac- day to a laid-back family cruiser the next cess to the bow. Few other designs off er the protection of a large windshield. In to business entertainer the day after. this kind of versatility. fair weather, the forward seating accom- And with an emphasis on seating and modates two to six or more passengers creature comforts, it’s not surprising that with a fi rst-class view of the passing ocean 54 percent of our survey respondents waters. With many dual-consoles—such HOW SKILLED ARE indicated that the reason they purchased as Grady-White’s Freedom series, Boston YOU AT USING YOUR a dual-console boat was to spend more ELECTRONICS? time on the water with family and friends. Of those looking to purchase a new dual- TODAY’S BUYERS ARE An expert console, 65 percent said they wanted LOOKING FOR BRAND Well-versed in technology a multipurpose fi shing boat that could REPUTATION AS WELL Somewhat of a novice be used for other activities, including Uninterested cruising and watersports. Features like an AS THE PRICE OF enclosed head, fi berglass hardtop, mul- THEIR INVESTMENT. tiple rod holders, built-in coolers and fi sh boxes, and ample room for electronics dis- Whaler’s Vantage series or Blackfi n’s DC plays are present in most dual-consoles. series incorporating foam-fi lled construction—these are among the safest boats on SAFETY FIRST the water. When asked about the primary design In terms of value, today’s buyers expect and construction of a potential purchase, a strong brand reputation (72 percent) 72 percent of our survey respondents said to good purchase value (75 percent) they wanted a safe, dry ride in rough sea supported by the reputation. With the 63 55 2 conditions. This fi ts the bill perfectly with ability to fi ll a wide variety of needs, the the dual-console design: In inclement best-built dual-console boats off er an 6% 37% 55% 2%

weather, crew can remain seated behind exceptional value by providing a multipur- PURSUIT COURTESY

72 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 36xs

www.capehornboats.com More LATITUDE and LONGITUDE.

Expand your destination possibilities.

Run longer, further and in more comfort. The helm station wraps the driver and passengers in bolstered seats, while the rear fold-away bench and forward lounge entertain the crew.

The reliable Yamaha four-stroke power allows you to travel further on less by blending fuel economy with performance.

Extra storage, extra seating and extra comfort help soften the edges and deﬁ ne the 36XS.

Whether exploring the canyons or entertaining a group, the 36XS is dialed in. WHAT READERS WANT SLEEPING QUARTERS AND ROOM FOR MULTIPLE ELECTRONICS INBOARDS DISPLAYS WERE VERY IMPORTANT IN THIS CATEGORY.

PERFORMANCE In years past, inboard boats were considered the slowpokes of the sea, with a pair of loud, clattering diesel engines leaving a haze of exhaust in their wake. No longer. Today’s engines are among the cleanest-burning imaginable, leaving nary a trace of exhaust smoke (or smell). Modern inboard boats are capable of cruising from 20 to 35 knots, with top speeds approaching—or exceeding—40 knots or more. However, the top three responses from our reader survey regarding performance for inboard boats noted a focus on a soft, solid and dry ride in rough conditions, as well as good fuel economy at cruising speeds. With an inboard boat, you might not be the ﬁ rst one to the ﬁ shing grounds, but more than likely you’ll have a much more comfortable ride getting there and back, while also enjoying amenities such as an air-conditioned salon, hot meals in the galley, and a full head with shower.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK When you’re shopping for an inboard- powered boat, myriad factors come into play. In our 2020 Fishing Boat Buyers Guide reader survey, the overwhelming response when purchasing a new or used boat was to thoroughly research your purchase. Look at as many models as possible from diff erent builders in order to get a feel for their amenities and practicality. Consider quality of construction and long-term durability, A comfortable, air-conditioned salon is and the hidden costs of boat ownership. a welcome respite after a long day of These include annual maintenance and The Big chasing billfi sh offshore. upkeep, in-water dockage, insurance, the cost of a professional crew if needed, LONG-RANGE FISHABILITY and many other factors. We haven’t even Boys A signifi cant benefi t of inboard-powered added in bait, fuel or tackle to go fi shing By Sam White boats is their ability to be self-sustaining at this point. But if you want to tangle for extended periods of time. Even smaller with giant tuna, marlin and sailfi sh, nboard-powered sport-fi shers are vessels in the 40- to 50-foot range are it’s hard to beat a comfortable, reliable I the top of the heap when it comes to equipped with generators to supply ample inboard boat. off shore fi shing. They are usually powered power while away from the dock to run an by at least a pair of reliable diesel engines ice maker, watermaker, air conditioning, set within the boat’s hull, not outboards a full galley, and a slew of other amenities. A SIGNIFICANT BENEFIT exposed on the transom. They can be a So whether you’re targeting tuna and OF INBOARD BOATS convertible design, where the primary swordfi sh in the distant canyons of the IS THE ABILITY TO BE steering station is located on the fl ybridge, Northeast, overnighting in the Gulf of SELF-SUSTAINING FOR or an express or walkaround style, where Mexico, or running across the Gulf the primary helm is on the command deck Stream from Florida to the Bahamas, EXTENDED PERIODS. below, with a second station located in a being able to fi sh in comfort for days at a pipework tuna tower 40 feet above. time is where inboard boats truly excel. Another bit of advice from the reader survey: Always buy larger than what you think you might want. These boats seem HOW MANY One is enough enormous sitting at the dock, but in the LIVEWELLS Two, one forward and one aft middle of the vast ocean, they get a lot DO YOU Three to keep different baits smaller. When the weather kicks up on NEED? separated the way home, you’ll be happy to have a 30 39 31 few extra feet to help span the distance

30% 39% 31% across the seas and smooth out the ride. VIKING COURTESY

74 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 A perfect combination of pro-level ﬁshability, distinctive contemporary styling, and family-focused comfort.

Experience the bone-dry, butter-soft ride in rough seas and the extraordinary shallow water capability of the new Caymas 26’ and 28’ Hybrids...handcrafted quality from marine industry legend Earl Bentz.

13 Bluegrass Dr. / Ashland City, TN 37015 / caymasboats.com / 888-422-9627 READER RESPONSE BUILDER “A LEGACY BRAND IS BORN AGAIN” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Freshwater and raw- water washdowns

Undergunwale rod storage

OWNERS SAY Excellent fuel consumption

BRAND SAYS Designed for a great day of fishing Aquasport boats are designed to do exactly what you need them to do

NEW 2020 SPECS LOA: 24'10" Beam: 8'10" Aquasport Boat Fuel Capacity: 176 gal. Dry Weight: 4,200 lb. quasport is back. First tempered-glass windshield, integrated into the boat. plus power A appearing in America’s while the dash has room for mul- Options include color choices, fi shing waters in the ’60s, the tiple electronics. The standard stereo system, handheld cold- Max HP: 500 brand is now a division of Ebbtide T-top features four rod holders water shower, trim tabs, portable Holdings, building center- and a pair of spreader lights; an toilet, and washdowns with both console, dual-console and bay optional fi berglass T-top adds raw and pressurized fresh water. boats. The ruggedly built boats another rod holder. are classically styled to match the Thirty-six percent of off shore MORE INFO needs of owners, whether they’re CC survey respondents call for- aquasportboat.com eyeing a day afl oat skiing, cruising ward seating important; they and or fi shing. others will be served by the bow cushions that are standard on AQUASPORT 2500 CC the 2500. A forward console seat The 2500 CC is the largest tops a built-in cooler. Entry to the of Aquasport’s three center- console is via a side door. consoles (one-half of its roster), The 2500 features folding rear and it stands ready for a day of seats, as requested by 44 percent fi shing. of CC survey respondents (al- Full-composite construction though just 27 percent say their includes hand-laid fi berglass current boats have this feature). lamination with biaxial fi berglass Four gunwale-mounted rod and woven roving, an integrated holders meet the requirements of fi berglass structural stringer, 63 percent of inshore CC anglers, KV Kevlar reinforcement, and and 30 percent of off shore. An composite transom core. above-deck insulated baitwell The Kevlar-reinforced hull and holds 30 gallons; 63 percent of Dyna-Core hullside construc- survey respondents said one Proven hull designs bring tion create a durable off shore baitwell is enough. Forward this venerable brand back boat with a fl ared bow and tall fi sh boxes are insulated, with to the waterways. freeboard promising a dry ride to overboard drains. There are the fi shing grounds. undergunwale rod racks port and The helm is shielded by a starboard, and a swim platform is

76 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 CCONFIDENT.ONFIDENT. RELIABLE.RELIABLE. SSEEKSEEKS ADVENTURE.ADVENTURE.

332XS2XS WWhat’shat’s yyourour ttype?ype? WIth the NauticStar 32XS, you can have all three. The 32XS is an outstanding offshore performer. It simultaneously delivers cutting-edge styling, features and comfort for a serious angler.

Lifetime Limited Hull Warranty

Superior Craftsmanship BBUILTUILT FORFOR FFAMILIESAMILIES AANDND FFISHERMEN.ISHERMEN.

To find your local dealer, call: (662) 200-4664 or visit www.NauticStarBoats.com READER RESPONSE BUILDER “HANDLES GREAT IN ROUGH AND CALM SEAS” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Cockpit space is maximized, and comfort is provided by foldaway transom seat. Rod holders meet or exceed expectations

Solid construction is enahnced with methacrylate adhesives, not screws Dual livewells meet expectations of most survey respondents

Optional third 50 gal. livewell available

BRAND SAYS Boats with NEW uncompromising 2020 quality Flawlessly executed from concept to Belzona Boats completion decade ago, Belzona Boats inspection and rigorous sea trial more along the gunwales—well in Agathered a team of boat- before delivery to the customer. excess of the six that 68 percent of SPECS building veterans and began our off shore CC respondents say LOA: 27'2" creating boats around a few core BELZONA 27 CC they need. Beam: 9'4" concepts: indomitable hulls, in- Envisioning its new 27 Center A novel feature of the 27 CC tuitive and practical features, and Console, Belzona took its proven is the Belzona Jumper Door: Fuel Capacity: 200 gal. an elevated boating experience. 27 Walk Around and stripped it to Instead of swinging in to intrude Dry Weight: 6,500 lb. Today, in a 100,000-plus- the essentials required for a day on the cockpit, or out where it with power square-foot facility in Doral, of serious angling. could strike a dock, the Jumper Max HP: 450 Florida, the company uses highly To maximize deck space (a Door lifts and swings aft, parallel Certifi cations: NMMA engineered molds formed from key feature to 78 percent of to the gunwale, to create a spa- plugs carved on a seven-axis CC survey respondents), the cious opening, with a telescoping CNC router. From those molds, cabin was swapped for a head ladder that makes boarding from fi berglass hand-laid wood-free compartment. a dock, or diving in and reboard- hulls are formed, designed to ex- The additional bow deck ing, a cinch. Big fi sh slide right in. ceed ABYC standards and deliver space allowed for more optional exceptional performance. wraparound seating (bow seating MORE INFO Each hull provides a smooth, cited by one-third of respondents belzonaboats.com quick-planing ride with both as important) and extra storage, stability and agile handling char- even an extra fi sh box. acteristics, ready for any off shore Within the cockpit was added excursion. a fold-down transom bench and The Belzona 27 CC is integrated cooler, and a pair of packed with unique features. fi sh boxes. Construction is with methac- A 200-gallon fuel tank puts rylate bonding. A reinforced distant hotspots within reach. stringer system gives a solid The open fl oor plan features a Hardtop supports are ride. Deutsch connector wiring third fi sh box (twin livewells op- off the fl oor, clearing ensures long-lasting electrical tional), a slide-out cooler, plenty walkways. Optional black systems. Each boat built to the of storage, seating for eight, and dash reduces glare. specifi cations of the owner is abundant rod holders, including given a thorough quality-control fi ve across the transom and six

78 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 BRING ON 2017-2019 Award Winner THE AWARDS. Best Marine VHF

M605 Recent 3x Winner

Class D DSC NMEA 2000 Connections Integrated AIS Receiver* AquaQuake® Drain Function Active Noise Cancelling M506 Multi-Station Options 3x Winner: 2014, 2015 & 2016

BRING IT ON. Visit www.icomamerica.com/marine for additional features and specs.

READER RESPONSE “PERFECT FAMILY BOAT”

NEW Boston Whaler 2020

oston Whaler continues beyond that designation, with respondents said. Second was Bto build upon its 60-year versatile touches that make unsinkable construction— reputation as a pioneer in it ideal for fishing and other essentially a Boston Whaler creating unsinkable hulls, even on-water activities. trademark.) as it continues to refine its The spacious cabin begs for Standard on the 325 are a designs to send today’s boating an overnight stay, with a con- pair of 300 hp Mercury Verado anglers out in solid, comfortable vertible V-berth sleeping and engines, with Joystick Piloting style. It’s among the top two dining area, full-height hanging and Seakeeper gyrostabilizer boat brands that respondents locker, and deckhouse windows optional. would consider purchasing for through which natural light Fishing? A starboard dive saltwater fishing, and among pours. There’s even a skylight. door makes it possible to drag the top three our respondents The spacious bow sun lounge large catches onto the deck. A currently own. has handrails for comfort and stern seat folds away to create Boston Whaler has seven safety. fishing room. The port seat can distinct lines, among them At the helm, a full single- face aft to watch fishing action. the Conquest family: fishing- piece front glass windshield Other fishing features focused craft that also serve as provides unobstructed vision, include a bait-prep center, two virtual homes afloat, with din- while restyled side glass fosters 40-gallon in-deck fish boxes, ing space, cabin with enclosed what the company calls a insulated livewell, and three head, galley and entertain- “greater sense of intimacy” with rod racks within the cabin. On ment zone, and other features the water. deck are four gunwale-mounted to delay the return to port A complete hull redesign stainless-steel rod holders, delightfully—and catch plenty delivers smooth performance, plus three shotgun rod holders of fish while at sea! better planing and increased across the transom—just what stability. (Safety underway in our survey respondents said 325 CONQUEST rough conditions is one of the they needed in an offshore boat. Boston Whaler’s new 325 most important elements of Four more rocket launchers Conquest cabin cruiser goes a walkaround design, survey stand on the hardtop’s ladder.

80 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Survey Says: 405 CONQUEST Fifteen rod holders include Boston Whaler’s 405 Conquest ten on the gunwales and fi ve ON TARGET delivers heady performance, shot guns. A pair of undergun- serious fi shability and versatil- wale rod holders at starboard Unsinkable ity for easy cruising. and hard top holds six more. Abundant fishing room The cabin boasts master and Foldaway cockpit seating guest sleeping quarters, teak adds comfort while keeping the Ample rod holders cabinets and sole, ample rod deck clear for a fi ght—a feature storage, an enclosed head with prized by 84 percent in our OWNERS SAY separate shower, and galley. survey. Mascerated fi sh boxes At the helm, a single-piece are refrigerated and she can Able to take my wife on windshield and half side glass or be rigged with Gemlux 22-foot cruises, as well as ﬁ sh optional full side glass provides graphite outriggers. Can handle rough total visibility and protection. Boarding options include a weather For the angler, an optional transom door and port side dive deluxe prep center at the tran- door with stowable ladder. It has been a trouble-free boat som includes a corian topped Max available power is bait-prep area with hot and cold quad 400 hp Mercury Verado water, fi llet board, 40-gallon engines, with Joystick Piloting BRAND SAYS pressurized livewell, tackle optional, as well as a Seakeeper (Boston Whaler) owners drawers, leader holders and gyrostabilizer, which one-third (are) confident to the net bucket storage. Exchange of prospective walkaround boat core the bait prep area for a sum- buyers said they’d consider. mer kitchen and stick with a A leader as well as 19-gallon pressurized, insulated MORE INFO a legend bostonwhaler.com aft livewell. The most reliable and thoughtfully designed boats on the water

SPECS

325 CONQUEST LOA: 32'3" Beam: 10'8" Fuel Capacity: 300 gal. Dry Weight: 10,500 lb. plus power Max HP: 800 Certiﬁ cations: NMMA

405 CONQUEST LOA: 41'4" Beam: 13'6" Fuel Capacity: 600 gal. Dry Weight: 22,000 lb. plus power Max HP: 1,600 Certiﬁ cations: NMMA READER RESPONSE BUILDER “CAN TAKE A SEA BETTER THAN MOST BOATS ITS SIZE” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Unsinkable construction

Large dash expands electronics options Abundance of rod storage OWNERS SAY She had a wide front end that made for a dry ride

The ability to go 100 miles offshore in most weather conditions and feel confident that my equipment/boat will get me back safely

Love the smooth ride

NEW Dry ride for its size, and 2020 unsinkable

Cape Horn Boats BRAND SAYS More comfort, family tradition of fi shing confi gurations—boasts a re- percent of off shore CC respon- more storage Aand fun continues at Cape designed fl oor plan. dents carry 11 or more rods). Horn, where the Fabbro family Many features are out of Standard are T-top with elec- One of the driest designs —owners and operators since the the way until needed. (Survey tronics box, bolster seats/captain on the water beginning—oversee every step respondents rank fi shing space chairs, electronic power steering building premium off shore boats, above all other CC attributes.) (upgradable to joystick control), SPECS from laying fi berglass to rigging The rear bench folds away, the portable head (VacuFlush toilet engines. Company president shower’s concealed until wanted, optional), and raw- and fresh- LOA: 31'10" Chris Fabbro still personally and standard electric trim tabs water washdown. Beam: 9'1" inspects each Cape Horn boat are tucked in pockets under the The sibling Cape Horn 32XS Fuel Capacity: 275 gal. before it leaves the factory. transom, away from battling fi sh. shares the 32T’s hull and fl oor Dry Weight: 5,400 lb. Chris and his father, Bob, built The leaning post contains tack- plan, but it adds forward seating plus power their fi rst Cape Horn 16 Classic le drawers and compartments; (which 36 percent of CC survey Max HP: 800 in their garage 30 years ago. They 58 percent of survey respondents respondents want) and addi- wanted a hardcore but comfort- want permanent tackle drawers tional storage. able fi shing boat, with larger and/or utility box slots. OPTIONALLY POWERED fi shing platforms and bigger A rear-facing seat conceals MORE INFO livewells. Unable to fi nd one, they a huge 60-gallon livewell, and capehornboats.com built it, making sure it was also there’s an additional 20-gallon aff ordable and easy to maintain. transom livewell (33 percent All hull voids in a Cape Horn is of survey respondents prefer a pressure-fi lled with closed-cell second one). foam, quieting the ride, adding A large dash accommodates stiff ness, and making it unsink- multiple large-screen displays, able. The boats range from 22 which most survey respondents to 36 feet, in bay and off shore say they have or plan to add to models. their boats. Shotgun rod holders offer A 7-foot-long insulated fi sh trolling options and safe CAPE HORN 32 box provides 700 quarts of frozen transport back to port. The new Cape Horn 32— storage. The boat has 29 rod Seat folds away. in Tournament (T) and holders, standard; add more on Extra Seating/Space (XS) optional rear legs for the top (25

82 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 we had you in mind when we designed the 43NX

Fountain's magnificent 43NX flagship knows no rivals. Because it's a Fountain, expect unmatched top speeds, incredible midrange, precise tracking, a dry ride, and miserly fuel economy. In the cockpit, the 43NX can be decked out as a luxury sport boat or a tournament-ready fishing machine. Triple bolsters, a dive door, forward chaise lounge, and a queen-sized overnight berth say "Welcome Aboard." Serious anglers should consider a supersized tackle/bait center and extra rod holders as must-have options. Fish or Sport, when it comes to performance, construction and style, the 43NX rates best-in-class...but you wouldn't expect anything less from an Iconic name like Fountain.

FOUNTAINPOWERBOATS.COM READER RESPONSE BUILDER “QUICK, FISHES WELL AND HANDLES WELL. GOOD FOR INSHORE AND OFF- BENCHMARK SHORE FISHING” Survey Says:

ON TARGET Fishing space maximized

Eight standard rod holders exceed expectations of six Outstanding livewells

OWNERS SAY Favorite features: everything

This boat is capable of doing everything within reason—great boat Spacious for family and friends; extremely functional offshore; stable and dry ride NEW 2020 BRAND SAYS Fishes and plays hard Cobia Boats Tournament-capable fi shing features obia prides itself on deck lay- acquired Cobia in 2005, also lockable below-deck rod locker Couts with everything where builds the Maverick, Hewes and exceed survey respondents’ Built better than any it’s most likely used, and where Pathfi nder brands, each a market expectations. boat in its class that use is as easy as possible. leader in its segment. The 350’s open cockpit and Boating and fi shing on No awkward steps or trip 11-foot-2-inch beam create a Cobia is just easier hazards on deck. Handholds COBIA 350 CC plenty of space for several anglers are handy when you need them, Cobia’s new 350 Center Console, to fi sh at once—or to chase a hot unobtrusive when you don’t. its biggest CC, boasts a double- fi sh around boatside. Battle over, SPECS Displays within sight, controls stepped hull that gets you to an inward-opening side door LOA: 34'4" within reach. You focus on the the fi shing grounds swiftly and welcomes aboard even a big tuna. Beam: 11'2" fi sh, not negotiating your boat. fuel-effi ciently, powered by triple Optional fi shing features Fuel Capacity: 320 gal. Cobia hulls’ far-forward bow F300XCAs or twin 425 XTOs. include fl ush-mounted kite rod entries extend running surfaces The 350 CC, along with all holders, pressurized livewell Dry Weight: 8,600 lb. to slice through waves before Cobia’s 26 feet and larger, are sea chest system, T-top kingfi sh plus power pushing them away for a dry ride. vacuum infused using Maverick’s rod holders, deluxe hardtop, and Max HP: 900 Variable deadrise hull gives soft, proprietary VARIS (Vacuum outriggers. Certifi cations: NMMA relaxing and fuel-effi cient rides— Infused Resin Infusion System). what 80 percent of off shore Topside amenities include MORE INFO center-console owners call their triple independent helm seats, cobiaboats.com EXCLUSIVELY POWERED most valued characteristic. a two-person chaise longue, and Cobias are built with backing forward sun-lounge seating. plates and screw-retention Seven insulated boxes provide materials at each fastening point, abundant cooler space and dry double-clamped hoses reinforced storage. The console’s interior with sealant, epoxy-coated and houses an airy berth amid wood- pressure-tested aluminum fuel en cabinetry, plus an electric head Optional electronics tanks, and labeled, copper-tinned and sink/shower. pacakges include a wiring harnesses built in-house. Cobia didn’t forget that this Garmin acrylic dash with Bilge interiors are fi nished, and is a fi shing boat; its dual 42-gal- radar, VHF and auto pilot. decks are stiff ened with carbon- lon bait tanks, two huge in-fl oor reinforced beams. macerated fi sh boxes, full Maverick Boat Group, which tackle station/bait-prep area, and

84 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 The result of 20 years

of a single-minded dedication

to perfecting what we started.

EVERYTHING ELSE IS JUST A BAY BOAT

#1 Still For A Reason.

www.PathfinderBoats.com BUILDER BENCHMARK

READER RESPONSE “EFFICIENT, SIMPLE, RELIABLE AND VERY VERSATILE”

Contender Boats

omestead, Florida-based minimal and clean. the 44ST, it’s more cabin than H Contender Boats, Inc. Contender Boats’ founder, console, but doesn’t sacrifice celebrated their 35th anniver- president and owner Joe Neber walk around fishability for the sary, and has launched several is an avid saltwater angler cabin comfort. thousand boats spanning the who has been very active in The 44FA remains very much three and a half decades. The marine-resource conserva- a fishing boat, and one that al- boats are recognized world wide tion, particularly the Coastal lows you to catch ‘em big: The as tournament winners, and are Conservation Association 44FA has a 250-gallon forward known to keep captain and crew (CCA). fish box and a pair of 110-gallon “Always in the Game” when The company proudly pro- aft fish boxes. they are on the hunt for big fish. claims, “When adverse weather 78 percent of walkaround Contender builds boats from prevails without notice, people boaters are satisfied with one 24-44 feet for fisherman and are confident in our product livewell, but the 44 FA (desig- their families to explore the to get them home safely and nated by the Fish Around cap) blue water, or just enjoy a day comfortably.” offers two 55 gallon live wells for cruising around the bay to the dividing baits between multiple sandbar. CONTENDER 44FA tanks, a practice used by many Each boat is custom-built The 44FA, new for 2020, is tournament fishing crews. featuring different options for built from the same hull as the The dash is massive, ready engine power, electronics, and game changing 44ST, with a for two large multifunction upholstery. The list of options fisharound cap that features displays. There is no lack of seems nearly endless with a queen-sized berth, an enclosed feature choices on the custom variety of fishing, convenience, head with shower, a galley boats including triple Llebroc and other options available to sink, refrigerator/freezer, and helm seating, second-row seat- every model. Front and rear stovetop. Together they create ing beneath the hardtop, bow seating are available on all a luxurious and comfortable lounge seating, and triple or models, but standard options setting for travelling offshore or quad Yamaha 425XTO Offshore traditionally keep the cockpit to the islands. Compared with outboards.

86 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Survey Says: This boat may be luxuri- seating, which has removable ous, but it’s not boring–it’s “44 backrests. ON TARGET feet of full-tilt, wave-cutting, Up front is a fully lined and chest-pounding bad-boy boat,” insulated 140-gallon fi sh box; Spacious fi sh boxes according to Contender. aft you’ll fi nd another pair, port Two livewells to and starboard, 76 gallons each. keep separate bait CONTENDER 28T Bait fl ourishes in a 40-gallon species lively That’s “T”, for “Tournament,” transom livewell with standard and this Contender is always 1100GPH pump ready for action. One of the The pair of under deck rod OWNERS SAY original Contender models, the lockers will please our off shore Looks sharp 28 returns with a new more aes- CC survey respondents, who say thetically pleasing rounded cap, they carry an average of eight A great fishing boat and other small modifi cations rods with them per trip. Handles very well in to the re-launched classic. You The 28T comes standard with heavy seas can have it loaded, with forward 4 gunwale fl ush mounted rod and rear seating, or without holders; fi ve more rod holders Fast, spacious, reliable the seating for and more spa- line the back of the leaning post. Built like a tank cious deck and room to fi sh. At the helm, an oversized The standard forward seating panel welcomes room for plenty has removable backrests, and of electronics from the multi BRAND SAYS features substantial storage brand options installed by the underneath. Contender factory. Built to fish With the standard forward Unparalleled fi shability, seating, three storage compart- MORE INFO comfort, range and ments are beneath forward contenderboats.com speed Boats born from passion

SPECS

44FA LOA: 43'10" Beam: 12' Fuel Capacity: 575 gal. Dry Weight: 21,600 lb. plus power Max HP: 2,000 Certiﬁ cations: NMMA

28T LOA: 28' Beam: 8'10" Fuel Capacity: 180 gal. Dry Weight: 7,400 lb. plus power Max HP: 600 Certiﬁ cations: NMMA

EXCLUSIVELY POWERED READER RESPONSE BUILDER “ENTIRE BOAT IS FINISHED—NO ROUGH EDGES” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Unsinkable Ramcap construction

Tackle storage above expectations Raw-water and freshwater washdown

OWNERS SAY Great riding boat both inshore and offshore Quality and ride

BRAND SAYS A meticulously outfitted fishing machine Best-in-class fi shing NEW features and design 2020 SPECS Everglades Boats LOA: 39' Beam: 12' leader in premium off shore a reputation for superior safety, insulated fi sh boxes (112-gallon Afi shing boats, Everglades performance and quality of its in-deck, 75-gallon in transom); Fuel Capacity: 600 gal. Boats was founded in 1999 by variable-deadrise deep-V hulls. two pressurized livewells (40 Dry Weight: 16,650 lb. renowned marine engineer and gallons each—together exceed- plus power marine industry entrepreneur EVERGLADES 395 CC ing expectations of 63 percent Max HP: 1,275 Robert J. (Bob) Dougherty. Everglades’ new 395 Center of off shore CC survey respon- Certifi cations: NMMA Dougherty’s company brought Console is designed for those dents); undergunwale power to market its award-winning looking for something larger than ports; 39 total rod holders (also Rapid Molded Core Assembly the company’s 365 CC but not as overdelivering on what our EXCLUSIVELY POWERED Process for making smooth- robust as the 435 CC. survey respondents require), riding, one-piece unsinkable Packed with creature comforts, with forward in-gunwale lighted hulls, its foam core molded sepa- the 395 CC has standard mezza- rod-storage compartments; and rately and then bonded to the nine seating and full-beam-width outrigger quick-cam cleats. LED boat’s hull and deck. (Unsinkable folding transom seating, fi nished courtesy, cockpit, underwater construction is the most valued fl ooring within the opulent cabin, and storage lights abound. boat attribute among our survey and an interior dining area that respondents.) transforms into an oversize MORE INFO Each component of an sleeping area. Air conditioning, evergladesboats.com Everglades boat—including TV and more are standard. console, hardtop and wiring At the console is Everglades’ harness—is handmade in-house, patented hydraulic sliding wind- subjected to rigorous quality- shield, with tempered glass and assurance testing, and only then built-in washer/wiper; an elec- installed to Everglades’ demand- tronics mounting area ready for ing fi t and fi nish standards. 16-inch fl ush-mounted displays; Distinctive Everglades touches and, a fi rst for a production boat include sliding console wind- manufacturer, Garmin’s digital The upper station boasts sheilds, and adjustable helm switching system with touch- full Yamaha controls and seats that serve as either seats or screen control. the leaning post below comfortable leaning cushions. Supremely fi shing-friendly, three bucket seats. Everglades has received nu- the 395 CC comes standard merous industry awards, and has with a single-level cockpit; two

88 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 W hether you’re creeping along a flat or rolling in the blue, Bay Ranger ® designs are built to get you to your destination quicker, safer and more economically. Experience the wide-open, angler-friendly interiors, abundant storage and plush comfort of the Bay Ranger Series…From bow to stern, these total-performance saltwater predators give you command of the world’s biggest playground.

THE NEXT GENERATION Of BAY RANGERS IS COMING... Don’t Miss What We’ve Got In Store At The 2020 MIAMI INTERNATIONAL For The Name Of Your Nearest Ranger® Dealer, Call: BOAT SHOW. Visit Booth B-205, Slips 325 & 327 For A Sneak Peek. 1-800-373-BOAT (2628)

TM/® are trademarks/registered trademarks of Ranger® Boats, a division of White River Marine Group, LLC, its affiliates or suppliers. © Copyright MMXIX White River Marine Group R-9111 READER RESPONSE BUILDER “FAST AND FUEL-EFFICIENT” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Generous seating for crew

Two livewells in transom Abundant ﬁ sh boxes with macerators

Optional electric-reel outlets

OWNERS SAY Handles very well in heavy seas

Lots of room for fishing High speed and good ride in rough water

The ride handles everything

BRAND SAYS You’ve added an asset Fountain Powerboats to the family ountain Powerboats cel- a trouble-free day. Fishing options include six A proven hull design Febrates it’s 40th Anniversary additional rod holders, GS 280 that delivers amazing with an impressive array of FOUNTAIN 38CC outriggers, helm-seating tackle efficiency on the water center console fi shing boats that It’s almost impossible to fi nd a center, and electric-reel outlets. A boatload of amenities stretch from 34 to 43 feet. center console under 40-feet that The standard T-top bears seven- designed to please A dominating force on the can handle so many power op- rod holders, courtesy lights, and everyone on board bluewater tournament scene, tions. Whether the owner goes for bow and stern spreader lights; Fountain’s revolutionary twin base power (triple 300 Mercury an optional Electric SureShade step, Positive Lift bottom design Verados; 70 mph at wide-open extends T-top protection aft. SPECS is noted for its low-speed track- throttle) or takes it to the max Additional comfort options LOA: 38' ing, dry ride, fuel effi ciency, and (quad Mercury 450Rs; 90+ mph), include a three-piece center- Beam: 10'6" top speed advantage over rivals.. the 38CC is ideally suited for console enclosure, dive door, and Fuel Capacity: 418 gal. Whether you’re a serious off shore locales or big lakes. sure-footed composite fl ooring. off shore angler in search of a Standard features include Dry Weight: 11,300 lb. plus power trophy catch or a family boater Simrad electronics and autopilot. MORE INFO that thinks fi shing should be a Key options include a deluxe fountainpowerboats.com Max HP: 1,800 luxury sport, Fountain’s 2020 Garmin electronics package, lineup is priced right and comes dive door, bow thruster, and/or well-equipped as standard. SeaStar Optimus power steering Today, Iconic Marine Group with joystick and SeaStation. continues to build on the There’s plenty for anglers Fountain tradition, mixing to like: under gunwale storage luxury, performance and an array for rods and gaff s, and fi ve fi sh of fi shing minded features. Built boxes with Gulpher pumps. for the long haul, all Fountain Eight gunwale-mounted rod Center Consoles feature a unit- holders meet the standards of 85 ized four-step construction percent of center-console survey Mezzanine seating con- process, heavy-duty marine respondents. verts to a rigging station. adhesives, top-grade fi berglass, The transom’s live wells are Rod holders abound and through bolts with lockdowns, enough for all but 4 percent of cockpit space is ample. and rub-rail screws. Put it all respondents. Plus, there’s a fresh- together and anglers are assured water and saltwater washdown.

90 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 boatingsafetymag.com/boatingsafety BUILDER BENCHMARK

READER RESPONSE “STABLE, DRY, SOLID FISHING PLATFORM”

Grady-White Boats

rady-White is one of the they say Grady-White serves a lockable head compartment G oldest and most well- them up. In boat performance, with VacuFlush head. respected brands in saltwater CC fans go for a soft, stable ride For anglers there’s a fishing boats and across several in rough water; fuel efficiency 32-gallon recirculating livewell categories; they’re at home and range; and a dry ride—what (a single one satisfies 63 percent from bays to big waters. owners consider to be Grady- of center-console survey re- Popular? It’s the single boat White’s strengths as well. spondents; another 33 percent brand most represented in our will be pleased by adding an survey, its fame and presence CANYON 326 optional 38-gallon second extending well beyond the de- Near the middle of Grady’s well); four insulated fish boxes, manding North Carolina waters six-boat Canyon lineup of 27- including one in the leaning bar; where Grady-White was born to 45-footers, the new 326 com- plenty of vertical rod holders more than 60 years ago. bines the line’s top attributes (four in the bow and four in the Grady’s reputation rides with midsize agility. console); and horizontal storage in large part on its hand- Features include a full-height for three more. laid SeaV2 progressive hull. windshield integrated into The leaning bar is also Deadrise begins at a stable the standard T-top, with a rigging station, with rod 20 degrees, with wide chines three-across helm seating—a holders, seating, and lockable providing stationary and roomy arrangement courtesy storage drawers to please the 58 trolling stability, and sharpens of the boat’s generous beam. percent of CC respondents who as it approaches the bow, where (The fiberglass T-top, by the want drawer/cabinet storage. it splits waves cleanly and softly. way, has outrigger plates ready Standard are bow and Fans of offshore center- for that option.) foldaway aft bench seating. console boats know what they Handy are transom and Options include SureShade want: Our survey respondents portside doors, built-in swim power sunscreen with rank as top attributes reputa- platforms, and an anchor Sunbrella canvas, outriggers, tion, value, low operating cost, windlass with remotes at helm and ski pylon for pulling kids on and resale value, in that order; and windlass. The cabin boasts tubes.

92 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Survey Says: CANYON 336 At the helm are a trio of Grady-White’s Canyon 336 Command Elite horizontally ON TARGET center-console, like the 326 adjustable contoured helm Abundant vertical and near the midpoint of the chairs. Electronics are fl ush horizontal rod holders Canyon line, is often described mounted in the expansive dash. and racks as a fi shing machine. Evidence Below, within the lockable backs that up. console, is a berth with fl ip-up Tackle storage is above It’s available with the exciting backrest, and a stand-up head expectations performance of Yamaha’s new area with shower, sink, vacu- Lockable storage XTO Off shore 425’s and inte- fl ush head, rod storage and grated electric power steering. drawers. Four insulated fi sh boxes are Features the 336 shares OWNERS SAY ready for fi lling—two in the bow, with the 326 include standard An extremely soft ride one in the leaning-bar rigging fi berglass T-top, integrated station, and one aft. The rigging windshield, remote-controlled Seaworthy, easy to station also has lockable tackle anchor windlass, foursome of maintain drawers and storage, freshwa- insulated fi sh boxes, and tran- Easy to fish ter washdown, and a 45-gallon som and cockpit side doors. livewell. Options for the 336 beyond Has a hull design for There are fi ve cockpit, two those of the 326 include genera- stability, comfort and amidships and four bow rod tor, water heater, microwave, safety holders, plus four rod holders refrigerator/freezer fi sh box, Plentiful storage on the T-top, six more on the cockpit air conditioning. leaning bar, and vertical storage for six tuna sticks within the MORE INFO BRAND SAYS console. gradywhite.com Exceptional attention to detail Advanced helm and windshield design

Inspired workforce, impassioned leaders

SPECS

CANYON 326 LOA: 31'2" Beam: 10'9" Fuel Capacity: 327 gal. Dry Weight: 8,500 lb. plus power Max HP: 700 Certiﬁ cations: NMMA

CANYON 336 LOA: 33'6" Beam: 11'7" Fuel Capacity: 361 gal. Dry Weight: 10,100 lb. plus power Max HP: 900 Certiﬁ cations: NMMA

EXCLUSIVELY POWERED BUILDER BENCHMARK

READER RESPONSE “ADMIRABLE SPEED AND RIDE IN ANY CONDITIONS”

NEW 2020

Invincible Boat Company

hether applied to its the additional stability of the 36 OPEN FISHERMAN Woriginal (and refreshed) patent-pending hybrid semi- The 36, Invincible’s original 36 Open Fisherman, or its re- asymmetric multihull design boat and foundation of its repu- cently launched 35 Catamaran, of Morrelli & Melvin. Like a tation, is still renowned for its Invincible proclaims itself monohull, these cats heel into great rough-water ride. It’s been maker of “the fastest, driest and turns, avoiding the pronounced refreshed over the years, nota- best-riding open fishermen ever “lean-out” roll and instability bly with a side-entry console, built.” Invincible sees in competitors. and now with new, line-wide That’s big, when 73 percent In either format, central seating options. of offshore center-console to the fishing experience is Available with twin or survey respondents call brand Invincible’s single-level deck, triple outboards, the 36 Open reputation key to the value of and 360-degree walk-around Fisherman tops out at 75-plus their boat, and 80 percent peg fishability. mph, ahead of triples. With a a soft, solid rough-water ride as Features include generous 475-gallon fuel capacity, you’ll central to performance. underdeck storage and angled get to distant fishing grounds Invincible’s patented mono- leaning-post housing coolers. and back—a round trip of 600- hull, designed by naval architect A sturdy, optional hardtop is plus nautical miles—swiftly and Michael Peters, boasts one of ready to receive outriggers, comfortably. the lowest drag coefficients of a spotlight and an infrared The 36 features above- and any. Its air-fed tunnel attains imaging camera. Under it, below-deck livewells, and insu- higher speeds with lower power, a main helm is arranged to lated fish boxes—two each aft and a more stable ride—while provide confident control under and forward. maintaining maneuverability— rough conditions and accom- Where other boatmakers for comfortable, dry adventures modate large electronics. In take an educated guess at how even in rough seas. the sponsons are insulated you’d like your boat configured, Some of the monohull’s boxes designed specifically to Invincible leaves much to your best features are echoed in fit wahoo and kingfish without educated judgment. Invincible catamarans, with bending their tails. Thirty percent of offshore

94 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Survey Says: center-console anglers say The 35 was designed to meet they need only four gunwale- requests for the stability and ON TARGET mounted rod holders, and 38 space effi ciency of the 40, in Options for plenty of percent want six—but a con- a smaller, easier-to-handle gunwale and console siderable number, 15 percent, package. It boasts more deck rod holders say they need 10 or more. Each space than a comparable can order what best suits them. 39-foot monohull. Generous fish-box (After all, more than half of Several power options, in storage survey respondents ranked “rod twins or quads, are balanced Livewells meet or holders” among their top three to maintain a perfect running exceed demands of fi shability criteria, even if they angle without requiring extra 95 percent of CC apparently don’t agree on those negative trim or ballast. anglers numbers.) Double-livewell storage is Other options include a clear plenty for the 95 percent of acrylic baitwell lid, electrical- off shore CC anglers who head OWNERS SAY reel outlets, hardtop or tower, off with a couple dozen baits or Speed to fishing grounds deluxe leaning post, bow thrust- fewer. (Only 4 percent say they and stability at anchor er and side dive door. need more than two livewells, Speed and ride in and a full two-thirds would be any condition 35 CATAMARAN happy with just one.) Invincible’s new 35-foot Seating options include a new catamaran joins its new-last- console coffi n-box seat available BRAND SAYS summer 37-foot cat, and the across the Invincible catalog. Same Invincible 40-footer that premiered at the performance, smaller Fort Lauderdale International MORE INFO package Boat Show two seasons ago. invincibleboats.com Fishability, performance and yacht-quality ﬁ nish

Looks as good as it rides

SPECS

36 OPEN FISHERMAN LOA: 36'8" Beam: 10' Fuel Capacity: 475 gal. Dry Weight: 9,200 lb. plus power Max HP: 1,200

35 CATAMARAN LOA: 35'10" Beam: 11'7.5" Fuel Capacity: 500 gal. Dry Weight: 10,350 lb. plus power Max HP: 1,200

OPTIONALLY POWERED READER RESPONSE BUILDER “VERY RELIABLE, COMFORTABLE, TOUGH OFFSHORE FISHING BOAT” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Release Marine Teak Ladder Back Helm Seats Standard

Pro Curve Glass Windshield

OWNERS SAY Rides pretty dry in rough seas

Perfect boat—dry, comfortable and catches fish

BRAND SAYS Has features that are not found with high- volume competitors NEW The finest boats, 2020 worthy of the brand’s legendary name Jupiters run at Jupiter Marine high speeds in big seas while upiter was founded in the throughout the Jupiter line. outriggers, removable stern jump keeping passengers J early 1990’s with the release Forward cockpit bench seats seats, Garmin electronics pack- comfortable and dry of the Jupiter 31 Open, and later top insulated, overboard-drain- age, JL Audio stereo package, and purchased in 1998 by Marine- ing boxes for gear. Between them Release Marine forward seating industry veteran Carl Herndon. are two deck storage bins, both backrests. SPECS From its inception, the Jupiter ready to accommodate either the More impressive are the fea- LOA: 32'8" 31 quickly drew fans for its versatile storage needs of family tures that come standard on the Beam: 9'9" uncompromising quality that day trips inshore or standing 32; Release Marine teak ladder Fuel Capacity: 300 gal. continues to distinguish the com- ready to bring home the spoils of back helm seats (now a standard pany 30 years later as a premier a successful tournament. on the entire Jupiter model line Dry Weight: 9,215 lb. with power builder of outboard-powered The console houses a fi nished on models 30 feet and up), a fi ber- off shore sport-fi shing boats. stand-up head with electric toilet. glass T-top, tackle storage, sink Max HP: 900 Performance is attributed to its A hatch lets in light and fresh air. and head, port side dive door, rod Certifi cations: NMMA Posi-Stern hull-pad design that Up top, the helm’s dash is roomy. holders (with the option to add reduces drag by enhancing lift, The standard leaning post, with additional), and a Pro Curve glass and a variable dynamic stern that its four rod holders, provides windshield. EXCLUSIVELY POWERED increases effi ciency by providing tackle storage. Behind it is a a perfect running attitude; the re- 150-gallon in-deck fi sh box with MORE INFO sults are higher speeds, superior macerator; behind that, a hatch jupitermarine.com handling, increased fuel economy provides access to mechanicals. and a smoother ride—all without In-deck lockable storage boxes a loss of visibility from the helm. fl anking the console can house Using infusion and their uni- four 8-foot rods each; 34 percent grid stringer system the boat is so of respondents said they want durable that the company off ers a such security for their sticks. transferable limited lifetime war- Four rod holders are mounted ranty for structural integrity. under the gunwale—enough Jupiter’s solid hulls, for 30 percent of off shore CC brightwork and JUPITER 32 anglers; adding an optional addi- performance make it an The Jupiter 32, a clear descendent tional pair raises the satisfaction oft- chosen tender. of the original 31, bears the to 68 percent. best features of its slip-mates Optional features include

96 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 wwww.ww.SSTTARBRITEARBRITE..comcom Keeping your boat looking great is easy when you know the basics. Those basics include four common types of stains that can be frustrating if you don’t know how to remove them. This handy Stains 101 Guide will help you properly identify and remove each of the four basic THE SCIENCE OF STAINS stains, and keep your boat looking like new. FOR THE NEW BOAT OWNER It’s the science of stains, made simple! SURFACTANT ACID BLEACHING ABRASION TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY

TO COMBAT TO COMBAT TO COMBAT TO COMBAT

STAINS STAINS

THE STAIN THE STAIN Dirt, grime, gunk, muck. Black, brown, green, and Fish blood, food, drinks. THE STAIN even pink mold and THE STAIN These are your surface stains. Tree leaves, hull stains, rust mildew stains. Black shoe marks, rub rail THE SCIENCE stains, waterline stains, hard THE SCIENCE and bumper scuff s, marks Most surface dirt will wash water stains, orange stains. Similar to grass stains, left from dragging hoses right off with boat soap and THE SCIENCE these stains are caused and equipment. water. However, some gets Tannins are naturally by organic material, and THE SCIENCE ground in, especially on produced in the need something stronger Scuff marks—or “transfer non-skid surfaces. That’s decomposition of plant- than a surfactant alone stains”—happen when where surfactants come based matter, and their to remove them. The material is transferred onto a in. Surfactant molecules signature orange-hued oxygen in a bleaching surface and is mechanically fully surround the dirt stains are dying your hull agent attacks and bonded. Chemicals are molecules and lift them and fi berglass. Rust stains rarely strong enough to from the surface that you’re breaks up these types occur on the fi berglass remove these marks, since cleaning. This allows them of stains, and removes around metal, where any discoloration. many times the material that to be washed away with water leaches color from water. Chelating Agents are THE SOLUTION has transferred is chemical- underneath the metal and supercharged surfactants for While most people believe resistant (think of a rubber deposits it on the surface. specialized cleaning. that regular chlorine bleach shoe). These abrasive marks Removing these stains require the same to remove THE SOLUTION is the answer, it also causes requires a chemical a lot of problems, such as them: abrasion. Star brite Boat Wash will reaction with an acid. defi nitely remove most breaking down fabrics and THE SOLUTION surface dirt. For tough grime THE SOLUTION stitching and destroying Star brite Ultimate and gunk, use a cleaner/ Star brite Instant Hull Cleaner gelcoats. Instead use Magic Sponge uses nano- degreaser, such as Star brite contains a modifi ed oxalic Star brite Mildew Stain sized scrubbers to grab Xtreme Clean acid that safely neutralizes Remover—a hholdold aandnd eeraserase mmostost mmarksarks or choose a tannins and rust. buff ered bleach eeasily.asily. FForor yyourour hhull,ull, uusese surfactant There’s much formula— PPremiumremium CCleanerleaner WWaxax based on more science that attacks to buff the the surface: behind it but the stain sstaintain aaway.way. Non-Skid trust us on this without harming Deck Cleaner one, simply the surface. for non-skid, spray or wipe on Vinyl Cleaner and watch the for vinyl, etc… stain disappear.

LEARN MORE WWWW.WW.SSTARBRITETARBRITE.C.COMOM READER RESPONSE BUILDER “A DRY, COMFORTABLE RIDE” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Plenty of rod holders on deck

Bow comfort for the one-third who demand it Generous fuel capacity for long range

OWNERS SAY Ease of handling Lots of storage, easy to handle by myself

BRAND SAYS An outstanding saltwater performer Cutting-edge styling NEW and comfort features 2020 for serious anglers

NauticStar Boats SPECS LOA: 32' auticStar, founded in 2002, NAUTICSTAR 32XS Aft, a transom lounge fl ips up Beam: 10'6" builds more than two-dozen Largest of its line is NauticStar’s to create a spacious cockpit, with N Fuel Capacity: 307 gal. boat models, 18 to 32 feet: The 32XS off shore center-console. Its port and starboard 8.8-cubic- NauticBay Series, Sport Deck leaning post has Lebrock double foot fi sh boxes in the deck. A Dry Weight: 8,500 lb. single- and dual-console boats, billfi sh seats with fl ip-up bolsters large portside door makes access plus power XS off shore center-consoles, and pivot arms, Corian counter- easier. A single aft baitwell meets Max HP: 850 Legacy Series center- and dual- top, sink and spray faucet, tackle the needs of 63 percent of our Certifi cations: NMMA console boats, and Hybrid series storage, and a 35-quart slide-out respondents; 95 percent said they boats for fl ats/bay boat fi shing Yeti cooler (or optional refrigera- carry a couple dozen live baits. and coastal cruising. tor or additional livewell). The 32XS has eight stainless- EXCLUSIVELY POWERED Now a member of the To the standard integrated steel gunwale-mounted rod MasterCraft family, NauticStar T-top, you can add options like holders and fi ve shotgun rod manufactures boats in its a retractable shade, or even a holders, surpassing the demands 200,000-plus-square-foot plant fold-down 32-inch cockpit televi- of 92 percent of our off shore CC on 17 acres in Amory, Mississippi. sion that replicates what’s on the survey respondents. Features include wood-free dashboard display, in either the construction, limited lifetime standard dual 12-inch or optional MORE INFO hull warranty, durable vinylester single 16-inch displays. nauticstarboats.com barrier coat to prevent blisters, Up front, a spacious bow has and one-piece molded stringer forward lounge and wraparound systems, foam-fi lled for fl otation, seating, all atop storage compart- sound-dampening and vibration ments. Beneath a large console reduction. lounge seat is a step-down stor- Deck and liner are molded age compartment with SeaDek as one unit and joined to the fl ooring and six rod holders—a deck shoebox-style with a good start toward the nine-rod stainless-steel fastener every storage capacity our survey Ample shade and 2 inches. NauticStar makes its respondents said they need. weather protection come own upholstery and both-sides- The head console has a fully from the hardtop. There’s fi nished fi berglass lids. Each and lined interior with a stainless- loads of storage as well. every boat is water-tested or steel sink, SeaDek fl oor and tank-tested at the factory. electric-fl ush porcelain toilet.

98 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 BUILDER BENCHMARK

READER RESPONSE “ULTIMATE FISHING PERFORMANCE” NorthCoast Boats NEW 2020 hode Island-based NorthCoast RBoats, a division of C&C Marine and C&C Fiberglass, is owned and presided over by Jose C. DaPonte, who has been involved in NORTHCOAST 255 HT SPECS soft and dry at up to 60 mph with boatbuilding since the early 1970s. NorthCoast says fans of its 235 optional twin 250s. LOA: 31'2" In 2000, struck by the “stout Cabin asked for a big bigger boat, The 255 has a 26-gallon transom lines and excellent performance” with a private head and comfort- Beam: 9'5" livewell, a 105-quart transom of NorthCoast boats, DaPonte able accommodations for two. Fuel Capacity: storage box, and two tackle- bought its brand and hull molds, Add a longer and wider cockpit— 159 gal. storage bins. Four stainless-steel the company says. with cockpit space being the top Dry Weight: 7,981 gunwale-mounted rod holders NorthCoast’s boats—four cabin consideration of 84 percent of lb. plus power meet requirements of 37 percent of models and six center-consoles— walkaround survey respondents— Max HP: 500 walkaround survey respondents; have reverse chines for stability, and a fish-welcoming walk-through more rod holders are available as and aggressive longitudinal strakes transom door, and you’ve got the OPTIONALLY POWERED options. for additional lift, great tracking, hardtop 255 Cabin. fuel economy, handling and overall The company says the 255’s MORE INFO performance. 22-degree deadrise equips it to run northcoastboats.com

BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 | OFFSHORE | 99 BUILDER BENCHMARK

READER RESPONSE ‘EXTREMELY WELL-BUILT”

Pursuit Fishing Boats

or over half a century, The company fabricates its “social zones,” including one FPursuit Boats has been own fuel feed lines, as it does anchored by a multifunction building luxury off shore fi shing custom wiring harnesses for forward sun pad. Hullside and boats using distinct engineer- each model, and its technicians cabinside windows provide ing and production processes fabricate and install upholstery stunning views. The adjust- championed by the Pursuit and canvas components. able helm comes standard with family of employees. Pursuit’s Yamaha’s Helm Master. Off shore, Center Console, Sport PURSUIT S 378 Anglers will fi nd standard and Dual Console models from SPORT gunwale-mounted rod holders 23 to 42 feet in length are manu- The S 378 Sport is the second- and bow rod holders, a lighted factured in a state-of-the-art largest in Pursuit’s Sport line of livewell, undergunwale rod facility in Fort Pierce, Florida. luxury center-consoles that are storage, a pair of fi sh boxes, and Pursuit Boats are designed, ready to take on big water and lockable rod storage such as developed and manufactured in big fi sh—in big comfort! requested by 34 percent of CC the US using refi ned lamination Stable as only a big-beamed survey respondents. techniques, vacuum-infused boat can be, this one’s a dozen An optional Fishing Package stringer grids, verifi ed instal- feet across, with a 22-degree includes such upgrades as a lations and patented designs. deadrise, rigged standard with second livewell to please the They have premium gelcoats triple Yamaha XTO Off shore 33 percent of center-console backed by fi ve-year blister 425 hp outboards. survey respondents who say warranty, plus fi ve-year hull Pursuit is particularly proud they need it (63 percent are and two-year component of the boat’s patent-pending satisfi ed with a single livewell, warranties. entertainment center: It elec- while 4 percent need a third Pursuit installs EPA- tronically moves into place at one in order to keep bait species compliant, lined, roto-molded the touch of a button, otherwise separate). Other options in- polyethylene fuel tanks that positioned out of the way to clude hardtop rocket launcher, eliminate condensation and open up the cockpit for fi shing. rod holders and Taco Grand avoid the eff ects of ethanol. The boat has several versatile Slam outriggers.

100 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Survey Says: PURSUIT DC 326 and dedicated tackle storage The DC 326 features an within the cockpit tackle center ON TARGET integrated fi berglass hardtop with storage for three Plano Tuck-away with wiper-tended tempered- boxes—the median number entertainment center glass windshield, port and dual-console fi shers report on the S 378 Sport starboard ventilation hatches using. preserves fi shing space with screens, and fore- and aft- A 300-gallon fuel capacity facing LED spreader lights. gives the 326 a nearly 300-mile Plenty of rod storage, A rotating helm seat swings range, and twin Yamaha F300s both undergunwale and lockable along the coaming to join port scoot it along a tad beyond 48 cockpit seating and foldaway mph. For easy docking, a bow transom seat to off er plenty of thruster is joystick-controlled. OWNERS SAY room for friends, family and Options include Yamaha Tough, dependable crew. (Sixty percent of dual- Helm Master steering system and a well-made hull console survey respondents with Set Point, diesel gen- capable of handling NEW call forward seating important, erator, air conditioning, grill, 2020 extreme conditions the highest of any boat type.) underwater lights, cockpit More comfort is had at the bow refrigerator, bridge-deck teak Space and functionality seating. table, ski tow, sunshades and Gets me to where I At the ready are nine gun- curtains, hardtop rod holders, need to go to catch the wale- and transom-mounted Taco Grand Slam outriggers, fi sh I’m after rod holders, exceeding the and Garmin electronics needs of all but 6 percent of packages. dual-console survey respon- BRAND SAYS dents. There’s a recirculating MORE INFO Dedication to delivering 28-gallon lighted livewell, pursuitboats.com an authentic, high-quality product through all levels of development Provides endless hours of enjoyment to all who encounter it

SPECS

S 378 SPORT LOA: 40'5" Beam: 12' Fuel Capacity: 427 gal. Dry Weight: 19,500 lb. plus power* Max HP: 1,275 Certiﬁ cations: NMMA

DC 326 LOA: 34'6" Beam: 10'10" Fuel Capacity: 300 gal. Dry Weight: 12,900 lb. plus power Max HP: 600 Certiﬁ cations: NMMA

EXCLUSIVELY POWERED

*estimated READER RESPONSE BUILDER “OFFSHORE FISHING MACHINE” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Performance and cockpit space optimized by engine bracket

Solid ride thanks to four-piece bonded-hull construction Space for ﬁ sh and storage exceeds expectations

OWNERS SAY Great fishing platform, safe ride Run straight into slop and at a decent speed, and still be comfortable and dry

Soft-riding boat in sporty seas

Regulator Boats BRAND SAYS Built to fi sh and t’s been more than 30 years its launch. Its legendary soft ride features a fi berglass-lined head designed for comfort Isince Joan and Owen Maxwell is proven in the Outer Banks of with electric toilet. built their fi rst Regulator 26, in North Carolina and all along US Hard-fi shing options include Fit, finish and ride that only Regulator the process reinventing the deep- coastlines year after year. T-top rocket launchers and Taco can deliver V center-console and introducing For anglers, the heart of the Grand Slam 390 outrigger bases what has come to be known as boat is its 28 tackle center, a with 20-foot carbon-fi ber tele- Big-boat features Regulator’s “Legendary Ride.” rigging station with storage and scoping poles; optional forward come standard Regulator Marine still builds rocket launchers in the dual-seat comfort touches include sun each boat by hand, with a hull leaning post. Four stainless-steel shade and a dual-height pedestal comprising four solid pieces— rod holders are mounted on the table with sun-bed. (Thirty-six SPECS hull, stringer system, liner and gunwales, and there are options percent of our center-console LOA: 27'8" deck cap—polybonded, fi ber- to add more to reach the six that survey respondents called bow Beam: 9'5" glassed and foam-fi lled in place to cover the needs of 68 percent of seating important.) Fuel Capacity: 219 gal. create a single unit with no noise, off shore CC survey respondents. Dry Weight: 8,260 lb. creaking, soft spots, leaking, The transom bears a 124-quart MORE INFO with power cracks or caulk. And all with no fi sh box and 25-gallon livewell. regulatormarine.com wood. Up front is an in-deck, illumi- Max HP: 600 nated 456-quart fi sh/storage Certifi cations: NMMA REGULATOR 28 box; fl anking it are two insulated Regulator has refreshed its clas- fi sh-box/dry-storage bins, which sic 28 fi shing machine (itself a are illuminated and 169 quarts EXCLUSIVELY POWERED stretched version of the original each. A center dry-storage com- Regulator 26) with new stan- partment off ers 256 quarts more dards for 2020: fi berglass T-top space that could be the locked rod with multicolored LED lights storage that one-third of survey and integrated wraparound respondents say they need. windshield, and factory-installed In total, there’s plenty of Hardtop and leaning post Garmin Off shore 28 Premium storage for safety gear, cruising add nine rod holders. Package electronics. supplies and water toys—and, of Electronics box frees dash They’re on a Lou Codega- course, bait, tackle and fi sh. space for GPS/sonar. designed hull that’s been A tuna door welcomes aboard pleasing off shore anglers since fi shers and big fi sh. The console

102 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 2500CC

2300CC

2500CC

Whether you want a day of fishing or just relaxing at the sandbar, our boats are for you. aquasportboat.com | 615-797-3193 2545 Jones Creek Road, White Bluff, TN 37187 Model shown 2500CC & 2300CC. Also available... 2300DC, 2100CC, 224 Bay, 230 Bay and 244 Bay. READER RESPONSE BUILDER “SPEED, AGILITY, TECHNOLOGY” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Luxurious seating abounds

Ample tackle-storage options in leaning post Rod holders double most expectations

OWNERS SAY Takes waves well, great ﬁ shability

Fishing friendly plus family creature comforts Dry ride

BRAND SAYS Loaded with NEW standard features 2020 Countless unique features Scout Boats Digital switching enhances reliability omfortable fi shing and even some of the larger luxury on the transom; off shore CC Cluxurious cruising in center- sport-fi shing machines with its respondents ask for an average of consoles, dual-consoles and bay appointments, technology and six total. Optional hardtop rocket SPECS boats, from 17 to 53 feet. attention to detail.” launchers articulate downward, LOA: 42'2" Each Scout is an original, with That technology includes an making rod access easier. Beam: 13'1" in-house research and design epoxy-infused, carbon fi ber/ Below are amenities Scout Fuel Capacity: 500 gal. teams working with engineers e-glass double-stepped hull compares to those on a private Dry Weight: 16,800 lb. to nurture concepts from sketch that welcomes quad outboards. jet: stove cooktop, microwave, plus power to blueprint to production, ef- Standard are full transom fl ush-mounted TV, DVD player, fi ciently, all the while growing the walk-through with teak swim galley sink, refrigerator, enclosed Max HP: 1,675 company’s reputation for quality, platform, side boarding door, shower, and two single beds that Certifi cations: NMMA strength, durability and value. Kohler generator, and Seakeeper can be combined into one large Scout, founded 25 years ago, gyrostabilizer. king berth. counts among its selling points Also standard are two 92- The hydraulic portside beach OPTIONALLY POWERED its superior fi t and fi nish; best-in- gallon in-fl oor fi sh boxes with platform adds a fl oating veranda. class strength-to-weight ratio; overboard diaphragm discharge, fully fi nished bilge, lids, doors powder-coated hardtop with MORE INFO and hatches; and the company’s curved glass enclosure, and scoutboats.com family ownership and operation. three-person aft-facing cockpit seats that are part of a leaning SCOUT 420 LXF post that contains an ice maker, Three years in development, drawer refrigerator and/or tackle this 42-footer takes its place in drawers (you select two). Scout’s LXF Collection, a line The cockpit baitwell holds of luxury sport-fi sh boats the 80 gallons, a nod to the 5 percent company calls a unique blend of of off shore center-console survey high-performance fi sh boat and respondents who carry hundreds Hardtop supports and the high-end cruiser. of baits. (Sixty-three percent windshield are integrated Stevie Potts, son of Scout CEO say a single livewell is enough, for clear foot traffi c and and founder Steve Potts, headed by the way.) The boat bears 10 helm protection. up development of the 420, stainless-steel gunwale-mounted which the elder Potts said “rivals rod holders, with seven more

104 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Miami’s hottest fishing spot.

1,400 boats in water and on land.

Sportfishing pavilion, demo docks and more.

MiamiBoatShow.com

February 13–17 MIAMI MARINE STADIUM READER RESPONSE BUILDER “DRY RIDE WITH FEATURES THAT I NEED TO GO FISHING” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Raw-water washdown fore and aft, and 30-gallon freshwater washdown

Twin livewells, standard Rod holders in abundance

OWNERS SAY Its deep-V Carolina flair throws water away from boat for a dry comfortable ride You can ﬁ sh all the way around the boat without any obstructions

Four chine vents add efficiency Roomy, handles great, runs smoothly

Sea Fox Boats BRAND SAYS ea Fox Boat Company began fl agship. It has a sharp 23 degree tray, six-tray tackle compart- Bow designed for Swith the aim of building deadrise and resin infused hull ment (84 percent of respondents comfort hand-crafted saltwater boats to handle the roughest water said they need storage space for Cockpit a serious with the best amenities, features, conditions. The 3-inch-thick six utility boxes or fewer), plus fi sherman’s dream performance and function. Over composite transom can hold other storage compartments and several decades, boatbuilding either triple Yamaha F300s or drawers. A unique blend of materials and methods have twin F425s. Options include eight colors, fishing-/family-friendly changed, but that aim hasn’t. Like all Sea Fox boats, the air conditioning, autopilot, options Today Sea Fox builds center- 368 has plenty of seating: three DEKit marine mat fl ooring, console, bay, side-console and deluxe captain’s chairs at the diesel generator, outriggers, SPECS dual-console boats, all paired helm, a double-wide lounger at radar, Seakeeper gyrostabilizer, with Yamaha outboard power. console front, electric-actuated seating and upholstery upgrades, LOA: 36' (Yamaha Command Link digital bow table amid bow seats, a fl ip- sun shade, and Yamaha Helm Beam: 11' gauges are standard on boats out aft bench (which 44 percent Master joystick. Fuel Capacity: 382 gal. 20 feet and above.) of respondents called important), Dry Weight: 13,982 lb. Sea Fox boats are built with all and rear-facing jump seats. Invite MORE INFO plus power seafoxboats.com composite hulls and decks. Decks a big crew—there are plenty of Max HP: 1,200 have aluminum plates fi ber- perches for them! glassed into the motor-mount The Ultima hardtop has a full splashwell area for extra strength glass enclosure and powered air EXCLUSIVELY POWERED to support maximum horsepower vent. and heavier motor weights. The fi shing-focused cockpit Bait remains fresh in aquarium has twin pressurized and lighted style livewells. A glassed-in keel 45-gallon livewells, four in-fl oor drain tube from bow to stern ends fi sh boxes, and two refrigerator/ bilge puddles. Wiring is color- freezer units in the transom. coded for easy maintenance and The boat bears 31 stainless- Dekit is a marine mat service. steel rod holders in the transom sole covering growing in and gunwales and an additional popularity for comfort 368 COMMANDER nine rod rocket launchers in the and secure footing. Launched in summer 2019, the top for a total of 40. 368 Commander is the Sea Fox An aft rigging station has a bait

106 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020

READER RESPONSE BUILDER “STURDY, OPEN, SAFE DESIGN” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Speed, fuel-efﬁ ciency and comfortable ride check the boxes for performance

Pump box keeps livewell refreshed and bait lively Raw and fresh water are conveniently located Storage for up to 21 rods

OWNERS SAY Open fishability and storage Big enough to go offshore and small enough to ﬁ sh inshore

Love the setup

BRAND SAYS SeaVee Boats Economical to run and easy to trailer eaVee is a semicustom The hull facilitates smooth survey respondents said they The kind of affordability Smanufacturer of high- and stable drifts, impressive hole need two livewells. that makes offshore performance center-console, bay, shots, and a more comfortable Choose between a simpler adventures happen fi sh-around and sport-express ride in rough sea conditions. Coastal leaning post and a boats. It sells its boats factory- Standard features include Captains Edition, which includes A diverse lineup of direct, each boat built to the an integrated engine platform a tackle station, eight Plano high-performance specifi cations of its owner. with transom door, underdeck boxes, fi ve rod holders, four cup sport-fishing boats designed with the whole SeaVee’s proprietary vacuum- dry storage, dual marine AGM holders and a handrail. family in mind assisted resin-transfer molding batteries, high-performance trim Comforts and convenience technology infuses the fully cored tabs, hydraulic steering, and dual options include an integrated hull, stringers and bulkheads automatic bilge pumps. forward console seat and door, SPECS simultaneously, creating a stron- Choose from options including retractable cooler, electrically LOA: 29'6" ger, lighter and more durable hardtop, second station, fi xed or operated forward lounge seat Beam: 9' laminate. Translation: The boat removable seating, and the latest backrests, freshwater shower and is faster, more fuel-effi cient, and marine-electronics equipment toilet facilities. Fuel Capacity: 251 gal. quieter. And it lasts longer. from all major brands. Choose Dry Weight: 5,900 lb. Construction details include your brand of power too, in twins MORE INFO plus power high-quality 316 stainless-steel up to 400 hp each; new, larger seaveeboats.com Max HP: 800 hardware; overgauged anodized epoxy-coated aluminum fuel Certifi cations: NMMA or powder-coated aluminum tanks team up with them to make components; and yacht-quality for long-range adventure. electrical materials and installa- Dual in-deck aft compartments tion, with wiring you can follow are topped by molded-fi berglass from source to destination. storage hatches with deep gutters and coamings, providing a solid SEAVEE 290B seal to keep compartments dry. Available in Open Fisherman and Fishermen will appreciate the SeaVee’s cockpit space is Luxury Edition versions—the massive, insulated fi sh box, and ample, and rod holders SeaVee’s prismatic deep-V hull, the 50-gallon livewell system. and tackle storage are in with an aggressive 25-degree Additional livewells can be easy reach. deadrise and keel pad give supe- added for capacity and/or species rior sea-handling capabilities. separation; 33 percent of our CC

108 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020

READER RESPONSE BUILDER “WHERE LUXURY AND ADVENTURE INTERTWINE” BENCHMARK Survey Says:

ON TARGET Fish-ﬁ ghting cockpit space is best in class due to transom extention beyond the motors

Pressurized livewells cradle bait in rough water Abundant rod storage throughout the boat

BRAND SAYS High-end, custom-style luxury boats

A level that no other can achieve or surpass

SPECS LOA: 38' Beam: 10'6" Solace Boats Fuel Capacity: 325 gal. Dry Weight: 14,300 lb. olace co-founder Stephen SOLACE 345 Seakeeper 2DC gyrostabilizer, plus power SDougherty brings what One glance is all it takes to an inverter system, and helm Max HP: 900 Solace calls the “the Dougherty appreciate that this is no ordinary seating—three plush seats Diff erence” to this new company. center-console V-hull. with arms and bolsters—with The boat-industry veteran has Solace’s patented FishThru shock mitigation and hydraulic OPTIONALLY POWERED an extensive history with Boston transom extends aft between two helm raiser. A stainless-steel Whaler, and as a co-owner of outboards of up to 450 hp each. refrigerator/freezer centers the EdgeWater and Everglades That maximum outboard spac- a workstation with grill, bait- boat companies. His background ing places the boat’s keel lowest rigging bin, and freshwater sink. and others’ are already refl ected so that its draft is the same—24 Options include a fully outfi tted in new ideas at Solace: cutting- inches—with motors up or down. second station. edge designs, original ideas, and A hydraulically actuated swim Twin livewells meet needs of commitment to the customer. platform—another fi rst—extends 96 percent of CC survey respon- Boats and components are out 4 feet past the transom door, dents; and a pair of 7-foot fi sh built in a 200,000-square-foot allowing the angler, the company boxes await catches. facility in Edgewater, Florida, says, to “fi ght the fi sh, not the where the company builds its engines.” (The boat carries two MORE INFO own plugs and molds. Metal length designations: at transom- solaceboats.com components are made using and at end of FishThru.) CNC machining equipment and Transom and platform fi ve-axis waterjet. combine to provide eff ortless The boats incorporate high- access when fi shing, swimming, strength, lightweight carbon diving or snorkeling. fi ber throughout hulls and major Fishing features abound, support structures, replacing including 10 gunwale-mounted aluminum in such applications as rod holders; only 8 percent hardtop supports. of center-console survey Cockpit space is The company promises respondents said they need more enhanced by the unique nothing less than a revolution in than that. extended transom the market, which is apparent The 345 has standard features beyond the outboards. immediately in its fi rst boat, the that are most often options Solace 345. on other boats. They include a

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READER RESPONSE “LOVE THE RIDE AND LINES OF THE BOAT”

Yellowfin Yachts

ellowfin Yachts bears the YELLOWFIN The boat’s 165-gallon macer- Yundeniable imprint of its 39 OFFSHORE ated fish box—like everything founder and president, Wylie This massive center-console else about the 39—is big, well- Nagler, known for his pledge of boat, Yellowfin’s second-larg- appointed, and ready for fish. personal responsibility for the est, welcomes the family aboard Two livewells—72-gallon in the standout quality of every boat for a safe, comfortable weekend transom and 80-gallon in the his company ships. outing, but just as readily fields leaning post—meet the stated That goes from Yellowfin’s a hard-charging team’s run at needs of 96 percent of CC sur- smallest boat, a 17-foot skiff, to the tournament prize. vey respondents. Expect even its largest, a 42-foot offshore The company calls the bigger catches? A South Beach center-console. Each is a high- 39 Offshore “built for ultimate coffin box is an option. performance fishing platform, performance when the weather Six gunwale-mounted rod custom-built of the highest- refuses to cooperate.” It’s holders are ready aft (those grade materials and products, designed for triple or quad alone meeting the requests of and skillfully assembled. outboards which, drawing from 68 percent of respondents), Although built in Florida, a 564-gallon fuel supply, put with six more forward within Yellowfin boats clearly show distant fishing grounds within the gunwales. Carolina Outer Banks design reach. Other options include a influences, with wide flares and The 39’s generous 11-foot- leaning post with jump seats; high bows. On stepped hulls, 6-inch beam creates a hardtop, dual or marlin tower; they leap onto plane. spacious fishing platform hull and trim colors, forward For over 20 years, Yellowfin that’s poised for entertain- seating and bolsters; and has been a leader in offshore ing as well, with such comfort additional rod holders. boats; it’s more recently touches as a stand-up head and achieved inshore success and shower within its console. It’s YELLOWFIN 24 BAY prestige as well. Those who Yellowfin-trademark stepped The 24 Bay, in the decade since know Yellowfins call them solid, hull produces a smooth, dry and its launch, has set standards for fast, spacious and flexible. swift ride. bay-boat speed, fuel efficiency

112 | OFFSHORE | BOAT BUYERS GUIDE 2020 Survey Says: and ride, with an ergonomic as are a hardtop, Key West layout suiting both family and soft top and second stations. ON TARGET tournament-angler boaters. Select aft seating if you’re Abundant fi sh The center-console 24 Bay among the 45 percent of survey storage—standard has a recessed forward casting respondents who consider it and options deck that is clean and clutter- important. Pick your colors free, endearing it particularly of hull, rub rail, pipework and Seaworthiness and to fl y-fi shers. There’s plenty upholstery. performance clearly a high priority of room for two to fi sh, maybe With a 75-gallon fuel tank, more spin- or bait-fi shers. the 24 Bay runs far as well as Baitwells and rod (There is space, by the way, for fast. It comes with a standard holders exceed an electric trolling motor.) jack plate (and Power Pole), and expectations From the deck, three hatches draws just 14 inches. access a huge storage area. More The 24 Bay off ers a variety of storage space is within the seat- custom power options. OWNERS SAY fronted console. The aft deck Expert layout, quality contains three livewells. MORE INFO Perfect boat and setup: Flanking the helm are fi ve yellowfi n.com fi shing, sandbar, vertical rod holders per side cruising—wow! (65 percent of bay-boat survey respondents say they carry Reliability fi ve to 10 rods aboard), and the Nothing beats transom has a pair of angled a Yellowfi n fl ush-mounted rod holders. Leaning post, livewell and rocket launcher are available, BRAND SAYS Incredible acceleration, fuel economy, and eye- watering top end Sheer number of tasks it does well

Unmatched attention to detail

SPECS

39 OFFSHORE LOA: 39'8" Beam: 11'6" Fuel Capacity: 564 gal. Dry Weight: 13,000 lb. plus power Max HP: 1,650

24 BAY LOA: 24'10" Beam: 8'6" Fuel Capacity: 72 gal. Dry Weight: 3,050 lb. plus power Max HP: 400 THE LAST CAST

YOU HAVE A LOT ON THE LINE Before you even leave port, you have an enormous amount at stake in a day of fi shing. Bait, ice, gasoline, your vessel and gear, and perhaps, a fi ve-digit tournament entry fee. You have fun at stake, sure, but you have lives at stake too. Winning safely requires confi dence in your team and your skills. Who’s on your team?

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