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The V-55 from Valhalla literally stretches the definition of an outboard-­powered center-console fishing boat, merging the genre with what genuinely qualifies as a yacht. That’s not surprising given that Valhalla’s sister brand is Viking Yachts. Quad V-12 600 hp Mercury outboards provide the get-up- and-go for the Michael Peters-patented Stepped-V Ventilated Tunnel running surface. And oh, does it go, achieving a top speed of 62.8 mph, even while rigged with a tuna tower, a second control station and a molded fiberglass hardtop. An electrically operated fuel-­management system enables each engine to draw from a designated fuel tank. The V-55 is also available with five 600-hp Mercury Verados for a top speed of 70-plus mph.

A large standard equipment list complements an exhaustive option sheet to build this 55-foot-7-inch fishing machine with total customization. Stepping aboard through the port or starboard dive doors, the 15 1/2-foot beam creates an immense ­cockpit ideal for offshore fishing. Dual ­65-gallon pressurized livewells with glass fronts are built into the transom and flanked with fold-down seats. Overboard discharge drains in the transom corners accommodate additional on-deck livewells. Twin insulated 110-gallon fishwells with refrigeration were set up in the cockpit on my test boat, with an Eskimo ice-dump receptacle to starboard. Gunwale rod holders line the coaming, and 12-volt electric reel outlets are a popular option. 

For service, a large lazarette hatch provides access to a seven-­position manifold and twin Hooker sea chests, one for the ­air-conditioning system and one for the livewells. A second Hooker ­livewell pump in place serves as an ­instant standby. Raw-water intake and circulating lines are protected with an ElectroSea ClearLine system. The gelcoated lazarette is easy to maintain and delivers safe and swift ­access to ­fuel filters, water separators, two Rule 2000 bilge pumps with Ultimate float switches, and a Reverso auto outboard flush system. Wiring and plumbing are neat, secure and well-labeled. 

Forward of the lazarette hatch is a second watertight hatch and home for the Seakeeper 9 ­gyrostabilizer. This hatch also supports a Release Marine eight-rod rocket launcher. Aft-facing mezzanine seating features molded armrests, ­tackle stowage, eight more rod ­holders and seven drink holders. Beneath the mezzanine cushions are more compartments that can be ordered as chill boxes. Forward of the mezzanine in the second-row seat module are stowage compartments. Aboard the test boat, these included an electric grill, a sink and a flat-screen TV. Below the mezzanine, reached from the second row, is still more stowage, and a place to carry a helium tank or two for kite-fishing. 

Amidships are side lockers for stowing four outfits per side and the dive-door ladder. Anglers will enjoy the 24-inch-wide walkways, 41 inches of freeboard, a recessed bow rail and a ­186-gallon fish box. Built into the center lounge is a 40-gallon livewell. Both the port and starboard forward lounges, each with stowage below, end before reaching the bow, so there are no cushions to step on. The 10-inch-tall teak step provides good footing while still retaining 30 inches of freeboard. 

To make sure everyone is comfortable, the first row of seating at the air-conditioned helm features four 19-inch Release Marine teak helm chairs with armrests, electric slides and flip-up bolsters. But the comfort does not stop there; you can ­order a second row of seating in ­either a four- or five-chair arrangement. With the latter, you can seat a party of nine. A second version of the V-55 trades the second-row seating for a U-shaped lounge with a power-­actuated teak table that converts to a two-person berth.

A ProCurve glass windshield with a custom one-piece wraparound fiberglass frame provides undistorted visibility. The raised black dash accommodates three 22-inch Garmin 8622 multifunction displays. A Mercury MFD monitors the engines directly in front of the wheel. Single-lever Mercury controls are to starboard, along with the Mercury joystick and a SidePower electric bow-thruster joystick. Two banks of Bocatech 12-volt switches operate accessories. 

Read Next: Valhalla V-46

A sliding door that disappears into a pocket starboard of the helm leads below to reveal posh overnight accommodations that include a private stateroom with a walk-around queen bed, a 24-inch flat-screen TV, a Bomar overhead hatch, side windows, an enclosed head, and a separate fiberglass shower stall. A full-featured galley, a dinette that converts to a single bunk, a 32-inch flat-screen TV, and a pair of bunks aft make excellent use of the space. 

The aft machinery room contains a Fischer Panda 15 kW generator, a Kuuma water heater, batteries and a pair of ProNautic charging systems, a Parker Pro Mini ­watermaker, and a Spot Zero water purifier. 

From design to construction to performance to accommodations and fishability, Viking broke new ground with its Valhalla V-55. Coupled with outfitting from Palm Beach Towers and Atlantic Marine Electronics, the V-55 sets a new standard for supersize center-console fishing ­machines. 

Specifications

Valhalla Boatworks – Egg Harbor City, New Jersey; valhallaboatworks.com

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I remember when a run to the offshore fishing grounds went something like this: Get to the boat the night before to load up gear, bait and tackle. Once we cleared the breakwater, we’d settle in for a long, slow chug through the inky darkness. If there was any weather, the inability to see approaching waves meant slowing down even more. After eight or 10 hours of creeping along and taking turns at the helm, a faint horizon would materialize along the hem of the purple-gray sky, and our fishing day would officially begin.

Today a new breed of high-speed fishing boats has created a new paradigm for serious offshore anglers coast to coast. Owners of these powerful fishing machines are likely to hop on board in the morning, fire up the four or five high-­performance outboards sitting shoulder-­to-shoulder across the ample transom, and motor out of the harbor to the oohs and aahs of onlookers and envious anglers. 

When the captain reaches open water and opens the throttles on up to 3,000 hp of outboard power, the true appeal of these speed machines becomes apparent. With a jaw-dropping amount of available horsepower, high-tech mono- or multihulls rocket to the offshore destinations in a fraction of the time required in yesteryears. The concept of comfortably running 100 miles or more, catching a load of fish, and returning home on the same day is not just possible but also common. 

Fishing-boat brands such as Contender, Freeman, Invincible, Regulator, Scout, SeaVee, Yellowfin and others have broken the mold on what a ­center-console outboard-­powered fishing boat can achieve, blasting through size and performance barriers. This new crop of boats offers the dimensions and seaworthiness of old-fashioned sport-fishing yachts, but can also reach 60 mph and cruise all day at 40 to 50 mph without breaking a sweat. And they do this with surprisingly good fuel economy, providing the range to go long and fish hard all day.

However, there’s a lot more to this new class of boats than just size and speed. Boatbuilders are competing to introduce more comfortable and capable offshore machines, adding new features, ­interior comfort and amenities without compromising on the open layout and unfettered fishing access that define the breed. Owners are attracted by these vessels’ versatility as well. These boats can be supersize (with corresponding price tags well over $1 million), but a center-console is still a center-console. If the mood strikes, owners want the ability to pull up on a sandbar with everybody else, kick back with a drink, and enjoy the party with their smaller cousins.

When you first see one of these sleek and stylish boats, your eyes are inevitably drawn to the gleaming engine ­cowlings seemingly filling every inch of transom space. It’s clear that the entire class of vessels couldn’t exist without quantum leaps in outboard motor power and ­technology from builders like Mercury, Suzuki and Yamaha. There are different theories about which came first, this growing number of high-powered outboards from 350 to 600 hp, or the ever-­larger hulls designed for outboard power. Conventional wisdom is that the evolution of more-powerful outboards led to the development of wider, longer and more-advanced hulls. However, there are also those who believe that evolving consumer demand for simplicity and ease of use was simultaneously pushing builders to redefine the center-console and walkaround fishing-boat classes. 

Perhaps we should call it a tie. “The evolution of outboard motors has resulted in even more-powerful, reliable and feature-­rich powerplants, enabling boat sizes in this popular segment to grow to overall lengths of 40 feet and beyond,” says John Caballero, sales and marketing director for SeaVee Boats. At the same time, he acknowledges an existing preference for simpler boats. “The market discovered long ago how practical a center-console boat is in terms of its utility and ­generally lower maintenance requirements.” He highlights the company’s 42-foot 420Z and 45-foot 450Z as ideal models for meeting this need, providing the amenities to enhance the fishing experience and the safety and comfort for all on board. Additionally, both models can be highly customized to suit the owner’s needs and preferences. 

“While supersize center-consoles are by no means simple machines, they are undoubtedly less complex than multi­stateroom sport-fishing yachts,” says Rob Sabin, southeast sales manager for Contender Boats. “This typically translates to lower maintenance bills and less time in the yard. It also gives owners the ability to run and maintain their own vessel.” 

Contender considers its 44-foot 44FA (Fisharound) the perfect fishing platform for extended adventures. Built on the center-­console 44ST hull, the 44FA features a large berth, enclosed head and kitchenette. It carries 575 gallons of fuel along with 70 gallons of fresh water and can be equipped with a generator, air conditioning, ice makers, water heaters and gyrostabilization.

“Boats are getting bigger and more powerful, but that’s not all,” says Matt Arnholt, marketing manager for Yellowfin Yachts. They have been able to maximize efficiency and fishability while incorporating various features, electronics in particular, Arnholt points out. 

While the 36 Offshore continues as Yellowfin’s most popular model, anglers are also turning to the 39 Offshore, 42 Offshore and 54 Offshore, Arnholt ­observes. The 54 delivers the brand’s styling, stepped hull, fuel efficiency and construction with features like a fully equipped galley, queen berth and a ­diesel generator. Its long list of available options includes a bow thruster, a Quick dynamic stabilizer, and a range of hardtop and tower possibilities.

“Many of our customers used to own large sport-fishermen,” says Alan Lang, director of sales and marketing for Scout Boats. “They are ready to move to a center-­console for the ease of operation and the ability to drive it themselves and take care of it themselves. Outboard power not only makes our boats fast and ­agile, it also makes maintenance much ­easier.” Multiple high-horsepower engines also provide owners with peace of mind. According to Lang, Scout’s current flagship—the 530 LXF—will easily get on plane and get you home at 50 mph, even with one engine down. 

Scout raised eyebrows across the industry when it first previewed its 670 LXF, a 67-foot LOA cross between a center-­console and a superyacht due for launch in 2024. Scout’s 530 LXF (Luxury Fish) is a 53-footer built almost entirely of lightweight yet strong carbon fiber and epoxy resin, and it’s packed with amenities like dual hydraulic beach platforms that lower for family water play, heated helm seats, a standard Seakeeper gyrostabilizer and luxurious interior options.

“The biggest things driving these supersize center-consoles are high horsepower, along with the great weight-to-horsepower ratio,” says Dan Freer, senior director of engineering for Invincible, which offers both monohull and catamaran models. 

Invincible’s 46-foot cat is offered in both a center-console and pilothouse configuration. Even with the added comforts of two sleeping berths, interior seating, air conditioning and a generator, the 46 Pilothouse stays true to the brand with 360-degree fishability. The new flagship of Invincible’s monohull fleet is the 43 Open Fisherman. While the cockpit layout emphasizes all-around fishing room, the design includes a cabin with a full sleeping berth, a vanity sink and a head for ­extended angling journeys.   

Builders pretty much agree that the trend will continue, even if the overall size of the boats eventually tops out. Consumer demand and outboard engine development will continue to drive future innovation. What this future will look like is anyone’s guess, but it will certainly be a hell of a ride. 

Outboard Muscle

Powerful and efficient outboards are helping drive the trend for larger boats. Here are the top dogs in horsepower from three manufacturers.

Mercury: The Mercury V-12 600 hp and Mercury Racing 450R and new 500R are popular choices for twin, triple, quad and even quintuple installations.

Suzuki: Suzuki’s V-6 DF350 pioneered twin contra-rotating propellers for the added torque to push heavy loads, making this 350 a solid and efficient choice for catamarans in quad applications.

Yamaha: Yamaha’s new V-8 450 XTO Offshore outboard is a popular power option for the new breed of XL-size open fishing boats.

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The field of 40-something center-console offshore fishing boats has boomed in the past few years. While an outboard-powered 40-foot center-console proved ­nearly unthinkable a decade ­earlier, more than a dozen major boat brands now compete fiercely in this size category. Forty feet represents a magic size, one that can traverse the gnarliest inlets, continue fishing when sea conditions have chased lesser boats to port, and reach distant angling destinations such as the Bahamas, Northeast Canyons or West Coast seamounts, with console interiors big enough for overnighting. Thanks to equipment such as joystick systems and thrusters, they handle and dock easily in crowded ­marinas and tight slips.

Jupiter Marine’s 40 stands out as not only one of the latest entries, but also one of the category’s most impressive. This new 40 dovetails ­nicely between Jupiter’s 38 and 43 center-­consoles (not to mention the Jupiter 41 SB enclosed-­bridge model). Jupiter has not jumped on the step-hull bandwagon, instead relying on a deep-V running surface for the 39-foot-11-inch hull that features 24 degrees of deadrise at the transom and a Posi-Stern hull-pad design. 

At speed, the 16,000-pound (with engines) boat rode and handled like a dream in the 2- to 3-foot seas we encountered on test day. Triple Yamaha XTO 450s propelled us to a top speed of 57.3 mph with three crewmembers and a full tank of fuel (500 gallons). At rest and trolling speeds, the nearly 12-foot beam provides remarkable lateral stability for fishing securely, even in cross-sea conditions.

Jupiter builds in durability with composite PVC coring (that means no wood to rot), a fiberglass and foam-filled uni-grid stringer system and vacuum-­infused vinylester construction. The inner liner is mechanically bonded to the hull. Separating the transom bulkhead from the motors is a transom platform that lets you easily walk from one side of the boat to the other, a handy trait if you’re trying to fight a big tuna across the transom.  

The teak-accents option adorning the gunwale tops on our test boat gave the Jupiter 40 an added touch of class. For comfort while fishing, coaming pads encircle the interior. Anglers will love the ­60-gallon pressurized transom livewell with a viewing window (and a seating pad and a backrest), twin ­100-gallon insulated fish boxes under the aft cockpit sole, a 126-gallon forward insulated fish box, and a portside door that lets you slide aboard a big tuna or swordfish. There was also a 48-gallon cooler/bait freezer under the aft-facing bench abaft the three-across helm seats on our test boat. 

Life afloat is not always about chasing and catching fish. The marine industry in general and Jupiter in particular arrived at this conclusion much sooner than I did, and that’s why the new 40 features an inviting lounger for two atop the forward console. Creature comforts don’t end there. The bow area is adorned with a pair of lounges with integral backrests, so the 40 is as much at home on an evening harbor cruise as it is fishing kites for sails or trolling the edge of an offshore rip for ­tuna and marlin.

Sometimes you need a handy place to get out of the weather or catch some sleep while in a remote marina or on the anchor in a quiet bay. The Jupiter 40 has you covered (literally) with a roomy console interior, accessed from a companionway on the port side. It offers over 6 ½ feet of headroom, a 7-foot-long berth, a mini galley, a hanging ­locker, and a separate head compartment with a ­shower, vanity, sink and ­electric ­marine toilet.

A full-height curved ­acrylic windshield complements the hardtop, and the dash on our test boat featured three Garmin multifunction displays—a 24-inch MFD in the middle and 16-inch MFDs on each side. There was also a special compartment to starboard that lifts open to reveal the Yamaha Helm Master EX joystick and the bow-­thruster control. It’s mirrored by a handy glove box on the port side of the helm. 

The helm deck itself is elevated about 10 inches to provide a better point of view over the console for the captain and crew, and air-conditioning vents cool the helm area on sultry days. To rock the tunes, our test boat came with a deluxe JL Audio marine system with four 10-inch subwoofers, eight 8-inch speakers and two 6.5-inch speakers.

Read Next: Jupiter 32

As mentioned earlier, my test boat featured the ­upgraded Yamaha XTO 450 V-8 outboard, which replaces the XTO 425. The extra 25 ponies come in part thanks to an increase in intake and exhaust volume, but the 450 is also ­quieter, shifts more ­smoothly, and boasts more charging power and faster, easier engine tilting. I also liked the new styling of the 450. Aesthetically, it is a significant improvement over the 425. 

Ultimately, even in a crowded field of 40-something offshore fishing machines, the Jupiter 40 is hard to ignore, especially when powered by three of the new Yamaha XTO 450 outboards.

Editor’s Note: While the photos in this story depict twin Mercury Verado 600 hp V-12 outboards, our test took place with triple Yamaha XTO 450 V-8 outboards. Photos of the Jupiter 40 with the Yamaha 450s were not ­available at press time. 

Specifications

Jupiter Marine – jupitermarine.com

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The dual-console design of the Sailfish 226 DC serves as a great fishing machine, but also pleases friends and family who just want to spend a great day on the water. The 226 DC rides on Sailfish’s sixth-generation Variable-Degree Stepped (VDS) hull, which features a 24-degree entry angle to slice through waves. The second surface is 23 degrees, enabling air to flow under the hull to reduce friction and improve fuel efficiency. The third and outermost surface is 22 degrees, enhancing stability at rest. A full windshield protects the consoles, and back-to-back seating accommodates a full crew. The helm has room for an optional Garmin 7-inch display. The port console houses a private head compartment with a standard portable marine toilet. The 226 DC features a 21-gallon livewell, insulated bow fish lockers, and plenty of rod holders for days when fishing is a top priority. Power comes in the form of a single 150 or 200 hp outboard from Mercury, Suzuki or Yamaha. A transom door allows access to the swim platform, and the walk-through windshield panel ­offers easy access to lounge seats in the bow.

Sailfish Boats – sailfishboats.com

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One of the latest brands to join the ranks of the 40-something center-console league is California-based custom builder Mag Bay Yachts with its 43 CC featuring a patented Cross Step hull design. The 43 CC reflects Mag Bay’s signature styling, which includes an intricately contoured tumblehome in the stern quarters, a sweeping sheer that dips ever so slightly at the forepeak, and a healthy bow flare. Fishing features include a 75-gallon transom livewell and 525 gallons of in-sole fish-locker capacity. Two rows of helm chairs offer posh seating for six, and the console interior features a berth and an enclosed head with a shower. Available power includes twin or triple Mercury Verado 600 hp V-12s or quad 400 hp V-10s. The hardtop boasts a polished stainless-steel frame and incorporates an overhead electronics box that will accommodate a flush-mount multifunction display to augment the pair of flush-mount MFDs already at the helm. Digital switching controls all ship’s systems. A wraparound windshield protects the helm. A starboard side door facilitates boarding, swimming and landing big fish. 

Mag Bay Yachts – magbayyachts.com

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When heading out to sea, there is one saying that should be top of mind for any captain of a vessel: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Simply put, it is better and easier to stop a problem from happening than to correct it after it has started. I know, because I have been there and done that. In several instances checking a simple fitting to make sure that it was secure would have prevented what was luckily only misadventure, not tragedy.

Fire on Fishing Boats

A recent fire on a large commercial fishing catcher-processor, the Kodiak Enterprise, brought a whole host of issues to mind. As luck would have it, this vessel was tied to the dock when a fire broke out that burned for several days. Another commercial fishing vessel owned by the same company also burned for days at the same dock. Makes one wonder? There are any number of things that could go wrong, but the recent fire has yet to have the cause determined.

Should the average boater be concerned about a fire onboard? Well, as for the concern, yes. Boaters and anglers should be aware of the possibility. However, by being aware, the concern should be minimized.

Causes of Fishing Boat Fires

There are a number of reasons for fishing boat fires. About 35 percent of boat fires are caused by direct current, or DC, electrical issues. These would be issues with the boat’s charging and house electrical system, with chafed wiring being the biggest problem. In most cases that is the start and it goes downhill from there.

On bigger boats, the alternating current, or AC, electrical system is a big cause of fire. This often relates to vessels being plugged into shore power and the circuits getting overloaded. Electrical fires can get started quietly and this gives them time to become harder to control once they are discovered.

On boats with inboard engines, the cooling system can be the source of fire trouble. Once an engine compartment becomes overheated there are a number of potential problems. Also, boats currently run on combustible fuels. In any enclosed area, the fuel and the fumes from leaking tanks or lines become lethal with any kind of ignition, either spark or heat.

One of the easiest causes of fire to avoid is spontaneous combustion. Often this happens when a boat is in the boatyard and under repair. Oily rags get piled in a corner and within a short period they ignite. These fires quite often take out multiple boats which are stored close together.

Avoiding Fire on Fishing Boats

Can all boat fires be avoided? Likely not, but the risk can be minimized. Visual inspection of wiring that passes through bulkheads to make sure it is bundled and properly wrapped for protection can help eliminate electrical issues. So can making sure that wiring has not come loose and is resting against a hot or moving surface. Ensuring bilge blowers are working helps get rid of potentially dangerous fuel fumes. A metal container that seals fairly well is a reasonable place to put oily rags and adding some water won’t hurt.

What to Do if a Fishing Boat Catches Fire

If a fire breaks out while at sea, what should your first reaction be? Simple answer: Get on PFDs. Many bigger boats with inboards are equipped with fire suppression systems for the engine compartment. These are often automatically activated and hearing them go off may be your first indication of a problem.

In the event of a fire, make sure that you notify whatever sources of help you can. If there are any other boats in the area, they are required to come to your aid. For outboard-equipped boats, the fire extinguisher(s) that you check every spring or that the Coast Guard Auxiliary inspects for you will be true lifesavers.

It is hard not to, but don’t panic. Know what you need to do and do it methodically. If you have expended all your fire suppression equipment and the fire is not extinguished, you may have to abandon ship. Certainly, if the fire begins to surround the fuel tank(s), it is time to get away.

Environmental Issues Caused by Boat Fires

I don’t like to be negative, but the fire may just be the beginning of your problems. There are some liability issues as well, so make sure that your insurance policy has some coverage for this.

In relative terms, these issues will depend on the size of the boat. If the boat sinks in a harbor and the fuel escapes the tank(s), the boat’s owner will be liable for the clean-up costs. In some areas there could also be fines added.

Obviously, the bigger the boat and the tanks, the larger the potential problem. If the fire happens at the dock or in a crowded harbor, the boat owner will be liable for damage to other boats. So, coverage is important.

Now for some better news: Fires and explosions affect a relatively small percentage of boats on the water. Today’s boat builders have done a great job minimizing potential problems and building in systems that can handle most situations. That does not mean you can ignore the possibility. Always remember the Boy Scout motto, “Be Prepared.”

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The Caymas 34 CT is a new-school cat with dual-stepped, semi-asymmetric hulls. These semi-asymmetric sponsons are mirror images of each other, and an important key to this design is that the outside running surface of each is longer than the inside running surface of each. This allows the boat to comfortably lean into turns at high speed like a mono-hull (more on this later). A cat’s sponsons also need to give you a smooth ride, and Caymas’ Earl Bentz got this down pat when he and his team pulled together their engineers to design the 34 CT, the first multi-hull model from this brand.

Our test boat planed in around 4 seconds. It punched through to 30 in under 9 seconds, impressive for a boat weighing almost 14,000 pounds with twin Mercury V-10 400 hp outboards. We had 25- to 30-knot winds on test day, so we stayed in the Intracoastal Waterway, which was miles wide in our location. Waves rumpled to ­nearly 3 feet at times, but the 34 handled them like warm butter. Mega-yachts plied those waters, and we slid over their wakes without slowing or shaking the crew. At rest and idle, we turned our beam to the seas and the 34 CT straddled them with the grace of a hurdle jumper in slow motion. 

A quick spin of the helm and a heavy hand on the throttle dissolved any doubt about handling. At ­barely planing speeds, the 34 CT heeled a little outwardly in turns. But at speeds closer to cruise—about 4,000 rpm—the 34 CT tucked its inside shoulder, heeling ­into the turn safely, swiftly and comfortably, thanks to the semi-assymetric design of the sponsons. 

Then there’s the combination of Merc’s V-10 outboard power and the double-stepped hulls. At 4,000 rpm and 36.7 mph, this cat achieved 1.2 mpg in our test. That efficiency equates to a crusing range of more than 400 miles, even with 10 percent of its 436-gallon fuel capacity left in reserve. 

And when you fish, you do so in comfort. The deck was steady in beam seas, allowing us to traverse its ­nearly 11-foot width and 34-foot length without hanging on for dear life. With our toes tucked in the deck gutters and our thighs pressing the thick gunwale bolsters, we could focus on handling the rod or gaff, not staying on our feet. 

We had three livewells available: a center 70-gallon livewell flanked by an ­optional pair of 25-gallon wells. All of the wells are fed by heavy-­duty Hooker electric pumps in a Hooker sea chest. For the bait gluttons, there are also optional dual livewells under the deck. Otherwise, there are six fish boxes (three per side) with macerator pumps. 

Rod holders were strung like pearls, six in each gunwale, five shotguns, nine tuna- stick hangers under the gunwales, and nine more shared between the hardtop and leaning post. Tackle drawers in the front and back of the post and leader holders on each side keep all the rigging gear handy, and a cutting board slides out for chopping bait. 

Fishing-wise, it’s apparent Caymas put the right people on the design team. But the designers and upholsterers get their kudos on the comfort side as well. A pullout transom seat and dual forward pullout lounges offer comfortable seating to complement the dual chaise-style ­lounges on the console’s front side. Under those posh cushions is a ton of storage or another fish box, as you choose. Every deck compartment is insulated for multiuse.

The helm station is wide, as expected on a broad-beamed cat, but it left generous walkways to the foredeck. The ­dual seats are electrically actuated to slide fore and aft. We found the driving position comfortable with a footrest below and well-protected by a tempered glass windshield. To compete for coolness with the driving seats, a pillow-topped Frigid Rigid cooler electrically slides out from the back of the ­leaning post to form a pair of ­mezzanine seats. 

The electronics panel ­boasted two 16-inch Raymarine multifunction displays, but could likely hold a pair of 20-inch displays. In addition, the entire front of the helm station is hinged like a James Bond library door to lean aft, granting access to the entire wiring scheme of the boat. 

In fact, Caymas engineers did a fine job of making ownership easy with ample access to pumps below, batteries and switches in the leaning post, and ignition keys and circuit breakers in the helm head compartment. We nearly forgot to mention the organized storage drawers in there and the porcelain throne for crew convenience. 

With a windlass and polished stainless-steel anchor at the bow, and raw- and freshwater washdowns to clear a fish-bloodied deck, it’s pretty hard to imagine what else an angling family could need. 

Caymas Boats – caymasboats.com

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I’ve followed Regulator boats since the very first model hit the water in 1988. The enthusiastic folks that started the company have created not only a recognizable brand, but also a line of products focused on ­quality, fishing and family fun.

The new 30XO is no exception. It is a hybrid of sorts but all Regulator, with superb fit-and-finish and an abundance of seating and fishing conveniences. I tested it on a beautiful February day in Florida’s Biscayne Bay. Our test boat had just about every option imaginable to fit the needs of fishermen from Maine to Louisiana and Key West to California. 

With a length of 30 feet, 7 inches and a beam of 10 feet, 2 inches, the 30XO offers platforms forward and aft. The forward area of the boat is functional, with a molded anchor locker and lid on the gunwale deck. The test boat had an optional 96-inch trolling motor with dedicated batteries and a 15-amp ­charger. The integral U-shaped bow seating/casting platform has 187 quarts of storage on the centerline under the seat. Each side has flip-up backrest seating. In-deck is a 294-quart insulated and ­macerated fish box. 

The center console features a forward lounge with plush seating and folding ­armrests and handholds, with a 218-quart storage bin below. Our test boat had the optional half-tower, sliding sunroof access, and a second station with full controls, a Garmin display, a helm seat and cup holders. The fully molded hardtop features composite windshield supports for the three-sided tempered glass and ventilated windshield.

The entrance to the console is on the starboard side. Its interior has a full stand-up head with a holding tank and pump-out. Access to the back of the electronics panel is made easy with large upper and lower opening door panels. 

The 30XO has an ergonomically appointed helm. The optional jack-plate control is slightly offset to port, with the binnacle to starboard. Outside of that is a glove-box compartment with a light. To port is an optional inductive cellphone charger as well as the trim-tab control switches. 

The dash also featured two 16-inch Garmin 8616xsv multifunction displays. There’s ­also a Garmin VHF and a remote mic. Regulator ­also has a proprietary user interface called MyHelm with easy-to-use functions on the touchscreen. The system even has its own key fob for controlling the Power-Poles, jack plate, spreader lights, light bar and deck lights. There are ­also lighted buttons to manually operate the horn, bilge pumps, lights and wipers when the screens are being used for navigating and fish-finding. Our test boat had the Yamaha engine display on the dash and the optional Yamaha Helm Master EX joystick control. 

The leaning post has a pair of plush helm seats with fold-up bolsters and armrests. The aft legs of the hardtop tie into the leaning post and offer 10 rod holders. On the starboard side of the leaning post is an upper pullout storage drawer with a pullout waste basket underneath. On the port side are three good-size drawers for more gear and tackle. The aft side of the leaning post has a Corian top and three rows of drawers. The top row features two open storage drawers and a center drop-down with a freshwater coil hose. The second row includes two drawers that each hold six Plano 3700-size tackle ­organizer
boxes. The bottom ­drawer is full-width and features a ­removable cutting board. 

The aft deck has a host of features, including three flush-mounted flip-up seats with a pair of stainless-steel drink holders between them. There is a 29-gallon livewell in the starboard transom corner, and another 116 quarts of storage that can be used as a livewell in the port transom corner. Bilge access is via the lift-up hatch under the center seat. The bilge is neatly finished and easy to reach, with all components laid out for simple maintenance. 

Our test boat had a pair of Yamaha F300 four-stroke outboard engines. The 30XO ­performed well and was incredibly stable, even while walking around the gunwales. We tested with a half-load of fuel. The boat easily came up on plane, tracked well, and turned smoothly with no ­sliding. It handled the wakes we encountered with ease. 

We conducted the test with two people aboard, no jack-plate trim, and no tabs at first. We found this load’s sweet spot at 3,500 rpm, ­making 31.6 mph while ­burning 17.4 gph, giving us 1.82 mpg. At wide-open throttle and trimmed for speed, we reached a top speed of 56.4 mph, burning 53.2 gph and making 1.06 mpg. 

The Regulator 30XO checks a lot of boxes on the potential use categories without sacrificing functionality while keeping the user-friendly aspects of the platform pertinent for so many applications. The inshore, nearshore and offshore capabilities of this boat are many, and the folks at Regulator have done a bang-up job of executing the build. I’m a big fan of these hybrid boats because they have such wide-use appeal. 

The 30XO is an excellent platform with ample room for a few fishing buddies to hit the bay or the rip. Next, load up the floats and beach gear, and bring the family to the sandbar. There is no doubt this rig can do all of it well and in fine style. 

Regulator Marine – regulatormarine.com

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Limited-time offer: Subscribe and save with our Labor Day sale! One-year subscriptions to Boating, Cruising World, Marlin, Sailing World, Salt Water Sportsman, and Yachting available for $10 each through Monday, September 4.

Linking the words saving money and fishing is a concept many spouses have a hard time understanding, like when you futilely try to point out how much money you “saved” at the Bass Pro Shops sale while they, annoyingly, obsess about the large number at the bottom of the receipt.

Here’s the thing about avid anglers: We are going fishing no matter what, even if it means the kids’ college choices will be narrowed down to clown or barber school. But there are ways of saving money that don’t involve selling your boat that might create enough financial freeboard for the kids to at least attend community college.

How to Save Gas

The best way to spend less on gas is to turn the ignition key to the 12 o’clock position (aka “Off”). Simple, right? Well not only does shutting off the engine save money, but it can lead to stealthier, more efficient ways of fishing.

On the other hand, running and gunning while hunting for fish can be like a kid swatting at a piñata with a bat: There’s often lots of swinging and missing before connecting. A technique I like to use when fishing in new area is to find a fishy-looking creek that has good tidal flow, anchor at the up-current mouth and toss out a chum bag followed by a piece of cut bait on a flat jig heavy enough to keep it on the bottom. Then, I grab a sandwich and wait for the action to start. This is also a great technique to use when you have kids fishing with you.

Offshore Chumming

When trolling offshore weed lines for mahi, if you have twin or more engines, shut down all but one, making sure to alternate engines to keep the engine hours the same. When you finally hook a fish, shut down completely, toss out a chum bag and have a goodly supply of cut bait ready to slowly parcel out. While keeping just one hooked mahi on the line can keep the whole damn school swimming around transom, this method keeps them around far longer. It also works to raise fish when trolling past a nice patch of sargassum weed doesn’t produce an initial hit.

Drift Away

Drift fishing works well when there’s a vast area of likely fishing spots like small, rocky patch reefs or large swaths of seagrass. Drifting covers lots of ground and is silent unless your brother-in-law is aboard and banging hatches. If the water’s deep, you can drop a soft plastic jig or live bait straight down. In shallow areas, toss out a popping cork with live bait underneath. If you catch a fish, hit the Man Overboard button on your chart plotter and use the trolling motor to head back to that spot when the bite slows. It’s not a bad idea to become familiar with the MOB feature in case of an emergency.

More Money-Savers

• Instead of replacing expensive braided line, recycle your old braid by winding it on another reel with the used section first spooling on first, leaving the fresh unused braid to fish with.
• If using pricey fluorocarbon line, first fill the spool halfway with cheaper monofilament line.
• Replace damaged hooks on lures instead of buying new lures (this a good time to swap that treble with a single hook).
• Catch your own bait. Many people buy bait because it’s easy and they want to start fishing right away. But learning to toss a cast net is a fishy challenge of its own and is always rewarding when you fill the livewell.
• Keep a journal that details the place, conditions, moon phase, and tide when you catch a fish. It will make you a better, more efficient angler who doesn’t have to run around aimlessly to find fish.
• Take a kayak along to fish shallow areas your bigger boat can’t navigate.
• Try likely places on the way to your usual fishing grounds. I used to head 40 miles offshore on the west coast of Florida to fish for grouper in 40 feet of water until I fished with a guide who routinely catches gag grouper and jumbo mangrove snapper in only 15 feet of water going less than half the distance I used to run.

The post How to Make Fishing More Affordable appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

Our team went aboard the Caymas 401 CC during the 2022 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Watch now to see how this boat was designed for serious saltwater anglers. To learn more about the 401 CC, including MSRP and to see their full lineup, visit caymasboats.com

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