Yellowfin Yachts founder and president Wylie Nagler listens to his customers. They asked for a bigger boat; he’s launched a 54-foot center-console. They wanted a midsize boat that can perform a variety of tasks; he built a 26-foot hybrid. They ask and Nagler delivers.
Whichever custom-built boat one selects from an impressive Yellowfin lineup, from a 17-foot skiff to that 54-foot CC, Nagler pledges personal responsibility for standout quality. Every Yellowfin features the highest-grade materials and delivers a product skillfully assembled for the harsh demands of saltwater fishing.
Built in Sarasota, Florida, Yellowfin boats none-the-less clearly show their design influences in their wide flares and high bows. They snap onto plane on stepped hulls.
Yellowfin 26 Hybrid
Some boats have a single focus, but others, known as hybrids, are designed to excel at a variety of tasks. Yellowfin’s 26 Hybrid, with features of both the company’s larger offshore center-consoles and its legendary bay boats, is a splendid example.
With freeboard higher than a true bay boat but lower than an offshore CC, the 26 Hybrid can shift from fishing a shallow bay for redfish to running well offshore for such large pelagic species as tuna. Fish-box capacity is appropriately generous.
The 26 Hybrid’s livewell options match the needs of hardcore live-bait enthusiasts. Other choices include four leaning-post designs, T-tops (Key West, hardtop or soft-top) and second station, forward and/or aft seating and bolsters, and swim platforms. Its single or twin outboards are mounted on standard jack plates.
Survey Says: On Target
- Custom-built to owner specs and wishes
- Both fishing-focused and comfortable
Owners Say
- Most comfortable ride around
- Fast and fuel efficient; great hull design
- Best ride
Brand Says
- Serious fishing platform
- Unmatched attention to detail
Reader Response
- “Awesome ride in rough seas”
Specs
LOA: 26′
Beam: 8′8″
Fuel Capacity: 118 gal.
Dry Weight: 5,000 lb. with power*
Max HP: 450