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The newest model in Pursuit’s lineup serves as a refreshing change of pace from the trend toward super­size, high-dollar, multi-­outboard center-consoles. The moderate price tag of the S 248 means it is relatively affordable for many anglers. But this doesn’t subtract from the center-­console’s superb seakeeping, spirited performance, fishing range, and abundant fishing features.

The S 248 has an LOA of 25 feet, 8 inches—16 inches longer than it predecessor, the C 238, increasing room in the cockpit and at the helm. A thoughtfully designed stern bench seat converts from a combing pad to a comfortable perch for taking a load off ­between fishing spots.

Pursuit has transformed the swim platform into a wholly usable area, thanks to a few innovations. Pursuit rigs this model with only Yamaha F300 DES engines, which have electric steering that eliminates hydraulic hoses. A single rigging tube routes underneath a hinged hatch cover that sits atop the splashwell, eliminating any tripping hazard so crewmembers can traverse its width with ease. Other touches simplify the boarding process, like a transom door that stays open with magnets.

Some anglers disdain bow seating because it leaves less room for fighting a fish at the bow. Pursuit left the center open so an angler can walk all the way forward. Usually, when companies have a windlass option, as with the S 248 ($1,475), it precludes the ­ability to add a bow boarding ladder. However, Pursuit designers found a way to make room for both features by setting the ladder off to the side.  

A 24-gallon recirculating livewell resides in the transom’s port quarter. A clear lid lets you keep track of the baits. A large drawer sits beneath the helm seats for easy tackle access, and just beneath this lies a 45-quart Yeti cooler that slides out on tracks to ease access to cold beverages. Overhead are four rocket-launcher rod holders at the rear of the standard hardtop. And there are four more rod holders ­located at the transom, in addition to four set into the gunwales alongside four ­jumbo cup holders.

One fishing feature missing on the S 248 is a place to cut and rig bait, which could be alleviated by adding an aftermarket rod-holder-anchored cutting board. 

I put the S 248 Sport through its paces by running out of the Fort Pierce Inlet in ­3-footers. Thanks to its 21 degrees of deadrise and hefty 6,050-pound displacement, it handled the seas easily without pounding. The three-sided tempered glass windshield reaches to the top of the standard hardtop, protecting crew at the helm from wind blast or spray, which it can clear with a quick wipe of the optional windshield wiper ($470). 

The helm on our test boat had an optional dual-seat configuration, with flip-up bolsters and two sets of armrests. The dash offers room for dual Garmin 12-inch displays. For rigging, you can access the wiring harnesses by releasing and tilting the entire dash panel rearward. 

A doublewide throne with armrests sits on the forward console, and the tall backrest features the perfect amount of recline. On center-­console boats of this size, entering the head compartment from the side can be downright comical for large folks. But the S 248 features a wide companionway at the front to make access easy. The interior can be equipped with an electric VacuFlush toilet ($3,050) with a 6-gallon holding tank, or leave it bare to maximize storage. 

We set up a drift as I cast a paddle-tail jig toward the rock jetty, hoping to tie into a snook. I moved freely from the stern to the bow thanks to the wide walkway past the center console. I appreciated the tall gunwales that allowed me to lock my thighs under the combing pads by taking a wide stance. After several passes, I declared the area a snook-free zone, so we headed inland to work the mangrove shorelines. With the engine down, the S 248 drafts 3 feet. But with the engine up, that number reduces to 1 foot, 10 inches, so it can fish in fairly skinny inshore ­waters by adding an aftermarket trolling motor.

Read Next: Pursuit S 428

Remove the cushions from the bow seats, and you can install a pedestal table that transforms the foredeck into a casting platform with enough height to throw a cast net, sight-fish, skip casts under branches, or cast a fly rod. (The port and starboard undergunwale rod racks each provide storage for fly rods up to 9 ½ feet long, with concealed tip tubes for protection.) When you’re not fishing, the combing pads pivot inward to form bowrider seatbacks.

The S 248 Sport is the ­only Pursuit in the ­company’s sportboat lineup with an 8-foot-6-inch beam, making it ideal for those who like to hook up their boats and trailer them to the hottest action without having to abide by wide-load restrictions. 

Specifications

Pursuit Boats – pursuitboats.com

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Anglers on the chase for big game offshore have been looking to Pursuit Boats to get to the quarry, boat it and return them from distant waters, and the brand has been faithful to them for nearly half a century. Its lineup includes high-quality, luxury offshore center-consoles, dual-consoles and expresses from 23 to 44 feet long. 

Pursuit received NMMA’s prestigious Innovation Award in 2018 and again in 2022 and is one of only a few to have earned the NMMA CSI award since its inception. 

Part of the Tennessee-based Malibu Boats family, Pursuit boats are manufactured in two state-of-the-art facilities totaling 395,000 square feet in Fort Pierce, Florida. 

Pursuit S 428

Pursuit’s S 428, flagship of the company’s popular Sport family, earned Most Innovative Product honors in its Center Console/Walkaround fishing-boat category at the 2022 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show.

Nearly 44 feet long to transom and 13 feet wide, and powered by quad Yamaha 425 XTO engines, the S 428 is Pursuit’s most powerful boat ever. The big boat carries an abundance of rod holders, three fish boxes, ample tackle storage and bait-prep areas, plus extra-large fridge and freezer boxes. 

A first for the industry—there’s that innovation again—is a second row of powered, convertible seats beneath the oversize hardtop. At the patented touch of a button, it slides forward to reveal the largest cockpit in its class. 

The boat’s multiple social zones are anchored by multifunction forward lounge seating, a plush aft-facing seat, a spacious and tastefully designed window-rich cabin, an electro-hydraulic hullside beach platform, a fishing-friendly and spacious cockpit, and a well-appointed entertainment center.

Manufacturer’s Remark

We are always seeking ways to advance through innovation while maintaining versatility.

Performance Data

• Test Power: Quad Yamaha 425 XTO
• Test Props: 16 3/8” x 21” XTO
• Test Load: 29,050 lb. including 525 gal. fuel, full water and diesel 
• Test Speed: 59.3 mph at 6,000 rpm 
• Max Range: 351 miles (0.71 mpg, 31 mph, 3,500 rpm)

Specs

Go big or go home! Pursuit’s nearly 44-footer is one of the biggest center-consoles available, giving ­anglers the size needed to eat up rough seas on the way to the offshore grounds. -Joe Albanese, Executive Editor, Salt Water Sportsman

More Info

pursuitboats.com

The post Pursuit S 428: 2023 Boat Buyers Guide appeared first on Salt Water Sportsman.

Anglers on the chase for big game offshore have been looking to Pursuit Boats to get to the quarry, boat it and return them from distant waters, and the brand has been faithful to them for nearly half a century. Its lineup includes high-quality, luxury offshore center-consoles, dual-consoles and expresses from 23 to 44 feet long. 

Pursuit received NMMA’s prestigious Innovation Award in 2018 and again in 2022 and is one of only a few to have earned the NMMA CSI award since its inception. 

Part of the Tennessee-based Malibu Boats family, Pursuit boats are manufactured in two state-of-the-art facilities totaling 395,000 square feet in Fort Pierce, Florida. 

Pursuit S 248

Pursuit’s new S 248 Sport offers the new buyer a gateway to the brand’s storied reputation and a solid bay and nearshore fisher.

The boat’s single Yamaha 300 hp outboard, matched to digital electronic controls and integrated digital electric steering, preserves stern space for access to water and beach and swim-platform storage, and makes fish-boating easier.

The S 248’s features include contoured seats with optional forward-facing backrests, built-in handrails, and in-coaming and underseat storage. The forward console seating opens to a wide doorway entry to a large head/storage area. An optional bow beach boarding ladder provides sandbar access. 

The helm, designed for standing or sitting, tilts aft for access to the works within. Equipped with Garmin electronics, it can accommodate two 12-inch screens.  

With a gracious entertainment area (particularly with the optional, patented fold-down transom seat and optional ski tow bar), the spacious cockpit quickly gets down to business at fishing time, with insulated port and starboard fish boxes; transom and gunwale-mounted rod holders; 24-gallon recirculating, clear-topped transom livewell; and gunwale rod storage.

Manufacturer’s Remark

We are always seeking ways to advance through innovation while maintaining versatility.

Editor’s Recommended Options

• Power Available: Single Yamaha 300 hp
• Most Favored Options:
  • Dual 12-inch Garmin electronics package
  • Windlass and stainless-steel anchor upgrade
  • Bow beach boarding ladder
  • Electric marine head system
  • JL Audio premium stereo system

Editor Says

Pursuit’s integrated transom platform extensions on each side of the outboard look cool and increase square footage of the swim platform plus enable easier fish handling around the motors. It’s a great example of styling that is practical. -Jim Hendricks, Staff Editor Boating and Fishing Group

More Info

pursuitboats.com

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While some anglers might view anything other than a center-console as a “gentleman’s” boat, Pursuit’s OS 445 powered by triple Yamaha 425 XTO outboards is a modern take on an express sport-fisher. Its ability to enclose the bridge deck and sleep six turns it into an all-weather mothership-fishing combo. 

But unlike its diesel-powered inboard counterparts, this 46-footer can romp at nearly 50 mph.

Pursuit’s designers created a boat that puts angler comfort in the forefront. That starts with tamping down noise levels. During our performance test of the OS 445 in Tampa, Florida, it displayed superior noise insulation with the bridge deck’s aft glass door and giant flip-up rear window closed versus open. At a trolling speed of 10 mph, the difference was 8.5 decibels. At an eco-cruise speed of 27 mph, it was a whopping 12 decibels. 

With a 13-foot-10-inch beam and a cockpit free of obstructions, there’s plenty of room to fish. Those who like to troll will appreciate the rear-facing mezzanine bench seat. An optional electric sunshade ($20,320) extends at the touch of a button. Gunwale height is the right size at 27 inches. Anglers will appreciate the standard Seakeeper 6 gyrostabilizer in rough seas.

A total of 10 rod holders come standard, with an option to add six more on the hardtop ($3,465). Three tackle-storage stations are strategically placed around the cockpit, and the transom has a rigging station with a freshwater sink.

For fish storage, there’s a 75-gallon transom box that’s 52 inches long. Two additional in-sole boxes hold 82 gallons each and up to 54-inch-long fish. The solitary transom livewell holds 50 gallons. 

The driver’s forward vision through the 60-inch-tall glass windshield is impressive. A Stidd helm seat is extra wide and electrically adjustable fore and aft, with 7 inches of height adjustment. For shorter skippers, there’s a flip-down footrest riser. The OS 445 comes standard with twin flush-mount 22-inch Garmin GPSMap 8622 displays, and Yamaha’s Helm Master joystick is within easy reach to the right. Pursuit also adds a standard bow thruster for quick docking corrections.

The triple Yamaha F425 XTO outboards represent the only power package for the OS 445. Our test boat had a load of six people with 520 gallons of fuel. It was surprisingly fast out of the hole, with the 20-degree transom-deadrise hull getting on plane in 6 seconds with minimal bow rise and without using the standard Zipwake interceptors. The zero-to-30 mph time was 14.1 seconds, but we reached 20 mph in only 6.7 seconds. The OS 445 maintained plane at 17 mph, which is useful when it gets rough offshore. Its 600-gallon fuel tank provides a range of 332 miles with a 10 percent reserve when cruising at 27.1 mph. This boat provides a strong blend of lift and sliceability. It was nimble during hard turns, and didn’t have that extreme lean that many larger boats with more deadrise exhibit. 

Those weekending to destinations like the Bahamas will appreciate the yacht-like amenities, including a master cabin with a larger-than-queen hybrid memory-foam-innerspring combo bed that flips up to reveal additional storage. The secondary cabin has a double-wide bed and plenty of headroom. An optional height-adjustable dining table on the bridge deck increases the sleeping capacity to six. A roomy head compartment has two entryways for privacy and includes a clear acrylic-enclosed shower stall. 

Heading to the bow is easy thanks to the 12-inch-wide walkways to port and starboard. This gives access to the giant lounge (with adjustable backrests) and forward bench seat. 

It wouldn’t be a Pursuit without luxurious features, like the flip-down 42-inch smart TV on the bridge and a smart 32-incher in the primary cabin. A cockpit table can be installed, and adding some wow factor is a hullside boarding platform that electronically hinges down for easy access to the water. A flip-down stern bench yields more seating. A cockpit grill is perfect for cooking up the catch, and there’s a full galley on the bridge deck. A tilt-down wine rack taps into the air-conditioning system for chilling. 

The OS 445 sports impressive standards, like a Panda 12 kW diesel generator and Seakeeper 6 gyrostabilizer, which is reflected in its $1.4-plus million price. Don’t like the white hull? You
can choose from five available gelcoat color schemes (starting at $7,975) and carbon-fiber outriggers ($12,080). This is a boat designed for serious saltwater anglers of discerning taste who place equal importance on fishing, cruising and entertaining. 

Test Conditions

• Weather: Sunny
• Location: Tampa, Florida
• Wind: Calm Sea State: Calm Test Load: Six adults, 530 gallons of fuel

Performance

Specifications

Pursuit Boats – pursuitboats.com

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Overview

Pursuit has a knack for building boats that offer high performance, terrific looks, and a layout that manages to include a wealth of comforts and angling amenities while leaving plenty of room to move about, mingle and fish. Pursuit’s latest model, the S 358, is yet another example.

Fishability

We hopped aboard the S 358 in Fort Pierce, Florida, and right away confirmed this family friendly Sport series model has plenty of seating and space for entertaining and overnighting, in addition to everything serious anglers need for a successful day on the water

Rod storage includes a dozen stainless, flush-mount holders (four on the transom and eight on the covering boards), and padded horizontal racks below both gunwales.

There’s also a tackle center with storage drawers and removable Plano boxes, a 32-gallon lighted recirculating livewell with aquarium-­style window, plus twin 27-gallon fish boxes with discharge pumps. Strategically placed outlets and mounting plates for downriggers, and a transom door further enhance offshore-fishing capabilities. Options include a Seakeeper 2 gyrostabilizer, 5.0 kW Fischer Panda diesel generator, 18- or 20-foot outriggers, hardtop rocket launcher, Mediterranean-style bow shade, aft curtain, three-sided enclosure, spotlight, FLIR Night Vision Thermal Camera Package, underwater lights and more.

Amenities

Seating starts upfront with wraparound seats and table. There’s a forward-console lounger and triple captain’s chairs at the helm. A table complements the mezzanine seating, and a transom bench folds away when it’s time to fish. A vented fiberglass hardtop incorporates overhead mounting, and glass windshield. The dash accommodates dual 16-inch MFDs among other essentials. Portholes and skylights supply ventilation and light to the, air-conditioned cabin, which features a settee that converts to a berth, and a head ­compartment with storage, vanity, pullout shower, and porcelain toilet. The cockpit features a full summer kitchen.

Handling & Running

With the S 358’s variable-deadrise hull with reverse chine, a pair of Yamaha 425 XTOs provide all the push it needs to perform at its best. The 35-footer proved stable and agile during a range of maneuvers, including tight turns at varying speeds. All the while, the smooth ride ensured everyone stayed comfortable and dry, even while taking on sizable wakes from passing vessels.

At the end of the day, the latest addition to Pursuit’s popular Sport series got our thumbs-up in performance, ­fishability and comfort. Back at the marina, the 3 hp bow ­thruster with joystick control, standard on the S 358, made docking in a tight spot quick and easy.

Performance

Lenco trim tabs, platform extensions abaft the transom, boarding ladder, JL audio system, anchor locker with windlass, through-stem anchor roller and stainless plow ­anchor, raw- and freshwater washdowns, hot and cold cockpit shower, and LED lighting are among the many noteworthy features.

The list of options is also extensive, and includes a Seakeeper 2 gyrostabilizer, 5.0 kW Fischer Panda diesel generator, 18- or 20-foot outriggers, hardtop rocket launcher, Mediterranean-style bow shade, aft curtain, three-sided enclosure, spotlight, FLIR Night Vision Thermal Camera Package, underwater lights and more.

With crew of seven, our test boat went from zero to 30 mph in 15.2 seconds, and averaged a maximum sustained speed of 49 mph at full throttle.

Performance

Test Conditions

• Weather: Sunny, 88 degrees
• Location: Fort Pierce, Florida
• Wind: SE 13 mph Sea State: 1- to 2-foot chop Test Load: Seven adults, 257 gallons of fuel

Specifications

Pursuit Boats – pursuitboats.com

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Yacht quality: Too many boatbuilders cavalierly make the claim. Not Pursuit. Not in a single one of the 15 models it builds in four lines, all of them as well-appointed to fish as to pamper their fishermen—or families and friends in a leisurely cruise or sandbar excursion. 

The Center Console series features a fiberglass hardtop, ample seating, and a bow sun pad that can be removed to reveal a no-skid casting platform.

The Dual Console-series boats have large tempered-glass, beam-to-beam windshields with opening center glass and a wind dam door. In larger models, a head and resting areas are beneath the consoles for longer excursions. 

The Offshore series combines seaworthiness and fishability in express and walkaround offerings, with cruiser-style luxury interior appointments.

The Sport Boat series boasts extra-wide cockpits and oversize hardtops, ready for fishing, cruising and entertaining. Larger models have cooking amenities as well as additional seating, cabins, heads and berths belowdecks.

Pursuit fishing boats are now produced at two large facilities in Fort Pierce, Florida. 

Pursuit S 358 

Pursuit calls the new S 358—its first 35-foot center-console—one of the few center-consoles its size with an enclosed head, as well as the only boat in its class with a split foldaway mezzanine seat, with its starboard side folding down to reveal a fully equipped entertainment center.  

Novel too is the S 358’s fiberglass bow table with synthetic-teak inlay, which can be raised or -lowered by an electric actuator to become a table, a sun pad, a footrest or flush to the deck.

Like its Sport-series siblings, the Pursuit S 358 features an oversize integrated fiberglass hardtop with a tempered safety-glass windshield, a through-stem anchor system and integrated transom extensions.

Angling-minded, the S 358’s open cockpit features a 32-gallon livewell, 12 rod holders, a tackle center, and in-floor insulated fish boxes with pump-outs. 

Manufacturer’s Remark

Pursuit’s desire to deliver the best experience on the water: Unrelenting performance that is built with integrity and a refinement beyond compare.

Performance Data

• Test Power: Yamaha twin 425 hp
• Test Props: 16 5/8″ x 19″XTO
• Test Load: 19,662 lb. 
• Test Speed: 51.5 mph @ 5900 rpm
• Max Range: 327 mi. @ 31.8 mph, 4,000 rpm

Specs

Editor Says

From extensive rod and tackle storage to generous livewell and fish-box capacities, anglers will find all they need for a successful day on the water aboard the Pursuit S 358. – Alex Suescun, Executive Editor, Salt Water Sportsman

More Info

pursuitboats.com

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Yacht quality: Too many boatbuilders cavalierly make the claim. Not Pursuit. Not in a single one of the 15 models it builds in four lines, all of them as well-appointed to fish as to pamper their fishermen—or families and friends in a leisurely cruise or sandbar excursion. 

The Center Console series features a fiberglass hardtop, ample seating, and a bow sun pad that can be removed to reveal a no-skid casting platform.

The Dual Console-series boats have large tempered-glass, beam-to-beam windshields with opening center glass and a wind dam door. In larger models, a head and resting areas are beneath the consoles for longer excursions. 

The Offshore series combines seaworthiness and fishability in express and walkaround offerings, with cruiser-style luxury interior appointments.

The Sport Boat series boasts extra-wide cockpits and oversize hardtops, ready for fishing, cruising and entertaining. Larger models have cooking amenities as well as additional seating, cabins, heads and berths belowdecks.

Pursuit fishing boats are now produced at two large facilities in Fort Pierce, Florida. 

Pursuit DC 246

Pursuit’s popular Dual Console series introduces the new and nimble DC 246. 

Family-friendly and weather-worthy, the DC 246 has the line’s integrated hardtop and tempered–glass windshield with a center opening and security latch, allowing easy coming and going through the boat’s cockpit, helm-area and bow social zones.

The newest—and smallest—member of Pursuit’s Dual Console line features folding transom seating and portside seating with an extendable lounger. Other options include a folding transom seat port side, which combined with the standard seating, creates a spacious L-style lounge.

At the portside console, a large fiberglass -inboard door accesses a head area featuring an easy latch-lock system and wood shelving.

Cockpit seating folds away to reveal the DC 246’s family fishability, with gunwale-mounted rod holders, a 15-gallon recirculating livewell and a 31-gallon insulated transom fish box.

Standard is the new Yamaha F300 with integrated digital electric steering (DES) and HelmMaster EX digital electric throttle and shift control (DTS).

Manufacturer’s Remark

Pursuit’s desire to deliver the best experience on the water: Unrelenting performance that is built with integrity and a refinement beyond compare.

Performance Data

• Test Power: Yamaha F300
• Test Props: 15.5″ x 17″ SWS II
• Test Load: 7,535 lb.
• Test Speed: 45.0 mph
• Max Range: 223 mi. @ 33.6 mph, 4,500 rpm

Specs

Editor Says

Pursuit takes great pride in solid construction and premium hardware. Their windshield and hardtop design are unique, integrating glass and support beams in a sleek structure that’s as elegant as durable. – Randy Vance, Editor-at-Large, Boating and Fishing Group

More Info

pursuitboats.com

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At the bow, an integral anchor locker with windlass makes it a cinch to store and deploy the through-stem anchor. Adding to the large, in-floor chamber between them, twin raised compartments provide insulated storage at the bow, as well as cushioned seating enhanced by powered backrests that fold out for reclining, complemented by dual stowable tables.

The cleverly designed forward-console seat hides a cooler underneath and turns into a double lounge with adjustable backrests. A trio of captain’s chairs with folding armrests, flip-up bolsters and lumbar support serve as helm seats. Behind them, an entertainment center with storage drawers, sink with hot and cold water, electric grill, fridge/freezer and cutting board comes in handy for fixing lunch.

The fiberglass, aft-tilting helm incorporates a foldout footrest and an instrument visor to minimize glare on the dash, which affords enough real estate to house a pair of 22-inch MFDs, panel of illuminated switches, and more. A supporting cast, consisting of a Ritchie compass, bow-thruster joystick control, Zipwake trim-system control panel, JL Audio system, USB ports and cellphone charger, are all visible at a glance and within easy reach.

A powered, second-row seating module slides rearward into the cockpit, offering two foldaway, forward-facing seats, and mezzanine seating in back has room for two more, while a removable table turns the entire cockpit into a spacious and inviting social and dining area.

Ladders on both sides of the cockpit provide access to an optional second station. A portside door opens inward for boarding, loading or pulling big fish on board, while an electrically actuated gate on the opposite gunwale drops outward, providing direct water access for divers and swimmers.

All-around coaming bolsters offer padding when fighting fish, and raw- and freshwater washdowns, and a hot-and-cold shower with pull-out sprayer, help rinse off decks, tackle and crew.

Fishing features include lighted transom livewells (36 gallons each) with clear lids to port and starboard, a pair of in-floor fish boxes—with a combined capacity of 66 gallons—augmented by a 68-gallon refrigerator/freezer box in the transom. There’s a tackle center with a storage drawer and four Plano tackle trays on each side, and backing plates and wiring on both gunwales facilitate downrigger installation.

Twelve flush-mount rod holders—eight on the gunwales and four on the transom—come standard. Horizontal racks cradle seven rods on the gunwales and six on the hardtop’s aft end. A stand-up rack holds two in the cabin.

Innovative windows let plenty of light into the handsomely appointed cabin below, which incorporates luxurious features, like an 8,000 Btu air conditioner, 32-inch TV, forward berth, settee with storage, food-prep surface, microwave oven and more. There’s also a private head with shower, vanity and mirror, countertop with sink and faucet, and marine toilet.

Other features include a 5.4 hp bow thruster for maneuvering in tight quarters, an integrated transom platform with a flat motor well for added walking space, and a diesel generator with 24-gallon tank that, with the 70 gallons of freshwater capacity and 22-gallon holding tank, makes the S 428 great for prolonged outings.

Powered by quad Yamaha 425 XTOs, Pursuit’s new flagship displayed plenty of pep. It jumped on plane, sprinting from zero to 30 mph in 8.3 seconds. At wide-open throttle, the S 428 accelerated promptly to a top speed of 59 mph while turning 5,950 rpm. Best efficiency is achieved at 3,500 rpm, where the 43-footer cruises at 31 mph, burning 43.4 gph. Negligible bow rise ensured unhindered visibility from the helm.

The S 428 also gets high marks on maneuverability. It responded instantly to steering adjustments, and tracked well in tight turns.

As for the ride, the Pursuit gets a definite thumbs-up. The sharp entry and 22 degrees of deadrise at the transom comfortably conquered the 2- to 3-foot swells we encountered outside Fort Pierce Inlet, never producing any unsettling thuds or rattling, or forcing us to brace while taking on the occasional larger wave. The reverse chine design deserves credit for knocking down splash, curtailing spray.

All said and done, the latest Pursuit passed our open-water test with flying colors. Anyone looking for an offshore fishing boat with all the comforts and conveniences for overnighting and entertaining, with solid performance and fishability, should consider the S 428.

Specifications

Length: 43′9″ | Beam: 13′ | Draft: 34″ | Deadrise: 22 degrees | Fuel: 547 gal. | Water: 70 gal. | Weight: 23,600 lb. | Max HP: 1,700 | Price: $990,835 w/ quad Yamaha 425 XTOs | Pursuit Boats: pursuitboats.com

Test Conditions

Weather: Partly sunny, 66 degrees | Location: Fort Pierce, Florida | Wind: South West 9 knots | Sea State: 2- to 3-foot chop | Test Load: Four adults, 330 gallons of fuel, 70 gallons of water

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Pursuit Boats are manufactured in two state-of-the-art plants totaling nearly 400,000 square feet in Fort Pierce, Florida, where patented designs are crafted using refined lamination techniques, vacuum-infused stringer grids, and validated installations.

Pursuit specializes in high-quality, luxury offshore-fishing boats, in express, center-console, sport and dual-console models from 23 to 43 feet.

A transferable Pursuit Protection Plan includes a five-year warranty on the hull and deck structure, plus a two-year limited warranty on other components and systems.

Pursuit S 378 Sport

There’s no need to make the tough choice between fishability and luxury in a large-format boat: Pursuit’s S 378 Sport checks both boxes emphatically.

Blue-water-bound with a 12-foot beam and a 22-degree deadrise, the S 378 Sport reaches those destinations swiftly ahead of standard triple Yamaha XTO 425 outboard engines.

The boat has a total of 10 stainless-steel rod holders, a standard lighted livewell (the second one that 27 percent of survey respondents require is available within a Fishing Package option), undergunwale rod storage, two fish boxes, and the lockable rod storage requested by 26 percent of respondents. Also available are outriggers, hardtop rocket launcher and additional rod holders.

An electrically activated entertainment center moves into place at the touch of a button, otherwise poised out of the way for hassle-free fishing. It features Corian accents, faucet and sink, grill, refrigerator/freezer, cutting board and more.

Survey Says: On Target

• Thoughtfully appointed with clever convertible mezzanine seating
• Massive amount of fishing space

Owners Say

• Great platform for fishing and watersports/cruising
• Love the durability, dependability in any weather/sea, and the way she runs through the water
• Takes the waves beautifully

Brand Says

• The Pursuit Sport Series takes the center-console boat to a whole new level
• Fish, cruise and entertain in unrivaled style and comfort

Reader Response

• “Made with exceptional quality”

Specs

LOA: 40′5″

Beam: 12′

Fuel Capacity: 427 gal.

Dry Weight: 18,000 lb. with power

Max HP: 1,275

Certifications: NMMA

More Info

pursuitboats.com

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Pursuit Boats are manufactured in two state-of-the-art plants totaling nearly 400,000 square feet in Fort Pierce, Florida, where patented designs are crafted using refined lamination techniques, vacuum-infused stringer grids, and validated installations.

Pursuit specializes in high-quality, luxury offshore-fishing boats, in express, center-console, sport and dual-console models from 23 to 43 feet.

A transferable Pursuit Protection Plan includes a five-year warranty on the hull and deck structure, plus a two-year limited warranty on other components and systems.

Pursuit S 428 Sport

The all-new Pursuit S 428 Sport is the largest and most powerful Pursuit ever—massive at nearly 44 feet long and 13 wide, it is the flagship of Pursuit’s center-console Sport series.

Even the range, capacity and power of the S 428 Sport are all big: fuel capacity of 547 gallons feeding a quartet of Yamaha 425 XTO outboards. Top speed is over 59 mph, with cruising speed 37 mph at 4,000 rpm.

The S 428 Sport boasts an industry-first mezzanine seat module that power-slides aft, beneath an oversize hardtop revealing a second row of helm seats. Bow seating, important to 40 percent of CC respondents, boasts the inclusion of hinged, power actuated, forward-facing backrests that allow either reclining or cocktail seating at deck level.

Below, a spacious and tastefully designed cabin boasts yacht-quality features and abundant light.

Swimmers can deploy and reboard at an electrohydraulic hullside beach platform.

An optional second-station tower is accessed from ladders on either side of the cockpit.

For anglers—Pursuits are fishing boats, after all—12 rod holders are posted in the gunwale, transom and bow, plus there’s undergunwale, undertop and cabin rod storage. Storage space abounds, as does cockpit room—among the top demands of 82 percent of CC respondents.

Three fish boxes include a 68-gallon refrigerator/freezer transom box and a pair of in-floor boxes totaling 66 gallons, all draining overboard. Lighted and insulated transom livewells are acrylic-topped at port and starboard, which is good news for the 52 percent of offshore CC anglers who use live bait at least half of the time.

With freshwater capacity of 70 gallons, holding-tank capacity of 22 gallons, and diesel-generator-tank capacity of 24 gallons, the Pursuit S 428 Sport is ready for outings as big as it is. And that’s big!

Survey Says: On Target

• Thoughtfully appointed with clever convertible mezzanine seating
• Massive amount of fishing space

Owners Say

• Great platform for fishing and watersports/cruising
• Love the durability, dependability in any weather/sea, and the way she runs through the water
• Takes the waves beautifully

Brand Says

• The Pursuit Sport Series takes the center-console boat to a whole new level
• Fish, cruise and entertain in unrivaled style and comfort

Reader Response

• “Made with exceptional quality”

Specs

LOA: 43′9″

Beam: 13′

Fuel Capacity: 547 gal.

Dry Weight: 23,600 lb. with power

Max HP: 1,700

Certifications: NMMA

More Info

pursuitboats.com

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