The centre console sport fisher have been around for a long time. The CC has become a popular sled with US anglers needing a platform able to get to the fishing grounds fast. For years you’d be hard pressed to find one of these great looking marine rockets over 35 feet. That is until now! In this article we take a look at how big a centre console can actually get.
The evolution of the centre console
The centre console was traditionally the domain of hard core seasoned anglers, prepared to trade comfort for function in pursuit of their quarry. This meant centre consoles we’re built tough with one thing in mind…catching fish. Models ranged from inshore bay boats, flats boats, deck boats evolving into offshore canyon-runners. So for most anglers looking for a functional purpose built sport fisher the centre console was the go-to choice.
We even opted to swap out our diesel guzzling flybridge sport fishers for these fast and functional sport fishing machines. Operating a charter company, targeting a myriad of offshore and inshore sport fish, a move to more versatile fishing platforms was the way to go. We needed a vessel with both inshore and offshore capability which could get our guests to the fishing grounds fast.
The centre console became the perfect option, the only issue was which one. With literally hundreds of manufacturers, choosing the right option and purchasing a centre console is a journey in itself. At the time, large centre consoles over 35 feet were pretty much non existent. But now, the evolution of big engines, hi-tech, design and demand for creature comforts, the centre console is much more than a dedicated fishing machine. The centre console is now taking on the big boys.
Big engines, meaner boats
Evolution is everything when it comes to becoming a market leader in the marine industry. It is literally a race now, after the 600HP outboard was recently introduced by Mercury Marine. I very much tip my hat to btw, for producing a piece of boating engineering that will certainly shake up the big boat market. Bigger engines can only mean one thing: bigger centre console sport fishers.
RELATED: Is the Mercury 600HP V12 Outboard Engine the best way to go?
The centre console vs. the fly bridge sport fisher
So why are anglers now trading in their diesel burners for centre consoles with quads? They’re fast! Who wants to take 4 hours to get out to the fishing grounds when you can get there in 2. Either way steaming to the grounds in a Flybridge or centre console will burn some serious fuel, but if you can afford quads and a 40+ foot CC, what’s a few extra penny’s between friends. Besides, hey! That’s what mates are for!
In any case, let’s have a look at some of the features that make owning a centre console a good alternative to your traditional fly bridge sport fisher.
Out with the old in with new
Let’s start by going back 15-20 years. At that time, if you wanted a sizeable centre console your only option was an inboard with a leg. Anyone who has ever owned an inboard knows exactly how hard it is to get a mechanic to service them, let alone look at one when there is a problem. Outboards were the traditional power plant for smaller trailer boats including smaller centre consoles. As outboard engine manufacturers started releasing larger motors, boat builders pivoted by building larger boats.
Outboard technology has come a long way over the years. Market leaders including Yamaha, Suzuki and Mercury have all been producing large outboards for a while now. You want a bigger boat with more power…sure just add an additional engine or two or maybe even four. It seems the sky, or the sea is the limit. With Mercury’s V12 600hp outboard revolutionising the industry, we look forward to seeing what direction other manufacturers may take.
Versatility
Let’s face it, being on the controls of a fly bridge sport fisher is great. Believe me it’s bloody fun backing down on a big blue marlin. Fly bridge sport fishers or game boats are fit for purpose when targeting big game. However, when it comes to versatility, the centre console wins hands down. The biggest advantage, is what I call the 360 degree fight. The walk around capability becomes a major advantage in fighting large pelagics and quickly stopping big bruisers from burying your $200 lure in the reef.
Whether you’re akin to targeting billfish offshore or prefer casting the reefs edge, there is no better choice than a centre console. You can do it all.
There is a downside…Elevation! That’s where the fly bridge has the edge. That being said, centre console boat manufacturers are already introducing tuna towers on their larger models.
Maintenance
This is a no brainer. Owning a boat that is trailer-able or liftable in the case of larger models is going to cost you a lot less in annual maintenance. Plus, not having to pay slippage and anti-foul fees will surely put a lot less pressure on the wallet.
RELATED: Improve Your Boat’s Range and Fuel Efficiency
So how big can centre consoles get?
Currently the biggest centre console sport fisher on the market is HCB yachts 65′ Estrella. The Estrella definitely pushes the definition of a centre console to its limits. With all the comforts and styling of a traditional fly bridge sport fisher, this vessel far surpasses the fly bridge for versatility and performance.
HCB power plants include a choice of 5 x Yamaha (425) or 6 x Mercury (450) outboard engines. The space on board is amazing, far surpassing any CC on the market. The level of comfort and finish is not akin to your typical centre console, they are downright spectacular.
The Estrella has been designed for long range cruising in mind. The 65′ offers 1500 gallons of fuel with sleeping for up to five people in one large stateroom, a convertible settee with a spacious bathroom including a separate walk-in shower. For those who enjoy a tan, there is the European inspired bow seating and comfortable front lounge. The rear mezzanine seating area is customisable with a variety of possible configurations.
This is a spectacular mega centre console. If you’re looking for a performance vessel offering unsurpassed luxury then this is it.
