Center Console Boats

[Dman]

I just got back from Texas yesterday. We didn't make it to the coast but every boat that I saw was a center console. I know that they are for salt water but what is the major advantage of these boats or disadvantages? We don't see too many of them here in Wisconsin. I'm just curious.<br />Dman

 

[DJ]

Re: Center Console Boats

Dman,<br /><br />There simply is no better way to fish. They allow you to walk all the way around the boat and fight fish.<br /><br />Also, It's a lot easier to handle rough water while you are standing up behind the helm.<br /><br />Once you've owned one or driven one, you'll never go back.

 

[Chris Allan]

Re: Center Console Boats

I have used center consoles most of my life. Typical bays around here are choppy in the wind. The ability to stand and take some of the abuse with your legs in crossing a rough bay is a plus. Many fisherman are looking for signs of activity to indicate a "fishy" area. Typical tell-tale signs might be nervous bait, jumping mullet, birds circling & diving, slicks, mud boils and water discoloration. Standing gives the operator a better view. Also the ability to walk around the console lets you work a fish to the boat better and accommodates more fisherman. <br /><br />BTW: I made a trip up your way last year. Very pretty country. The lack of litter was also noted.

 

[jocko_nc]

Re: Center Console Boats

I see the CC layout as simply the most versatile, particularly w/ a tee top. Perso

 

[jocko_nc]

Re: Center Console Boats

Oops. I sneezed and accidentally posted!<br /><br />I see the CC layout as simply the most versatile, particularly w/ a tee top. And the only way to fish. Personally, I have no use for carpet, plywood, and vinyl on a boat. All are cheap and too easily messed up. How long does a Bayliner last? That being said, you can easily put bow cushions up front for days when you want a pseudo bow rider. Self bailing decks are nice and clean easily. Resale values of CC's good too. A bimini top absolutely sucks once you try a tee top.<br /><br />From my experience, chicks dig pontoon boats. Many guys go for the CC's.<br /><br />Oh yea. I bet the LEO's and Wildlife folks up there use center consoles.<br /><br />jocko

 

[Dman]

Re: Center Console Boats

I have not seen to many LEO's on the water but the DNR, from what I know, doesn't have too many Centers. Depends on the size of the water, ranges from Jon Boats to Power Boats.<br />Dman

 

[JB]

Re: Center Console Boats

Howdy, DMan.<br /><br />CCs were "invented" by Boston Whaler back in the late 50s-early-60s to allow fishing big salt water from relatively small boats.<br /><br />I fished from semi-vee aluminum, bass boats, runabouts (all fresh water) for many years before I could afford my first Boston Whaler, a 16', 1966 Sakonnet. I now have a 1980 Montauk 17. I still fish mostly fresh water, but I can go out when the lake is standing on edge without getting my butt pounded up between my shoulder blades.<br /><br />I think that a 17' CC is the most versatile fishing boat ever made, and, of course, I think the Boston Whaler Montauk is the best 17 CC made.<br /><br />