Deciding On A Mid-Size Center Console
Versatile and ubiquitous, mid-size center console fishing boats are a popular choice with both inshore and offshore anglers. The average mid-size center console is between 21 and 30 feet in length and can navigate rough coastal seas thanks in part to an increased freeboard compared to bay boats. The layout of a center console with its’ single centrally located helm station is optimized to provide maximum fishability. Minimal built-in seating means plenty of room to move around the deck following a fish, and there are few obstructions to casting.
Consider the following well-known brands and models as you hunt for the perfect mid-size center console to take you on your next adventure:
Sea Hunt
Sea Hunt has been a rapid growth brand over the past decade as more and more boat enthusiast take advantage of a lower price point to hit the water. Sea Hunt Boats’ Ultra Series “delivers the most comfortable and functional center consoles in the industry.” The vision of this line is to merge the functionality of a center console fishing model with the comforts of a weekend family cruiser. Consider one of the Ultra models if you are in the market for a multi-purpose center console that will take you from tournaments to family outings.
Tidewater
Tidewater’s vision is “to deliver precision quality and refined craftsmanship everyone can afford.” Their Carolina flair and dry chine ride design elements offer a dry, stable platform even in choppy seas. Tidewater currently offers two center console lines, the CC Adventure and the LXF, with multiple models in each. Opt for the CC Adventure for a more angler-specific design or choose the LXF for a versatile boat with creature comforts that meet the needs of both family and fishing outings.
Contender
Contender’s sport boats are all semi-custom built and can be rigged to meet your needs. Mid-size center console offerings include everything from the 24’6” family and fishing friendly 24S to the 20’8” dual engine 30ST with a stepped 24.5 deadrise hull that will keep you dry even in heavier seas. Containers are very reliable boats which are known to hold their resale value in comparison to similar brands.
Everglades
The center console Everglades CC series has excellent weight balance and is built for optimal agility. This series was so well-received that Everglades’ 255CC center console model with a deep-V hull and ample fishing amenities was named the best fishing boat under 30’ by AIM Marine Group. Anglers appreciate the two tackle lockers, generous fore and aft fish boxes, a 20-gallon freshwater wash down, 34-gallon circulating livewell, and numerous rod holders throughout. Everglades
Grady-White
Grady-White offers anglers plenty to choose from with both their Fisherman and Canyon center console lines that are well-suited to everything from day cruising to inshore and offshore fishing. All Grady-White center consoles include an exclusive SeaV² hull design that has consistently ranked #1 in all eight J.D. Power and Associates Marine Studies conducted to date. The SeaV² hull is a “continuously variable vee” that sharpens in angle from the stern to the bow. This provides a smooth ride and stable platform even in quartering and following seas.
Yellowfin
Many of Yellowfin’s center console models are in the over 30-foot range, however the Yellowfin 29 Offshore delivers the same high-performance and innovative design features in a mid-size package. Anglers will appreciate plentiful storage, large livewells, and generous unobstructed deck space. A 225-gallon fuel capacity translates to a range of nearly 450 miles at speeds of 40 mph. Yellowfin is know for making a great riding vessel that is dependable and holds its value over time.
Ready to Buy a Mid-Size Center Console?
The mid-size center console market is rich with a variety of designs and configurations to consider. Seeking some guidance? We buy and sell boats and would be happy to help connect you with your dream boat! Check out our current inventory and give us a call to get started.