Custom Sportfishing: The Ultimate Riding Experience

There is no definitive answer to the question of which is the best riding custom sportfishing boat. It depends on your personal preferences, opinions, and tastes. For example, do you prefer a convertible, open express, or an enclosed bridge sportfish? Would you rather build your own custom sportfish or purchase a semi-custom production boat? Do you plan on competing in tournaments or fishing recreationally?

Some of the most popular custom sportfishing boats include the Viking 82 Convertible, the Royal Huisman 171, the Release Boatworks 43 Gameboat, and the Merritt 88 Sky Bridge. These boats offer a combination of rugged construction, performance, range, agile handling, and luxurious interiors.

When choosing a custom sportfishing boat, it is essential to consider your specific needs and requirements. Factors such as size, speed, fishing features, comfort, and budget will play a crucial role in determining the best boat for you.

The best riding custom sportfishing boat for you depends on your personal preferences and requirements

Type of Boat

Do you prefer a convertible, open express, or an enclosed bridge sportfish? Convertibles offer the flexibility of an open or closed deck, while open express boats provide a more spacious layout. Enclosed bridge sportfish offer better protection from the elements but may have a smaller deck space.

Customization

Would you rather build your own custom sportfish or purchase a semi-custom production boat? Building your own boat allows you to personalize every aspect, from the hull design to the interior finishes. Semi-custom production boats are partially built and allow for some customization, which can be more cost-effective and faster to acquire.

Intended Use

How do you plan to use the boat? If you intend to compete in fishing tournaments, you'll need a boat with features tailored for that purpose, such as livewells, ample storage, and advanced electronics. If you plan to fish recreationally with family and friends, comfort and amenities may be a higher priority.

Interior Space

Consider how important interior living spaces and accommodations are to you. If you plan to spend extended periods on the water or entertain guests, a spacious interior with comfortable berths, a well-equipped galley, and ample storage may be essential.

Performance and Range

Think about the performance and range you require. If you intend to travel long distances or fish in remote locations, a boat with higher speed, greater fuel efficiency, and longer range may be necessary.

Budget

Custom-built boats can be more expensive, so consider your budget when making your decision. Semi-custom production boats may offer a more cost-effective option without sacrificing quality.

Recommendations

When choosing the best riding custom sportfishing boat, it's essential to consult with professionals and experienced anglers. United Yacht Sales brokers, for example, have a range of recommendations based on their diverse experiences and backgrounds. Greg Graham suggests the Merritt 72' and F&S 45' for different applications. The Merritt 72' is ideal for world traveling and comfortably sleeps nine people, while the F&S 45' is perfect for sailfish tournaments with its walk-around style and Seakeeper setup.

Mordy Miltz recommends the Garlington 61, Viking 64, and Bayliss 62. He describes the Garlington 61 as "the best riding sportfish out there" and praises its sought-after status and impressive performance. The Viking 64 offers a spacious interior with multiple stateroom configurations, and the Bayliss 62 is known for its stunning fit and finish, as well as its exceptional customer service.

Steve Castellini suggests the American Custom Yachts 63 or Hatteras GT70. He highlights the quality, finish, and performance of American Custom Yachts, noting that they build boats to fit the owner's needs. As for production boats, he recommends the Hatteras GT70 for its combination of spacious interior, tournament-ready features, and exceptional performance even in challenging conditions.

Ultimately, the best riding custom sportfishing boat for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By considering the factors mentioned above and seeking advice from experts in the field, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your unique requirements.

Some popular custom sportfishing boat manufacturers include Viking, Bayliss, and Merritt

Viking

Viking Yachts are widely known as the ultimate sportfishing boats, equipped for serious offshore tournament fishing. They are built at their American shipyard in New Jersey and range from 38 to 90 feet in length. Viking yachts are fast, highly maneuverable, and fun to drive. The Viking Convertible series, ranging from 44 to 90 feet, is particularly popular among anglers due to its precision maneuvering, wide cockpit space, and reliable engines. Viking also offers enclosed bridge yachts, open series, sport coupe, and sport tower models to suit different fishing and cruising needs. The company is family-owned and operated, with a focus on building a better boat every day.

Bayliss

Bayliss Boatworks is known for its world-renowned style, stunning fit and finish, and exceptional customer service. They build and refit sportfishing yachts, offering a full-service boatyard with expert builders. Bayliss boats are sought-after for their ride quality, with the Garlington 61 model being described as "the best riding sportfish out there". Their yachts are also known for their spacious interiors and fishing capabilities. The Bayliss 62, for example, offers a full-service and refit boatyard experience, with builders who are experts in their field.

Merritt

Merritt Boatworks is a family-owned and operated custom sportfishing yacht builder located in Pompano Beach, Florida. They are known for building iconic, highly customizable sportfishing yachts that are as much works of art as they are "battle-wagons" for fighting big marlin. Merritt boats are prized for their stunning woodwork, meticulous craftsmanship, and functional design. Their yachts are extremely efficient and well-engineered, able to reach distant fishing grounds while providing the comfort and amenities of a luxury cruising yacht. The Merritt 72' is a notable model, offering luxurious features and ample space for sleeping nine people comfortably.

Considerations when choosing a custom sportfishing boat include the type of fishing you plan to do, the level of comfort and amenities you desire, and your budget

When choosing a custom sportfishing boat, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the type of fishing you plan to do will influence your decision. Different boats are designed for different types of fishing, such as offshore fishing, inshore fishing, or canyon fishing. The location where you will be fishing is also important, as conditions can vary between regions. For example, a boat customized for Alaska may differ from one designed for Florida.

The level of comfort and amenities you desire is another key consideration. Sportfishing boats can range from basic fishing machines to luxurious yachts with spacious living areas, multiple staterooms, and high-end appliances. If you plan to spend multiple days on the water, comfort and amenities will be particularly important.

Your budget will also play a significant role in your decision. Custom sportfishing boats can vary widely in price, depending on the brand, size, features, and level of customization. It is important to understand the market, be clear about your objectives, and plan out a budget for both the boat and after-purchase maintenance. Working with a professional yacht broker can help you navigate the process and find a boat that aligns with your budget and needs.

It is important to consult with a professional yacht broker who can help you find the best boat for your specific needs

When it comes to finding the best custom sportfishing boat, opinions vary widely. Some prefer a convertible, while others might opt for an open express or an enclosed bridge sportfish. There are also decisions to be made about building a custom boat or purchasing a semi-custom production boat, and whether the boat will be used for tournaments or recreational fishing. With so many options and variables to consider, consulting a professional yacht broker is essential to ensure you find the right boat for your specific needs.

Yacht brokers act as consultants and can guide you through the entire process of buying a boat. They will help you narrow down the type of boat that best meets your requirements and facilitate the search by communicating with other brokers on your behalf. Brokers also have access to private information about a boat's history through internal industry resources. This includes details on the vessel's history, how long it has been on the market, and the motivation of the current owner, which can be crucial in understanding if the boat is a good fit for you.

Another advantage of working with a yacht broker is their negotiating skills and market knowledge. The purchase of a cruising yacht is a significant investment, so having a professional represent your interests and guide you through the process is invaluable. Yacht brokers can help you make a realistic offer, increasing your chances of buying a vessel at a fair price while protecting your interests. They will also assist with the necessary paperwork, ensuring that all the components of the transaction are covered and that your funds are safeguarded.

Furthermore, yacht brokers can provide valuable assistance even after the sale is complete. They can help you find moorage, maintenance specialists, and local training centers to enhance your boating knowledge. A good broker will stick with you, educate you, and be a friend and resource long after the transaction is finalized.

In conclusion, consulting with a professional yacht broker is important as they can help you navigate the complex world of custom sportfishing boats. They will work to understand your specific needs and guide you towards the best boat for you, ensuring a rewarding and enjoyable experience throughout the entire process.

Custom sportfishing boats offer a combination of performance, luxury, and fishing-specific features such as large cockpits, livewells, and rod holders

Custom sportfishing boats are designed to offer a combination of performance, luxury, and fishing-specific features. They are built for anglers who want to chase fish of all sizes and species, whether it's for fun or competing in high-profile tournaments.

Performance-wise, these boats are designed to handle rugged, blue-water conditions and provide agile handling. They often boast impressive speed and range, with some capable of speeds north of 40 knots. The hull designs vary and can include deep-V hulls, modified-V hulls, and even catamarans, all of which contribute to a smooth and stable ride.

Luxury is also a key feature of custom sportfishing boats. The interiors typically offer spacious staterooms, supple leathers, granite countertops, high-end galley appliances, and other luxurious touches. These boats are designed to provide comfort and convenience for extended periods on the water.

When it comes to fishing-specific features, custom sportfishing boats deliver a wide range of options. Large cockpits, or "dance-floor size" cockpits as described by some, provide ample space for fighting fish. Livewells keep baits alive and kicking, while in-deck fish boxes keep the catch chilled. An abundance of rod holders accommodate various fishing techniques such as drift fishing, kite fishing, or trolling.

Some custom sportfishing boats also offer features such as tuna tube bait systems, refrigerated storage boxes, and omnidirectional sonar to further enhance the fishing experience.

Overall, custom sportfishing boats offer a unique blend of performance, luxury, and fishing-specific features that cater to the needs of serious anglers who want to pursue their passion in style and comfort.

Frequently asked questions