Is A Center Console Boat Right for You?

Center consoles are extremely popular in the small boat market, largely for their versatility and their maneuverability. They are adept in a variety of conditions, and they offer numerous storage capabilities. Here are five reasons boaters are drawn to center consoles.

1. Design
   With the helm and the controls mounted on the console, you have plenty of open space to walk and fish. Ranging from 15 to 42 feet in length, center console boats can accommodate up to 350 horsepower, which means that fishing is just one of many options with these boats. Seating is normally in the bow and stern, with an enclosed head and a cabin on larger vessels. Therefore, it offers other uses than fishing, such as cruising, picnicking and friendly gatherings.
   
   
2. Ability to Handle Rough Conditions
   Center console boats feature extremely deep hull designs, which makes them capable of handling treacherous offshore waters and provides a safer experience. Because there is plenty of room to maneuver, you can have numerous fishing platforms and a high freeboard, which provides security in rough water. And the outboard motors are reliable and efficient.
   
   
3. Storage
   In addition to fishing gear, you can pack center console boats with coolers, water skis, picnic baskets and folding chairs. Other amenities include insulated fish lockers, storage to place bait or a catch, multiple rod holders and areas for your fishing tackle. They also offer additional, reversible helm seating. Meanwhile, ski tow bars can be mounted on the transom of center consoles, while T-tops can provide shade on those especially sun-drenched days.
   
   
4. Easy Maintenance
   Unlike traditional fishing boats, which have carpeting, gelcoats and full covers, the flooring on center console boats is a finished fiberglass non-skid surface. They are also “self-bailing” or “self-draining” cockpits, which means you can wash down the boat with a hose, sending the water out through drainage areas after messy catches. Finally, center consoles are mainly white, which makes it easier to keep them looking clean and fresh. They also have smaller covers that are easier to handle and install.
   
   
5. Variety of Uses
   Yes, center consoles are a fisherman’s dream boat. But they also have family friendly features that make them attractive to both the recreational boater and one in search of high performance. So, even if fishing isn’t your idea of a great day spent on the water, a center console boat still could be the right choice.