You don’t need a huge boat for inshore fishing, but you do want a seaworthy one. Here are five of our favorite center-consoles of 24 feet or less.
Pathfinder 2200 TRS
This popular center-console bay boat has big forward and aft casting decks and a 35-gallon aft livewell. At 22-feet, 5 inches in length, it sports a 15-degree transom deadrise, an 8.5-foot beam, and drafts just 13 inches, so you can sneak into the shallows. Max power is 250 hp. Visit pathfinderboats.com.
Grady-White 231 CE
Built on Grady-White’s SeaV² hull, the 231 Coastal Explorer delivers impressive rough-water performance. Rated for 300 hp, this 22-foot, 7-inch center console has a stable 8.5-foot beam. With 16 degrees of transom deadrise, it drafts just 16 inches of water. Visit gradywhite.com.
Caymas 24 HB
The latest in Caymas’ Hybrid series, the 24 HB gives anglers the versatility to fish skinny water as well as offshore. At 23.5 feet in length with a beam of just over 8 feet, the 24 HB features 15.5 degrees of transom deadrise, drafts 16 inches, and offers a 35-gallon livewell. Horsepower maxes out 350. Visit caymasboats.com.
Carolina Skiff 21 LS
The 21 LS now offers a more refined design and seating, but is still loaded with fishing features. The 21-foot, 1-inch tri-V hull with a full inner liner maximizes stability and minimizes draft—just 7 inches. Big casting decks mean plenty of fishing room. Look for nearly 5.8 mpg with a Suzuki 150. Visit carolinaskiff.com.
Read Next: What to Look for in the Ideal Boat for Inshore, Inlets, and Beyond
Contender 24Bay
The 23-foot, 10-inch 24Bay offers expansive casting decks, 15.5-degree transom deadrise, and drafts just 12 inches to maximize angling effectiveness on bay and backcountry waters. With a beam of 8 feet, 4 inches, a transom bustle and heavy-duty jackplate, it boasts a 350 hp outboard rating. Visit contenderboats.com.
