1. Grady-White Canyon 326
Length: 32′
Beam: 10’2″
Draft: 24″
Deadrise: 20
Weight: 8,500 lbs.
Fuel: 327 gal.
Max HP: 700
With over 60 years of design innovations, Grady-White has surpassed standard expectations of center consoles by adding extra features of luxury comfort. While its performance and practicality is unmistakably evident, this vessel includes a lockable console with stand-up cherry-accented head compartment, stainless steel sink with pull-out faucet, Corian counter, a lighted mirror and ample storage. Available at gradywhite.com
Expert’s Verdict: “With design ingenuity, spaciousness, a well-appointed layout coming together with the functionality and handling that we’ve come to expect from the brand (Grady-White), it appears that the Canyon 326 is definitely a great boat for moving up from a smaller center console or even down from a larger fishing machine.” – Captain Steve Larivee, Test Captain, BoatTEST.com
2. Freeman 42LR
Length: 42′
Beam: 11’9″
Draft: 24″
Weight: 14,500 lbs.
Fuel: 800 gal.
Max HP: 1600
The Freeman 42LR has been praised as Freeman’s largest fuel capacity ever and every fishing team’s dream. Its long-range fishing platform, ability to cruise at 45 knots and Teleflex Optimus hydraulic power steering set this boat apart. Available at freemanboatworks.com
Expert’s Verdict: “Whether you’re talking speed, seaworthiness, or fishability, topping the Freeman 42LR is going to be tough. Very tough.” – Lenny Rudow of BDOutdoors.com
3. Brig Eagle 10
Length: 33’9″
Beam: 11’2″
Draft: 24″
Deadrise: 22
Weight: 7,500 lbs.
Fuel: 155 gal.
Max HP: 600
The Eagle 10 was introduced earlier this year as BRIG Inflatables’ flagship vessel. Its RIB was designed to be used as a tow-behind tender making it more stable, lightweight and low-maintenance. It also goes beyond day-cruising and is seaworthy enough for overnight trips. Because of the buoyancy and durability of its tubes, it is virtually unsinkable. Available at siroccomarine.com
Expert’s Verdict: “This is a very capable boat built by a Ukrainian company with a lot of experience in RIB construction.” – Camelot Montgomery‑Swan of Powerboat & RIB Magazine
4. Contender 32 ST
Length: 32’7″
Beam: 9’8″
Draft: 20″
Deadrise: 24.5
Weight: 11,560 lbs.
Fuel: 310 gal.
Max HP: 800
Known as a fishing machine and built for kitefishing in Miami, Contender has elevated “performance through innovation.” It’s powered by twin Yamaha 300 HP engines. The custom fishing towers are perfect for finding fish and is equipped with a second station that is set up to keep captains well-informed to properly direct their crew. Available at fbmarinegroup.com
Expert’s Verdict: “Plenty of space for large displays on helm and Livewell systems meet or exceed expectations.” – Staff at Sport Fishing Magazine
