Author Archive

Today is an exciting day as we are proud to announce a new cooperative venture with Salty Shores. Video based reviews! This new premium service is offered to all skiff and marine related manufactures.

We realize video is fast becoming the best vehicle to present our reviews. We have spent the past several months looking for the best avenue to deliver quality, unbiased, entertaining reviews to our readers. With Sam Root from Salty Shores helping with the production we are excited at the level of quality and creativity we can deliver to our reader.

Today we have loaded the first is what will be many video reviews. We hope you enjoy the review and as always appreciate your comments.

Cheers
Capt. Jan Lemieux

Ankona Native SUV review by microskiff.com

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Review by: Curtis Cost Efish’nt³ Wright
Microskiff.com Pro Staff
email: costefishnt@4everwright.com

Once again I am given an opportunity to try something new. And like a few times before I am quite the skeptic upon first glance. Let’s face it I have a Masters in redneckology, and a Doctorate in hybridization. If it has been thought of in some sort of scientific way, I have thought of a better way. I get an email from a feller who asks if I would like to try out an anchor despite my reviews on other brands. “Sure thing ol’ buddy” I say to him. He gives a brief description and says it is the mail.

Now upon returning from work… yes I have to work a real job as fishing and reviews don’t pay. Yet. I find a box waiting for me. Once I opened it I thought to myself well heck, I guess he wants me to play Batman. It looks like a large version of a grappling hook from the super hero’s utility belt. It is light and despite looking very well made; my mind is already made up. It won’t work. Yup. Didn’t even give G20 a chance, just had it set in my ever so stubborn and hard head that this thing was useless.

Fast forward a few days, I show it off at a local watering hole. Well let’s be honest. I showed it off at an on the water bar to some of my drunk fishing friends. After a few pokes at G20’s handy work between myself and others I went on with my day. I think, I really don’t remember what happened the rest of the day.

My thoughts were I am going to have to carry some chain if I were to use this anchor. It is too light. Despite all of my thoughts I owed G20 a review regardless of my initial thoughts, so me and the boy went out to test a couple of products one day. First up was the anchor I was sure would not work. My first test was to add just a rope. Exactly like the photos show. I stand on a sand bar and toss the anchor in front of me and begin to pull back towards me to see if it will grab. Nope, it drags along the shallow sand bar. Once again I feel as though this will be wasted time. But alas, I have to try the product in as many ways as possible to be fair.

I head out to about 6-8” of water and with a 10-15mph wind I tell the boy here is the test that will put all to bed and we can move on. Again I throw the anchor into the wind and clip off on the bow eye. Nearly instantly the boat stops abruptly. Fluke I say, as we are on a coarse sand bar/ flat. The real test will be to head to a nice white sand patch with no grass or mud and let’s see if it will catch. After moving I yet again threw into the wind, and as quick as the anchor hits bottom the boat comes to a stop.

We tried various bottom types including oysters and every time the anchor would catch. Now I am giving G20 an A+ on the design and ability to grab on most bottoms in my area, however there are many bottom types in the state of Florida, and all of my tests were done in 5’ or less of water. The weight of the anchor too is a big plus to weight conscious boaters and it really doesn’t take up a lot of space. I apologize as I did not take measurements of all of my claims but trust when I say this is a cool little anchor. It will be residing on my boat for good now.

Now according to Greg they make larger sizes than the one I have, and you can get them powder coated as well. A few of you would benefit from this as I know pink is ya’lls color. Mine would run you about 55.00 as is and if you want to know more info please give Greg a call or drop him a line. Greg@g2omarine.com

727 505 4709.I will truthfully say, I am not the smartest bulb in the box, so I tried to climb a wall with it. Despite wearing a cape I fell and hurt myself. Not because the anchor broke but because I tried to fly over to another ledge. I called Greg and complained that the anchor did not make me any more super than I already was. He asked me to quit calling and that I had voided the warranty for trying such a stupid stunt.

As always, contact me with any questions Costefishnt@4everwright.com

Anybody want to buy a cape? Used, and slightly stained.

Check out this review on microskiff.com for more!

http://www.microskiff.com/reviews/products/G2O-anchor.html

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Review by: Curtis Cost Efish’nt³ Wright
Microskiff.com Pro Staff
email: costefishnt@4everwright.com

As everyone knows by now I am the greatest product reviewer of all time. I get calls from interesting folks who have read my reviews and they are now offering me to help get their money out of Africa. That’s fame boys.

As you all know as well, I aint from New York, nor do I care to ever visit such a country. I like my little slice of heaven between I-10 and Ft. Pierce. You know…America. When a friend from New York sends me something and asks me to try it out usually I just laugh and think of the old Pace Picante commercial…NEW YORK CITY?!? The way I figure there is no way any -one from New York could ever understand “our” style of fishing. The sun here is brighter stronger and fiercer than anywhere up north. Right? I mean they wear jackets and parkas and mittens and scarves all year up yonder right?

Sadly mistaken am I. I Hunt Fish has surprised me yet again, albeit not my type of attire for on the flats, but a very well thought out addition to their line. It has been asked for by many and delivered by few. A Microfiber shirt with a built in buff. As with their original line of Microfiber shirts this shirt is light, comfortable and stylish with its natural colors. The buff is sewn into the collar for snag free fit and finish, and surprisingly enough not at all uncomfortable even when not wearing the buff in it’s up right position. A well respected angler in our community commented to me on how this is one of the best shirts he has worn. He says” You know with this shirt and buff built in I do not have to worry about the bottom of the buff riding up and burning my neck between the bottom and collar”. Apparently I don’t think about such things as I like my neck red.

The shirt is as stated above and in another I Hunt Fish review very comfortable, even in the hot Florida sun. Dries quickly and does not interfere with your fishing. With the added buff you are sure to keep those sensitive spots on your neck and face well protected as the buff is the same size as any you would buy off the shelf. This coupled with a hat and good sunglasses you will be protected. I Hunt Fish has seriously thought about sun protection as this shirt is rated at UPF 30+. I guess their milky white skin can’t take the sun like my leathery blotched unprotected skin..

If you find yourself thinking I need something new to try check out IHuntFish.net and order a shirt. Despite it being offered from a New York Yankee, it is the real deal for Florida Flats fishing. The Guide Series shirts come in Blue H2O and Steel colors, and are priced at 45.00 right now. Sizes are Medium to XXL so some of you uh, larger folks can actually wear one. Truthfully Gabe is very passionate about fishing the Florida waters. He makes numerous trips a year just to follow his true passion of being on our water and chasing the many species of game fish that we offer. Gabe does know exactly what we fisherman need to protect ourselves from the harsh Florida sun.

Oh, if you guys order one, can you please let him know I am waiting for a sleeveless model, minus the buff. I do have a reputation to uphold yall.

As with anything, feel free to contact me with any questions Costefishnt@4everwright.com

Their website: Ihuntfish.net

Check out this review on microskiff.com for more!

http://www.microskiff.com/reviews/products/IhuntfishshirtsIII.html

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Extending The Possibilities

Simple in form, diverse in function, today’s tiller-based skiffs are the essence of uncomplicated fishing. A hull, motor and gear are all that’s needed to explore the shallows of your home port or those far away. Yet as any angler and outdoorsmen will attest, a modification or two always seems to find its way onto the simplest of skiffs.

One modification is a tiller extension. Designed to help better balance the weight distribution of a skiff and in some cases help plane the skiff off faster. Additionally, allowing for a wider variety of positions from which to operate the skiff. Whether a home brew, made from scrap PVC pipe and some hose clamps, or one of a growing number of examples made from super light carbon fiber to super strong aluminum, the choices are plenty.

Check out the full review at microskiff.com

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Venganza, Spanish for revenge, is an unconventional name for a boat company. Christopher Collier, owner and builder, is an unconventional individual. A 5th generation Floridian and boat designer, his great great grandfather was W.T. Collier a Florida Pioneer and the first to homestead Marco Island. Christopher Collier’s credit includes his tenure as Director of Design and Development for Donzi Marine where his step bottom designs were proven winners. Now he brings his passion and creativity to the small skiff market with the Skimmer 13.

The Skimmer 13 is a true microskiff with a LOA of 12’ 9” and 53” beam. Maximum horsepower is rated at 20HP with a transom height of 20”. The Skimmer 13 is rated for 2 persons or 450lbs. Most notable, it is the first modern microskiff hull ever designed to incorporate Mr. Collier’s stepped hull treatment.

According to Mr. Collier “The Venganza Step Bottom is designed to enhance performance and efficiency. By stepping the hull we reduced the wetted surface making contact with the water, thus reducing the overall drag and will allow it to distribute the load over the length of multiple running surfaces. Using multiple steps we can achieve a more stable running platform when working with non-fixed weights, the shortened running surfaces reduce drag and enhance lift. Multiple running surfaces distribute lift over the length of the bottom thus reducing bow lift and stern drag for a better hole shot.” Intrigued by the science I met up with Mr. Collier and his son, for a wet test.

We started off the morning with a few photos and a good looking over of the Skimmer. The steps in the hull are a bit less aggressive than I had anticipated but as was explained the steps don’t need to be as aggressive for a smaller running surface. They blended very well into the hull. A nice feature is the inverse spray rail incorporated into each hull side. These small, but effective rails are almost hidden when the hull receives a two tone color treatment.

Based as a one or two person backcountry protected water skiff, the unique size and footprint lends itself to the exploration of small back water creeks and canoe/kayak trails. The ride of the Skimmer is solid and comfortable. With it’s narrow beam the skiff will turn on a dime and give you a nickel back in change. It was a little wiry at first. Only the slightest of corrections are needed on the tiller to make the skimmer change direction. I would caution radical course changes as the skiff will turn, but your momentum may not.

Without a non stepped hull skimmer to compare it to, it’s hard to honestly evaluate exactly how much the steps improve the performance on the hull. The test Skimmer has a Mercury 4 stroke 20hp tiller with a stock aluminum prop. Top speed average with myself only was 26.2 MPH. Time to plane was 4.8 seconds.

Poling the Skimmer is a breeze. It will easily and quickly respond to your every command. With two medium build persons on board the draft comes in at 6.75”. The skiff exhibited only a slight crabbing tendency, but glided well. It’s short length allowed for quick and easy turning.

I know what you’re going to ask… “is it tippy?” Honestly, yes it is a bit tippy. Not so much that the feeling is ever present, but when the weight starts to shift around, you’ll feel yourself making adjustments to your balance while up on the poling platform. Standing in the cockpit or on the front deck, I found it to be no more tippy than any other popular short length and narrow beam skiff. In some cases it was more solid.

Storage is surprisingly ample for it’s size and beam. It is easily accessible and dry with access to electronics and drainage at your finger tips. Overall build quality was good on the test skiff, with only a few items that are already addressed in the production model.

The Skimmer is a smart little boat for the person looking for an inexpensive one or two person skiff for protected waters. The small size makes it easy to store and easy to tow. Storage is ample and over all performance is good. If your looking for a small skiff the Skimmer 13′ is one to add to the list.

Cheers
Capt. Jan

For more pictures check out microskiff.com

Venganza Marine
3332 26th Ave East, Unit C
Bradenton, FL 34208

phone: (941) 345-3779
email: ccollier.venganzamarine@yahoo.com

web site: http://www.venganzamarine.com
SPECIFICATIONS AS SUPPLIED BY MANUFACTURER

Specs:
Length: 12’9″
Beam: 53″
Draft: 4.5″
Dry Weight: 210 lbs
Occupancy: 2 people or 450 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 6.6 removable gas tank
Transom Height: 20″
Max Horsepower: 20HP
Max Engine Weight: 115lbs

Standard Features:
5 Year Limited Hull Structural Warranty
Custom Step Bottom Hull
All White Hull, Deck Gelcoat
Custom Full Deck Non-Skid
Vinyl Rub Rail
Bonded Hull and Deck Construction
Wide Deck Walks
3 Pull Up Cleat
Custom Deck Hatch Latches and Hinges
Stainless Hatch Latches and Hinges
(2) Rod Holders
15hp Manual Start
Standard Trailer (galvanized)

MSRP $9,850 Base Price with Standard Features

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Mavericks’ New Mirage 18 HPX-V

Maverick Boats introduced the new 18 HPX-V at the 2009 Miami Boat Show. The skiff is a new design from the ground up, based on the popular 17 HPX-V. Designed with input from several well-known guides including Mark Crocker. It incorporates angler friendly features such as an integrated removable cooler in front of the console. Recessed deck cap lip against aft bulkhead so passenger can use the lip for a handhold when running. Then allows for the seat cushion to fold down completely out of the way giving full access to the rear deck. A 28-gallon livewell located on centerline with recessed drain system, that allows water height adjustment and evacuates water at all levels in the well. Perfect for large finfish baits, enough whitebait for chumming or as a tournament release well.

The 18 HPX-V was developed as a Tournament boat, covering large amounts of water in short time. To accomplish this a larger more stable platform than the 17 HPX V, but not so large as to be considered a Bay Boat was designed. Thus the 18 HPX V was born. Length Over all is 18’4” with a beam of 6’8” and a maximum horsepower rating of 150. The new skiff is a serious backcountry bullet. Rigged and loaded with 3 persons we achieved a top speed of 57.7mph. In tournament dress with skilled hands at the helm, the skiff has pushed 62.5mph.

Amazingly though, with a beefy F150 Yamaha 4 Stroke hung off the back, the skiff does not suffer from overly pronounced squat while at rest. While it draws more than it’s smaller sibling the 17 HPX V, the skiff does not become unusable when propulsion is shifted to push pole. The large front deck offers the angler a wide stable platform to cast from.

Admittedly I was smitten by the pure power and speed of the new HPX V with the F150 Yamaha, but it’s usability once off plane that captured my attention. If the need for speed does not course through one’s veins then the option of a lighter 115 or even 90 hp engines would fit the bill. Top end and hole shot performance would be less than the larger motor, but poling draft would greatly improve.

Rod storage is ample with 13 rod tubes fore and aft facing. Cockpit is spacious and deeper than it’s sibling the 17 HPX V. The removable cooler/seat is comfortable and functional. Fore and aft storage compartments are ample for everything from the weekender to the full out tournament guide.

Most notable is the redesigned center console. Controls are ergonomically designed so the operator rarely needs to remove their eyes from where they are going to activate trim or jack plate controls. Tilt helm improves ergonomics while operating the skiff from a standing position. The center console also features a large flat surface to flush mount today’s most popular mid sized electronics. The console also has a locking removable door that gives access to an interior shelf and battery switch with main breakers.

Hull construction starts with Mavericks’ proprietary VARIS (Vacuum Assisted Resin Infusion System) with a specially blended vinylester resin formulated for the application. The hull is built using a combination of e-glass, Kevlar, Carbon Kevlar and rigid core material varying in thickness and density depending upon location and requisite structural needs. The finished hull weight, including stringers and reinforced transom, is only 275 lbs. Then premium grade wiring harnesses made in-house, custom to each boat, with Duestch connectors are installed. Lastly the skiff is assembled using premium grade hardware, including lockable compression latches, then dunk tank tested at the factory before being delivered to the customer. Final dry weight before engine is 965 lbs.

Is there room for improvement? The recessed lip on the rear cockpit bulkhead was a nice feature but after about 50 mph I prefer a more traditional grab rail mounted on the console or gunnels. Storage was spacious but having tested other skiffs from MBC I liked the non-drop in liners used on the HPX Micro and HPX 15T.

Overall MBC has developed a solid tournament skiff for the angler looking for a larger backcountry boat with speed and range. Yet does not become cumbersome when the fish push skinny.

Cheers
Capt. Jan

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MAVERICK BOATS
3207 Industrial 29 Street
Fort Pierce, FL 34946

phone: 772.465.0631
fax: 772.489.2168

web site: www.maverickboats.com
SPECIFICATIONS AS SUPPLIED BY MANUFACTURER

Specs:
LOA – 18′ 04″
Beam – 6′ 08″
Deadrise – 13 deg.
Draft – 9″ w/ F150
Fuel capacity – 26 gal.
Maximum capacities – 4 persons or 600 lbs
Maximum HP – 150 hp
Weight (approx. w/ engine) – 1,400 lbs. w/ F150

Standard Features:
Hydraulic steering
Trim tabs (recessed)
Yamaha multi-function gauges
Aluminum motor-bolt reinforcement plates
Freeboard carpet (redfish & tarpon)
No wood, no rot foam & core w/ premium resin
Premium fade-resistant gelcoat
Recessed hardware for snag-free fishing
Stainless steel thru-hulls w/ seacocks below water line
VARIS – Vacuum Assisted Resin Infusion System
VARIS carbon fiber/Kevlar laminate
Cushion package (1 aft deck)
Non-seat console
Completely flush forward & aft casting decks
Muliple below-deck conduits, both fore & aft
Poling tower
Push pole holder (3 deck-mount, shipped loose)
Rod tubes for tip protection (4 bow port, 5 bow stbd, 3 aft port, 3 aft stbd)
Wide gunnels for walk around fishing
Automatic bilge pump
Livewell/Releasewell (28 gal, aft center)
Foam insulated box (2)
Large guttered, gasketed, lock-down dry storage compartments (3)
Lockable center console
Flush-mount bow cleat (6 in)
Full closed-foam flotation throughout
12-volt accessory jack
Battery switch, 4-position
Console courtesy lights, LED (2)
Livewell light (aft center)
Navigation lights, LED (console)
Nickel-tinned fused wiring harness
Under-gunnel courtesy lights, LED (2)

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Chittum Skiff, photos and specifications by Jan:

Islamorada 18

With current economic trends to downsize and “do more with less”, cautious souls might be inclined to hunker down and wait ‘till things improve a bit before exploring new ventures. Not Hal Chittum, world-renowned guide and founder of Hells Bay Boats. Nope, Hal does a 360 from conventional wisdom and starts a new boat business with an ultra high-end skiff – the Islamorada 18 — that, according to Chittum, raises the bar for flats skiff manufacturing technology and on-water performance.

From the surface, the Islamorada 18 looks like a typical flats skiff: length 18’, beam 80”, and 12 degrees of deadrise at the transom. It’s when we looked under the surface that we began to realize something is drastically different about this boat.

For example, the dry weight of the complete hull is around 400-pounds. This isn’t an empty shell weight, this is every laminated component bonded to the hull. This includes the hull, deck, top cap, hatch covers and console. To obtain these numbers required a radical change in the typical process of building a skiff. Hal and George Sawley looked to racing sailboats and offshore powerboats for the technology to build their skiff.

To take the skiff from concept to mold Hal hired a team of naval architects from Vectorworks Marine. With their experience designing everything from luxury yachts to sophisticated Special Forces crafts, a flats skiff should be a no brainier. Yet with their design prowess, 5 axis mills and experience with advanced composites, Hal put them on task for months of trial and improvement. Every linear foot of the hull was sliced and modeled in the computer, greatly streamlining the plug/prototype/tooling process.

Most skiffs start life in the mold as a layer of gel coat, then layers of glass and core materials with vinylester or polyester resin wetting out the sandwich. Modeling their build from racing Unlike traditional pleasure boats that frequently use a variation of a vinylester/polyester mat/woven construction, the Islamorada 18’s layup schedule reads like a Who’s Who of high-tech composites: E-Glass, S-Glass, Kevlar, Carbon Fiber, Core Cell, S-Core, Airex, Nomex, pre-preg epoxy laminates that are vacuum-bagged to reduce excess resin before the hull spends the day in a low-temp oven to ensure an even cure.

Why use aerospace grade epoxy resin? According to George, a quality epoxy resin is stronger than vinylester by a factor of almost 5 to 1. The result is a much stronger skiff using less resin, resulting in a lighter stronger product. Epoxy is also nearly impervious to moisture absorption, an added plus for boats. However, working with epoxy resins requires highly skilled technicians thus costs much more. An added side benefit epoxy resins have lower VOC output than vinylesters, making it a greener build.

The boat is then sanded, faired, and shot with DuPont Imron for a memorable finish. The entire build process takes up to three times longer to complete. According to George, “Only about 10 builders in the US work with these materials and most of them build sailboats”.

After paint the skiff is moved to rigging and finishing. One interesting feature added during rigging is the fuel cell, a 30 gallon rubberized ballistic grade nylon fuel container with an open core foam insert to completely eliminate fuel from sloshing around. Easy to install and service, this fuel cell is lighter than a comparable aluminum gas tank.

With all the work, technology and pedigree, does it live up to all the hype? I got two separate opportunities to test the skiff. Both times were impressive. Ride quality is surprising superb, especially in a chop. Extraordinarily deep spray rails keep the occupants dry. More amazing is how such a light boat rides when the conditions go foul. Conventional wisdom says that heavier boats ride better. I have espoused this wisdom from time to time. A ride on this skiff requires rethought of said traditional wisdom. The combination of hull design and lightweight allows the boat to slice from crest to crest in a chop. What makes the skiff ride so well? I got a polite smile and “no comment” from George.

Performance with a Yamaha 60hp four stroke was good. Top end was recorded a few tenths of a MPH under 41. Recent testing with the new Honda 60HP four stroke recorded 43.5 MPH. Both tests were with two persons and 15 gallons of fuel. One unique test I performed was a time to plane at 3400 RPM. To do this test I trimmed the motor all the way down but retracted the trim tabs all the way up. From a dead stop to plane took less than six seconds with the motor never exceeding 3400 RPM.

The overall layout of the skiff is good. The center console with cooler was very comfortable for either standing or sitting operation. A nice plus is the toe kick area built into the console. LED lighting is standard along with quality helm controls. Mil-Spec aircraft switches, which are waterproof, sealed in epoxy with sealed breakers and rubber boots finish off the console. Storage space is open and usable. Six forward and two aft rod tubes per side allow for up to 16 rods total. Lastly, access the all pumps, electrical and other maintenance items is open and well thought out.

Running to the fishing grounds is one thing. Stalking them is another. Once I settled into my office on the poling platform, it was time to really put the skiff to the test. The skiff with a light load, two anglers and 15 gallons of fuel draws 8”, a respectable amount for a skiff with 12 degrees of dead rise. The boat poles and tracks very well for an 18’ skiff. Turning the skiff it rotates as close to center as any quality skiff. Hull slap is virtually non-existent. Even on the stern, which is one of the Achilles heels of many skiffs, Hal designed the skiff with a slight roundness to the transom to reduce the square on slap.

If stalking fish with fly rod in hand is not on the agenda for the day the skiff supports the live bait enthusiast with a 30 gallon live well. Adjustable valves allow the water height to be set for everything from shrimp and crabs to pilchards. Or in tournament mode it will keep your catch alive and kicking for the weigh in.

Is this the absolute perfect skiff? Not exactly. A flaw I noticed was the water line beam is significantly less than the top deck beam. This causes a bit of a cantilever when standing on the extreme edge of the skiff. While it’s I would not characterize it as “tippy”. I would say the stability is not as pronounced as other 18’ skiffs. There were also some aspects of the build like switch layout I would change if the boat were mine, but these alterations are simply part of the customizing process for each client’s tastes.

Hal and George set out to raise the bar for what defines a quality poling skiff. Have they succeeded? The Islamorada 18 is a very capable quality skiff with quality components and innovative features and well thought out amenities. Fit and finish is on par with highend yachts. From a build standpoint, they have certainly proven that there are possibilities untapped in the skiff market with epoxy resins. The bar has been raised.

Cheers
Capt. Jan

Chittum Skiffs

phone: (386) 589-7224 or (954)224-1740

web site: chittumskiffs.com
Email: info@chittumyachts.com
SPECIFICATIONS AS SUPPLIED BY MANUFACTURER

Specs:

* Weight: 400 Pounds Includes Hull, Deck, Cap, Hatches, Stringers and Console unrigged
* Draft: With Engine + Fuel: 6 Inches
* Length: 18 Feet Over All
* Chine Beam: 56 Inches
* Overall Beam 80 Inches
* Dead rise: At Transom 12 Degrees
* Maximum Horse Power: 90 / Less than 325 Pounds
* Fuel Capacity: 30 Gallons
* Bait Well Capacity: 30 Gallons

Standard Features:

* All engines come with stainless steel prop, premium shifter and tachometer
* New Patent-Pending hull design with massive high volume built in spray rail, a staggered split chine below waterline for silent polling and radius transom. No sponsons.
* Custom Trailer- Stainless Steel and Aluminum with walk boards, 3 aluminum mag wheels with Good Year radial trailer tires and LCD lights.
* All surfaces painted with Dupont Imron Aircraft Paint, Choice of any standard Imron color.
* All Stainless Steel 316 grade + Electro Polished
* Center Console / Ice Chest / Seat Forward: with storage up to 4 – 12 volt batteries
* Over sized hatch gutters with rubber gaskets
* Sea Star Hydraulic Steering: High Speed 2.5 Lock to Lock / Flush mounted pump under console
* Stainless steel 13” yacht steering wheel with ball bearing suicide knob
* 2 – Large dry storage boxes out board and aft with easy access hatches from boat or trailer
* 1 – Anchor / Dry Storage / Trash Compartment, center aft.
* 1 – Large dry storage unit under forward deck
* All Hatches fitted with Gemlux Stainless steel flush mounted positive tension latches, Gemlux stainless steel hinges and stainless steel gas shocks
* High capacity rod racks under gunnels with 16 large diameter, flush fly rod tubes running forward and aft. With under gunnels and rod racks covered in water resistant carpet
* Fuel Cell: 30 Gallons rubberized ballistic nylon, forward of the forward bulkhead
* Bait Well / Release Well / Dry Storage: 30 gallons, plumed for three levels, custom thru hull pick up with Rule Pump
* Aluminum Polling Platform: Carbon fiber cored deck with Sea deck pad
* LCD Lights in all compartments lockers / hatches / console / bait wells / gunnels
* LCD Navigation lights: Billet aluminum shark eyes from Livorsi.
* Stiffy Push Poll Holders
* Racor Fuel Filter / water separator
* Mil-Spec Switches: water proof / sealed in epoxy / sealed breakers / rubber boots
* 1 – 12 volt Odyssey Battery
* Rule 1100 gph bilge pump
* All hatch undersides carbon fiber, clear-coated epoxy for straight and esthetics
* Lectrotab high speed trim tabs 12” X 12” / 316 Stainless Steel
* Seat cushions custom formed from 1 ½” Ensulite foam / UV protected vinyl with laminated in nylon

MSRP: $63,000.00

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We at microskiff.com profess to be all things micro. Admittedly we are not all things very micro, namely kayaks. Our idea of manual propulsion typically comes via a push pole. So when we received an invitation to check out the latest kayaks from a skiff builder with a form of propulsion outside the necessity for upper body strength, we decided it was worth checking out.

Mark Caslow from Dragonfly Boatworks LLC contacted us about checking out their new line of kayaks, the Midge 14 Elec-Trek and the Midge 12 Fly Fisher. These kayaks are two very different approaches to a single goal according to Mark: “Build the best possible, most functional, kayak for the angler.”

The Midge 12 Fly Fisher is the smaller of the two designs from Dragonfly Boatworks with a length over all (LOA) of 12’ and a beam of 35”. The Fly Fisher is their “car topper” kayak. For propulsion the angler can use a paddle, or when optionally equipped, a wireless trolling motor.

The Midge 12 Fly Fisher with wireless trolling motor we tested came with a footpad control though we didn’t use it with our feet. Instead from the seated position we picked up the controller and used it like a game console controller. It was like playing a video game, only in super high resolution. After a few minutes familiarizing ourselves with the controls, we were zooming around, carving tight turns and wild zigzags. The Fly Fisher behaves like an expensive Italian super car. It was light, quick and responsive. The kayak can easily spin in it’s own length. One feature we liked about the Midge 12 was the fact that if the water depths got too shallow for the trolling motor, it can be tilted up and a paddle can take over.

For the angler, the Fly Fisher includes an adjustable backrest to stabilize against while fishing. It was a touch unsettling at first. Balance and positioning is imperative. Once we gained a sense of how the kayak would react under our feet it proceeded to be amazingly stable and comfortable for it’s size.

The Midge 12 comes in several build options. A simple 40-pound all composite model with padded backrest and integral rod holders, to a tricked out Fly Fisher with optional removable wireless trolling motor. Prices start at $1000.

For an entirely different approach, Dragonfly Boatworks offers their Midge 14’ with the optional Elec-Trek package. The Midge 14 is 14’ LOA and a beam of 28”. While the Fly Fisher could loosely be considered an open sit inside style kayak, the Midge 14’ is much more reminiscent of a sit-on-top style kayak.

Midge 14 base models start with an all-composite construction. Dry forward storage, center storage with an optional shotgun configuration, rear storage sized to fit a 5 gallon bucket and 4 integral rod holders finish the design while tipping the scales at 60-pounds.
Dragonfly Boatworks then add their “Shallow Drive” system that includes a 12-volt sealed battery, 12-volt 53lb thrust wireless trolling motor integrated into the Shallow Drive pod, and a charger.

Maneuvering the Midge 14 is quite different from the Midge 12. To steer, it uses a foot-controlled rudder system behind the fixed trolling motor, making it handle more like a classic American car from the 1960’s. However, when pared with a paddle, the turning radius is reduced. On the Midge 12 Fly Fisher we relied on the wireless trolling motor for most of the propulsion and maneuvering. On the Midge 14, a paddle was used with a higher frequency.

Fishing from the Midge 14 will mostly be done from the seated position. Forward storage is plentifully for a day’s tackle even when the electronics and battery are installed. Rods can be stored away in one of the 4-rod holders and if using small crustaceans like shrimp or crabs, they can be held in a bucket behind the backrest. Prices start at $2,200.

Both kayaks are built and finished with the same attention to detail that Dragonfly Boatworks gives to their skiffs. The kayaks are hand-laid fiberglass over composite construction. Each kayak is custom built to their customers’ specifications.
Developing a kayak for a market like discerning anglers is a difficult task. Developing two very different and distinct kayaks for the angling market is a serious challenge. This is what Dragonfly Boatworks LLC does best with their think-outside-the-box attitude.

Cheers
Capt. Jan

Video courtsey of Dragonfly Boatworks LLC.

DRAGONFLY BOATWORKS LLC.
4574 North US1 Suite 11
Vero Beach, Florida 32967

phone: 772.567.8835
fax: 772.567.8836

web site: dragonflyboatworksllc.com
email: dragonflyboats@bellsouth.net
SPECIFICATIONS AS SUPPLIED BY MANUFACTURER

Midge 12 open Fly Fisher w/ wireless motor Specs:

* 12′ X 35″
* weight 90-pounds (45-pounds without wireless motor)
* all composite construction
* adjustable back rest

Midge 14 Elec-Trec Specs:

* 14′ X 28″
* weight 100-pounds
* all composite construction
* 12 volt (sealed) battery
* 12 volt charger
* 12 volt 53lb thrust “Shallow Drive” motor
* wireless hand held control
* 4 integral rod holders
* forward dry storage
* padded backrest
* foot-controlled rudder
* rear storage (sized for 5 gallon bucket)

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Small, efficient, affordable are ways to describe Unlimited Glasswork’s Low Tide 25 or LT 25 for short. Based on father Harley Gheen senior’s original design from the late 1960’s. Son Harley “Pugar” Gheen Jr. produced unquestionably one of the most popular microskiffs on the market today. Along with a following of supporters as passionate about their boat as the family building them.

Harley Gheen Sr. was a senior designer with Bendix Launch Support Systems at the Kennedy Space Center in the late 1960’s. He spent his off time carving one-eighth-scale boat models and used the family bathtub as his test facility. Four years later Harley Gheen Sr. found his perfect design. Crossing the efficiency of the canoe with the stability of a wider beamed small boat, the Gheenoe was born.

Growing up in the Gheen family “Pugar” Gheen tended to be the family maverick. In 2003 Pugar took a side path and started Unlimited Glassworks, developing his line of Gheenoes including the LT 15, LT 25 and NMZ 15’ 4” (no motor zone).

Construction follows a tried and true method for cost efficient boats. Due to its shape the mold is two parts. The two mold halves are bolted together and then the construction process starts with a line of tape down the keel. This is simply prep for the next step. Gel Coat is applied then chopper glass is blown into the mold. Finally the false floor, decks, hatches and storage boxes are glassed into the finished boat. While the process may not be the latest and most hi-tech process it has a proven track record. Today combined with father Harley’s original Gheenoe brand there are approximately 45,000 boats emblazoned with the “Gheenoe” moniker according to Pugar.

I met up with Pugar early AM near Unlimited Glassworks test facility, the famous Indian River Lagoon in Titusville. In tow was a classic example of what the average customer purchased. The 2009 LT 25 “Standard” included only the most basic of essentials to fulfill a successful day on the water. Average package including trailer and motor is in the high $7000 range depending on customer build requirements.

The standard LT 25 included their front low deck, center storage box, rear seating and poling platform. Power was supplied by a new four stroke Tohatsu 15hp tiller outboard. This package along with safety gear, tackle box and rods would hit a top speed of 23.1 MPH WOT on an OEM aluminum 9 pitch three blade prop and two persons.

Designed mainly for streams, rivers, lakes and protected salt waters like marshes and lagoons. The LT 25 has very predictable handling characteristics. Though in tight turns the skiff will heal over on it’s side.  For folks who have never driven a skiff like this it might take a little while to get use to but once mastered the handling feels organic.

Stability is superb due to the hulls incorporation of the Harley Geen Sr.’s outrigger theory. The design was an answer to the inherent instability of canoes. Still it’s best to walk the keel line when moving about the boat.

Once up on the platform the skiff’s lightweight and relative shallow draft lent to a skiff that was easy to push. However would crab sideways and not track well in a light breeze. Spinning the boat from the poling platform was more work than I had hoped also. Instead of rotating on its axis it tended to slide while spinning. While easy to move it was hard to keep on tract and I worked harder than I had hoped. This was the only blemish I could find in an overall amazing package.

Popularity of the Gheenoe brand is undeniable. With boats plying the Alaskan waters halibut fishing or cruising through Belize, Chile and Japan Gheenoe has fans worldwide. A testament to their desire to build small, efficient, affordable boats without hyperbole.

Cheers,
Capt. Jan

Unlimited Glassworks
625 Childre Ave., Titusville, Fl 32796

phone: 321-269-9093

web site: customgheenoe.com
SPECIFICATIONS AS SUPPLIED BY MANUFACTURE

Specs:
BEAM – 56″
TRANSOM WIDTH – 44 & 41 1/2″
LENGTH – 16′
FREEBOARD TRANSOM – 16″
FREEBOARD CENTER – 11″
FREEBOARD BOW – 13″
DRAFT – 5″
MAX HP – 25
CAPASITY – 3
FUEL – Portable/Built In

MSRP: $7000 depending on build.

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