American tinnie maker Crestliner has announced the introduction of the 2200 Bay, a unique new model engineered especially for intercoastal fishing (as Yanks call it). But the sweet lines, hybrid fibreglass/alloy construction and inbuilt features should endear the boat to the swelling ranks of local inshore anglers, too.
The centre-console 2200 Bay has an all-welded, self-bailing aluminum hull with baked Armor-Guard paint job; an open, fishing-friendly layout; and a feature-rich helm built on a moulded fibreglass centre console.
The result, says Crestliner, is the best of both worlds -- a rugged fishing machine sporting a fibreglass look and feel, with all the durability and value of aluminum construction.
"We've devoted a great amount of energy and research to develop and design a boat that anglers will want to use for a long time," said Cecil Cohn, President of Crestliner. "We learned from real fisherman about what matters to them on their waters. The result is a spacious, comfortable and versatile boat that is built to take your next intercoastal adventure even further."
The 2200 Bay is said to cut through rough chop like a knife, yet provide exceptional onboard space for passengers and gear. Thanks to keel and chine extrusions, moderate 15-degree deadrise at the transom, a wide beam and reverse chines, the 2200 is remarkably stable and tracks like it's on rails, says the blurb.
But unlike competitors' boats, the 2200 drains directly from the floor to self-bailing scuppers, bypassing the bilge pump altogether and saving on battery life. In other words, the hull is self-draining.
At 22 feet and 3 inches (7.39m) in length, the 2200 Bay remains stable and commanding on turbulent coastal waters, claims Crestliner. The open layout with full walk-around space accommodates up to eight passengers, while the interior configuration has been optimised for easy manoeuvrability and superior fishability. In short, anglers have more space where it counts.
LOADED FOR FISHING
The deck of the 2200 Bay is loaded with storage, convenient features and seating. At the centre of it all is the 49-cubic-foot (1.244sq m) fibreglass console with stainless steel steering wheel, full instrument panel, Lowrance X4 fishfinder, windscreen with stainless-steel grab bar, forward seat with 60-litre livewell below, six vertical rod holders and four drink holders, and much more.
Optional console features include backrest for the leaning post with rocket launchers and folding footrest, tackle storage behind the forward-seat backrest, a two-speaker stereo system, a VHF radio and a compass. Complementing the centre console are elevated forward and aft casting platforms, complete with convenient seating and storage.
The 2200 Bay is said to be well capably paired with Mercury's150hp FourStroke outboard engine; additional power options range up to 200 horsepower. For precision guidance, a bow-mounted 24-volt MotorGuide SW82 Digital Great White Saltwater Edition trolling motor comes standard. For overland transport, the 2200 Bay includes an aluminum tandem-axle trailer with I-beam construction, vinyl bunks, and mag wheels with brakes.
ADDITIONAL KEY FEATURES
- Bow: large casting deck with stainless steel flush-mounted pedestal seat base; large centreline lockable storage compartment; port and starboard lockable rod-storage compartments for 7-foot, 6-inch rods; anchor locker with tie-off; trim switch.
- Helm seating: frame-style leaning post with up to 48-quart cooler storage (accommodates up to a 94-quart cooler); optional backrest for the leaning post with rocket launchers and folding footrest.
- Stern: aerated 30-gallon livewell; gear and battery storage compartments; folding jump seats with storage below; seat mount for Deluxe fishing seat.
- Optional Deluxe Package: Includes the Stainless Steel Package (stainless steel cleats, drink holders, grab handles, gauges), plus swim platform with ladder, additional Deluxe fishing seat and Elite 5 fish finder.
Crestliner will unveil the all-new 2200 Bay at this week's Houston Boat Show June 19 to 23. For more highlights and features of the current line-up, see www.crestliner.com and contact the importers via www.crestliner.com.au.