Some skippers just run their boats harder and fish harder than typical weekend warriors. If you’re looking for a fishing boat every bit as tough, rugged, and safe as the ones the pros use, we found an interesting contender. Aluminum is a common choice for first responders, and search-and-rescue crews, but recreational aluminum boats designed for ocean-going anglers are few and far between. That’s why the Makaira Gen3 26 caught our eye. Built in New Zealand, the 26-foot battlewagon is now sold here.
Makairas models range from 25 to 65 feet, rigged with inboards or outboards.
The Makaira is not built like most aluminum boats. In fact, this is one of few recreational craft you’ll come across that qualifies for certification as a “Special Service Craft” under the Lloyd’s Register. The 5083 H116 aluminum hull is an eye-popping 0.31-inch thick. For perspective, that’s about three times the thickness of a typical aluminum fishing boat.
A 5/16-inch keel bar and gridlike system of closely spaced stringers and frames result in a hull that is absurdly strong. We can attest from our sea trial, the usual “drumming” associated with aluminum rigs is eliminated, and vibrations are vastly reduced.
The Makaira stands out among other aluminum boats in other ways, starting with its flared bow, variable-degree deadrise, aggressive 50-degree entry, and a 19-degree transom. Paired with twin 225-hp outboards, the Makaira can burn across the bay at 50 mph.
Take a closer look with this walk-through video from Makaira.
It’s designed to fish hard, too, with a 21-gallon livewell, integrated tackle stowage compartments, six flush-mount rodholders, and nine rocket launchers on the hard top – plus three more in a removable bait table at the transom.
Inside the cabin (which can be fully enclosed or left open aft) you’ll find a small galley and a dinette, a helm station that comes with a standard 16-inch Garmin display and can accommodate a 22-inch MFD. Down below is a V-berth and head. $298,000 | makairaboats.com.