Center console boats are popular for their versatility, ease of use, and sleek design, perfect for both fishing enthusiasts and recreational boaters. These boats, characterized by a central control station (console), provide excellent 360-degree access around the deck, making them ideal for fishing, cruising, and water sports. If you’re in the market for a center console boat but want to keep the costs low, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 most affordable options, covering their prices, specs, and what makes each unique.
1. Bayliner Element F18
Price: Starting at $29,000
Length: 18′ 2″
Beam: 7′ 5″
Draft: 12″
Fuel Capacity: 30 gallons
Max Horsepower: 115 HP
The Bayliner Element F18 is designed for families and anglers alike. Its M-hull design offers stability and smooth rides, while the center console ensures ample deck space. With its affordable price point and practical features like ample storage, non-skid decking, and rod holders, it’s a great entry-level boat.
Key Features:
- M-hull for stability
- Multiple rod holders for fishing
- Easy handling and lightweight
2. Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC
Price: Starting at $25,000
Length: 17′ 4″
Beam: 6′ 11″
Draft: 9″
Fuel Capacity: 6.6 gallons
Max Horsepower: 60 HP
The Mako Pro Skiff 17 CC is ideal for inshore fishing, with a stable and comfortable ride thanks to its Advanced Inverted V (AIV) hull. It’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and has a shallow draft, perfect for exploring backwaters. The boat comes with plenty of storage for fishing gear and seating for the family.
Key Features:
- AIV hull for smooth rides
- Lightweight and nimble
- Affordable entry-level pricing
3. Sportsman Open 212 Center Console
Price: Starting at $55,000
Length: 21′ 4″
Beam: 8′ 5″
Draft: 15″
Fuel Capacity: 64 gallons
Max Horsepower: 200 HP
For those seeking a bit more power and space, the Sportsman Open 212 offers an upgraded boating experience. Equipped with top-of-the-line electronics, a spacious layout, and plenty of storage, it’s a perfect choice for serious anglers. Its SeaStar hydraulic steering and Yamaha engine options add a premium touch at a reasonable price.
Key Features:
- Ample storage for fishing gear
- Advanced electronics package
- Spacious and well-built
4. Key West 189 FS
Price: Starting at $41,000
Length: 18′ 9″
Beam: 8′
Draft: 12″
Fuel Capacity: 40 gallons
Max Horsepower: 150 HP
The Key West 189 FS is a family-friendly, affordable center console boat offering a dry and stable ride. This boat includes features that appeal to both serious anglers and casual boaters, such as built-in rod holders, a live well, and comfortable seating. Its durability and handling make it a fantastic option for bay and nearshore fishing.
Key Features:
- Built-in rod holders and live well
- Comfortable seating for family
- Dry and stable ride
5. NauticStar 191 Hybrid
Price: Starting at $35,000
Length: 18′ 9″
Beam: 8′
Draft: 13″
Fuel Capacity: 43 gallons
Max Horsepower: 150 HP
The NauticStar 191 Hybrid is the perfect balance between a fishing and family boat. It’s versatile enough to cruise nearshore, fish in the bay, or even enjoy water sports. With a large casting deck, a center console layout, and plenty of storage for tackle and gear, it’s a popular choice for multi-purpose boaters.
Key Features:
- Versatile hybrid for fishing and cruising
- Large casting deck
- Ample storage
6. Carolina Skiff 19 LS
Price: Starting at $33,000
Length: 19′
Beam: 8′
Draft: 6″
Fuel Capacity: 30 gallons
Max Horsepower: 115 HP
Carolina Skiff is well-known for producing budget-friendly boats, and the 19 LS is no exception. This lightweight boat is highly customizable, offering a variety of seating arrangements and storage options to fit your needs. Whether you want a no-frills fishing machine or a comfortable family boat, the 19 LS has you covered.
Key Features:
- Customizable seating options
- Lightweight and shallow draft
- Great value for money
7. Sea Hunt Triton 225
Price: Starting at $65,000
Length: 22′ 5″
Beam: 8′ 6″
Draft: 18″
Fuel Capacity: 70 gallons
Max Horsepower: 250 HP
The Sea Hunt Triton 225 offers a step up in size and performance, designed for anglers who want to venture further offshore. Its deep-V hull ensures a smooth ride even in choppy waters, and it comes with a host of fishing-specific features like rod holders, a live well, and under-gunwale storage.
Key Features:
- Deep-V hull for offshore capability
- Fishing-friendly features
- Comfortable for long trips
8. Robalo R180
Price: Starting at $42,000
Length: 18′ 4″
Beam: 8′
Draft: 12″
Fuel Capacity: 50 gallons
Max Horsepower: 150 HP
Robalo is known for building solid, well-crafted boats, and the R180 delivers on all fronts. With a smooth, stable ride and plenty of storage for gear, this boat is perfect for inshore and offshore adventures. It also comes equipped with quality electronics and fishing-friendly features, including multiple rod holders and a large live well.
Key Features:
- Stable ride with quality construction
- Large live well and rod holders
- Ideal for both inshore and offshore fishing
9. Scout 177 Sport
Price: Starting at $34,000
Length: 17′ 7″
Beam: 7′ 5″
Draft: 10″
Fuel Capacity: 21 gallons
Max Horsepower: 90 HP
The Scout 177 Sport is a compact, nimble boat that doesn’t compromise on quality. It’s perfect for those who want a small, easy-to-trailer boat without sacrificing performance. This boat is great for inshore fishing and family outings, with comfortable seating and a reliable Yamaha engine option.
Key Features:
- Easy to tow and trailer
- Ideal for inshore fishing
- High-quality build
10. Tracker Targa V-18 WT
Price: Starting at $39,000
Length: 18′ 7″
Beam: 8′ 6″
Draft: 13″
Fuel Capacity: 40 gallons
Max Horsepower: 200 HP
The Tracker Targa V-18 WT is a versatile boat designed for fishing and watersports. With its all-welded aluminum construction, it’s durable and lightweight, making it perfect for lakes and rivers. This model includes ample storage, built-in fishing features, and family-friendly amenities.
Key Features:
- All-welded aluminum hull
- Ample storage and fishing amenities
- Suitable for fishing and watersports
Conclusion
Choosing the right center console boat often boils down to balancing budget with the features you need. Whether you’re looking for a small, family-friendly boat like the Bayliner Element F18 or something more rugged for offshore adventures like the Sea Hunt Triton 225, this list of 10 most affordable center console boats offers something for everyone.
When deciding, remember to consider not just the upfront cost but also ongoing maintenance, fuel consumption, and where you’ll primarily use the boat. No matter your choice, these boats offer great value for those looking to get out on the water without breaking the bank.
Happy Boating!
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