The Scarab 29 Sport Open, the newest addition to Wellcraft’s growing fleet of fishing boats, is true to her high-speed bloodlines. She will reach a top speed of 57 mph with twin 225 hp Mercury XXL Optimax Saltwater outboards, and she will get up on a full plane within four seconds of applying full throttle.
Proving her fishability, the 29 is in use at the Wellcraft Fishing School. The boat has four insulated fishboxes with an overboard pumpout. A 39-gallon recirculating lighted live well is standard. The rigging station includes a sink and cutting board, also standard. A pressurized fresh- and raw-water system with quick disconnect and a 15-foot hose are at the transom.
The 8-foot, 10-inch beam provides enough space to fight a big one, although the 29 may be ill-suited for fly-fishing. After a frustrating morning aboard a similarly designed Scarab Sport 30, snagging my back cast in the aerials and T-top, I decided to keep the fly rod tucked away until the breeze died down to a whisper.
The center console includes a stand-up, drop-out bolster seat with tackle stowage, four rodholders and a 68-quart cooler. The instrument panel is easily read with navigation lighting.
A swim platform with swim ladder and transom door make the 29 a water sport-friendly boat.
The head compartment includes a VacuFlush MSD with a 10-gallon holding tank, a handheld shower and a sink.
Wellcraft Marine, (800) 603-BOAT; www.wellcraft.com.
