Many fishboat charter captains are sponsored by a manufacturer and obligated to sing its praises, but one known to be a straight shooter raves about the 31-foot Yellowfin he runs. The Yellowfin 36 introduced at the Miami International Boat Show in February should receive similar reviews. She looks menacing out of the water with a sharp entry and a long, flowing profile. Below her almost 50 square feet of cockpit, the deadrise at the transom is 22 degrees. The boat is fully cored. Similar in many respects to the 31, the 36 has a flush-deck layout that is clean and uncluttered. The leaning post has a built-in live bait well with a strainer and a pickup made of stainless steel. An additional 25-gallon well is in the transom. Rod stowage is in racks under the gunwales and in two 9-foot compartments. Two forward fishboxes are under the deck, and one can be used for dry stowage. Coaming bolsters should prevent bumps and bruises on thighs and knees for those fighting prey. Standard equipment includes many items normally reserved for the options ledger. Three 225 hp four-stroke outboards bolted to the stern reportedly deliver a 55-knot top speed and a 40-knot cruise.
Yellowfin Yachts, (941) 753-7828; fax (941) 753-2540; www.yellowfinyachts.com.
