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Sea Pro Boats is making significant strides in South Carolina with a large expansion to increase production capabilities for bigger center-console boats. The new facility in Winnsboro, South Carolina, marks the company’s second plant, as they have been manufacturing center-console fishing boats for three decades. This facility is located off State Highway 34 East, while their existing one is in Whitmire, roughly 40 miles distant. “We are thrilled about the chance to extend our operations into Fairfield County. As natives of the South Carolina Central Midlands, Jimmy Hancock and I are honored to have a growing business where we can…

Every day, throughout the season, using wire line to troll lures remains one of the most effective methods to find and catch trophy striped bass and bluefish. Here’s what you need to begin. By Tom Richardson Mike Laptew understands better than many that larger striped bass tend to stay deep, significantly below their smaller counterparts. As an underwater videographer and ex-spearfisherman, Laptew has spent countless hours underwater, observing thousands of striped bass in their natural setting. If you watch one of his excellent videos, you’ll notice that the largest stripers tend to stay closest to the bottom, beneath the rest…

Ultralight tackle may have a niche in saltwater fishing, but it’s not suitable for everyone, nor does it apply in every situation or for all fish species. Here’s why. By Barry Gibson This happened several seasons ago. Two experienced freshwater anglers from the Midwest reached out one evening, eager to “put the hurt” on some striped bass and wanting to arrange a trip for the forthcoming weekend. The caller seemed knowledgeable. “Hey,” he asserted, “Wally and I catch plenty of sizable smallmouths and walleyes using 2-pound line, and last spring, I caught a pike as big as my leg on…

As Bill Tweedie of MYCO Trailers prepares for retirement, the trailer manufacturer has designated two executives to guide the organization. Ronnie Moran, a long-time employee of 14 years at MYCO, has been appointed vice president of sales and corporate office manager. Jon Smiley, who boasts over 20 years of experience in marine product sales and management, will oversee business development and outside sales efforts. This appointment of new leadership comes as Tweedie, the face of MYCO Trailers for 35 years, is set to retire while still serving as a consultant. MYCO stands as the top manufacturer of trailers for center-console…

Author Gordon McBride displaying a shark he caught. Discover how to catch and release a shark with guidance from an expert. By Gordon McBride Key West, Florida, is famous for its numerous attractions, including the Ernest Hemingway Museum, Margaritaville, top-notch racing, and exceptional offshore fishing. But did you know Key West is also a prime destination for shark fishing?  Aerial photo of Key West, Fla., known as the southernmost point in the U.S. Sport fishing for sharks presents devoted anglers with unique challenges not faced when targeting other fish species. If you are new to shark fishing, it’s wise to…

Modern technology is superior and more economical. By Bill Jennings It’s challenging to recall when boats lacked radar, plotters, or sonar. Navigation relied on maps, a compass, and extensive local knowledge. Fortunately, those eras are long gone, and today’s electronics keep improving and becoming more budget-friendly. Every year, numerous new marine electronic devices come out, enhancing safety and enjoyment on the water. Our editors evaluated the latest marine electronics and chose some top picks. Position, Position, Position Garmin has recently launched a new series of medium-sized keyed and touchscreen devices that integrate high-quality sonar with marine chart plotting for boaters…

Cigarette Racing unveils its latest 52 Thunder center console.  Images courtesy of Cigarette Racing Cigarette Racing has raised the stakes in the center-console segment with the launch of the 52 Thunder, an exquisite new model equipped with six 500-horsepower outboard engines. The 52 Thunder marks the first design to be developed under Alex Ruiz’s leadership since he became CEO of Cigarette Racing nearly two years ago, and it fits seamlessly into the company’s expanding center-console range, which extends from 41 to 59 feet. The table discreetly folds into the floor, maximizing usable space. “This is a boat that showcases our…

Intrepid Powerboats President Discusses the Marine Industry’s Current State By Gregg Mansfield Few individuals are as attuned to the marine industry’s dynamics as Ken Clinton, president of Intrepid Powerboats. With 33 years at the Florida manufacturer—15 years in the role of president—Clinton has witnessed the industry’s fluctuations and evolving trends. Intrepid Powerboats serves as a key indicator for the center console market, producing around 110 boats annually. The company offers a dozen models, ranging from 30 to 51 feet, with its largest, the 51 Panacea, unveiled at the 2023 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Clinton began his professional journey as…

Editor of Center Console Life, Gregg Mansfield, with Shelley Tubaugh from Grady-White. A Grady-White Boats dealership located in Pompano Beach, Florida, aims to raise $50,000 for cancer research and support. This cause is deeply personal for Jon Burkert, co-owner of Pompano Beach Marine Center, whose wife, Beth, recently battled and overcame breast cancer. The dealership is now contributing to Dolphins Challenge Cancer, which supports Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center as part of the University of Miami Health System. The dealership has adorned a Fisherman 257 in pink, showcasing it at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. This initiative seeks to raise…

Stingray Boats reveals two new center-console models. By Gregg Mansfield At the Miami International Boat Show, Stingray Boats unveiled two new center-console models designed for both novice boat buyers and those looking for a more premium option. The South Carolina manufacturer introduced the 173CC and its new flagship 273CC model, which is the largest vessel produced by the company. Both boats feature Stingray’s innovative Z-Plane hull design, enhancing performance while maintaining excellent handling. The 273CC serves as the new flagship offering from Stingray Boats based in South Carolina. It features an upscale helm (left) supported by a strong hardtop, which…