MJM 38RS

MJM is known as one of the top builders in the Downeast class.

With a strong sailing heritage and classic lines, the boats always look right at home cruising in and out of some of the poshest harbors on Earth. However, with the new 38RS, the builder is taking an interesting tack, aiming to create a gentleman’s angler that is as ready to catch fish as it is to catch eyeballs at the dock.

With a wide 11-foot beam and convertible seating, the boat’s cockpit is well suited to both angling and cruising. As far as fishing goes, there is a 40-gallon island livewell, two insulated in-sole fishboxes, an array of rodholders both in the hardtop and along the gunwale, a removable bait-prep station, tackle stowage, and transom doors situated on beefy hinges to allow landing trophy catches.

“People are going to fish this boat a bunch,” says Jon Cotts, sales professional at Jefferson Beach Yacht Sales. “I just got back from the Lauderdale boat show, and the guys I spoke to in Lake Michigan, Lake Erie and even Lake Superior, they are excited to fish it. It’s a good hybrid for them — great for the grandkids and great for fishing.”

The model’s lovability is enhanced by its accommodation level features. Down below, there is a convertible V-berth in the forepeak and a head with a standalone shower. High-gloss teak and cherry woods add more than a touch of class to the interior, while optional air conditioning keeps everyone cool for the night.

MJM has always been known for its performance, and this boat is no exception; her deep-V hull slices through chop with ease, while a Seakeeper 3 gyro stabilizer pins her in place.

The 38RS is available in multiple hull colors, but with lines this classic, the traditional blue seems like a must. Although, considering how this boat breaks from her more staid lineage in many other ways, we highly suggest choosing any color you like.