Robalo R300

Anywhere, anytime.

by Gary Reich

There’s a lot to be said for owning a center console fishing boat like this one, which has “go anywhere, anytime” in its DNA.

Though the Great Lakes are definitely lakes in every geographical sense of the word, they can prove just as nasty in a blow as the open sea. The Robalo R300 center console is built for just those conditions.

Standard power on the R300 comes from twin Yamaha F250 outboards, though many owners opt for twin Yamaha F300s. Those 600 ponies give a top-end in the 55 mph range, but equally as important is its swift 25.7 mph cruise, where the two engines sip only 13.3 gph. With the 300-gallon fuel tank, that nets a theoretical range of a whopping 579 nautical miles.

This type of range begs exploration over vast distances, but does the R300’s hull have the goods to do it when the weather turns snotty? You betcha. With a deep, 21-degree transom deadrise and the company’s Hydro Lift hull, the R300 is designed to deal with whatever Mother Nature dishes out — in safety and comfort.

Pier 33 (pier33.com; 269-983-3333) general manager Tighe Curran says, “Robalo’s Hydro Lift hull design provides the best combination of ride comfort, performance and efficiency. This is a dry, stable ride, ready for the big waters of the Great Lakes. With an abundance of passenger seating and hardcore fishing features, you’ll be headed for fun, whether you’re going to fish or day cruise.”

Fishing features include two forward and two aft fish lockers, a plethora of rod holders, a transom-mounted livewell, under-gunwale rod stowage, an expansive cockpit tackle station and more. On the comfort side of things, you’ll find an enclosed head under the center console, twin individual captain’s seats at the helm, room for four in the cockpit, and the forward lounge seat includes a removable dinette table and sun lounge insert.

Whether you’re heading out for the big ones, cruising with friends and family, or enjoying sundowner cruises along the lakeside, the Robalo R300 does them all very well, and with great looks, to boot.