2011 EdgeWater 335EX

From our 2011 Test issue

By Mike Milne

Canadian recreational boaters have benefited from many fish boat designs developed in the southern U.S., and outboard-powered sportfishers can be added to the list.

At first glance, the new EdgeWater 335EX powered by twin 300-hp Yamaha four-strokes is a dedicated express-style cuddy cabin fishing boat built to head into the southern Gulf Stream looking for billfish. The hardtop frame holds rocket launcher pole holders, there are 28- and 45-gallon livewells, tackle lockers, and a bait prep station. Stainless steel toe rails and padded cockpit coamings will ease long battles with large prey. Insulated fish boxes in the cockpit floors are ready to haul home the catch.

A closer look, though, reveals a softer side. When the rods are stored in coaming rod holders or a rack down below, the boat is ready to make weary anglers comfortable. Comfortable jump seats fold down into the cockpit. There’s also room to sit or lean in the airconditioned or heated semi-rigid vinyl hardtop enclosure (one of a long list of options on the test boat, ranging from the electric windlass to the powder-coated rails and hardtop frame). The cockpit fridge holds cool drinks and a pull-out electric grill above the bait station can cook up the catch. A genset, located in one of the in-floor fish boxes, provides power.

Below decks, the cabin is much more than a place to relax after a hard day of fishing, with plush upholstery and polished-wood finishes. There’s a large U-shaped berth forward, dinette to port, galley to starboard, full standup head and convertible lounge aft.

At dockside, the 335EX promises creature comforts, but once underway, the fine entry and 21-degree deadrise mean it’s capable of handling any kind of weather. A pair of capable four-stroke outboards provide the power, while a comfortable helm station with Garmin electronics adds confidence offshore and a bow thruster makes close-quarters handling easy.

The 335EX accelerates easily, hitting 20 mph in 6.5 seconds and 30 mph in 11.2. Cruising speeds range from 20 mph at 4000 rpm to 39 mph at 5000 rpm. Top speed is 44.6 mph at 5600 rpm. Just driving the boat is almost as thrilling as boating big fish.

Outboard-powered sportfishing cruisers are gaining popularity south of the border and the EdgeWater is also sure to attract fans in the north.

Full performance data and specs: Available at BoatTest.ca.