NEW STABICRAFT 1650 FISHER

New Zealand pontoon-style boatbuilder Stabicraft has released its new 1650 Fisher, an all-alloy 5m boat that dispenses with the fibreglass cabins previously fitted to the range.

According to Stabicraft, the 1650 Fisher was put into production after the company found “a clear need for a well-designed and laid out 16-17ft all-alloy fisher with all of the safety benefits that are inherent with Stabicraft”.

Key features that Stabicraft says will appeal to day fishermen include a centrally-mounted bait station, high gunwales and easy water access over the “Game Chaser Transom”. Options include items like a skipole and Ocean Bolster seats, which give the boat a family capability too.

“We wanted to create an exciting hull to drive with all the features fishermen want. The hull had to excel both in terms of ride and performance but like all Stabicrafts, it had to inspire confidence on the water,” says Tim van Duyl, Stabicraft’s marketing co-ordinator.

According to Stabicraft, a key feature on the new boat is the use of Stabicraft’s new styled “Arrow Pontoons”, which have been re-styled to give the 1650 Fisher a softer and drier ride.

Stabicraft also points out that the 1650 Fisher is far more angular than other Stabicraft models. It’s actually an all-aluminium design, which Stabicraft says is a significant change from the fibreglass cabins previously fitted to the range.

Other features include: a for’ard scratch-resistant glass walkthrough windscreen; Game Chaser Transom (intended to make backing down faster, smoother and safer); bolt-on bait station complete with rod and drinkholders as well as a large cutting surface; fold up seats on either side of the transom.

Other options include a 66lt livebait tank, optional squabs under the cuddy, and the previously mentioned optional ski and tow pole. Visit Stabicraft for more information.

Specifications: Stabicraft 1650 Fisher

Length: 16.5ft / 5.0m
Max adults: 5
Recommended HP: 60hp
Max HP: 100
Leg length: 20in
Fuel tank: 100lt
External beam: 2.15m
Internal beam: 1.65m
Tube thickness: 3mm
Hull thickness: 4mm
Weight (dry hull): Approx. 460kg
Weight (towing BMT): Approx. 1100kg
Height (on trailer): Approx. 2.1m