Stalker Outfitters (www.stalkeroutfitters.com) crafts some of the hottest lures on the offshore circuit, so it’s no surprise that its 31 Contender has been modified. White Water Marine, in Sayville, New York, rigged the Stalker Edition center console to be a fish-killing machine; handy anglers will follow suit.
BLUE VELVET. By painting the inside of the livewell Gulf Stream Blue, baits stay calmer-they think they’re still at home. Interlux Brightside (www.yachtpaint.com) in Ocean Blue 4253 fills the bill.
PUMP IT UP. Twin 1,500-gph Rule pumps plumbed with 2″-diameter hose feed the livewells. Pumps are mounted in a sea chest, so they’re always submerged, which lets them pump while cruising so they last longer. Pumps, hose, and fittings are available from West Marine (www.westmarine.com).
CHILL OUT. Livewells are insulated, so their water temperature is the same as the sea temperature. This, way the well can double as a cooler. Foam insulation is available from Evercoat (www.evercoat.com).
ALL A-QUIVER. Team Stalker sports 29 rodholders. Transom holders are angled at 30 degrees for flat lines; forward, the holders are cocked at 15 degrees and swivel, which helps avoid tangles during multiple hookups. Bow rodholders swivel as well. Rupp Marine (www.ruppmarine.com) is a good source.
POWER 2 GO. There are six 12-volt outlets throughout the boat, so underwater lights, downriggers, kite reels, cameras, and more can be powered conveniently without crew-tripping cords. Blue Sea Systems (www.bluesea.com) makes prime receptacles.
