Sailfish is known for building hardcore fishing boats, and the 2860 is as hardcore as they come, but its new LTD model strikes its own path, adding some family-friendly attractions. Check out the seating area forward. Sailfish adds a removable table and good-looking upholstery around the forward casting deck, converting it to a comfortable V-lounge, complete with cupholders. There’s a sink, shower, and head inside the console and another shower aft.
The synthetic teak trim, covering practically every surface on which you might step, is a real head-turner. The composite material has an excellent nonslip finish and the manufacturer says it won’t fade from long-term sun exposure. Putting the stuff on the dash is a little overkill, at least for my taste, but it makes the boat unusual. Order it without the trim to save $12,000.
The 2860 LTD has 17 rodholders and racks for downrigger balls. There are two big aerated baitwells, lighted and with magnet catches to hold open the lids, four jumbo fishboxes, and a saltwater washdown. The tackle stowage box built into the top of the console has a clear plastic cover so you can see what’s inside.
The 2860 LTD is built offshore tough. Its matrix stringer system is composite, and the transom is high-density urethane encased in layers of woven roving. Stress points in the decks are backed with carbon fiber for strength. The console and leaning post are secured with Plexus adhesive, making a seamless, unbreakable “weld” with the deck. Four 2″ scuppers drain the cockpit, and there are deep gutters that draw water to those drains. Belowdecks, three 2,000-gph bilge pumps stand ready.
The 2860 LTD’s bow height is 4’9″, giving this rig more freeboard forward than some 40-footers. That could be a big factor for those who like to go fishing weather be damned; hardcore anglers will rejoice at its rigging.
The test boat steering was a bit stiff. I suggest adding power-assist steering ($2,100). The 2860 LTD is stable at trolling speeds, doesn’t lean excessively in emergency turns, gets out of the hole fast (4.9 seconds), and delivers a brisk top end of 53.0 mph with the twin Yamaha F250s. The 30.6 cruising speed, delivering 2.2 mpg, is a plus in a boat this size as well.
MSRP: Standard power – $112,777 Test power – $117,070 ****
Contact: 229.377.2125 www.sailfishboats.com
