Everglades uses a patented construction process called RAMCAP (Rapid Molded Core Assembly Process). Hull, deck, and structural core are bonded together under extreme pressure to provide an unsinkable boat that can withstand the rigors of offshore weather. This process eliminates the air void between the deck and the hull, making that hollow feel associated with hull slap a thing of the past. Once you hit the throttles to full ahead in a four- to six-foot swell, you will appreciate the solid feel under your feet and the secure feeling you have knowing you’re going to make it back to shore – no matter what the weather dishes out.

The 290 CC from Everglades has enough features to satisfy the most discriminating buyer. The first thing you notice is the hard top with wraparound windshield. With the optional tower, the hard top is sturdy enough for a couple of guys to stand on. Combination red/white LEDs are located under the hard top, along with an overhead storage compartment to store valuables out of the elements. Should you take any spray, the front windshield has a wiper and washer and features pop-out vent windows on either side. Behind the power security shield, the console is large enough to mount two 12-inch displays and two VHF radios, which can be revealed with the push of a button. Gauges and switch panel are located for easy visibility and access. A tilt helm makes for a comfortable drive whether standing or sitting, and the speed knob is a must-have for quick maneuvering. Whether in the seated or standing position, the helm seat provides extreme comfort and has two cup holders located in between, and a footrest is placed at just the right height to stabilize you in the roughest of seas. Located behind the helm seat are a 66-gallon bait tank and a fresh and raw water sink for cleanup. There is tackle storage both port and starboard, complete with Plano-style boxes and places to hang jigs for quick access.

Thanks to a wide nine-foot, nine-inch beam, the cockpit is extremely large, allowing for easy access both for and aft to fight the wily marlin or large tuna that wants to take you on a few laps around the boat. For ease in anchoring, the bow features a remotely operated windlass, and with the seating cushions removed, there is a nice step for casting. Under the bow seating, you will find vast storage, with drainage, that can be used for dry storage or a huge haul of tuna should the two large indeck fish holds fill. Rod lockers in the bow allow poles up to nine feet in length. Comfortable seating, complete with headrests, forward of the console is perfect for those family cruises. I can see this as being the perfect napping spot on a nice downhill run home.

Coaming pads are installed all around the roomy cockpit. Along the transom you will find a storage area for dead bait with overboard drain and six rod holders along the stern. With a hideaway seat for two and easy access to pumps and batteries located underneath, the aft seating area is a work of art. I like the fact that the batteries are located on a tray, up some 18 inches from the bottom of the bilge, keeping them high and dry. The transom door and boarding ladder make for easy access while at the boat ramp or in and out of the water after a refreshing swim.

This 290 CC was powered with twin 350-horsepower Yamaha four-stroke outboards, and just looking at them on the transom will bring a smile to your face. Captain Jimmy Decker of California Everglades and myself hooked up to the boat and headed to the ramp for a test drive. For such a large center console, it trailered surprisingly easily, and in no time we were launching and on our way.

For those of you who haven’t run these new 350 Yamahas, let me just say that once you turn the key, watch the tachometers to see if they are running because it is hard to tell, otherwise. These Yamahas came with electronic shifters, which takes a little getting used to since there is no feedback when going in and out of gear or while throttling up.

Once we cleared the break-wall, it was off to the races – and I do mean races. My first test was to see how fast I could come up on plane, and with the trim tabs down and the motors tilted under, there was no bow rise whatsoever. It was more of a straight shot out of the hole, which I have never experienced before in a boat this size. Cruising along at 4,000 rpm gives you about 40 mph, with a fuel economy of 1.75 mpg. Once I was satisfied with the cruise speed, it was time to push the throttles forward. I bumped up to 5,000 rpm and started to get that smile on my face that you get when you realize you are onto something good.

We are now at 50 mph, and I still have plenty of throttle left. I looked at Decker. He knew it was time and said, “Hit it.” I threw the throttles down, and we were both thrown back in the seat as the 290 CC rocketed up to 6,000 rpm, blazing at approximately 63 mph. Sixty-plus mph on the water is an absolute rush, and once I came back down to a mere 40 mph, I looked around again to make sure I was still on a center console fishing boat. The ride was very soft and dry, and the handling was like that of a racecar, whether up swell or down.

I know going fast isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but I can’t help but think about leaving for the tuna grounds at gray light and dropping the jigs in, an hour later, some 50 miles away. Sign me up.

For more information or to schedule a test ride on the rocket ship, see the guys over at California Everglades at 10 Marina Drive in Seal Beach, call them at (562) 430-7500, or visit the Everglades Website at www.EvergladesBoats.com. You won’t

be disappointed.