A FISHING CLASSIC
The superb Fisher 21 is one of a range of three excellent purpose-built angling vessels from Smartliner
Latest model in the continually evolving Smartliner range of purpose-built angling boats is the superb Fisher 21, one of a range of three vessels that includes a smaller 19 and larger 23.
Built along classic lines and featuring a simulated clinker hull and an attractive lantern-style wheelhouse, it’s fair to say the Smartliner Fisher 21 is the modern equivalent of a fishing classic.
The wheelhouse is accessed through a door fitted to port, and, as usual, features a helm located to starboard. Interior layout of the wheelhouse is basic, uncluttered and entirely functional, precisely what you need aboard an angling boat.
When seated, the helmsman benefits from excellent all-round visibility. There is plenty of space to install a full suite of electronics within easy reach, ventilation is provided by opening windows, you also get more than ample dry locker stowage space, plus a couple of folding seats.
A broad walkway running alongside the port side of the wheelhouse gives access to the bow. Here, a comfortable moulded seat is provided forward of the wheelhouse; perfect for sitting back and watching a rod tip on hot summer days. A spacious anchor well is provided too.
ENORMOUS
The aft cockpit is enormous, and features gunnels that fall vertically to the deck, providing an excellent amount of inboard freeboard. Crew safety is further enhanced with the inclusion of several grab handles.
The deck features an excellent non-slip finish that appears to be hard-wearing, and is very efficiently self-draining via a longitudinal, fore and aft moulded channel that dissects the deck.
A 75-litre fuel tank, located beneath the transom, is manufactured from clear plastic that allows you to check the level of remaining fuel at a glance. Sufficient spaces remain beneath the transom for the addition of spare fuel tanks or fish boxes.
Another very practical feature is a removable transom section. When removed, this allows the engine to be fully trimmed, and can be stowed vertically so as to effectively box off the space beneath the transom. Repositioned, this serves as a useful fill-in section, thus creating a full beam transom seat.
A transom boarding ladder, something I consider essential aboard every boat, is included to port. Other key features include an aerated livebait tank with a clear vision panel, moulded seats within each quarter, both a manual and an electric bilge pump, four rod pods, all necessary deck hardware, and even a chemical toilet. Optional extras include hydraulic steering, an outside steering post and cutting table.
With an overall length of 6.45 metres, the Smartliner Fisher 21 sports a 2.25m beam, a 0.38m draft and displaces 1300kg. She is rated at CE Category C for carrying up to seven persons, but, essentially, what we have here is a boat that will fish three or four anglers in comfort.
My sea trial was arranged by the vessel’s UK importers, South West Yacht Brokers Ltd, of Plymouth, Devon. Conditions within Plymouth Sound were almost flat calm, not great for assessing the sea-keeping qualities of a boat, but perfect for allowing the Fisher 21 to show her capabilities.
The Fisher 21 is rated for use with engines up to 100hp, and the test boat was fitted with a 75hp Tohatsu, which, on the day, produced a top speed of 26 knots. Run at various speeds and pushed hard into all of the usual manoeuvres, she handled beautifully.
IMPRESSED
The simulated clinker hull cut cleanly through the wake from passing boats with no spray getting thrown aboard, thanks to a pronounced reverse chine. Even when driven hard into the tightest high speed turns, the hull retained its grip in the water, and drove around nicely through the full turn without displaying the slightest hint of side slip or cavitation.
Over the years I have tested many models from the extensive Smartliner range, often on days during which we experienced far more demanding sea conditions. Always, I have gone away impressed by the experience. Had I been able to experience rougher conditions on this day, I have no reason to believe I would be any less impressed.
In summary, an excellent fishing boat that is perfectly suited to both inshore and offshore work.