YAMAHA 255 FSH SPORT H

Center-consoles prove favorites of shing enthusiasts in part because they o er easy access to nearly all of a boat’s perimeter. Of course, the transoms of these boats are typically interrupted by outboard motors. Yamaha’s 255 FSH Sport H, part of a seven-boatdeep center-console lineup from Yamaha, proves that jet-drive power is not only a viable alternative, but also an attractive one. e low pro le of both the engine and driveline, as well as the lack of an exposed prop or drive, leaves the transom wide-open and accessible, a bene t when

shing and for family time when coving or on the hook. e lack of a prop and a jet’s shallow dra also promise access to skinny waters while reducing the crew’s safety concerns.

Fishing and fun are themes spread throughout the 255 FSH Sport H. Stow a seat cushions, and the transom area converts into a casting deck, with a 30-gallon baitwell to starboard, an abundance of rod holders within reach, and easy access right onto the swim platform. e latter is a great spot to hang out when not underway and includes padded seatbacks, plenty of cup holders and an audio-system remote. Port and starboard bow seating anks a dinette table that transforms into a sun bed or, with cushions removed, reveals yet another large casting deck. An 18-gallon baitwell is to port, this one featuring an aquariumlike window. Storage includes an array of tackle boxes and a drawer for tools. An insulated sh box is ready for the day’s catch.

In terms of power, Yamaha’s twin supercharged Super Vortex High Output engines power the 255 FSH Sport H onto plane in a quick 3.1 seconds, passing 30 mph in just 3 seconds more en route to a 54 mph top speed. Equally exciting but decidedly more practical is Yamaha’s introduction of Helm Master EX. It brings true joystick control to the jet market, reducing low-speed, tight-quarters maneuvering to video-game simplicity. Captains can also move the boat forward or back laterally, or spin it within its own length. It works to near perfection and is a true game-changer in jet-drive propulsion.