Hooked Up Designs Magazine March/April 2017 | Page 25

boat review

boat review

COBIA

261 CC

The new Cobia 261 CC may just be the best laid out 26 footer on the water . Perfectly proportioned with every inch maximized , the 261 has tons of cockpit space , whether behind the deluxe tackle station with premium helm seating or in front of the forwardentry console with huge step-down head area . The split bow seating with optional forward facing backrests allows for access all the way forward to chase those big ones that head for the horizon , or to easily retrieve the anchor .

Additional smart , practical features include troublefree access to the batteries under the helm seats and a huge bilge entry door that lifts electronically with the touch of a button . The simple-to-deploy rear bench seat makes converting from a fishing machine to a party boat as easy as stowing the rods in the ample rod storage .
Fishermen will love the sea-cutting confidence that comes from a 21.5-degree deadrise and a stiff hull engineered by naval architect , Darron Roop . Rated for up to 400 horses , she ’ ll hit 50 mph with just a pair of 150 ’ s on the back . Anglers will also appreciate the 29-gallon livewell with transparent lid located by the walkthrough transom door , along with the dual , infloor 45-gallon fish boxes with extra-large openings . With the 261 ’ s single-level floor , there ’ s no climbing up and over decks when that trophy takes you around the boat .
Sticklers for detail will rest easy knowing all wiring harnesses are built in-house from copper-tinned wire with Duestch connectors and clearly labeled .
The 261 is a very capable offshore fishing vessel , but for days when the family just wants to relax , she ’ s equally equipped to see that quest through , too . With the right parts in position , there ’ s no shortage of comfortable seating around the boat , and the 52-quart cooler seat on the front of the console will ensure all are pleasantly hydrated . Raw- and fresh-water washdowns are also standard for cleaning up messes or washing off the kids after a swim .
If you ’ re the type of family that spends more time offshore than in , take a sea trial in the Cobia 261 CC . It will very likely meet all of your needs . hookedupdesigns . com MARCH / APRIL 2017 HOOKED UP 25