Skiff Talk Ep. 2 Maverick HPX-S

Video link:

https://youtu.be/IYx_SH-o1-I?si=kXo5Z4PmlhKNRAZ_

Written Skiff overview by Capt. Conner Bryant

If you have spent any time around saltwater fishing, you may very well have been on or seen a boat from the Maverick Boat Group. They have created a trusted name and a reputation for crafting well-built boats. What started in 1985 from two brothers who had a passion for light tackle fishing, has now grown into a brand comprising Maverick, Hewes, Pathfinder, and Cobia Boats. Within this umbrella, Maverick itself currently has 3 different models, the HPX-S, and the HPX-V in a 17’ and 18’ option. Today we are going to talk about the Maverick HPX-S, a tough, light-weight skiff specifically designed to get into skinny, hard to reach areas inshore. This boat is owned by Capt. Cleve Hancock of Brown Dog Sportfishing.

~ Specs of the Maverick HPX-S:

Length: 17’8”

Draft: 6”

Weight: 1175 lbs

Fuel: 19 Gal

Max Person: 3

Max Horsepower: 70

~ From Bow to stern: When looking down the deck of a Maverick HPX-S, you’ll immediately notice a larger forward compartment hatch. This compartment has deep gutters to keep water out, and provides ample space for storage and equipment. The 19 gallon fuel tank is visible and accessible from within this hatch as well. One thing to note in the front compartment is that it seamlessly drains under the cockpit deck and into the bilge. Moving back on this boat, you'll see a podium-style console. These consoles are great because they offer the option of removing the jump seat and opening up the cockpit space. On this specific skiff, Capt. Cleve uses a cooler as a jump seat. The console has a simple layout, with a large compartment under the helm that allows access to console storage and provides a view of all wiring within. The aft deck of the Maverick HPX-S features four compartment hatches. These include: a center forward compartment with an 18-gallon livewell for keeping bait alive; a center aft compartment for bilge access and motor rigging; a port side large open storage compartment with a deep gutter draining hatch; and a starboard side large open storage compartment with a deep gutter draining hatch.

The skiff is powered by a Yamaha F70 engine paired with a 3-blade 16 pitch prop. This motor on a Maverick HPX-S lends itself to cruising speeds in the low to mid 30 mphs and a maximum speed of around 40 mph — depending on the load in the boat and environmental factors. These skiffs are a great, reliable, even coveted platform by many shallow water anglers, and for good reason. Lightweight, dry, durable, and easy to maneuver, this is a great example of a skiff designed for longevity and reliability.

Huge thanks to Capt. Cleve for showing us his approach to a simple layout on his Maverick HPX-S!

#maverick #hpxs #skiff #polingskiff #flatsboat #flyfishing #sightfishing #fisingguide #vacation #charleston #thingstodo #fishing