Having fished shallow waters for over 60 years and earned more than 40 world records, International Game Fish Association Hall of Fame legend Stu Apte brought a lifetime of experience and knowledge into play when he lent his hand in the development of the Beavertail Stu Apte Signature Series Skiff by Aeon Marine. Using advanced technology and refusing to make compromises, Aeon Marine designed a comely craft that delivers performance, quality and durability. Fly-anglers will appreciate all of the attention to detail that has been incorporated into this skiff and find the craft a useful tool when it comes to stalking, hooking and landing their favorite skinny-water species.
Design and Construction
So that anglers would have easy access to the rod racks in his signature skiff, Apte was keen on incorporating lift-up gunwales. In total, the skiff can carry up to 10 fly rods of 10 feet. Anglers will also appreciate how much additional gear they can stow away in the large, gasketed dry-storage boxes positioned forward and aft. The ergonomically designed console with tilt helm features a cushioned seat with a backrest and a 22-gallon livewell forward. A 23-gallon aluminum fuel tank, a poling platform featuring an LED-lighted underside, rod holders, a removable stand-up bar, Lenco trim tabs, an Atlas 4-inch-setback jack plate, Livorsi LED navigation lights and an Edson steering wheel are all included as standards on the boat. However, if you have specific needs, there are plenty of options to choose from. The attention to detail and finish is apparent upon first inspection, and the craft features stainless-steel hardware and easy-to-clean nonskid throughout.
Running and Fishability
The spray-free and stable-riding principles found in the sport-fishing boats of the Carolinas inspired the hull of the Apte Signature model, which has a very sharp bow entry and a massive flare, accompanied by integrated spray rails positioned to act as water deflectors. These characteristics allow a dry and comfortable ride even in less-than-favorable sea conditions. Molded-in poling/running strakes deliver smooth and easy handling and enable arrow-straight tracking. The inverted strake design captures water under the hull, which creates lift, eliminates slide and prevents hull slap, allowing for seriously quiet poling. The minimal deadrise in the stern offers a shallow draft without sacrificing stability. This, matched with an 82-inch-wide beam and 16-inch walk-around gunwales, will keep you sure-footed while doing battle with aggressive flats fish.
**Specifications **
LOA: 18′
BEAM: 82″
DRAFT: 7″
LIVEWELL: 22 gals.
FUEL: 23 gals.
GROSS WEIGHT: 675 lbs.
MAX HP: 115
MSRP: $38,000 (with E-TEC 90-hp engine and custom aluminum trailer)
Beavertail Skiffs are located in Palmetto, Florida. Call 941-705-2090 or visit www.aeonmarine.com.
