Recent Reviews . . . .

CENTRE CONSOLE
TESTING two different models of the same hull can be fairly tricky at times, but it can also be quite beneficial, as you get to test and view the boats in action when someone else is at the helm.
When Erwin Bursik tested this model in 2005, she was carrying Yamaha 40hp 4-strokes. For this test, Yamaha 50hp 2-strokes were used. It was going to be interesting to compare the two.

LAUNCHING AND TRAILERING
As was the case with the FC model, the EcoCat CC comes on a decent galvanised breakneck trailer that is easy to operate, and can handle some of our poorly-kept roads. Launching the EcoCat CC was equally as simple as launching her sister — she slid off the trailer with ease and her shallow draft made it easy enough for Mark and Anthony to turn her into the shorebreak and push out. Like the forward console model, it was also fairly simple to get her back on the trailer on the beach once we’d completed the test.

MOTORS AND CONTROLS
As tested, the EcoCat CC was running two Yamaha trim-and-tilt 50hp 2-strokes. My expectation was that the 2-strokes would out-perform the 4-strokes, but I have to admit that the performance levels were very similar. Both sets of motors had ample power on the bottom- and top ends. As far as motors are concerned I prefer having extra power. Both the Yamaha 2- and 4-strokes are well suited to these craft.
The 2-strokes on this model come standard with 703 control boxes which have individual trims. This model is also fitted with cable steering and, as previously mentioned, I believe hydraulic steering is the way to go to achieve added control and comfort.

PERFORMANCE
Having just tested the forward console model, I was not expecting the centre console to be as comfortable, especially considering that a south-westerly had breezed upon us, turning the ocean to white caps with speed. However, when I crossed over to the EcoCat CC I was pleasantly surprised at her stability in the rough conditions.
Acceleration with the 2-strokes was fast, and within a short time of setting the trims I had her riding extremely comfortably. Out of the hole she climbed onto the plane fast, and from a stationary position, in full lock to port and starboard, she turned on a six pence with no cavitation when I worked the throttles.
Heading into the now messed-up ocean, I could maintain a good, soft, comfortable ride at speed without working the throttles. Running her side-on and with the swell and chop, the EcoCat CC handled really well, again showing good stability. By tweaking the bow up, I kept the ride reasonably dry considering the conditions. Even when pushing into the troughs at speed she showed no tendencies to plough or broach, which automatically gives you confidence in the boat’s handling capabilities.
This model actually seemed to perform better when I worked the throttles at speed, which is not usually the case on smaller craft. As with the forward console, the wider beam seemed to give the craft really good stability at all angles. Sure, the spray was a bit more evident, but in those conditions most small boats are wet, so, it was definitely nothing to cry about. Personally, I enjoy open boats like this model and found the performance perfectly suited to my preferences.

FISHABILITY
Being a centre console model, the boat automatically has plenty of space for walking around while fishing, but the wider beam adds to this. Like the forward console, she too has high gunnels.
This model is suitable for the general offshore fisherman and is a definite win for the avid deep sea flyfisher. The bow section is slightly raised and is perfect for balancing against when casting flies or plugs. The anchor hatch area could also be used as a casting platform since it has a non-slip coating.
The centre console model has the same fish hatch layout as the forward console model, as well as a livebait well and decent rod rack stowage.
At high and low troll speeds, maintaining a constant speed was simple, as it was when running side on and with the swell. In each direction the stability and comfort was really good for a boat of this size in the rough conditions we were experiencing. When sitting stationary on the drift, I still felt comfortable while balancing against the gunnels and moving around and I didn’t feel any major roll on the hull.

LAYOUT
As with the forward console model, the EcoCat centre console’s transom area was compact and neat, and is also fitted with dual roll bars and the new livebait well. The deck area is spacious and uncluttered with a large petrol hatch (holds six jerry cans) which also serves as comfortable seating behind the main console. The centre console version also has decent sized fish hatches that are flush-mounted into the deck.
The centre console is large and has plenty of dry stowage space fitted with stainless-steel grab rails and a wraparound windscreen. Although the console is large, there is still plenty of space to get past to the bow area.
The bow section has two forward entrance hatches, dual anchor hatches that are easily accessible and full bow rails to complement it.

FINISH
Although the EcoCat CC does not have all the bells and whistles that the forward console model boasts, she still has the same modern look with a nice finish to her. Being the standard entry-level craft in this range, you can still add on the trinkets when the budget allows.