We hope you enjoy this step by step video update providing valuable insight into each stage of our newest NorthCoast Flagship 415HT’s development. A brief overview in pictures and video.
RUGGED | VERSATILE | PERFORMANCE
ANNOUNCING THE NORTHCOAST 415HT - SPORTFISHING PILOTHOUSE For Immediate Release* April 26, 2023 Contact: Gregg Weatherby| NorthCoast Boats Bristol, RI — April 26, 2023
Proud New England lines, smart design, and always purposeful. We are very excited to announce our new Flagship NorthCoast 415HT. Hull number one will launch Spring 2024 and will be the largest NorthCoast to date measuring 41’ with a 12’11” beam. Total length is 46’1” if you include the bracket and engines. Want to be first to fishing grounds or get home quickly when the weather turns? Quad Yamaha 300XSB Outboards Helm Master EX with joystick providing full-maneuverability.
NorthCoast Boats has an exceptional heritage of ruggedly built, seaworthy, down east sportfishing yachts and has selected Thomas Degremont and Sam Howell of Langan Design Partners in Newport, Rhode Island to work with Jose DaPonte and the NorthCoast Team on this very smart new model. Langan Design Partners is a firm that specializes in designing internationally renowned yachts.
“With an exceptional line up of performance fishing models in our stables our goal is to satisfy the most experienced mariners who choose to own a real boat with a timeless practical design- clean and simple. This is the first model where we have partnered with an outside design firm and we are confident the new NorthCoast 415HT will exceed expectations on every level.”- Jose DaPonte, Owner of NorthCoast Boats brand and C&C Fiberglass Components, Inc.
The performance and feel of our hulls are the exception in the marketplace. NorthCoast underscores design/performance parameters with safe and sea-kindly proportions, “wolf in sheep’s clothing “speed, and hydrodynamic efficiency. The NorthCoast 415HT’s unmistakable down east lines are sleek and purposeful with style- looks fast sitting still.
"The hull sports a deep V with 25 degrees dead rise at the transom, while keeping a subtle round-off at the keel, which gives the hull a little more lift aft and allows for a smoother transition to planing. The hull's volume is optimized to handle the multiple outboards...and top speed with quad three hundreds will be more than 50 MPH." —Thomas Degremont/Sam Howell, 415HT Designer Comments
You can easily board through the portside cockpit door, or transom door, into a 102 Sq. Ft cockpit. Experience a true fishing machine or if you prefer, we offer an optional Cruising cockpit layout. An aft facing seat for two with a convenient cupholder in the armrest and built-in 27GAL cooler below, leans against the aft full bulkhead with bi-folding windows and locking door. Yes, this is a departure from the smaller NorthCoast pilothouse models which are canvas. Check out the starboard side tackle, gear, rigging/prep station as you unlock the pilothouse door and enter a very open layout, with Settee with wood table to port. A full Galley to starboard has drawer style Refrigerator, Freezer, Microwave, and Sink. The stainless-steel Edson Wheel, two Raymarine AXIOM 2XL 19” mulit-function displays, and Release Double Helm Seat clearly defines the NorthCoast 415HT’s sporting Helm.
We are very excited to announce NorthCoast has selected Raymarine as our exclusive electronics partner. Since 1923 Raymarine Engineering delivers the very best in visual navigation products. With more than an 80-year legacy of marine technology, leading the way in easy-to-use, durable, and reliable boating electronics. Always innovating, delivering high-performance sensors and intelligent navigation packages to make your time on the water stress-free and fun. Every Raymarine product is backed by an industry-leading warranty and worldwide service network. Raymarine’s YachtSense digital switching represents next level, innovative design for the entire boat and a state-of-the-art electronics package. All supported by this advanced electronic modular backbone to assist mariners in a myriad of ways to ensure their time aboard is most enjoyable. YachtSense supports a complete electronics suite, innovative, with easy-to-use tools to navigate safely- day or night. Yacht quality accommodations effortlessly crossover to family cruising adventures.
Raymarine’s complete electronics package is standard: • Cyclone 110 watt 4’ Open Array Radar · Teledyne FLIR M364C Premium Multispectral Marine Camera · CAM300 Marine Camera · AR200 Stabilization Augmented Reality · RVM T/H 20Degree Transducer · Real Vision MAX 3D sonar · Down vision · Side vision · AIS
Descend the open companionway wooden stairs and you are embraced by comfort, plenty of light from the skylight above, warm Mahogany veered bulkheads and comfortable seating area to port. The Head door is to starboard and Master stateroom straight ahead. The wood trim, floors, doors, and drawers set the tone for a spacious Master whose entrance is hidden behind a Mahogany sliding door. Once inside, a walk-around large Queen berth with hinged 7 ½” custom spring mattress provides comfort and cover for hidden rod storage below. Reading lights and USB charging ports are on either side and there is a large hanging locker to port. Overhead is a 2’ x 2’ opening hatch with screen. A total of four opening portals with screens for additional light and fresh air. In total the 415HT will sleep six adults in comfort including the portside single crew berth, and aft three-quarter beam double, (both with 6 ½” hinged mattresses), and the convertible settee up in the pilothouse. The Head is complete with vanity, vessel sink, faucet, and glass door into a fully partitioned shower with teak grate and a seat.
The New NorthCoast 415HT will cross wave tops effortlessly due to the responsiveness of this proven hull design. Her complete list of standard features will increase your enjoyment while fishing or cruising any coast- anywhere. NorthCoast is in Bristol, Rhode Island and is known as a premier New England boat builder who places performance and simplicity in high esteem. With an emphasis on building rugged boats built to last generations our versatile approach to inshore or offshore sportfishing or cruising adventures makes owning a NorthCoast an easy choice to make.
Please contact your nearest authorized NorthCoast Dealer for pricing and availability.
Additional standard features for sportfishing and cruising: YachtSense digital switching, Seakeeper, Bow Thruster, 9kw Diesel Generator, (2) AC units-18k btu below and 10k btu above, 619GAL fuel tank, 100GAL of fresh water, and 36GAL holding tank. Port and Starboard in-deck macerated fish/storage boxes hold 75GAL each. Twin Transom 29GAL illuminated Live Wells, plenty of Rod and cup holders.
Notable options: Cruising Cockpit Seating and Table, six rod rocket launcher/battle station, Rupp Outriggers, and EVA Decking.
For more information contact: Gregg Weatherby, Director of Sales, and Marketing
75 Ballou Blvd Bristol, RI 02809 T: 888.802.2132 | M:401.683.8730 | E: gweatherby@northcoastboats.com
NorthCoast Boats is a division of C&C Marine and C&C Fiberglass, Inc. C&C Marine is a premier boat builder producing high quality fishing and recreational boats.
The 230 Deep V is an exceptional boat.
NorthCoast 230CC Deep V is a classic. It’s clean and simple- no fluff. The 230CC provides a great ride and is an extremely capable inshore or offshore fishing platform. The main reasons are the re-introduction of the twenty-one degree hull design, an oversized stringer grid system, and authentic fishing performance. With a single 250HP you get plenty of low end torque, speed and range. The rugged fish-ability found throughout the NorthCoast line of quality all-composite center consoles includes high freeboard to keep the crew dry and the NorthCoast 230 has one of the most pleasing sheers on the water. I love this boat for the versatility and ease of ownership.
Sporting a beautiful Shark Gray and Sky Blue double boot stripe color combo, our new 230CC is also available in a variety of other colors- up to you. Outfitted with a YAMAHA 250HP outboard, folding cockpit seat, two live wells, tackle boxes, pop-up cleats, and fourteen rod holders, you can also rig for offshore fishing. Family coming out with you? They’ll love the optional folding cockpit seat, forward cushioned platform, Head compartment, and Wet Sounds Stereo. You can rig all of your electronics- Simrad dual 12” Displays, Halo Radar, and VHF, Active imaging transducer. Rupp Top Gunn outriggers are optional along with all the Rod holders you require, (including rod holder/cup holders, four swivel butt rod holders for Tuna and Shark). T-Top rocket launchers and leaning post rocket launchers are standard. Standard package also includes two live wells, in deck storage, Forward casting platform w/251qts. of lockable storage P&S ( 62.8gal each) and under the gunwales Rod holders. Oversized hardware attest to the NorthCoast 230’s rugged fishing performance. Inspired design, thoughtful engineering, and a lifetime of building boats, provide the exceptional feel below your feet.
We have all experienced the “should we go” or “should we wait” dilemma. Do we grab all of the gear, check each other’s gear bags for Bananas and head out or let life’s list of a thousand reasons stop the trip before the obsession kicks in?
The Tuna bite is going off daily and the weather is turning to crap at best- especially on the weekends when you have the time. But it’s early season, right? The full time Charter guys are killing it as they get paid to and posting photos of their success hourly. We understand as they have to attract more paying customers. But come on guys, you’re killing us on social media. Inspired to go give it shot? Absolutely. Nice fish. Thankfully the photographic proof isn’t why we fish. It’s the hunt.
The greatest satisfaction in life is having figured it out. Solving a problem or two, or ten, in order to achieve something of value. An epic time spent with Friends and Family who have the same passion for the outdoors and offshore life that we do. One always nails the food we need, and chocolate chip cookies we don’t need. The other willing participant keeps the game alive. Full of passion and positivity, and yes sometimes a politically incorrect joke or two, they’re so funny they could have their own show on prime-time TV. (Trent)
I had the pleasure of fishing with my Brother-in-Law, Johnny, and my good Friend Trent. It’s really difficult to run the boat through all the tears from the laughter much less, see the fish and call the cast. I can watch a rerun in my mind anytime I need a smile. Fishing for Sailfish with Trent and my son, Peter, Trent hollers sarcastically from the tower, “Hello Dominos, I’d like to order a baitfish on the long rigger, please! Yes. Starboard side’s fine. What do you mean a half an hour? There’s a Sail back there with nothing to eat.” His own Bob Newhart fake phone call. He could go off on these rants from above. How he makes all that up is beyond me. Actually, he has a brilliant mind and he is one hell of a Captain.
Maybe more later as this whole “chase some Tuna this weekend” idea is starting to settle in hard.
The thumbnail photo is one of my fondest recent memories fishing for Bluefin with a couple of great Friends. Thank you, Facebook, for jogging the memory.
(The Giant Bluefin in the image to the right- landed by Capt. Eric Morea’s NorthCoast 280CC by his crew of Schooney Charters.)
Gregg Weatherby
Our boats are built rugged to provide a safe platform that will last generations. Designed to be versatile inshore and offshore for hard core fishing or family cruising. We focus on fishing performance when chasing the big ones. The hulls are designed for maximum performance while you navigate safely in sea conditions other brands run from. And we focus on the boat, not the fluffy bells and whistles some builders add- driving the cost of boating higher. Want more? Click on our new FAQ section or see our Construction page.
"We are so proud of the new 255HT. I know you’ll be pleased whether you plan to fish it hard or go cruising once in a while. Alone in it’s class the 255HT has a private stand alone head below and sleeps two comfortably. The hull is designed beautifully to be dry and soft in the worst conditions. Our niche is that we build boats larger than the competition, real boats, for real boaters, without all the fluff. It should make NorthCoast Owners very proud when they step aboard- and probably sad to leave when they go home.
Like the 285HT the new 255HT is clean and simple, standing head and shoulders above the rest, is all about being rugged, versatile, and performing beyond expectation. Equipped with all the important features required by inshore or offshore fishermen- we provide all the tools you need to fish. The cockpit is uncluttered and massive- with two large macerated “in deck” fish boxes.
The 255 is built for speed (hit 60mph during sea trials) to get you to the offshore grounds quickly and comfortably. Although her quality is seen, the feeling of a solid boat under your feet is reassuring when offshore with friends or family, as weather conditions can sometimes deteriorate, your confidence to keep fishing is founded in NorthCoast Boats solid reputation. Contact your nearest NorthCoast Dealer today and see a 255 in person.
NorthCoast Boats are now available with YAMAHA outboards. The decision to become an OEM was a simple one. Many of our Dealers, some of which are YAMAHA authorized Dealerships and new boat buyers, along with new Dealer prospects around the country, made it clear they wanted the number one Outboard brand to compliment the exciting new 2020 NorthCoast model line up. Many of our existing Dealers are able to sell multiple brands of outboards- but buyers are opinionated and know what they want. We build boats first and foremost. Selling SUZUKI and HONDA products works very well for some and until recently we had only been able to sell blank boats, “boats without motors”, to those wishing to hang YAMAHA product.
As you can imagine, this is very disruptive to the already challenging job of producing nine and soon to be ten models- all with their own set of custom options and colors. Customers and Dealers alike prefer the engines be hung at the plant and that is who we are listening to as we develop new product. We are very excited about the future and want to welcome YAMAHA aboard.
We know it’s Shark Week and the only tune playing in your head is dun’t dun’t, dun’t dun’t, but when you’re over it and the conversation among buddies is too much- try the new Wet Sounds stereo available on the new 255HT! Be sure to ask for it when you spec any new 2020 model. NorthCoast Boats. Just walk aboard and your phone will stream via Bluetooth.
This AM/FM/Weather Band tuner with RBDS features robust capabilities packed into a small package. The MC-2 provides a solution for those who need to install a receiver in smaller and tighter spaces all while maintaining the ability to provide Wet Sounds un-matched sound quality.
Features include:
• Bluetooth Streaming, Auxiliary (3.5mm), USB, & Pandora Inputs
• Simple & Secure Bluetooth Pairing for Android & IOS (A2DP/AVRCP 1.4)
• 2.7” Ultra Bright full color TFT display
IPX6 Rated (Displays album art via compatible devices)
• Playlist & folder browsing via BT or USB Connection via compatible devices
• Internal Power Amplifier 4x50W @ 2 Ohm Max Output
• Front & Rear Preamp outputs with fading capability
• 7 Band Digital Equalization
• Front Panel Mounted Independent Secondary Zone Control (Full Range or Subwoofer)
• Adjustable Input Gains for all inputs
• Day/Night Illumination & Dimming
• Accepts the optional MC-TR transom remote
Watch this early season video just in from Capt. Eric Morea, NorthCoast Pro Team:
2019 Squid Fishing on Cape Cod, with Tom Richardson of New England Fishing, Sam Brown of The Goose Hummock Shop and Captain Eric Morea of Schooney Fishing Charters.
WINGMAN SPORTFISHING
CAPT. STEVE LEARY
NORTHCOAST 280 CC
WWW.WINGMANSPORTFISHING.COM
Barnstable Harbor, Cape Cod
Hi, I’m Captain Steve Leary of team My Fishing Cape Cod and the NorthCoast Boats Pro-Team. As the U.S. Coast Guard licensed operator and owner of WINGMAN Sportfishing, I run fishing charters out of beautiful Barnstable Harbor on lower Cape Cod Bay. I’ve been fishing the waters of Cape Cod, The Islands and Northeast Canyons for over 30 years. In addition to our area, I’ve successfully fished the Outer Banks of North Carolina and the waters around Grand Bahama Island.
I’ve embraced lessons learned working alongside great Captains and Mates and have adapted techniques resulting in catches of Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Blue Fin, Big Eye, Yellow Fin and Long Fin Tunas, Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi, Mako Shark, False Albacore, Bonita, Striped Bass, Blue Fish, Black Sea Bass, Cod and Haddock.
With all that I’ve experienced during my years on the water, I am most enjoying this phase of my career primarily chartering Striped Bass and Blue Fin Tuna trips aboard my NorthCoast 280 built by C&C Marine in Bristol, Rhode Island. Now aboard WINGMAN and through the My Fishing Cape Cod website, I can pass my knowledge along introducing locals and visitors alike to the incredible fishery we have here on beautiful Cape Cod.
Via the website, I’ll be providing weekly updates of where WINGMAN is fishing, what we are catching and the tackle and techniques we’re using. I will be happy to respond to any questions you may have and assist you in improving your catch. In addition, subscribers of My Fishing Cape Cod will receive a 20% discount on charters aboard WINGMAN.
I get tremendous enjoyment creating memories, be it seeing a tear in a mom or dad’s eye as a young son or daughter just landed their first striper, hearing the screams among a party of ladies as they shout encouragement to one another while reeling in a multiple hookup of fish or having charters tell me “Captain Steve we don’t even care if we catch a fish. It’s just so beautiful here.” as we troll along the dunes of Sandy Neck, across the bay or Wellfleet cliffs at sunrise or sunset!
I am in deed fortunate!
Fair Seas and Tight Lines!
Captain Steve Leary
WINGMAN Sportfishing
Barnstable Harbor, Cape Cod
774-238-1011
Striped Bass, Bluefish, False Albacore, and Bonito migrate throughout the fall displaying an aggressive “all you can eat” baitfish buffet feeding style. Shoving, barging, heave and repeat as the main course flees for their lives. Fat and satiated to a point of gagging each predator is preparing for a very long and dangerous journey South.
Unlike last weeks’s eighty one degree anomaly, once the temperatures really drop mystical sea smoke appears. At first light the smoke is parted by a nearby school of False Albacore zipping across the surface leaving surreal curly tailed jet streams in their wake. The day warms and the fish keep feeding. If the fish are not on top just look for a bait ball- and you are likely to find fish nearby.
The bait ball shrinks. It always shrinks. Flocks of birds seated on the adjacent shoreline had their fill and indicate food is not far. Looking into the depths also confirms whether a feed has recently occurred as millions of remnant scales fall and sparkle as clearly as the Milky Way during winter’s midnight sky.
The arrival of the seasonal Seal population and Gannets diving like kamikaze jet fighters offshore is entertainment while searching for the next blitz. Seals make catching Striped Bass look simple as they play with their food. Tossing, catching, surely grinning at the funny guy waving a fly rod on the bow of the boat, as if to say with his mouthful “just grab it like this!” And yes, Seals steal fish right off your line, somehow leaving you to land the optimistic look of the still stunned Striper as they want to believe they still have a tail.
Warm thoughts arrive as whiffs of smokey wood stoves linger off the beach calling the ever weary guide home. Hot cider, fresh baked bread, smoked fish, and plenty of dark evenings lie ahead- perfect opportunities to recall the season’s highlights and gear up for some southern adventures.
An approaching storm was battering the coastline and the Fog was getting worse. Having returned to the shop from the morning guide trip, a Gentleman off a cruise ship was “all ears” as my first light client was sharing an adrenalized tale of great fish caught. He too wanted to experience flyfishing in the white water and there is usually a safe place to launch and fish in most conditions- so I agreed.
We launched at third beach without the engine on and quietly edged through the fog towards Sachuest Point. Enlisting one of my old windsurfing Masts as a push pole was very handy until it became stuck and I had to let go. Knowing it wasn’t going anywhere I left it waving back and forth. As it was waving goodbye I told it not to worry and that I would pick it up after the drift. (Note: More on the effects of sleep deprivation later.)
We rounded the northern tip of the wildlife refuge and worked our way to a previously productive spot. A rock shaped as an Anvil pointed conveniently at our target waterfall. Casting a fly into the waterfall would typically deliver a nice Striped Bass.
Bad Monster Dog was positioned correctly for a right-handed angler to cast his fly across the bow and into the waterfall near the base of the rock. This guy could cast. “Excellent shot. That one will do it.” Other than positive encouragement, checking for oncoming waves, safety is the number one job. The fog gave us about ninety-nine feet of visibility and kept closing in. On one of my glances behind us I spotted a pair of Indian Moccasins tied together by their laces and floating casually towards us. After twisting my head, and squinting for accuracy, I decided second trips of the day had to have an occasional hallucination and most are dismissed. This was unique as a thousand pairs suddenly emerged out the fog and completely surrounded us.
I mentioned quickly to my guest not to fall in as we had recently been experiencing a really bad Water Moccasin problem. As he began explaining why Water Moccasins and saltwater don’t typically mix, he stopped casting, turned around, and clearly saw the same hallucination I did. For once, someone else saw what I did!
He made cast after cast in search of his shoe size, and my entire family’s. A ten weight was best suited for the lifting power. They did not put up much of a fight, but definitely noteworthy, we left for home with our daily quota of soggy saltwater shoes.
A passing ship had lost a number of containers in the storm and each container unloaded itself. We had VCRs, and a variety of offshore goods. Once the fog lifted the eastern shore of the Sakonnet River was covered in white Reebok Sneakers that made it look like winter. To this day Tiverton, Rhode Island locals are wearing their “gifts of the ocean” on the soles of their feet.
Written by Capt. Gregg Weatherby
Boat ramps are slippery. The two straps that secure Bad Monster Dog firmly to the trailer, left intact, make shoving her off a hernia inducing effort. One more time down the slippery slope to strap removal and the rest of the day would be simple. Walking back up the ramp I realized how cool being awake at “O Dark thirty” really is.
The anticipation of the great adventure ahead, hearing a couple of Stripers feeding off in the cove, and the challenge of the full moon. The full moon has little to no effect on ferociously feeding fish once the fall migration kicks into high gear. In contrast during summer’s full moons the afternoon bite is usually best. The full Moon tends to keep the fish up all night eating- or trying not to be next.
This morning’s moonlight came in handy. It made it easier to see that the car doors were all locked. The moon also highlighted the shocked look on my client’s face when I strolled up the ramp and snapped the antenna off the truck. Having grown up watching the A-Team and McGyver, a quick bend, shove, and the lock popped. I hopped in rather proud of the moment, drove up the ramp, and left the well trained boat adrift by the dock.
A locked, running vehicle on the ramp with a boat trailer halfway submerged in the water is comical when it’s someone else. The car antenna was the manly solution to not holding up the other guys waiting to launch their boats. Taking it in stride, without a word, is what real guides do and I know the memory will be a distant one after a good day of fishing.
With a tough start to the day those who see a glass half empty would have packed it in right then and there. But for the optimist we get to see what other amazing challenges, tricks, or treats the universe has in mind. The day was just beginning as we rounded Brenton Reef heading east to the Sakonnet River.
The islands separating Buzzards Bay and the Sakonnet River are very special. Full of structure, eel grass covered flats, and deep tide pools that spin bait to their demise. Upon entering the shallows I slowed Bad Monster Dog to a crawl and then shut her down. There was something large swimming into shore from an outer island. It was too early for the Seals to have shown up and too low in the water to be a deer. (Widely accepted as the true origin of saltwater bucktails).
The sun sat touching the horizon. Balance in the universe was struck as the huge harvest Moon did the same to the west of us. Illuminated by the rising sun our mysterious swimmer turned out to be a very healthy Coyote. He looked back at us as if determining whether we looked edible. The Coyote clearly had been eating his fill of birds and eggs on the island- predawn. This incredibly strong feral animal then slipped over the peak of the rock pile and disappeared.
Sharing this kind of experience with others is incredible. As Kieth Deinert and I looked at one another, totally blown away by the Discovery Channel adventure we were experiencing, a tremendous feeding frenzy of Striped Bass erupted in all directions. Fish after fish was fought on the fly and caught using a variety of top water poppers. Next on the to do list was to look for the rest of the grand slam – (Striped Bass, Bonito, and False Albacore).
Vibrant, rich, coastal fishing adventures can be experienced right here in Rhode Island from April to November. Come visit the plant in Rhode Island, take a look at NorthCoast Boats and if we can sneak out for some fishing, I promise to bring a spare set of car keys.
Florida bound always sounds good- without question once the ice has made its home in your veins come late winter in New England. Join us as Team NorthCoast and the expert Anglers from Rifles to Rods head South on 95, with two NorthCoast Boats in tow.
180 Center Console crew consists of Peter Weatherby and Brandon Dame- both exceptionally well versed in a wide variety coastal species. Specializing in sleep deprication and flexible planning the all nighter, thirty one hour drive, would be rewarded well.
190 Center Console crew has Rifles to Rods (riflestorods.org) founders Gerard McAllister and US Army Sergeant Ryan Puzzo at the wheel. Both committed to the mission: Preserving the well being of veterans through fishing. Rifles to Rods is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization devoted to the transition, recovery and well being of our Veterans. The president of Rifles to Rods, a veteran himself, was inspired to start this charity after fishing enabled him to better cope with stress that comes with returning home from war.
Dawn was welcomed by the Miami heat and seemingly near proximity of Keys type species. Although it would take another four hours of driving, Key West would arrive just in time. Restless anglers all, the boats were launched handily where they would be docked for the next four days. Hammocks were hung and gear was tossed aboard quickly in order to get on the water. Sleep could wait. Navigating the shallows of Key West is an amazing feat when your awake, however best experienced in a dream state as the colors are vivid and the thoughts of Bonefish and Tarpon are as good as real.
The 180 Center Console draws a wapping six inches and to quote a memorable phrase by fishing Legend Lefty Kreh, that boat could "go where water was." Undoubtedly he was talking about one of his closest buddies, Flip Pallot's Hells Bay flats skiffs, but you get the point. The only issue is the 180 poling platform was not installed prior to leaving Bristol, Rhode Island. In fact, we were unaware it even had one until the Owner of NorthCoast (C&C Fiberglass) Jose DaPonte pointed out how much better it would have been than the Home Depot Ladder the team bought. Even still, the photos of the ladder harken back to the authenticity of the old Florida Keys Tarpon videos. You know the one, with Jimmy Buffet and Tom McGuane. Anyway, necessity is the mother of invention and after all NorthCoast Boats greatest strength is practicality.
With fish skirting the edges of the channels the Rifles to Rods crew aboard their 190 Center Console would be fishing these unknown waters hard until sunset. A wide variety of fish were caught and their guest veteran's heart rate slowed to allow his smile and good humor to return. The three were dashing out to deeper water, cutting the Hawk's Bay chop like butter. Reef fishing is always productive and tons of fun.
While waiting for lit up Bonito to break the surface near Price’s Neck there is usually a Striped Bass to be picked out of the wash. Wash is synonymous with white water and the occasional bout of sea sickness. Although unsettling, and sometimes sketchy, a second Angler fly fishing from the back of the boat has a tendency to dramatically increase the number of hook ups.
This really matters when the Angler on the bow is having difficulty reaching the target. It’s usually the ever so gracious sand-bagger in the back of the boat, that gave his or her friend the bow, that can casually cast the entire fly line in their sleep.
As casting chaos is embraced by everyone onboard double and chaotic triple hook ups keep everyone in the game and alert. But each angling situation is different and safety is the priority- especially in the white water off the Newport Mansions.
Determining when and where to fish is why Guides get paid the big bucks. Years of experience, focus, and vigilant boat handling are all very useful. With every wave the engine is intuitively shifted in and out of gear while methodical turns of the wheel are made to strategically position the boat. The boat is well trained and in this case appropriately named Bad Monster Dog. Although after years of suspect maintenance I’m actually not sure who trained who.
Note: Monster Dog, for short, is a combination of, Fess Parker’s trusted “Old Yeller” particularly during the rabid scene, and Humphrey Bogart’s Amazon Queen- less the bullet holes but with certainty more Hammer adjustments required.
The key is to stay close enough to the rocks for the Angler to place the fly accurately without getting into trouble. A southwest prevailing breeze on our left shoulders is perfect for the right-handed angler and safe fly fishing. Best case is one Angler at a time. No one ever liked being beaned in the back of the head by a high speed, heavily weighted, Clouser Minnow anyway.
The Guide rationale for fishing such a challenging spot is as follows. Striped Bass must experience “propeller on the brain” especially on Mondays, from the influx of weekend warriors raging around the bay in search of the big one. Like a good hangover cure of course the fish would go to the nearest turbulent rocky wash. Think of it as a fish Jacuzzi. Each in turn eating whatever baitfish, or fly, would wash down the waterfall allowing for full happy bellies and the calming, peaceful effects of nature’s original “white noise” machine. Unfettered Zen style feed zone.
After the waves wash over the rocks there is a resulting series of receding waterfalls. Each fall holds the potential for a very aggressive hit. The key is to land the fly at the right time and patiently let it drop. In a rough sea state the situation is too tricky for a second angler. Casting fly line from the rear of the boat is technically poaching and would typically be agreed upon by all parties in advance.
Fishing with a spinning rod from the back of the boat is fine as there are no issues with line control. No need for any approval- just a symphony of fly line and spinning reel monofilament ducking over and under one another with predictably frequent tangles. Fly line by its nature has a tendency to find trouble without any help at all.
Although I can appreciate a competitively eager spirit. The conditions were rough so I asked calmly for one angler to cast at time as a very confident fly caster responded with, “I’ve got this”. A moment later the very same Angler, with a dramatically less confident voice, yelled a rhythmic “Whoa, …whoa, ….WHOA!”
One look at the next inbound wave and I told him that he had three seconds to free the pulsing fly line from the now “out of gear” propeller.
Thanks to many manufacturer’s lifetime rod warranties the sound of a rod exploding under the pressure of a fish is much less painful leaving all onboard confident it was worthwhile. The sound of a rod being completely destroyed as the boat is put in reverse, even while saving all those aboard from swimming home, no, walking at best, cannot sit well with anyone. As could be expected there was very explicit language, best left to the imagination, and clearly caused by the mere shock and awe of the event.
The best tour guide distraction from recent gear developments was definitely Doris Duke’s twin Camels. Pointing out that the huge sand colored humps on the lawn were in fact Camels always raised an eyebrow. No one ever believed it. Not immediately anyway. But as they rose up tall and majestically strolled the grounds in slow motion there was a renewed sense of hope.
Hope that rod warranties had been sent in and that the tip at the end of the trip would not be too negatively impacted by what we will call gear failure that occurred in the shadows of the Mansions.
Welcome to Newport, Rhode Island’s hundreds of miles of navigable, fishable, spectacularly beautiful, coastline. An Angler’s paradise.
The water off Newport’s visibility for sight casting is excellent. Clean and fresh- with new baitfish and their crazed predators arriving on each tide. A large variety of salt water species enhance our world class angling experiences- all season long.
Today, Striped Bass is our main target in the white water, boulder fields, flats, and estuaries. Each month the bait changes the hunt and the Striper’s behavior. Up the bay very large Bass frequent the depths in search of large bait.
Menhaden have arrived and there are some very cool situations where a shallow area is adjacent to a nearby drop off. Casting cross tide and depth contour produces some shocking strikes! Stripers have already filled in on the Sakonnet River’s Boulder fields. Once the hook is set the battle truly begins as you try and turn them away from the rocky structure.
Note: Early season inshore begins in mid-April as Stripers feed on a variety of baits, from Menhaden, Herring, Mackerel, Squid, Cinder Worm and even Crab hatches.
Bluefish are long considered North Atlantic Piranha as they eat aggressively and rarely give up without an epic battle. Pound for pound one of the most ferocious feeders in New England. No lipping unless the Boga Grip is involved. Slicks are beginning to appear and all the credit should not go to the Bass. You can bet the Blues are filling in. Nine weight fly line with wire and a top water popper- what a fight!
Bonito on the grill with Garlic and Dill, for those who wish to enjoy a tasty treat. But don’t count your chickens before they’ve laid an egg. You have to find them, entice them, and then get them to the boat. These very fast speedsters are a blast to match your wits with as they are typically very sensitive to your ability to match the bait du jour. Best caught along the beaches or rocky outcropping with an exceptional occasional bait ball feast. Note: They tend to arrive when the QE2 shows up. (Cruise ships in June)
False Albacore, or “Albies”, are spectacular in many ways including size, (poundage in the high single digits to teens), speed (rpms like a dentist drill but less painful), and beautiful colors. A mirror finish with markings of three dots, zigs and zags, cobalt blue and emerald green all highlighted by an oil slick like Palladium silver mirror sheen. This species foreshadows the most epic fight of all.
Those are some of the most sought after species while there are plenty of others offshore and around New England which people are exciting to chase. Would love to hear our NorthCoast family favorites!
While on a fishing expedition in North Carolina the NorthCoast 24CC provided the perfect platform to inaugurate our work with Rifles to Rods.
Question: When do you get the opportunity to share the day with a few good men? Answer: When you let Ryan Puzzo of Rifles to Rods.org know where you plan to be fishing and when. Ryan is co-founder of Rifles to Rods and a Veteran who served eight years in the military and he continues to serve others. He knows personally what it means to spend the day on the water.
Your heart rate slows considerably. Down to a beat, or so, every once and awhile as you watch an epic display of sea life go about their business. Between the herd of wild horses running the beaches, Spanish Mackeral surface feeds, Tarpon visual fest, and Sea Turtles and Sea Bass we had momentary visits by the tax collector, the man in the brown suit, otherwise known to most as- Shark.
Ryan was able to wrangle up Army Master Sergeant Darryl Mullins and his son Rashidi, who both currently serve our nation. Ryan even flew in for the day to join us. We all enjoyed the day. There is a peace and calm on the water found in the moments somewhere between the permanent smiles and laughter.
If you want to share a day with some great human beings or make a donation, contact Rifles to Rods, pitch in, and support this excellent organization’s efforts. These guys are awesome!
On behalf of all of us at NorthCoast Boats, Thank you for your service!
And Ryan, given the next opportunity- We are ready when you are!
The NorthCoast 180 Center Console was designed for the serious coastal angler, to be efficient, fast, smooth riding, and virtually maintenance free. The solid fiberglass hull, foam cored deck, and foam filled fiberglass grid system combine to create a lightweight incredibly tough and durable composite structure. The transom is a fiberglass and high-density foam core composite – no wood here !!
The hull’s deep forefoot cleaves any chop while the shallow-V aft promotes easy planning and provides a stable platform while trolling, drifting or at rest. Light gray non-skid floor and an impressive list of standard features with options that appeal to both the serious fisherman as well as the family day boater, we can build your boat the way you want.
The NorthCoast 180 Center Console…ready to go anywhere you want, any time you can!! (Read More)
NorthCoast Boats is proud to add Coastline Marine Service to our dealer family. They will be covering the Massachusetts market. Please do not hesitate to reach out. Like us here at NorthCoast Boats: their family is your family.
8 Sewall Street
Marblehead, MA. 01945
781-990-1284
Courtesy of Jose DaPonte, Owner NorthCoast Boats | C&C Fiberglass Components
We go catch the Striped Bass, however you like to. (Filet accordingly)
Put in the pan with water- Boil for @15 minutes
Take it out and put it in cold water for a little bit, so it keeps the fish together, so it doesn’t fall apart
Then you break it into little chunks
You boil some Potatoes
Cut the Potatoes in squares or round, whatever you like
Then you put a little bit of: Crushed Pepper
- Onions
- Parsley
- Little bit of salt- however you like it
- Just a tiny bit of vinegar and vegetable oil
- Then you put it in the refrigerator, if you like it cold, or if you like it warm and that’s it.
"The longer you let it sit the better it is!” – Jose DaPonte