"Draw me a semi-rigid for fishing." We are not in the little prince's version of sea fishing, but almost. That's what Fiiish asked Highfield. These two brands have joined forces to develop the "ideal" fishing semi-rigid. They have come together to help each other penetrate each other's markets. Highfield semi-rigid boats with their aluminium hulls were not widely used by fishermen, while Fiiish, a major player in the fishing industry with its lures, is looking to show its products to boaters. The geographical proximity in the Brest region has also helped to bring us closer together.
In addition to these 2 flagship brands, the Honda engine manufacturer, HighField's partner, provided the engine and Garmin played the game by offering electronics on this demonstrator boat.
A specific layout of the deck plan
To design the boat, Highfield started from the hull of his Patrol 660 and gave Fiiish carte blanche to draw the deck plan. With the aluminium construction, i. e. without moulds, these modifications were possible.
The choice was therefore made to use an advanced steering console to ensure that the aft deck was clear for fishing activities. The bench seat in front of the console that is usually found on semi-rigid vehicles has disappeared. And since the front trunk with the anchor locker has also been reduced, the front axle also offers a nice space for launching it.
Fishing accessories
At the stern, a livewell has been installed in the hull. It contains 150 litres supplied by a seawater pump. In the trunk, which is used for technical purposes, but also for storage, there is a hand shower, always with sea water, to wash the fish.
No rool bar to avoid interfering with fishing activities, 8 rod holders just behind the bench to store the rods during the navigation phases.
The entire deck is covered with grey EVA foam to prevent slipping when standing for fishing.
Honda and Garmin from the part
The comfort of the fishermen has been taken into account with two suspended seats. It must be said that powered by the new 175 hp Honda V6, this semi-rigid should be well over 40 knots. At these speeds, it is better to provide a good foundation.
On the electronics side, Garmin has found plenty of space on the console to install the latest fishing sonar with 9- and 12-inch displays.
Marketing in view
The first copy will skim the Brest lake in order to validate the concept and perhaps make it evolve further. But a series is already imagined by Highfield who will offer the boat at a price of 45 675 euros (without electronics) with PVC floats and 50 339 euros (still without electronics), but with Hypalon floats (show price).
