My specifications
After several years of offshore boat fishing on different mounts, I've been able to draw up precise specifications for my needs. Thus, the ideal boat for my most common practices must have the following characteristics:
- Easy to transport
- Economical
- An unobstructed deck for 3-way fishing and driving
- Unsinkable
This last criterion restricts my choice to two brands of RIBs, namely Zeppelin, which is not in my budget, and Narwhal, which I have fond memories of having owned a 520 and 550 in the past.
The constraint posed by this model, with its foamed deck, is that it can't be drilled, so I have to forego a livewell and an integrated tank. For the former, I'll settle for a model to be installed under the bolster. For the latter, I'll have to choose a particularly economical engine, as the tank integrated into the console has a volume of 72 liters. While in absolute terms this volume is more than sufficient for 90% of outings, it can sometimes be useful to bring along an extra jerry can for tuna-hunting trips in particular.
Unsinkability conditions
The Narwhal 620 was therefore the most logical and appropriate choice to meet my specifications. However, in order to comply with unsinkability requirements, it must not exceed 3 fishermen (or be fitted with a safety raft) and be equipped with an engine weighing less than 200 kg. I chose the Suzuki 140 BG, which is particularly economical.
A WB hull and an HD deck
The Narwhal WB 620 has a deep V-shaped bow that makes for a very efficient and pleasant sea passage. However, it comes standard with a counter-molded deck which, for my taste, limits interior space. I therefore chose to equip this hull with the deck usually found on HD models, which is completely uncluttered and offers more space and layout possibilities.
An economical, high-performance package
Powered by a Suzuki 140hp electric motor, this package is particularly economical on the water.
At 4000 rpm, for 25-26 knots, consumption is only 16.5L/h, and at 30 knots (4600 rpm), it's 21L/h.
At a cruising speed of 4,000 rpm, we're only at around 0.65l/mile, which is extremely rare for boats of this size and power.
At 6000 rpm, maximum speed is around 40 knots.
Fishing equipment
To meet my specifications, my Natrwhal 620 is equipped only with a small console including safety equipment and fuel tank. A stainless steel bocage bolster and a rear bench seat to maximize storage.
This configuration allows me to have 8 rod holders, to carry a substantial volume of equipment and to fish with 3 people without getting in each other's way, especially as the bow area is particularly wide. Last but not least, there's enough space at the stern to handle bluefin tuna battles effectively.
Defects
Obviously, choosing means giving up, unless you have no budgetary limits, so this boat obviously has a few shortcomings. It is not equipped with a livewell, which means that the fish must be released immediately after capture, and requires special organization to keep the fish alive when fishing for drifting tuna.
And with a tank capacity of just 72 liters, I'm exceptionally forced to carry an extra jerry can.
Last but not least, the relatively limited storage space requires careful organization.
