Premium 1999 Contender 23 Open Deep Sea Fishing Boat

Discover this exceptionally maintained 1999 Contender 23 Open, a highly capable open fishing boat designed for serious offshore angling. This robust model offers an ideal combination of stability, storage capacity, and modern amenities needed for deep-sea excursions. The meticulous history and extensive recent upgrades ensure that this Contender remains ready for immediate performance on the water.

Boat Specifications and Dimensions

The physical specifications make the 23 Open a reliable offshore platform. With a length of approximately 23 feet, it boasts an impressive beam of 8’4”, providing excellent stability in varying sea conditions. The boat features ample capacity with a draft of only 18 inches, allowing access to various fishing grounds.

• Length: 23.5 ft
• Beam (Width): 8’4”
• Fuel Capacity: Equipped for extended trips with a large fuel system capacity of 150 gallons.

Powerful Mercury Verado Outboard Engine Performance

Powering this Contender is a reliable Mercury 275 Verado outboard engine, originally purchased in 2012 and featuring low hours (approximately 1768 hours). This powerful setup ensures dependable performance whether you are cruising or fighting for the catch. The boat has consistently received professional service from certified mechanics.

Performance Details: Expect strong fuel efficiency and reliable speed, with documented hours achieving excellent metrics like 2.4 MPG at 30 mph.

Recent Maintenance History – Built for Reliability

A significant investment in maintenance has kept this open fishing boat running flawlessly. Recent service records confirm continuous attention to detail:

• Summer/Fall 2023 Upgrades: Included a replacement of the lower unit, steering cylinder rebuild, and complete servicing of the Verado FSM Fuel Pump System.
• Advanced Systems: The boat has received critical updates including a new engine wiring harness (Spring 2025) and replaced power steering components in Spring 2023.

Customized Fuel Management System

One of the standout features is the custom-installed Sunshine Marine aluminum fuel tank, offering a massive capacity of 150 gallons. This specialized system was installed using advanced marine techniques that involved modifying existing hatches without structural cutting. The design ensures maximum safety by maintaining a completely dry and protected tank bay area.

Advanced Electronics and Fishing Gear Package

This Contender is equipped with premium electronics, making it an ideal vessel for serious deep-sea fishing enthusiasts. All electronics were updated in 2021 to provide top performance:

• Sonar & Radar: Features a full Lowrance Electronics package including advanced HDS Live units and Active Imaging Transom transducers (Side/DownScan capability). The boat is also outfitted with a powerful Lowrance Broadband 18” radar system.
• Navigation: Includes the standard Horizon Matrix VHF radio, GPS receiver, and AIS functionality for safe navigation in busy coastal waters.
• Fishing Equipment: Storage capacity includes multiple fish boxes (forward at 140 gallons; two aft units of 90 gallons each). The boat is outfitted with premium fishing gear like Taco Grand Slam outriggers and Lee’s rod holders, ready for immediate deployment on the water.

Comprehensive Comfort and Safety Upgrades

Beyond performance, numerous upgrades enhance comfort and safety on this open model:

• Lighting: Features under-gunwale RGB lighting (2018) and modern LED navigation lights for superior visibility at night.
• Electrical System: Safety is paramount with multiple recent electrical updates, including the installation of a custom breaker switch panel in 2021 and updated primary/secondary bilge pumps to Rule high-capacity models.
• Deck Hardware: Enjoy premium details like Gemlux latches throughout and newly replaced non-skid surfaces. The boat also includes three-sided enclosure with hard eisenglass for protection during long trips.
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