1982 Pro Line Flatback

[hopefishing]

Still amazes me they quit building these flatback boats, I have operated lots of boats in my life and am yet to find a more versatile boat and one thats a better tool for my job.
Congrats Charley, give it a few months and those little scratches and chips don't hurt so bad its all just part of the business
Capt Matt

Your are right in that its the most versatile boat I have also ever run. I will also say, that you sir were very correct in telling me to go with the tower. I will never again have a boat without one. The view, and also the control I have up there is great. lol and the scratches are going to make me cringe for the first year. but thats the game we play.

[hopefishing]

Been fishing the boat ALOT here lately and thought I would share some pictures. I am loving the boat. Its very very versitile, and functional. The room is the best part.



This past weekend I was open with no trips booked so after looking at the weather decided to make my first ever trip to the east side. Took off out of Homestead in Biscayne bay for some offshore action. A great trip. First fish on the boat of the day, a Wahoo.


Then settled into yellowtailing and bottom fishing. Put some triggers, grunts, snappers and porgies in the box to keep the wahoo company.





A great trip that with this new boat was comfortable, fun and safe. I ran the boat around 50miles or so and at the end of the day filled back up with 18 gallons. I have been very very happy with this boat so far. As I get better at handlind her, and learning her personality I hope to get even more efficient. She's not fast, but I am fine with that when its time for fuel. 8)

[Capt. Bob]

My old stompin' grounds.

[hopefishing]

Been fishing the boat now for a few months, getting used to her, and learning the ins and outs. I must say that I am very happy with the boat and my builder. There have been ALOT of fish brought over the rail of this boat allready. I am still able to fish skinny with the boat. But one of the first boats to be able to run out when I have a window. I love the handling of the boat, the lines and most of all the room. I am able to have 4 folks onboard plus myself and be comfortable. Also I will never again own a boat that is not self bailing. Its a great thing. The build that Coarsey Fiberglass did was outstanding. The old girl is a tank. The Suzuki has also been a big suprise. I knew that the motors came with a great reputation, but had no idea how much I would be impressed. The hole shot to get me up on running is very impressive. But best of all is the fuel economy. I am cruising around 28-30mph at 4100rpms. And on an average trip getting 4mpg. It really is great to go to the pump after a trip and put 15 gallons back in the boat after hauling 3-5 people. Gear, ice, bait and drinks around all day. Its of course not perfect. She can be wet if I am not paying attention, it will bow steer and requires a FIRM hand on the helm by the capt when conditions warrant. I would not say this is a great hull for a novice boater, but for a seasoned hand its not a real issue. The beam is narrow so she will roll if everyone tries to stand on one side, but its a safe sound hull that I can overlook all these things for all the other stuff I have gained. I have really had no issues with the boat yet. Took a bit to get the trailer set up to load and its again not for a novice but not a big deal. Overall I am happy with my investment and look forward to running her for a long time to come.

[gran398]

Thanks for the great report

Glad to have you back!

[hopefishing]

Thanks for the great report

Glad to have you back!

Thanks. I have been fishing ALOT lately and not on the computer much other than fishing reports. I was up your way for Thanksgiving. Spent a long weekend in Oak Island with my folks. Didn't get up there with the boat this year, got busy with trips. But when I do I will be in touch.

[seabob4]

ScarabChris's spreader looks good up top!

[hopefishing]

those spreader lights are great. That picture is all spreaders. There are no external lights right there. They are BRIGHT. And the courtsey lights are actually quite useful. I love them for folks to move about the boat and still have some light to see whats where. And they look good to.

[gman 82 aquasport]

How much power do those lights draw each?

[gran398]

Gary, we're putting the same ones on mine. I BELIEVE they draw .5 amps each (half an amp each).

Bob will know exactly, he is the distributor.

[gman 82 aquasport]

Thanks gran, I'm thinking of changing mine out to leds or better... :)

[Lnicker1]

Just spent the better part of 2 hrs reading this thread (I'm a slow reader) and although I was sad that I missed out on some of the pictures that "could not be found" it was a very good read, great thread! I'm anxious to get my own 24' proline rebuild underway one of these days. I Would love to know how the boat is holding up these days.