1987 Dusky 26 XL

Step aboard and you can feel this Dusky was rebuilt for long days on the water, not dockside posing. The deep cockpit, high gunnels, and wide walkaround layout make it easy to work a fish from bow to stern without tripping over gear. The Perkins diesels sit low and balanced, giving the boat a solid, planted feel in a chop and a reassuringly straight track at cruise. At the helm, the sightlines are excellent; you can stand or lean and still see the bow and corners when docking. Inside, the cabin has just enough comfort to turn an overnighter or weather delay into an easy stay, with smart storage tucked everywhere a fisherman would actually use it.

This 26 XL hull really shines in the varied conditions found in this region. The boat’s weight and hull form shrug off afternoon wind chop, while the efficient diesels give you the range to push out to distant structure without worrying about the fuel bill. That generous beam adds stability when you’re drifting for bottom species or running spread lines offshore, and still keeps draft reasonable for poking into shallower bays and cuts. With its blend of open deck space, secure freeboard, and a practical cabin, this model is equally at home trolling, bottom fishing, or making comfortable weekend runs along the coast.