2020 Barker Boatworks 26 Open

Step aboard this 26 Open and the first thing you notice is the clean, purposeful layout—wide, unobstructed decks and a serious amount of fishable real estate for a boat this size. The stepped hull gives you that snappy hole shot and efficient cruise, while still feeling solid and planted when you’re running a chop. High-quality hardware, tight-fitting hatches, and deep, insulated boxes speak to Barker’s custom roots more than a typical production build. The helm ergonomics are excellent, with sightlines that make long runs less tiring. Add in the forward seating that converts from lounge to casting deck and you’ve got a platform that’s equally at home chasing tarpon at dawn or running the family to a sandbar in the afternoon.

This 26 Open shines in waters where you might start shallow at first light and end up miles offshore by midday. The draft is shallow enough to slide across skinny bays and edges, yet the aggressive hull and high freeboard offer the confidence to punch out through inlets and ride comfortably in open swells. It’s an ideal match for areas where conditions can turn quickly—enough length and weight to soften the ride, but still nimble to maneuver around tight creeks, channels, and crowded marinas. With ample storage and livewell capacity, it suits anglers who fish hard, as well as boaters who want a versatile platform for cruising and exploring diverse coastlines.