Pathfinder 2700 Open Review
It seems like every boat builder out there is coming up with their own version of a coastal hybrid. Some look like offshore boats with inshore prowess, others present the other way around. Pathfinder has always had a grasp on the bay boat market, and the 2700 Open is a true hybrid built for diverse venues.
Taking advantage of all the angling opportunities that exist from shallow flats to the ocean’s deepest reaches requires an array of tackle, tactics and more. However, before loading up to fish these diverse locales, you better get a boat designed with enough versatility to effectively fish this range. Pathfinder’s solution: the new 2700 Open, combining the forward deck space of a bay boat with the open cockpit of an offshore center console.
With nearly 70 gallons of standard livewell space, three insulated fish boxes totaling over 120 gallons and dedicated rod racks for 18 rods ranging from fly rods to bottom and trolling gear, this boat allows you to carry everything you need to successfully target surface swimmers to bottom dwellers and everything in between. Plus, there’s enough dry storage to bring multiple cast nets and loads of tackle bags, and the console can even be optioned with a head. Finally, with a max horsepower rating of 450, standard jack plate, and a double-stepped, VARIS constructed hull, the next spot is never too far away.
In the realm of bay boats, prospective buyers are often forced to choose between a platform that was designed for coastal shallows that features a shallow draft as well as limited offshore capabilities or a small offshore center console built to fish the shallows on occasion. Read that again. That may seem like the exact same thing, but it’s not. The beauty of the Pathfinder 2700 Open is that it really is a 50/50 blend of these two options. Through decades of bay boat development, this respected manufacturer has come up with a solution for the true hybrid angler who’s not ready to commit to one single style of fishing.
With standard features that include under-gunnel rod storage for rods up to 9 feet, in-deck cast net lockers, finished bilge with full body access hatch, 36 volt trolling motor system, double-stepped hull, deluxe convertible helm seating and Optimus electric steering, just to name a few, this vessel comes equipped to handle it all. Furthermore, notable options include, dual aft jump seats, a T-top second station with full controls, auxiliary fuel system that holds up to 31 additional gallons, up to 16” Garmin XSV electronics and much more. For prospective buyers who can’t really decide what they want and simply want to do it all, Pathfinder’s versatile 2700 Open is certainly a wise choice that won’t let you down.
Specs
- L.O.A.: 27′
- Beam: 9’4″
- Draft: 17.1″
- Fuel Capacity: 95 gal.
- Weight: 4,934 lbs.
- Max HP: 450
credit: Florida Sports Fishing Staff