The "FISHIN' BUDDY" is a new 23 foot custom backcountry skiff that Capt. Buddy LaPointe helped to design.  Built in 1998 by Tremblay Marine out of Chiefland, Florida, the boat features a very shallow draft (7-8 inches with 2 anglers and a guide).

The tunnel hull design, in combination with a jackplate (device that vertically raises the entire engine on the transom) allows access to some very shallow flats without kicking up the bottom.

The boat also features a huge, elevated, snag-free casting deck in the bow.  This deck puts a sight caster (fly or spin) about a foot higher than standard flats skiffs, allowing him to see fish more clearly.  The size of the casting deck also allows room for more than one angler.

The custom poling tower may well be the highest in all of south Florida, allowing Capt Buddy to see fish from a great distance.  Yet the tower is removable, which keeps it out of the way when live-baiting for tarpon or snapper fishing in the bay. 

The boat is powered by a reliable 2001 Yamaha 115 HP four stroke outboard. The engine runs quietly and doesn't smoke.