When we stepped on the Hot Foot throttle, pinned the tachometer and trimmed up the nose, the Lynx was pushing past 75 mph with a fishing crew and gear. And it was a kitten to drive as we nudged the wheel to counteract prop torque. On the fly, the transom corners are high and dry, and the boat skims over wakes on the extra-long pad on the bottom. In fact, little more than a few dozen inches of the keel and gear case touch the water at that speed.
Part of what tames the Lynx on the water is the design of the helm station that puts a tilt wheel just close enough to the driver to be comfortable. A trim switch on the column means you don’t have to reach for the gear-shift lever. The dash is big enough for a 12-inch sonar. Most of the pumps and other electrical functions are controlled by a waterproof touch panel, and engine gauges are stacked to the left of the display with the tach to the right.
When we dropped off plane and stepped to the bow, we noted the broad working platform the casting deck provided. The trolling motor is as far forward and well-centered as possible, but there are two pedal positions to choose from, one forward and one a foot back. Tool holders, cup holders and another display are organized at the forepeak as well. The deck is padded for all-day comfort.
The exterior trim and finish are dashing, with billet-aluminum grab rails on the outside of the gunwales but in easy reach of the angler and his buddy. The rails also have LED courtesy lights embedded in them, giving the Lynx a great look at night.
It was the tackle storage that got our attention. Rod lockers are extra-wide aft, so the reels aren’t piled up on each other in a tangle. Dedicated storage for utility tackle boxes abound. The livewells in the Lynx are super-deep to keep fish safer when sorting and more lively for a successful weigh-in and release. The bilge hatches are on lift-off hinges that keep the hatches secure when closed but allow them to be removed when opened for service — a handy arrangement unique to Bass Cat that runs throughout the line.
And did we mention the Lynx went over 75 mph?
High Points
* For an extra-cool factor, stereo tweeters are embedded in the seat backs, while woofers are in the coamings or other bulkheads.
* Bass Cat factory rigs with Humminbird electronics standard, but you can opt for other brands.
* Access to the bilge is eased by removable hatches that lock in place securely on the fly.
Price: $88,351 (as tested)
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury Verado 300 hp
Prop: Outboard/Fury 25″ 3-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.75:1
Fuel Load: 25 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
More Information
Bass Cat Boats – Midway, Arkansas; 870-481-5135; basscat.com
