At full throttle, the wind roared in my ears and threatened to blow off my sunglasses, in spite of the snug neck strap. Would my hair pull out?! There might be faster bass boats, but we don’t know why you would want one. We do know high-performance handling is just part of what is appealing about the Bass Cat Jaguar.
Getting that performance requires a sharp entry to clear the waves, an aerodynamic hull design to lift the boat, and excellent balance of equipment and features on board to maintain the proper running attitude at high speed. A durable fiberglass stringer system is part of the formula, and so is an 18-layer, vacuum-molded fiberglass transom stretching the full beam of the boat. Dual fuel tanks hold 30 gallons each, distributing fuel weight for an optimal ride. Even the livewells, triangularly shaped, are designed to minimize sloshing, keep the weight on the centerline, and provide the fish with deep oxygenated water for a lively release after the weigh-in. The long-lived good looks of the boat is maintained thanks to vinylester resins between fiberglass and gelcoat, adding to durability, preventing blistering and eliminating fiberglass print-through.
On top of that, Bass Cat uses unique, high-quality hardware throughout the boat. Stylish louvers of billet aluminum and dual grab rails set on the beveled gunwales offer ride security while avoiding dock contact. They’re even LED-lighted. Useful details abound, including folding midship cleats for quick mooring at the weigh-in, an adjustable trolling-motor pedal pocket and battery-voltage monitor.
Tool storage includes a net scabbard and ruler slot in the foredeck. Rod -storage holds 9-foot rods in a port locker and an extra-long starboard locker too. Tackle storage abounds, and dual lockers on the bow step house a cooler with a double helmet locker to port—the latter giving ample proof that the Jaguar designer knows tournament fishing. The fishing partner even gets four on-deck rod holders.
Bass Cat thought of every question or need a bass angler ever had and designed an answer into the Jaguar. It is the Bass Cat’s meow.
High Points
⋅Standard Siren Marine tracking and monitoring device helps keep your investment secure and safe.
⋅Machined-aluminum grab rails and other billet trim features add style and durability.
⋅Bass Cat offers literally thousands of custom-color combinations.
⋅Stereo speakers in the seats improve audio even at high speeds.
⋅Two Scissor Lift tackle-storage modules present up to eight Plano boxes in accordion-file style for easy access.
Specs
LOA: 22′0″
Beam: 8′
Draft (max): 1′0″
Dry Weight: 2,100 lb. (plus engine)
Seat/Weight Capacity: 5/875 lb.
Fuel Capacity: 60 gal.
Price: $143,004
How We Tested
Engine: Mercury 450 R V-8
Drive/Prop: Bravo 4 20″ 4-blade stainless steel
Gear Ratio: 1.6:1
Fuel Load: 30 gal.
Crew Weight: 400 lb.
More Information
Bass Cat Boats – Midway, Arkansas; 870-481-5135; basscat.com
