For anglers the 28 HB lands in the sweet spot for pairing ocean performance with shallow draft capability.
April 22, 2022
By George LaBonte
The HB series from Caymas has proven to be a deadly effective platform for mixing your time between inshore and offshore fishing. Since its introduction, 28 HB owners have pushed further and run harder to more distant waters and the need for a twin engine model was a natural evolution. The stylish exterior design lines are immediately recognizable as a Caymas but that alone won’t get you across the pond comfortably. The 28 HB twin engine model also offers the extra reliability, security and ride performance necessary to embark on a day run to the gulf middle grounds or eastern edge of the gulf stream for tuna hunters.
For anglers the 28 HB lands in the sweet spot for pairing ocean performance with shallow draft capability. The Michael Peters SVVT design and 18.5 degree deadrise balances both needs perfectly. Offshore anglers will appreciate a pair of 160-quart insulated compartments (one with a macerator) forward for gear or fish storage. A pair of 35-gallon live wells in the transom corners (second well optional) handle an offshore bait load easily. A second station powder coated hard top is ideal for run and gun fishing. The helm accommodates a pair of 12” MFD units and features all stainless backlit switching.
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Abundant rod storage is available inside two lockers to port and starboard beneath the wraparound forward seating. Additional rods can be stored under the gunwales and surrounding the console as well as behind the helm station and overhead in the hard top.
U-shaped forward seating with removable backrests for relaxing- joins dual helm seats and a forward console seat with a 31-quart cooler below, and a convertible cockpit bench seat for comfortable runs to the fishing spot.
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In addition to her expanded offshore capabilities, the 28 HB is well suited for quietly stalking inshore habitats under quiet electric trolling motor power. A 36V GPS remote controlled trolling motor maneuvered our test boat perfectly in heavy current while we added a few snook releases to an offshore sailfish catch earlier in the day. This is the kind of versatility that makes the Caymas so appealing to today’s multi-talented anglers.
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Length: 27’ 7” Beam: 9’ 4” Draft: 16” Deadrise: 18.5 degrees Weight: 4300 (dry) Max HP: 600 Fuel: 120 gallons MSRP: $269,000 nicely equipped (2-300 Mercury) www.caymasboats.com
The very definition of hybrid seen here on the transom of the Caymas 28 HB where a pair of 300-HP Engines for distant blue water runs shares the transom with a pair of stake anchors for laying up on a flat. Elements of offshore big game boat combine with inshore fishability to offer the ultimate in flexibility with this model. The double step hull design seen here is breaking that surface tension for improved performance. A pair of 35-gallon live bait wells in opposite transom corners are conveniently placed for accessibility. The combination of both FLIR night vision and an open array radar unit make night time runs safer and less stressful for the helmsman. An insulated 31-quart drink cooler is placed beneath the forward console seat for convenience. The console interior on the Caymas 28 HB offers plenty of room for storage and easy access to your helm systems and power panel.
Forward seating can be outfitted with matching removable backrests for relaxing cruise trips. Comfortable quilted upholstery and a two-tier back/neck rest add a comfortable riding spot forward of the console. A pair of 12” MFD units fit smartly at the helm behind a three-panel glass enclosure for comfortable navigation.
A captain and companion helm station provides all day comfort for those long runs offshore and a relaxing river cruise alike. The convertible cockpit bench seat is a comfortable spot to ride from on choppy days and folds away easily when not in use. This removable storage compartment allows both gear storage and access to your bilge systems by simply lifting it out. The rear of your helm station offers plenty of tackle storage, rod and cup holders, and a pull-out bait/drink cooler below. Impeccable finish work is found throughout on this model and subtle details like the soft radius transom sets it apart from others in her class.
