You're going to have even less room on a center console. You need a bigger boat for all that stuff.

 

I don't have an issue with the losing the cockpit space really if it means more comfortable seating for my clients on long runs. I very rarely put the open cockpit to use other than the occasional camping trip when i load it down with gear. Definitely not going to go any bigger than an 18ft skiff. I'm leaning towards a center console HB professional or a center console waterman if i can find one.

 

I don't see where extra seating comes in. The seat in front of a full console is the same as a cooler. Coolers are better to me, because they can be removed or swapped out when a smaller size is needed. I have a center console. It's the only thing I'd (possibly) change about my boat layout.

As for clients sitting on the gunnel when getting underway, a friendly "GET OFF THE GOD#$&@ GUNNEL!" usually inspires them to sit on the cooler or the rear bulkhead. Basically anywhere there is a cushion.

 

My center console seat is a cooler, and the ride is super comfortable, it also balances a skiff better underway w a human on it. There is no doubt the side console offers more room for putting stuff, but I believe the center console is a better ride and the seat/cooler console makes up for the space, so obviously a compromise. I’ve had both, I prefer the center console.

 

I agree %100!! The weight balance is another issue for sure. Especially when fishing solo. the skiff is always leaning hard on the console side.

 

CC with no built in seat is definitely the way to go. If i ever get a skiff built new im doing that %100. The side console seating situation gets annoying though with 3 people i promise you. I could type an essay on all the things that annoy me about the layout but thats for another day lol

 

If your guiding two clients yes CC with built in seat/cooler in front of console. I have a B2 same as your waterman configuration. I don't typically take two people out to fish. One yes. Side co sole just not set up for three unless just sightseeing or a group that really knows what they are doing. I have to sayif I got on a waterman with two and a guide I would not be happy.

 

Exactly thank you. I had two clients the last 3 days in a row. Definitely going to move into a CC asap

 

If going with a narrower skiff then sounds like CC is the ticket. On my Evo I can sit 2 people on either side of me. Maybe not 2 huge burly men but a couple of 180-200 pounders. Center console with no jump seat can also open up possibilities for different coolers or just nothing.

 

I have a BT Mosquito side console and it does not lean hard to starboard. I am typically solo or with one other angler, never 3. So it works very well for me, it offers a lot of flexibility and room. It sounds like you've already made up your mind to go with a center. So good luck with your search.

 

Thank you! I do think if i wasn't guiding it would be great for me. I totally understand the appeal of the side console and I always loved the clean look they have

 

I've ran both and prefer a center console but I'm not a guide. The only change I'd make is an integrated cooler and jump seat. I use a cooler with a cushion but prefer the integrated seat.

 

I ran a B2 for years and now a Whipray side. On my B2, i mounted the cooler long wats in the center of the cockpit and put a person there. No issues - though I did have to use some tabs to balance the boat out.

Reduce clutter and have your clients pack light. I used to my anglers to combine bags when they showed up packed for a Europe trip.

 

So true, its always funny to me when a half day charter comes with a cooler and two big bags. Al

 

https://www.microskiff.com/threads/center-console-vs-side-console.55844/?post_id=469012#post-469012

https://www.microskiff.com/threads/center-vs-side-consoles.82576/?post_id=795526#post-795526

https://www.microskiff.com/threads/tiller-vs-side-console-vs-center-console.39938/?post_id=315603#post-315603

 

As a non-guide , me plus 1 other a side console seems like no brainer. Commercial is a different story.

 

Side console is the way to go for small poling skiffs.
as a guide just direct your client where you want them to sit. nothing wrong with a little explanation to novice anglers if they don’t understand.

 

I prefer a center console as it balances better when riding alone and it can be difficult to access rods underneath a side console. Both are better options than a tiller though.

 

Lol. Tillers are the best!... Depending on where you run. Just not without a grab bar and extension and preferably a platform seat.

 

I had the same issue with my side console 16 Waterman. I put a deposit down on a new center console Pro, it’s a long wait though for new. I don’t mind so much because I still love my Waterman.

 

Easy answer. guide skiff = center console

 

I was contemplating A side console or A center console when I was looking for A waterman/pro. I ended up getting A mini center console pro. At times, I wish I had the cooler seat. With 3 people, the back seat gets tight, or someone sits on front bulkhead or in front of console. But, I love the extra room and clean look of mini console. I’m planning on getting A yeti 35 with A cushion for the 3rd person when I rarely have one.

 

Offset console? Love mine. Best of both worlds.