Haines Signiture 502 Day Fisher has all the signature fishing features

by Mark Rothfield on 8 Jun 2011 It’s a small boat that, at 1170kg towing weight, doesn’t need a 4x4 tow vehicle but the cockpit is more spacious than you would expect and it fishes like a bigger boat.

It has big features too, like a modern dash to suit up to 10-inch screen electronics and a generous 100-litre fuel tank.

The Signature variable deadrise hull (SVDH) provides stability at rest and a soft ride, complemented by high freeboard, 25-inch transom and foam filling for maximum safety offshore.

The Day Fisher’s stand-out feature is the walk-through windscreen and forward hatch that give access to the bow and anchor.

When closed, the hatch gives shelter or storage in the form of a cuddy cabin, while a higher set windscreen affords extra protection from the elements.

The helm is in a perfect position for either stand-up or sit-down driving positions.

Purpose-built fishing attributes include a walk through transom with transom door (or fish landing gate) and toe holds under the side boxes for extra security when bringing fish over the side or comfort while holding a rod. For family use there’s Tallon receivers to suit Tallon accessories, a 12-volt power socket, Carling switches as standard, dedicated stereo space on dash (stereo optional), plus an optional fold-down lounge and transom step with recessed ladder.

Haines Marine marketing manager Martin Beeson says the 502DF fulfils the Signature design and manufacturing motto, which is ‘Build it as if you are going to own it’.

It’s backed by 10-year structural and 2-year parts warranty.

‘Hainesy [John Haines Snr] drummed this in to every employee time and time again and with so many experienced boat builders on the factory floor you can be sure your boat has been put together by craftsmen.
‘With 23 boats in the range there is a Signature that is perfect for you.’

Beeson adds that the Haines family relishes developing the fishing models.

‘No R&D trip was complete without throwing a line over the side and testing the new model for practicality, comfort and 'fishability'. Winning many awards over the years has been testament to the success of this approach and the 502DF is the latest model off the production line to benefit.’

The 502DF is already rolling off the production lines and will make its debut at the 2011 Melbourne boat show running from June 9-13.

Details on Haines group