Please select your home edition
Edition
Switch One Design

Wellcraft unveils the all-new, reinvented Wellcraft 243 Fisherman

by Wellcraft 30 Jan 12:08 PST

Wellcraft continues its strategic expansion into purpose-built offshore boats with the launch of the new Wellcraft 243 Fisherman, a purpose-driven enhanced evolution of the beloved model that many anglers trust for performance, versatility, and reliability.

Building on the proven foundation of the Fisherman series, this latest evolution delivers powerful design advancements that strengthen offshore performance, fishability, and onboard comfort — without compromising the rugged spirit that defines the brand.

The result is Wellcraft's most modern expression of the Wellcraft 243 Fisherman: powerful, versatile, and built to support both dedicated anglers and families who want to make the most of every day on the water.

This brand new vessel will make its World Premiere at the Miami International Boat Show, February 11th to 15th, 2026, with the all-new Wellcraft 28 T-Top making its North American debut.

Built for your purpose

The Wellcraft 243 Fisherman has been reengineered from the deck up to deliver greater functionality and space where it matters most. The result is an expansive aft cockpit — one of the largest and most capable fishing workspaces in its class — ideal for fighting fish, rigging gear, or sharing great time on the water with friends and family.

Its deep-V hull and elevated freeboard deliver the secure, dry ride Wellcraft is known for, while the best-in-class 188-gallon fuel capacity — exceptional for a boat of this size — allows owners to run farther, stay offshore longer, and push their limits with confidence.

An expanded walkaround layout ensures true 360° fishability, supported by durable stainless-steel hardware, non-skid decks, and abundant rod storage — all engineered for serious offshore use.

The redesigned bow accommodates seamless installation and operation of a trolling motor, while the stern comes Power-Pole ready directly from the factory.

Comfort meets capability

Beyond raw performance, the new Wellcraft 243 Fisherman places a renewed focus on comfort and usability. The bow area has been completely redesigned to better accommodate families and social time on the water, offering more inviting seating, improved ergonomics, and convertible layouts that transition effortlessly from fishing to relaxation.

At the helm, the driver-centric driving position features intuitive controls, a large dash capable of accommodating dual displays, and a protective windscreen that enhances comfort during long runs. The updated hardtop provides shade and protection, while integrated rod storage, cup holders, and an easy-access head compartment to support longer days offshore.

A cleaner deck profile presents a sleek, low-profile appearance — while maintaining optimal navigation lighting for safety.

Throughout the boat, tough and high-end upholstery, smart storage solutions, and purposeful seating reinforce the balance between function and comfort.

Fishing-focused, through and through

Purpose-built for anglers, the Wellcraft 243 Fisherman retains the fish-first spirit of its predecessors while elevating efficiency and flow. A 23-gallon livewell keeps bait ready for action, while insulated in-deck fish boxes provide fast, practical storage for the catch.

From under-gunwale rod storage to optimized deck layouts and quick-clean features, every element is engineered to keep anglers in the strike zone and ready when the bite turns on.

Built to explore

With its 20-degree deep-V hull, high freeboard, and robust construction, the Wellcraft 243 Fisherman delivers confidence in challenging conditions — offshore or along the coast.

Precision comes from professional-grade fishing features built for efficiency. Versatility comes from convertible seating, expanded storage, and improved social spaces that adapt seamlessly from serious fishing to family time.

A new chapter in the fisherman legacy

The all-new Wellcraft 243 Fisherman is not a departure from the past — it is a forward-looking evolution. With a forward- shifted console, expanded cockpit, redesigned bow, and class-leading fuel capacity, it represents the next chapter in the Fisherman story: more capable, more comfortable, and more purposeful than ever.

Provisional specifications:

  • Overall Length: 7.42 m / 24'4"
  • Overall Beam: 2.54 m / 8'6"
  • Bridge Clearance with T-Top: 2.62 m / 8'7"
  • Draft (Engines Up): 41 cm / 16"
  • Trailer Height with T-Top: 3.48 m / 11'5"
  • Weight (Approx.) with engines: 2,223 kg / 4,900 lbs
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 711.6 L / 188 US gal
  • Max. Horsepower: 299 KW / 400 HP
  • Certification: C

Related Articles

Zhik confirms Dinghy Hiking Performance leadership
Built to help sailors hike harder for longer Zhik, the global high performance water sports brand trusted by Olympic and World Champions, continues to set the benchmark in dinghy hiking with a complete product system engineered around connection, support and sustained power. Posted today at 4:56 am
Vertigo crew confirmed for Rolex Sydney Hobart
Seven of his eight crew members locked in for the 81st edition by January Many yacht owners competing in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race don't finalise their crew until days out from the start. But not Timothy Olding, owner of the Summit 35 Vertigo, representing the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria. Posted today at 3:57 am
SailGP: First image of new Black Foils F50
It would seem that Black Foils fans will again see the Kiwi team, sailing at Canada SailGP, Halifax It would seem that Black Foils fans will again see the New Zealand team, sailing at Canada SailGP, Halifax in less than a month. Posted on 27 May
IMA Maxi Europeans Day 3
Discards place fresh complexion on the results On day three of the IMA Maxi European Championship out of Sorrento, the 27 maxi yachts and trio of catamarans competing were sent off around the Gulf of Naples on coastal courses in a south to southwesterly wind that peaked at 14 knots. Posted on 27 May
Switzerland heats up as teams ready for qualifiers
Only six days remain until the first races of the African and Oceanian Qualifiers Only six days remain until the first races of the African and Oceanian Qualifiers begin. Teams arrived in Switzerland on Monday to test the venue, familiarize themselves with the SSL yachts, and complete their final preparations ahead of the competition. Posted on 27 May
2026 Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta day 1
Perfect Porto Cervo sailing conditions, with a steady Mistral wind of around 14 knots Day one of the Giorgio Armani Superyacht Regatta delivered perfect sailing conditions, with a steady Mistral wind of around 14 knots. At 12.05 p.m., the 100-foot Dubois yacht Nostromo led the fleet away right on schedule. Posted on 27 May
DS Automobiles SailGP Team France set for New York
Academy sailor Enzo Balanger steps into the wing trimmer role DS Automobiles SailGP Team France is preparing to compete this weekend at the prestigious Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix, taking place May 30-31 on the Hudson River beneath the Manhattan skyline. Posted on 27 May
IMA Maxi Europeans Inshore Day 3 in Sorrento
Jethou takes the lead in the Maxi Grand Prix division IMA Maxi Europeans continued in the Gulf of Naples, organized by the Circolo del Remo e della Vela Italia in synergy with the IMA, in collaboration with the YC Italiano of Genoa and the Reale YC Canottieri Savoia, with the support of Rolex and Loro Piana. Posted on 27 May
J/70 Corinthian World Championship day 2
Celestial takes early lead as light Mediterranean breeze tests fleet The 2026 J/70 Corinthian World Championship continued Wednesday with another challenging day of light and variable conditions on the Golfe de Marseille, hosted by Club La Pelle and Union Nautique Marseillaise. Posted on 27 May
La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec Leg 2 day 4
The rookies strike back When she started the second leg of La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec from Vigo last Sunday, Marie Gendron (Kereis SNCF Voyageurs) would have signed up straight away to be leading the fleet. Posted on 27 May
Lloyd Stevenson - AC INEOS 1456x180px BOTTOMDoyle_SailWorld_728X90px_GP BOTTOMHenri-Lloyd Dynamic Range