Keeper – Southport 27′ | Harbormoor Blog

“[I love the] spacious cockpit and bow area…the flush deck and forward coffin box provide the ability to fight a fish all around the vessel.”

Keeper, Southport 27TE (Tournament Edition)

Interview with the Captain — Scott Edwards, USCG Licensed Captain for 43 years

On Fishing

What’s your most memorable catch (or story from a trip)?
There are many memorable moments. The most memorable are the ones catching any large Striper or Tuna with my wife Kathy, son Billy and daughter Jennie.

What’s your advice for less experienced anglers?
Find an experienced angler to go out with or hire a local guide. The learning curve will be shorter.

Most under-rated piece of equipment or tackle?
The VHF radio – It’s the best fish finder on the boat. I continually scan channels on two radios. Always amazing what you can learn just by listening.

Do you have any other notable resources you use (apps, devices, etc)?
The cell and satellite phone; the best resource is fellow fisherman. Develop a network and share accurate and timely information. It will return dividends.

About the Boat

Why did you choose to buy a Southport?
I always admired the lines and the bow flair. It’s a Ray Hunt design with a 9’6” beam which is wider than most boats in its size range. Designed specifically for a pair of F200hp Yamaha’s, she will deliver 2mpg at 30mph. Southport’s are well known for their exceptional ride, stability, and performance. The boats are built in Gardiner Maine and reflect craftsmanship, quality, and attention to detail Maine boat builders are known for.

What other kinds of boats did you consider before buying this model?
Contender, Regulator, Sea Vee, Yellowfin, and Jupiter.

How did you come to find/locate her before purchasing?
A good friend who lives in Southern Maine found it at Twin Harbor Yacht Sales in York Harbor and asked me and my wife to check it out.

What boats have you previously owned?
Mako 221B – (25 years); Mako 191; 14’ Bombardier inflatable; 14’ Stafford dory; 13’ Whaler GLS (current dingy).

What are the features you like most about your boat?
Spacious cockpit and bow area. Flush deck and forward coffin box which provide the ability to fight a fish all around the vessel.

What features/improvements have you added, or do you plan to add?
Added eight swivel mount rod holders. Garmin GPS and Radar; A second VHF radio. Plan to add Auto Pilot.

How do you typically use your boat over the summer, and where do you go?
Inshore Bass fishing and offshore Tuna fishing with family and friends. I take several charters during the season. Offshore fishing areas includes Stellwagen and Jeffries Bank, as well as East of Stellwagen and the back-side of the Cape Cod. Inshore from the south of the Cape to Southern Maine.

What is the biggest challenge you have in servicing your boat?
I perform most of the maintenance on my boat. I have a trailer and keep the boat it in my yard in the off-season. I gave up painting the bottom a few years ago and now have Coastline Marine in Marblehead do that for me. I also rely on Coastline Marine for any outboard work beyond spring commissioning and winterizing.

Do you have any advice for those looking to buy a Southport like yours?
Yes, take one for a ride and think about how you plan on using the boat. If you have young kids and/or like to cruise and entertain consider the FE model (Family Edition) which comes with bow seating. If you plan on spending all your time fishing look at the TE (Tournament model). Twin Tail Yachts in York Harbor Maine are the folks to talk too.

What’s the story behind the boat’s name?
My wife Kathy named the boat, because she says I’m a Keeper!