The Hewescraft 180 Open Fisherman returns with a series of updates that refine an already excellent open skiff. Built on Hewescraft’s proven Sportsman hull, the 18’ 5” platform is designed around core ideas of unrestricted access and functional space. The result is a boat that feels purpose-built for anglers and boaters who value movement, balance, and adaptability on the water.
Unrestricted access and functional space create a layout built for movement, balance, and adaptability on the water.
One of the most significant changes is the Open Fisherman’s relocated fuel tank. Now positioned amidships beneath the floor, the 24-gallon tank lowers the boat’s center of gravity and improves overall weight distribution. On the water, this translates into a more settled ride and increased stability. With an 86” beam and a dry weight near 1,000 pounds, the 180 Open Fisherman remains easy to trailer while offering strength and stability.
The large bow deck provides stable footing and open working space, with a conveniently placed livewell that helps keep your catch fresh for the run home.
Combined with a nearly 50” bow length and a fishing cockpit measuring approximately 70”x125”, the layout emphasizes usable room rather than fixed furniture.
A functional, minimalist approach to switches and gauges keeps the boat user-friendly and ready for action.
The hull design features a 31° bow deadrise that transitions to 11° amidships and 10° at the stern. This geometry allows the bow to soften chop while maintaining efficiency and predictability at cruising speeds and at rest. Construction is all-welded aluminum, using a .160” bottom and .100” sides—hallmarks of Hewescraft’s heavy-gauge approach.
Set up the captain’s cockpit with a movable quad-base chair to optimize tiller control and improve comfort while underway.
Expanded under-bow storage now provides room for up to three Group 31 batteries, keeping critical power secure, protected, and out of the way.
Forward, expanded under-bow storage is now capable of housing up to three Group 31 batteries, supporting a bow trolling motor, livewell, and electronics without sacrificing deck space. Combined with a nearly 50” bow length and a fishing cockpit measuring approximately 70”x125”, the layout emphasizes usable room rather than fixed furniture.
31° bow deadrise transitions to 11° amidships and 10° at the stern, helping soften chop while delivering predictable handling and efficiency at cruise and at rest.
Rod storage along the gunnel provides easy access to your fishing gear while keeping it secure and out of the way.
Available in tiller form with up to 80 hp or a center console layout rated for up to 115 hp, allowing you to choose the setup that fits your style of fishing.
Rated for five people and available in both tiller (up to 80 hp) and center console (up to 115 hp) configurations, the 180 Open Fisherman offers flexibility without complexity. Backed by a lifetime hull-weld warranty, it stands as a thoughtfully updated platform—simple in appearance, but refined where it matters.