February 2011 WebXtra
Angler-friendly additions adorn the newly-redesigned Mako 284 CC.
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Florida Sportsman magazine editorial staff met with Mark Biddison, the schematics and engineering behind the re-designed Mako 284 CC, to digest what’s new with the 28-foot center console. From top to bottom, Mako re-engineered and re-rigged the 28-footer with the uncompromising angler in mind. It’s quite different from six years ago, when FS first wrote about the boat.
The 284 combines a roomy fishing cockpit, updated helm station, and deep-V hull with lifting strakes for strong performance and a dry ride. Fishing features include a 50-gallon livewell with 1,600 GPH pump, port and starboard insulated fish boxes measuring 390 quarts, six gunnel-mount rod holders and 470 quarts of forward center storage. A forward console seat holds a 30-quart cooler.
The console features a revamped helm station with switch panels that are shielded, full array of electronics, a tempered safety glass windscreen, and complete head with sink (6 feet, 3 inches of headroom). Island leaning post includes a helm seat with flip-up cushion for storage, bait prep station, four rocket launchers and baitwell.
MAKO Boats
2500 E. Kearney
Springfield, MO 65898
417-873-4555
www.mako-boats.com
Specifications:
Length: 28 feet, 4 inches
Beam: 9 feet, 10 inches
Deadrise: 21 degrees
Draft: 21 inches
Hull weight: 6,000 pounds
Max horsepower: 600 hp
Fuel capacity: 235 gallons
Below, photos and captions highlight some of the redesigns featured.
![]() Rigged for fishing, the 28-footer handles three anglers comfortably. Different hull color schemes and graphics are available.
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![]() A rear optional bench folds into place for additional seating. Above, the coaming pad covers most of the boat.
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![]() Below the bench, a rear hatch allows access to plumbing and pumps. All hatch lids are close-molded, a process that ensures consistent thickness and durability.
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![]() Walk-through transom door with latch. Below, cockpit drains are dual 2-inch fittings, located at each stern corner. Drain covers are removable, and covers can be removed for cleaning.
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![]() Port (shown here) and starboard under-gunnel rod racks hold up to six poles measuring 9 feet.
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![]() The interior is complete with molded non-skid surface. Pictured, is the starboard 390-quart insulated fishbox. Portside has a twin fishbox. All hatch lids feature hardware that’s through-bolted with aluminum backing plates.
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![]() The Mako 284 CC docked at a South Florida marina. At center, the bait-prep station features re-circulating 50-gallon baitwell, removable cutting board, tackle storage, rod holders and sink with fresh water.
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![]() The 50-gallon baitwell features light blue interior. A gasket around the clear, baitwell lid seals tight.
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![]() Two-person helm seat features flip-up cushions that reveal more storage.
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![]() Unlatch the helm seat, to reveal more storage. Notice the lockable glovebox compartment. At right, the fiberglass footrest with nonskid surface.
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![]() Below the cushioned seat is access the baitwell valves. Easily control the water flow in and out.
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![]() At the console, room for the latest electronics and digital gauges, a recessed manual switch panel, and anodized aluminum steering wheel.
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![]() Up top, an electronics box allows for more storage or VHF radio. A mirror on the door allows you to see inside the compartment.
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![]() Easy to reach outrigger handle at the T-top.
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![]() The hard T-top features spreader lights and five rod holders.
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![]() The head features a new fiberglass headliner, improved battery switch panel with removable battery switch knobs for security, and a step ladder and grab handle for comfort.
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![]() Easy access to the bow of the boat.
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![]() Each cockpit wall features additional storage space for items like flares or life jackets. Storage space leans out and closes with help from two latches.
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![]() Two-person forward console seat opens to a 36-quart cooler.
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![]() Above, a 3-piece tempered safety glass windshield is through-bolted to the console.
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![]() At the bow, forward and starboard seats with storage below. The full size anchor locker features a notched hole for the anchor rope.
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![]() The forward starboard bow seat houses 214 quarts of storage. Same as the port side.
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![]() Floor storage space has even more room for gaffs, buckets, gear and whatever other tackle your buddy brings aboard.
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![]() There’s stainless steel hardware throughout he boat. This collapsible cleat sits at the base of the bow rail.
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