Boat Review - Sea Chaser 23 LX
April 04, 2019
By Florida Sportsman Editor
As a member of the Carolina Skiff family of boats the Sea Chaser brand is bringing a higher level of finish and features to the inshore boating market that bears very little resemblance to the Carolina Skiff line we're all so familiar with. The Bay Boat entry LX line ranges from 21-26 foot models with the 23 LX sitting in the middle of the lineup.
The Sea Chaser 23 LX is a capable general purpose boat that is just as comfortable fishing on a large lake, river, saltwater coastal estuary, or on the open ocean alike. This hull design stood up to a fast 2-3' confused ocean chop surprisingly well and proved immediately up to the task to take on less than ideal sea conditions whether on coastal waters or a large lake.
The deck layout is in line with the classic Bay Boat design with forward and aft elevated casting decks framing a sunken center console cockpit under a T-top for shade. The boat is pre-wired for a trolling motor forward which is a natural design fit for this type of fishing platform. Beneath the forward deck to port and starboard are matching rod lockers which feature a forward opening hinge design. This feature makes it easy to access both lockers from the ground easily while the boat is on a trailer. A center storage compartment under the top deck is roomy enough to store bulky tackle and gear items easily. A smaller box is located inside of a step up leading to the casting deck.
The Sea Chaser 23 LX offers a fairly large console interior for a boat this size which can be accessed through a side door or more easily by opening a large forward hatch. The interior can be used as a changing room by the use of a drop down privacy curtain incorporated into the hatch. Another feature not commonly seen on boats this size is the elaborate accent lighting package included with this model. Blue LED underwater lights, courtesy deck lighting, blue lit stainless cup holders, and live well lights add a dramatic evening look to the boat. The aft casting deck features two flip-up jump seats and a live baitwell below along with a massive entry hatch to access all bilge systems.
Sea Chaser has taken most of the work out of choosing which features you need for an inshore fishing boat by adding standard features for the consumer that history has proven to be practical. This is a moderately priced platform that is ready to hit the water right off the lot and allows you to focus only on the fishing not worry about building and rigging your boat.
Sea Chaser 23 LX Specifications
Length: 23 feet
Beam: 8 feet 7 inches
Gunnel height: 22 inches
Weight: 2450 pounds
Fuel: 52-gallons
Maximum Horsepower: 250
Maximum persons: 8
The Sea Chaser 23 LX includes as you see it here, all the necessary features required for a serious fishing outing as standard equipment.
The Sea Chaser 23 LX is a bay boat that you’ll find just as comfortable stalking a coastal flat as she is cruising the Oceanside beaches.
The Sea Chaser forward casting deck features a two-tiered step up onto a roomy casting area
Multiple storage options are located beneath the foredeck including matching forward lifting rod lockers allowing easy access from outside of the boat.
Access to the console interior is gained through side and forward points and systems access along with a head are easily accommodated.
This hardtop framework is clean and simple, offering an uncluttered view from the helm.
This classic leaning post helm seat is practical and functional for the helmsman and companion.
From the cockpit perspective, the blackout powder coat adds an accent which is attractive and swallows a significant amount of the glare an all-white interior produces.
The rear casting platform layout adds another workspace option for extra anglers.
Flip-up jump seats are a smart use of space beneath the aft deck for passenger comfort while underway.
