May 27, 2020
By Florida Sportsman Editor
The all new Flagship model SX 2550 from Skeeter is a great example of how a few small changes to a boat design can make a very big difference in the boats ability to perform. The result of adding only a foot of length and inches of beam to their 24-foot hull may not alone make a significant difference but by re-tooling the running surface with the addition of a bit more deadrise while adding a generous amount of flare to the bow in conjunction with an additional 5-inches of freeboard, they've transformed an already solid Bay boat into a capable big water performer.
The desire to push boundaries and go further from the security of a near coastal environment requires a bit of consideration. Namely, a comfortable ride over what may be a fair distance when the weather kicks up unexpectedly and a secure work space to put your plan into action once you get there. The SX 2550 delivers on both counts. In what might be considered typical Florida summer thunder squall conditions, the Skeeter offered a dry, soft ride along with a secure gunwale height; landing right above the knees for fighting a fish comfortably from a rocking boat.
While the deck layout is consistent with that of her smaller cousins there are a few notable differences. Beginning forward at the stem is an anchor locker leading the way. Working aft is a center located dry storage compartment. To port and starboard along the gunwales are a pair of roomy dry lockers each with Mega Tube rod holders. Between the outboard lockers is a space which converts (based upon placement of a fiberglass insert) into three separate configurations. Lowered to deck height it creates leg room for those seated around the forward bench made more comfortable with the addition of cushions. Raised to upper casting deck height it becomes an extension of the foredeck for multiple anglers. And with the placement of a removable pedestal, the pad becomes a dining table for sand bar cruising, eating lunch or enjoying drinks.
At the main deck height between the forward casting platform and the leading edge of the center console is a 148-quart insulated fish box with a macerator pump out. Behind this hatch at the console is a 48-quart Engel cooler seat with a cushion on the lid and a backrest. The console is oversized but not awkwardly so and is large enough to accommodate an optional electric head and store loads of gear. The dash face sports a 16-inch Simrad MFD and a two-man helm station incorporates comfortable seating together with a 40-gallon live well in the rear. The rear casting deck houses an additional insulated 43-gallon live well at center under a wide seat with removable backrest hardware. This well/seat is flanked by a pair of fold-up jump seats behind each of which is located a separate dry storage locker in opposite corners. At the center along the transom is a hatch compartment providing access to bilge hardware. Our test model also featured a PowerPole Blade along with a 36V MinnKota Ulterra trolling motor.
A few thoughtful tweaks included fresh and raw water washdown hoses with a saltwater 25-foot washdown hose located amidships that would easily reach any point on board for quick cleanup. A wide bolster around the cockpit fell at the perfect height for average sized anglers and a Skeeter designed mounting bracket for the trolling motor offered a sliding mount which enables you to move the overhanging motor out of the way of a dock or piling to avoid any collision while landing or while tied off. A full assortment of forward deck cushions converted the foredeck into a nice lounge area should you elect to leave the rods home for a day and relax with the family. For the existing Skeeter owners looking to expand their horizons or anyone looking for an able performing Bay Hybrid to use in the near coastal zone with extended range into the blue on moderately choppy days, the SX 2550 adds an extra measure of security and comfort to get you there and home.
Skeeter SX 2550 Specifications
Length: 24-feet 6-inches
Beam: 8-feet 5-inches
Draft: 14-inches
Weight: 3660-pounds
Maximum Horsepower: 300
Fuel: 76-gallons
MSRP: $86,118
Although the SX 2550 was retooled for offshore fishing it's still perfectly at home in the backwater.
Although the SX 2550 was retooled for offshore fishing it’s still perfectly at home in the backwater.
The additional freeboard and extra flare seen here are a welcome design enhancement for blue water enthusiasts.
This foredeck center panel can be raised to deck height as an expansion of the casting deck.
This clever Skeeter designed mounting bracket enables you to slide the stowed motor inboard to avoid contact with docks and pilings.
Lowering the deck panel creates a step up to a sun lounge configuration.
An added pedestal to the center panel converts it to a dining table for lunch or drinks.
The slightly larger console is capable of more storage and an enclosed marine head while offering dash space large enough for a 16-inch Multi-function display unit.
A 40-gallon live well is built into the helm seating station for high volume bait capacity.
Amidships located 25-foot washdown hose reaches anywhere on the boat with ease for simple clean up.
Stow-away seating with padded backrests span the entire transom.
Beneath the aft casting deck a second 43-gallon live well and two more storage compartments are easily accessible.
