Top 5 Pilothouse Fishing Boats Around 30 Feet (2025)

If you’re in the market for a rugged, versatile pilothouse sportfishing boat in the 28–32-foot range, you’re likely trying to find a mix of offshore capability, comfort, and fishability. This article offers a straightforward, unbiased comparison of five top models in this category. While Pocket Yacht proudly offers the NorthCoast 285HT, we’ve included it alongside four similar boats to help you make an informed choice.

Top Five Pilothouse Fishing Boats (Around 30 Feet)

1. NorthCoast 285HT – Offshore-Ready with New England Heritage
The NorthCoast 285HT is built for serious anglers and cruisers. With a 216-gallon usable fuel capacity, it offers long-range capability offshore. A 23-degree deadrise hull delivers a smooth ride in rough conditions, and it is built tough for offshore fishing. The interior includes sleeping space for four, a private head, and a compact galley for comfort on extended trips. Twin 300HP outboards can push this boat over 50 knots while maintaining fuel efficiency. The 285 is built like a tank to handle the toughest testing grounds of the Atlantic- like Stellwagen Banks in New England (kind of like Wicked Tuna without the cameras and script.)

2. Osprey 30′ Destination – Pacific Northwest Toughness Meets Comfort
The Osprey 30′ Destination is engineered for challenging conditions, especially in the Pacific Northwest. It features a deep-V hull for performance and a 76-square-foot aft deck for serious fishing. The pilothouse offers 360-degree visibility, and the cabin sleeps six with a full stand-up head and galley, making it ideal for longer outings.

3. Steiger Craft 28 Miami – No-Nonsense Fishing Machine
The Steiger Craft 28 Miami emphasizes durability and practicality. It has a solid fiberglass hull with a 22-degree deadrise and is designed for open-water performance. The cockpit is spacious and well-suited to fishing, while the cabin includes a V-berth and a marine head, perfect for anglers who value simplicity and function.

4. Parker 2820 XLD Sport Cabin – Functional Design with Offshore Capability
The Parker 2820 XLD is known for its no-frills, tough construction. With a wide beam and 21-degree deadrise, it offers a stable offshore ride. The extended pilothouse protects from the elements, and the large cockpit is designed with anglers in mind. While it’s light on luxury, it’s heavy on reliability and fishability.

5. Ocean Sport Roamer 30 – West Coast Versatility with Offshore Range
The Ocean Sport Roamer 30 is a Pacific Northwest-built pilothouse boat designed for both fishing and cruising. It features a spacious cockpit equipped with rod holders, fishboxes, and a large livewell. The pilothouse offers comfortable seating, a galley, and sleeping accommodations for up to four. Powered by twin outboards, the Roamer 30 boasts a fuel capacity of 300 gallons.

Quick Comparison at a Glance

NorthCoast 285HT
Length: 32’6″
Fuel Capacity: 240 gallons
Sleeping Capacity: 4
Key Features: Offshore range, 23° deadrise, twin 300HP

Osprey 30′ Destination
Length: 30′
Fuel Capacity: 280 gallons
Sleeping Capacity: 6
Key Features: Several Power Options

Steiger Craft 28 Miami
Length: 28′
Fuel Capacity: 200 Gallons
Sleeping Capacity: 2
Key Features: Straightforward layout

Parker 2820 XLD Sport Cabin
Length: 28′
Fuel Capacity: 232 Gallons
Sleeping Capacity: 2
Key Features: Well-appointed cabin

Ocean Sport Roamer 30
Length: 30′ 3″
Fuel Capacity: 300 gallons
Sleeping Capacity: 4
Key Features: Spacious cockpit, comfortable pilothouse, long-range capability

Final Thoughts
Finally each of these pilothouse boats brings something different to the table:
If the NorthCoast 285HT fits your needs, Pocket Yacht would be happy to answer any questions or schedule an in-person or virtual tour.
Please let us know how we can assist you in finding the perfect boat for your next adventure.