Years ago, fishing boats had one primary function: They kept your feet dry while you were on the water. Not so today. Modern boats usually are designed with specific sportfishing tactics in mind, and they're transporting anglers farther and faster than ever before.

Whether they're decked out with a massive V6 outboard, spacious live-well, luxurious carpeting or metal-flake paint, today's fishing boats are loaded with features your grandfather never could have imagined. If you're thinking about buying a new craft, the choices have never been better or broader.

To help you wade through the options, here is a preview of the top new fiberglass models for 2007.

Bass Cat
www.basscat.com Bass Cat has reintroduced the Pantera II as part of its 35th anniversary celebration. At a length of 19 feet, 1 inch and beam of 93 inches, this 2007 version is the first Bass Cat since 1976 without fins or handrails.

The floor plan features dual rod lockers and huge dual storage boxes on the front deck, as well as a divided cooler. Two extra-large rear-deck storage areas straddle dual livewells. A new console is featured, as is a neat step-to-the-rear deck. This step matches the top cap of the boat and is built to house a throw cushion, plus a retractable grab strap for the passenger.

The Pantera II is rated for up to a 200-horsepower engine and comes in Advantage or Premium package models with three engine options.

Carolina Skiff
www.carolina-skiff.com
Carolina Skiff's motto, "Anything Is Possible," sets the bar high, but the DLV Series of boats seems to rise to the occasion. From shallow flats to deep channels, spray-reducing bows and high gunnels make for high and dry running under a variety of conditions. Once anchored, the boats become stable fishing platforms.

Besides being virtually unsinkable, these durable fiberglass boats are easily maneuvered when trolling or on plane. The modified V-hull design features livewells, extra storage compartments and plenty of seating.

The DLV Series comes in four models ranging in length from 19 feet to 24 feet, 10 inches and can handle 115- through 200-horsepower outboard engines. All of the models feature 96-inch beam widths and 26-inch-deep gunnels. Maximum passenger capacity on this line is from 11 to 16 passengers.

Champion
www.championboats.com
The 210 Elite from Champion Boats has many new features anglers are sure to appreciate. The sleek and sophisticated style of the newly redesigned console is the first thing to catch your eye. Its precise gauge placement enables you to flush-mount the popular large-model electronics.