New 2022 Mercury 300XL Verado Power
New Electronics and Fold Down Tower
2015 Venture Dual Axle Aluminum Float-On Trailer
This 2008 Contender 23 Open is a serious fishing platform upgraded for the modern angler. The standout feature is the custom fold-down tower with full upper-station controls, providing a superior vantage point for sight fishing while allowing you to trailer the boat with ease. Powered by a 2022 Mercury Verado 300XL, this vessel cruises at 35 knots and handles the roughest chop with its legendary 24.5-degree deep-V hull. Fully equipped with a 50-gallon livewell, recessed bow rails, and a 2015 Venture dual-axle aluminum trailer, she is ready for the tournament trail or a day of diving.
Additional Information:
Storage & Fishability
The Contender 23 is famous for its "clean deck" layout, hiding massive storage underneath the floorboards:
- Forward Fish Box: 140-Gallon insulated in-deck storage (large enough for offshore species like Tuna or Wahoo).
- Livewell: 50-Gallon in-deck livewell with high-volume plumbing (typical of the 23 Open model).
- Dry Storage: Two additional forward lockers for gear, safety equipment, and tackle.
- Rod Holders: * 4–6 heavy-duty gunwale-mounted holders.
- 4 rocket launchers on the T-top.
- Multiple vertical rod racks flanking the center console.
Hull & Construction
- Hull Design: 24.5-degree deadrise at the transom. This "Deep-V" design is aggressive, allowing the boat to maintain speed in 3-to-4-foot seas where other 23-footers would have to throttle back.
- Construction: Hand-laid biaxial and triaxial fiberglass with a high-density foam-cored transom. It is a "two-piece" hull construction, which maximizes cockpit space.
- Max Horsepower: Rated for up to 300 HP (perfectly matched with the 2022 Mercury Verado 300 found on this specific vessel).
Performance Data (with 300HP)
- Cruising Speed: 32–35 mph @ ~4,000 RPM.
- Top Speed: 48–52 mph (depending on load and prop pitch).
- Fuel Economy: Expect roughly 2.2 – 2.5 MPG at cruise.
