that wouldn’t stop barking and
growling at it.
MEGA CAB
On the trailer, the shape and size of
the pontoons impart a serious intent.
The forward and rear sections are
built from separate 5083 alloy sheets,
and the joining weld marks the
change of direction as the bows head
sky ward to sharp points.
This gives plenty of buoyancy to
keep the forward section high out of
the water, especially when running
into a following sea.
From outside the cabin looks high
in comparison to the boat’s length
and further adds to the aesthetically-
challenged image.
However it did prove roomy and
airy once we got on board and
provided excellent protection from
the chilly 20kt westerly we endured
for the test.
The Blackdog launched smoothly
from its custom Redco Alloy Series
trailer, and we headed for a quiet
cove for a look around.
The single-engine sits on a pod in
the centre of the extended transom,
so it’s in the exit of the tunnel
between the hulls, but far enough
back to be in clean water and achieve
drive without cavitation.
Swimplatforms sit either side,
and the photos hereabouts will
show a nifty retractable bracket
for the transducer and a fold-down
boarding ladder.PRACTICAL
CONCESSIONS
On board, it’s all about fishing.
A plumbed livebait tank is built
into the portside access step in
the transom, and this includes a
transparent panel and a light.
There’s an industrial-strength bait
table with storage shelf, washdown
hose, side storage shelf with tube
matting, rod holders and handholdseverywhere, padded side decks broad
enough for seating, high sides and
sensible footholds.
The full-width hardtop has sliding
side windows and a three-piece
windscreen for excellent all-round
vision and a flow of air when you
need it.
Headroom is enormous and there’s
room for three to stand behind the
helm chairs.
The central window and a low
door open out to the bow, where
you will find a separate casting deck
surrounded by a high rail.
At the helm are Relaxn chairs with
armrests on alloy bases with tackle
storage.
Apart from the carpet-lined roof,
the padding on the chairs is the only
concession to soft furnishing in the
cabin, so it has the look of a practical,
rather than stylish fit-out, that can
be easily cleaned and will withstand
rough treatment.AT THE HELM
Instruments and electronics are laid
out in a black non-reflective flat dash
ahead of the skipper.
A 10in Garmin 7410 XSV screen
serves for both navigation andCLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Riding high
and mighty; Everything about the
Blackdog means business; Built functional
and made for fishing.
Blackdog’s entry into Australia will
be a polarising move. Some boaties
will appreciate the practical appeal
of this well-built cat, while others
will want nothing to do with its
mongrel looks. Either way, the brand
will have people talking.tradeboats.com.au 97Blackdog Cat 6.3 WHT