Websters Twinfisher 5.2 Review

Webster Twinfisher 5.2 Review

Webster’s Twinfisher was established in 1987 and is one of few Aussie manufacturers building small cats. These unique fishing boats have stood the test of time and have a number of models to suit a wide range of needs, ranging from four-metre tiller steer tinnies to the larger 5.2 model our test boat.

The 5.2 is available in centre console and cuddy cab or runabout style. I tested the cuddy cabin from Inverloch Marine. The first thing I noticed about the Webster’s Twinfisher 5.2 was the size of the cockpit it’s huge for a small boat and has heaps of ‘fishability’. That’s an advantage of the twin hull design, space is a precious commodity too many boat manufacturers ignore and it’s good to see it utilised for a change. 

Layout
A fix box is located centrally in the cockpit, which comes complete with three rod holders at the bow end. It’s padded and doubles as a seat ideal for snapper fishing in places like Port Phillip Bay.  Full length pockets along each side plus smaller ones in the cabin offer storage for the bits and pieces we fishos insist on taking with us. They need to be strengthened I used one as a step to get out and bent it, but I’m no light lad!

Aft, there’s a raised battery shelf, fuel tank in the centre and an oversized door. I was impressed by the door; it would be a great asset for divers with cumbersome gear. A raised bait board sits centrally and is ruggedly built a nice change from the many flimsy versions I see these days. The gunwales are wide and can take a number of rod holders.

Performance

Our test boat was powered by a 100 hp Yamaha four-stroke outboard. The boat jumped out of the hole quickly with impressive acceleration. We encountered short, steep swells that were standing up to the run-out tide at the entrance to Patterson River. The boat performed well, skipping across the waves with ease. The odd one caught us by surprise and we did get a little wet. A set of clears optioned into the package will solve that. I’ve never been a big fan of cat-style boats but found the Webster’s easy to steer it handled the uncomfortable chop with ease. Shane had to pull back on the throttle for some of the larger waves when running down sea, but that’s common among all lighter alloy boats.

The helm is well set-up. The separate Lowrance GPS and sounder units don’t clutter the space, there is a glove box on the passenger side and ample room to stretch your legs. The twin hull design offers excellent stability and makes the Twinfisher ideal for anglers who do a lot of drift fishing.

Handling
Another advantage of the Twinfisher is how easy it is to launch and retrieve. The twin hull finds its own way onto the trailer if you start straight enough. This makes it a great boat for those still learning. My mono hull centre console is a pain to get on the trailer by comparison.

The Webster’s Twinfisher is a neat little package ideal for estuary and inshore waters. It has heaps of room for a small boat and it’s relatively lightweight hull (550 kg) make it towable for the average family car and easy work for a four-wheel drive. 

WORDS: ALISTAIR MCGLASHAN