http://www.followingsea.net/Boats%20...ro%20index.htm
http://www.followingsea.net/Boats%20...o/starbord.jpg
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I didn't know they made a 26 in 1983. I really like the bridge layout although I think the second bridge chair location is strange. I also wonder why they went with the KAD32 instead of the 41. The boat really shows well and looks like it has been well cared for.
This guy has done some interesting modifications to the boat. Kinda neat to see the bridge layout. Boat looks pretty clean.
They must have been looking for a new color to offset their looks in 83', mine is the same color. Yes, by 1983 Don had already made about the first 200 of his early models, to include the early Billfishers.
In 1981 I had the second 23' Outer banks built by Don, the "Terrapin". I wanted a boat with a fish hold and the 23 bill fisher did not have one. Don can out with the 26' in 1983... I ordered the third one to be built... Named it "PRIMO" (trailer license was PRIMO 83). As I recall, they stated building the 23 late 79/early 80... Prior to that, it was all 20' and custom big boats.
Only had the 165 HP engine in it (don’t remember the model number) but it was much lighter and out performs the newer boats... It would top out at 28.5 knots with fuel, bait and 4 fishermen... However, when we loaded it up with fish, the performance really fell off (often over 2,000 lbs. max was 3,200 lbs and would only do 8 knots)... I am confident that is why our current boat, Just 4 Fun (formally NOMAD) is slower at top speed because it weights 1,500 pounds more then Primo did... I think most of you know, the NOMAD was loaded with equipment and extras that all add up...
So now you know... Questions???
You probably know this but the pictures on the website (Blackman Built) are of your boat. I was there every week taking pictures. Great boat, well built and one of the last few that Don personally took a hand in building. This is Don with a hand on the line as the hull came out of the mold
http://www.themarlinclub.com/Memoria...onBlackman.jpg