286-290 Express Fisherman

A popular model for years, the Aquasport 290 Express Fisherman (introduced in 1982 as the 286 Express) is a little dated by today’s express-boat standards although her large cockpit and roomy cabin accommodations compare favorably with many newer boats. She rides on a solid fiberglass modified-V hull with a wide 11-foot beam, a well-flared bow, and a relatively shallow 15 degrees of transom deadrise. The cabin sleeps four, a feat accomplished by turning the forward dinette into four bunks. The bench backs hinge up to convert into upper bunks and the lower bunks can be used separately or joined into a double bunk by dropping the table. Rod racks were placed in the overhead, and the head compartment is surprisingly roomy. The bi-level cockpit of the 290—with 120 square feet of space—is big for a 29-footer and came with a pair of in-deck fish boxes and a livewell. A transom door was not offered. Visibility from the raised helm position is excellent, and a factory tower was standard. Most 290 Express Fishermen were fitted with twin 270hp gas inboards—about 20 knots at cruise, high 20s top.