Sea Ray—with their on-again, off-again series of Amberjacks—has made halting efforts over the years to market fishing boats. The 290 Amberjack isn’t a serious fishing machine by any means; she is, however, a capable family cruiser/fisherman with the emphasis on comfortable accommodations. Built on a deep-V hull with a relatively wide beam, the Amberjack’s fishing amenities are comprised of molded bait prep station (with livewell) behind the helm, cockpit rod storage, and an optional aluminum arch with rocket launchers. The 290’s interior is plush for a fishing boat with a convertible dinette, head with shower, and a well-equipped galley with a built-in microwave. Note that the mid-berth is very shallow and suitable for only a single adult. Additional features include a removable aft bench seat, power vent windshield, transom door and swim platform, and freshwater washdown. Among many engine choices, twin 260hp MerCruiser I/Os cruise the Amberjack in the low 20s (about 35 knots top), and 300hp sterndrives cruise in the mid 20s (40+ knots wide open). With 300hp V-drive inboards, she’ll cruise in the low 20s and top out around 30 knots.