2023 Ocean Master Ocean Master 296

Step aboard and the first thing you notice is how the 296 feels bigger than her footprint, with a broad, uncluttered cockpit that begs for a spread of baits or a sunset cocktail setup. Deep, secure gunnels and wide walkarounds make moving forward with rods or kids in tow feel easy and safe. The helm layout is clean and purpose-built, with excellent sightlines from both stations so you can thread shallow channels or hover over a wreck with confidence. Forward seating and a roomy console interior give you legitimate family-day comfort, while the hull’s reputation for a soft, dry ride means you can push a little farther on those marginal-weather days without beating up your crew.

This 296 really shines in local waters where you might run from calm back bays to choppy open stretches in a single day. The efficient twin 200s are ideal for making longer runs to offshore reefs while still sipping fuel on slow troll or cruise. Her deep-vee hull and substantial bow flare handle afternoon wind chop with ease, yet she’s shallow enough to nose into sandbars or quiet anchorages. The elevated second station is a huge advantage for sight-fishing around color changes, weedlines, or cruising pelagics. Add in the included trailer, and you’ve got the flexibility to launch from different ramps and chase the best bite or the quietest coves all season long.