Boat Test: 2024 EdgeWater 208CC Watchman

Overview

The 208CC was one of EdgeWater’s first and most successful center-consoles. Still popular and one of the strongest fishing boats in its class, EdgeWater’s designers decided it was time to update it to modern expectations with cutting-edge construction ­techniques, seriously ­competitive fishing features, and family ­cruising comforts previously not present or valued with the ­original design. The new model is called the 208CC Watchman, and it boasts all-composite construction, a fiberglass stringer system and transom, and a foam-filled unsinkable design. The standard black canvas T-top with textured black powder-­coated ­superstructure is matched to the leaning post, the finish more durable than paint. It’s this look—plus the black dash plate large enough for a 12-inch display and a matching black wheel that pays homage to the law enforcement and lighthouse keepers who were called “the Watchmen”—that tops off the aggressive dash.

Interior and Accessories

In the Watchman, bold design is balanced with comforts, such as the thickly padded front seats and the thickly padded helm seating with a pullout cooler beneath. The fold-down transom seat is an unexpected treat in a boat this size. Even the coaming pads feature accented vinyl. For more fun, the standard  JL Audio system features gray-accented speakers.