Editor’s Note: Marine Photographer, Hunter Ledbetter is based out of Key West, Florida and travels the world photographing some of the most beautiful, pristine locations. When he is not working with world class companies on a remote photo shoot, he continues an outdoor lifestyle one would expect from a Floridian: Diving, Fishing, Photography and Cruising. All of which require a boat and motor that meet his needs and work effortlessly. Life is too short and schedules are too tight to deal with boat problems. Here are some pics from a recent outing and why he chose the Maverick as his platform when at his home base. Looks great Hunter, enjoy! Click here to view one of Hunter’s Photo Galleries or contact him here now: +1 (703) 608-1143 or via Email.
Hunter Ledbetter’s Maverick HPX 18
I had use of a friend’s 2005 Maverick HPX 17 for a year and half. I learned a lot with that boat and was very impressed with it. I use the boat a lot for fishing/diving photography and needed a little more room for all the camera gear I typically carry. When it came time to get my own boat, I went with the Maverick HPX 18. I’ve found that there is a lot more room and storage space on the 18. I can take three anglers just about anywhere I need to to get fishing pictures around Key West, or trailer it to other fishing spots around the Keys. I found a 2014 HPX with very low hours on the motor. My boat is powered with a Yamaha 115, Minn Kota trolling motor and talon power pole, and Humminbird 998c HD SI electronics. I’ve added rod holders on the casting platform and the poling platform. It has the 29 gallon tank. The economy of the boat is great. I can run to the Marquesas and back on a little less than 10 gallons of fuel.
Maverick HPX 18 Highlights:
- This boat has a lot of fishing room in the back and lots of storage room in comparison with the 17, plus, I’ve found it a lot more stable.
- Lots of cockpit room. I put down some rubber matting, I’ve found that when I need to stand up while I’m running; it absorbs a lot of the shock and makes the ride a little easier on my knees.
- I try and keep some of my lures handy.
- High end sound system. Seriously, for very little money I got the Seasucker rod holders and tied a bluetooth speaker on it, works really well.
- Whether its running around the Everglades or heading offshore in good weather, you can get to where you need to to catch fish in this boat without putting a huge dent in the bank account for fuel.
- Putting in at Robbies in Islamorada. Although I live in Key West, it is very easy to move this boat around and get to just about any area you want to fish.
Today’s Top Selling Fishing Decals & Gear:
Hunter Ledbetter’s 2014 Maverick HPX 18 custom rod holders.
