In the past few months, Scout Boats has introduced three all-new fishing boats for the 2024 boating season. This includes the debut of the Scout 261 XSS bay boat at MIBS 2024 earlier this month, and the recent 281 X Signature Edition, along with the company's recently launched 357 LXF "luxury fishing" center console. These are three fishing boats geared just for many anglers are looking for on the market and are bound to please a lot of folks. Let's take a deeper look at each of these models.

Scout 261 XSS Bay Boat


Scout's all-new 261 XSS Bay Boat is an inshore/offshore crossover that comes loaded with notable features. The boat has emerged as a standout option in 2024 for anglers seeking a versatile craft capable of navigating both inshore shallows and open offshore waters with ease, while blending Scout's signature luxury with the practical demands of serious fishing. She features a With a maximum horsepower of 400hp and a draft of 17 inches, the 261 XSS is as agile in shallow waters as it is robust in deeper seas.

Scout 261 XSS Bay Boat

Above: A Scout 261 XSS Bay Boat. Image by Scout Boats.



Her 8'6" beam ensures the boat remains easily trailerable, catering to adventurers who chase the horizon. featuring expansive casting decks at the bow and stern, alongside key amenities like aerated baitwells and ample rod storage. With a console coffin box enhancing its utility, the boat also offers a range of high-end standard features, including a fiberglass hardtop with integrated acrylic windshields, a Fusion Bluetooth stereo system with JL Audio speakers, and a pocket transom ladder with synthetic decking. Notably, the patent-pending Sport Tower upper station option redefines visibility and control for the captain, with full controls placing the driver aft of the helm passengers to improve visibility for all. Starting at $175,405 with standard options, this boat offers an affordable price point making her accessible to many anglers. 

View All Scout Boats For Sale

281 X Signature Edition


The new 281 X Signature Edition showcases why Scout Boats is a saltwater fishing specialist with a fresh take on a mid-sized fishing boat that features a one-of-a-kind innovative second upper helm station, making her a bit of a hybrid between a center console and a flybridge sportfisher. This model signifies an advancement from the Scout 281 XSS, a 28 foot hybrid bay boat engineered for a combination of inshore and offshore fishing.

Scout 281 X Signature Edition

Above: A 2024 Scout 281 X Signature Edition. Photo by Scout Boats.



The boat integrates a twin-stepped hull and harnesses up to 600hp on the transom, achieving speeds over 50 knots. The innovative second helm station is perched on the boat's T-top and captains can access this elevated position by climbing a platform at the rear of the lower helm, passing through an opening in the T-top. From here, they can pilot the vessel from 6-8 feet higher above the waterline, making her ideal for sight-fishing and highlighting her unique design and functionality.

View Scout 281 XS Boats For Sale

357 LXF S-Class Center Console


The new 357 LXF S-Class center console from Scout is designed with both luxury and fishing capabilities in mind, true to the "LXF" in her name, she's a LUX Fishing machine! Performance-wise, the boat boasts a top speed of 72.2 mph powered by triple Mercury 400 hp Verados, making it not only luxurious but also powerful and fast. It falls within Scout’s S-Class category, reserved for luxury models 33 feet and up, emphasizing its premium status and features. She's built over an epoxy-infused, double-stepped hull that provides outstanding efficiency while minimizing weight, and amenities like triple heated helm seats, a walkable swim platform and an electrically actuated bow table/sun lounger.

2024 Scout 357 LXF S-Class

Above: A 2024 Scout 357 LXF S-Class center console boat. Photo by Scout Boats.



The boat is equipped with substantial fishing features including multiple rod holders, a 60-gallon transom fishbox/storage, spacious cockpit baitwell and a starboard side walk-thru. Optional equipment can further enhance both its luxury and fishing utility, including retractable hardtop, rocket launchers and a solar panel on the hardtop for battery life extension​. With its recent introduction to the market, this boat is an integral part of Scout Boats' lineup for the 2024 model year. Priced starting at $548,864, with standard options, 357 LXF is designed to cater to both anglers and cruising enthusiasts who are serious about fishing in style and comfort and it will surely fullfill their needs.

View Scout 357 LXF Boats For Sale

Take Aways: Scout Meeting The Diverse Needs Of Modern Anglers


As we wrap up our exploration of Scout Boats' latest offerings for the 2024 boating season, it's clear that the introduction of the 261 XSS Bay Boat, 281 X Signature Edition, and the 357 LXF S-Class Center Console marks a significant leap forward in the world of luxury fishing vessels. Each model, with its unique blend of cutting-edge design, efficient performance, and dedicated fishing features, not only sets a standard in the industry but also caters to the diverse needs of modern anglers. From the shallow waters to the open seas, these boats promise to deliver exceptional experiences, combining comfort, speed, and utility in a way that only Scout Boats can. As the boating season unfolds, these models are bound to turn heads and make waves, solidifying Scout Boats' reputation as a leader in innovation and luxury on the water.

View All Scout Boats For Sale

 

 

 

Written by: Ryan McVinney
C. Ryan McVinney is a film director, producer, writer, actor, boat captain, outdoorsman and naturalist. He's the host and director of the award-winning TV show Stomping Grounds that explores boating culture across America, sponsored by Boat Trader. McVinney also directs and produces the documentary series Cult Classics featuring top yacht builders and the extreme superyacht show LEGENDS for YachtWorld, as well the popular Factory Fridays video series for boats.com that visits boat building facilities around the world. He's a regular contributor to leading marine industry publications and regularly tests and reviews boats on his varied outdoor adventures.