Looking for an economical tinny for a car topper or just a light weight v-nose punt to get on the water then the range of Angler model boats from Hunter Marine is just what you are looking for.

Hunter Marine have been manufacturing aluminium boats for over 50 years and are locally made in Swan Hill by Andrew Ash and his team of skilled staff.

The Angler range of v-nose punts comes in 3 sizes and various configurations to suit your needs.

The 290 Angler is 2.9m in length and comes only in a two-seat configuration. Weighing in at only 38kg it is the baby of the family and light enough to be easily handled by one person.

Our test boat on the Murray River was the 350 Angler, which is 3.5m in length. It is available in a two or three seat configuration and weighs 46kg. I was quite surprised when lifting this out of the back of the ute, the 1.2mm aluminium means it is light and the design of the ribs gives the punt its strength.

Finally the 410 Angler is 4.1m in length, weighs 52kg and is also available in two or three seat configurations. This boat has more than enough room and is light enough to manually launch from the bank.

All 3 models have a 1.3m beam and 45cm depth. The design includes a braced transom, extruded gunnel, and extra ribbing on the floor. A popular choice for the river or lakes, the v-nose design means a drier ride in choppy conditions. This punt is a stable fishing platform to tie up to the snags and jig for some yellas or when leaning over the side with the net to bring in that mighty cod. Deck it out with some rod holders and a Humminbird sounder from Andrew and you have all you need to explore the waterways this summer.

The Angler punt goes great with the lightweight and compact 5hp Yamaha 2-stroke and, when you’re in NSW you are not required to pay rego for 5hp or under. The Yamaha F5A has a built in 1.1L fuel tank and the ability to connect to an external tank.

For ease of starting, these engines feature an auto decompression device fitted to the camshaft. This system releases pressure in the cylinder when the manual pull start is engaged allowing the user a much lighter pull starting experience.

For convenient transport and mounting, the F5A has a grasp designed on the front of the motor and a large carry handle on the rear. The unique oil leak prevention system allows you to store or transport the engine on either side or its front without leaking engine oil. These are all great benefits to ensure a reliable motor for your car topper that will start and run anywhere, anytime and only weighs 28kg.

The Angler punt I tested had a new Yamaha 2-stroke 8hp straight out of the box and, I kid you not, it started second pull with ease. I recommend this larger motor when you require going a greater distance or getting on the plane with a passenger and their fishing gear.

The Yamaha 8CM motor is a 2 cylinder 2-stroke engine featuring a computer-controlled ignition for smooth running, quick acceleration, great top speeds and excellent fuel economy. This motor weighs 27kg for the short shaft model.

For ease of use in shallow conditions, these manual tilt motor features a 2 step shallow water drive function as well as an adjustable trim. All this in a smooth and quiet outboard with great portability.

The Angler 290 is rated to a 6hp, the 350 and 410 models are rated to 10hp.

The 290 Angler is priced from $1,500, the 350 Angler from $1,700 and the 410 Angler from $1,900. Package this up with a new lightweight Yamaha 2- or 4-stroke outboard and you can make sure you have the ability to get on the water with ease and not break the budget.

All Angler boats from Hunter Marine have a 1 year limited warranty. All new Yamaha 2-stroke motors have a 4 year warranty for piece of mind when you are out on the beaten track or exploring some of the great waterways on offer in Australia.

Ask your nearest dealer for details or phone Andrew Ash at Hunter Marine on 03 5032 2320 located at 21-25 Nyah Road, Swan Hill, Vic, 3585 www.huntermarine.net.au.