A Boat called Belinda

Outfitting a lodge is more work than you’d think, some of it tedious, and some awesome. Buying boats? Definitely awesome.

First we had to decide the brand. I have a 16’ Lund SSV, which I adore. Belinda has been my and Derrick’s trusty fishing companion since June 22, 2007, and our love for her is slightly obsessive. She gets the royal treatment after each trip and spends winters in a heated shop. She has also been witness to more awesome days on the water than most. If boats could talk, Belinda would have a few stories to tell…

Belinda enjoys sunset cruises and and unwinding on the beach after awesome days of fishing.

Since Belinda is such a favourite, Lund was always on the list, but wanting to explore the options, we also considered Alumarine, Crestliner, and Legend Boats. Derrick is the negotiations man, so he called around, visited dealerships and got quotes for a few weeks. Eventually, after spending one too many evening drooling over the catalogue, we realized that Lund was still the one.

At first, it was 16’ SSVs all the way, but then the sexy little Fury began stealing the show. Who can help it with a name like that? An aerated livewell, storage compartments, a wicked promo photo—she was a hot one! However, looks can be deceiving, and once we sat in her at a dealership, it became clear that a boat like Belinda couldn’t be beat. The Fury lacks a certain practicality and is cramped with too many “big boat” features. Belinda’s much roomier and more comfortable, and her younger sisters have a few upgrades thrown in too. Their IPS2 hulls are more efficient, stable and plane out 30% faster than the previous SSVs. They also have better control on the water and offer a smoother, drier ride.

On Wednesday, Derrick headed to Lac La Biche and made a deal for 8 Lund SSV 16’ boats. The boats will have electric start, 25 hp Mercury 4-stroke engines—fuel efficient and quiet. They’ll also be outfitted with rod holders, comfy seats, and life jackets.

Come May, the new fleet will be looking awfully pretty tied up to the dock. Of course, Belinda will always have our hearts, so she’ll be joining the fleet as the owners’ boat.