Introduction to the Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman

Choosing a boat is one of the most important and exciting steps you can take if you enjoy being out on the water and want a model that can handle fishing trips and comfort for your crew. When considering the Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman, it is helpful to be prepared with as much real information as possible. This starts with knowing what makes this boat different from other similar models, what the experience is like for people who use it regularly, and what to check before making a decision. Having clear facts can help you feel confident while visiting boats or talking with sellers. This article brings you all the key points you’ll need, including details about performance, layout, comfort, upkeep, and the experience of actual owners. Whether this is your first large sport fisherman or an upgrade from something smaller, making an informed choice starts with understanding how each part of the Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman works to meet your needs.

Design Fundamentals: Hull, Layout, and Style

The Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman has what’s known as a classic Carolina-style hull. This means it uses a deep V-shape at the front, which helps cut through waves and gives a smoother ride in choppy offshore conditions. The hull features a prominent bow flare. This aspect of the design is not just about looks—it helps push water away from the deck and cockpit, keeping both drier during rough weather. The boat typically stretches about 52 feet in length with a beam (width) of around 16 feet, giving plenty of space for both fishing activities and relaxing onboard. The cockpit is open and quite large, often including features like an in-floor insulated fish box, a transom door for bringing in large fish, and an area set aside for a fighting chair. Many people notice that the deck layout helps with movement—there’s nothing in the way, so you can move from stern to bow easily and safely, even in rougher conditions.

One of the reasons many people look at Buddy Davis boats is the reputation for well-finished interiors. The main salon is typically finished in wood—usually teak, which is both sturdy and looks good over time. Soft carpet or hard-wearing floor coverings are common, and there’s plenty of natural light thanks to large side windows. Most layouts include a U-shaped sofa around a dining table, offering a flexible spot for meals or relaxing. The galley is functional, with an electric cooktop, microwave, refrigerator, and deep sink, plus storage lockers that help when planning longer trips away from shore. Depending on the year and build, the boat may offer a two- or three-cabin setup. The master cabin is forward, featuring a double or queen berth, while guest cabins use twin or bunk layouts, perfect for family and friends or additional crew.

Fishing Features and Practical Deck Setup

Being a sport fisherman, the Buddy Davis 52 is designed with dedicated anglers in mind. The cockpit space is bigger than you’ll find on many cruisers, with the area clear and ready for action, so multiple people can fish at once without getting tangled or in each other’s way. There are built-in rod holders on the gunwales, a livewell for keeping bait fresh throughout the day, and a tackle station equipped with drawers and trays near the cockpit entrance. Many models have a large, insulated fish box under the deck, connected to a macerator—this makes it easy to clean up after the day’s trip. The transom door helps when you want to pull larger fish onto the boat, and deck drains are located in smart spots to keep water flushing out quickly.

For those who enjoy trolling or targeting bigger fish, the bridge is often fitted with rigger bases, outriggers, and spreader lights. These help with setting up lines and working in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk. There is also extra space and mounting points for additional rod holders or electric reel outlets, should you want to add more options for deep drop fishing. Stainless steel hardware is used throughout the cockpit, including sturdy grab rails and cleats, so the fittings last longer and resist corrosion from saltwater use.

Access to the bridge is typically found through molded steps or a ladder, which have non-slip coverings. This ensures safety when climbing up even when the deck is wet. Flybridges are designed to give a clear, unobstructed view in all directions—not just for spotting fish, but also for managing the boat around other traffic or in tight spots near the dock. It’s also common to see space for coolers, extra bait wells, or storage boxes all around the cockpit, designed for practical use and easy access.

Performance and Handling on the Water

Performance on the Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman is a main reason it remains so popular with experienced owners. The deep-V hull is effective at smoothing out the ride, especially when running in chop or bigger waves off the coast. Models are powered by twin diesel engines, frequently ranging from 600 hp up to about 860 hp per engine, depending on the year and specifications. Cruising speeds typically fall between 22 and 28 knots, while top speeds can run up to 32 knots if the engines are well-maintained and the boat is lightly loaded. This allows you to cover long distances quickly, whether heading to a favorite offshore spot or getting back to harbor when conditions change.

Fuel capacity is usually around 1,000 gallons, and the tanks are placed for balanced weight distribution, which helps with stability. The rudders are oversized compared to some smaller boats, making the 52 both responsive at speed and manageable at slow speeds, which comes in handy when docking or picking up lines. Many owners comment that the boat tracks well even in crosswinds, and using trim tabs built into the hull can fine-tune the ride to keep the deck level and improve handling when turning.

The bridge on most Buddy Davis 52s is designed with visibility in mind. Seats are elevated, giving the captain a commanding view of the water ahead and behind. Engine controls are electronic for precise throttle and gear shifts, and most boats include bow thrusters, which further improve maneuverability in marinas or tight quarters. The bridge is also where you’ll usually find a full electronics suite, including radar, GPS chartplotters, VHF radios, depth sounders, and autopilot controls for long runs. This combination of features makes the boat suitable for both experienced skippers and those newer to larger offshore boats.

Living Space and Comfort Features

For those looking to spend extended time onboard or to bring family and friends, the Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman is built with all the necessities for longer trips. The main salon is roomy and comfortable, with wraparound seating that can serve as sleeping space or just a spot to relax after a day on the water. Wood cabinetry is typically fitted throughout, holding up well with regular maintenance and creating a warm atmosphere.

The galley is located just a step below the main salon, making it easy to serve meals while keeping the area separate from the main living space. You’ll often find a two-burner stove, a convection microwave, under-counter fridge and freezer, deep sink, and plenty of countertop space for meal prep. Cabinets above and below offer storage for cookware, dry goods, and dishes. For longer trips, some models include a washer-dryer combo unit stacked in a closet near the guest cabins.

The master cabin forward features a double or queen berth with reading lights, individual climate controls, and a private head (bathroom) attached. There’s room to stand and move around the berth, which is not always the case in boats of this size. Storage lockers and drawers are built under the berths and in hanging lockers to keep clothing and gear organized. Guest staterooms are typically equipped with twin or bunk beds, each with their own storage and reading lights, and these rooms share one or more heads with enclosed showers, mirrors, manual or electric-lift toilets, and ventilation ports for airflow. The heads are designed to be easy to clean and resist marine moisture and odors.

Climate control is a big plus on the Buddy Davis 52. Air conditioning and heating are standard in most models, with units sized to keep both the cabins and the salon comfortable in a wide range of weather. Windows and hatches that open make it easy to get natural air flow if you prefer, and blackout shades ensure good sleep during overnight stays. The sound insulation in engine spaces and between cabins helps keep noise levels down, adding comfort both underway and at anchor.

Construction Quality, Build Process, and Durability

The build quality of the Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman is often highlighted by experienced boaters. The hull construction uses layers of hand-laid fiberglass and resin, with extra thick sections near the keel and bottom for strength. This means the hull is strong enough to handle impacts from floating debris or the constant pounding that comes during offshore runs. Interior stringers—the framework within the hull—are glassed in place for extra strength, helping minimize flex and keeping the ride solid over time.

Bulkheads—vertical walls installed to separate areas such as cabins, engine rooms, and storage—are also glassed into place. This ties the boat’s structure together, reducing creaks and improving overall strength. The deck is laminated to the hull with adhesives and bolts, so the two pieces form a single strong shell. All deck and cockpit hardware is through-bolted with stainless steel or aluminum backer plates, which helps the boat stand up to the stresses of docking, mooring, and rough sea conditions. In high-traffic areas such as cockpit steps and bridge ladders, non-skid coverings help prevent slips, even in rain or when cleaning fish.

Inside the engine spaces, you’ll notice that the layout is designed for both performance and ease of maintenance. Filters for fuel and oil are easy to reach, and strainer baskets for seawater intake can be accessed and cleaned quickly. Bilge pumps—with high-capacity float switches—are set in watertight compartments, and there is a backup pump just in case. Electrical wiring runs through raceways and is color-coded and labeled, making it easier to trace issues or add new electronics later.

Owners often point out that the Buddy Davis 52 holds up well after years of use if maintained. Key areas to inspect on older boats include the hull sides around through-hulls or transducers, the transom area for signs of stress or movement, and the decks around hatches and hardware to check for soft spots. Frequent washing, waxing, and checking all seals can make a difference in how long these systems last and how much work is needed over time.

Upkeep and Maintenance Routine

Maintenance matters on a 52-foot sport fisherman, and Buddy Davis boats are designed so you can keep up with demands without added hassle. The engine room is accessed by a wide cockpit hatch, and most models offer full standing room inside, allowing you or a technician to work on systems without crawling. Routine checks include topping off engine fluids, changing out filters, greasing fittings, and checking the health of belts and hoses.

The fuel system uses double-sealed filters and stainless lines, which reduce the chances of leakages and are easier to replace at regular intervals. Inspect the sea strainers and cooling lines for growth or blockage, especially during the hotter months. The electrical system is fused at key points, and main circuit panels are labeled, so you can quickly identify and reset circuits if needed. Battery banks (often two sets, one for engines and the other for house power) can be inspected and replaced easily, and the batteries themselves are located in vented trays with tie-downs to keep them from shifting.

After each trip, hull and decks are washed down with fresh water, and concentrated rinsing is done in the cockpit, especially near the fish cleaning station and around drains. Inspect throughout the bilge and engine compartments to make sure there isn’t any standing water—a sign that hoses, clamps, or pumps might need attention. If the boat is being kept in saltwater, bottom cleaning and zinc replacement are done every season or as needed to prevent fouling and corrosion.

In addition to these tasks, owners often recommend servicing air conditioning units before the hot season, checking through-hull seals, and keeping the anchor locker clear of debris. This maintenance routine can help you catch small issues before they grow, saving time and money.

Electronics, Navigation, and Helm Features

The Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman comes equipped with a full suite of navigation equipment at the time of its build, and many owners upgrade these systems with new technology over time. At the bridge, you’ll find a multi-function display which can include chartplotting, fish finding, radar, and sonar. GPS antennas are mounted on the hardtop, keeping you tracked in real-time as you move.

Systems are networked so you can view depth, course, speed, and engine info all from a single screen, which makes the captain’s job easier and helps the crew stay safe. Most boats come with two VHF radios—one for the bridge and one in the salon or cockpit—for easy communication while offshore or during close quarters maneuvers in the marina.

Other electronics include marine stereo systems with speakers in the salon and cockpit, enabling music or radio wherever you’re spending your time onboard. The boat also features multiple 12-volt and USB plugs for phones, laptops, or tablets. Autopilot systems are common, giving you the ability to set a heading while focusing on other tasks during longer passages, and depth sounders provide water temperature and bottom contour data useful for both fishing and navigation.

The helm area is equipped with large stainless-steel wheel, clear analog or digital gauges for engines, and functional switches for all pumps, lights, and auxiliary gear. Windshield wipers for clearing spray, horn buttons, and controls for navigation lights are all placed within arm’s reach. There’s also space to mount additional displays, like forward-looking sonar or extra chartplotters, if you want to keep up with the latest technology.

Storage, Tankage, and Plumbing

Your enjoyment of time on the water often comes down to how much you can bring with you—and how easy it is to keep things organized. The Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman is equipped with multiple storage solutions: from deep under-seat lockers and galley cabinets, to rod storage and tackle drawers near the cockpit, and hanging lockers in cabins. The main salon and staterooms offer overhead cabinets and cubbyholes for books, clothing, and personal effects.

Freshwater tanks (often offering 200 to 250 gallons) and water heaters are standard, giving you plenty of supply for showers, cooking, and cleaning on multi-day trips. The freshwater system is pressurized and fitted with filtration, while hot water is provided by electric water heaters. Waste tanks (holding between 50 and 75 gallons) use macerator pumps for overboard discharge (in compliance with local laws) and deck pump outs, making it easy to manage waste at pump-out stations.

The boat’s plumbing system routes freshwater to heads, galley, and cockpit washdowns, and the system is built with marine-grade PEX plumbing for long service life and easy repairs. Deck washdowns—both freshwater and raw water—are plumbed to the cockpit and bow, helping with both routine cleaning and fishing prep. The anchor locker at the bow features a washdown for cleaning gear and chain after use.

Comfort and Entertaining Features

For those who want to host guests or relax after a day on the water, the Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman includes comfortable areas to gather and enjoy downtime. The salon features wraparound seating, large windows, and a choice of coffee or dining tables, so guests can read, play games, or watch movies if entertainment systems have been installed. The cockpit is sized so several people can sit around on deck chairs or coolers without crowding. Some models have a small outdoor grill or removable tables that can be set up on the aft deck for meals outside.

Sound systems have speakers in the salon, cockpit, and at the bridge, giving you control over music and radio in each area. Air conditioning outlets are placed throughout the cabins and heads, keeping every area cool during the summer.

For sleeping, each cabin is fitted with blackout shades, and most berths offer thick foam mattresses and fresh linens. There are reading lights and shelves at each bunk for storing books, small electronics, or glasses. The heads include enclosed showers with molded seats, tile or marine-paneling on the walls, mirrored medicine cabinets, and towel racks.

Extra touches throughout the interior—curtains, throw pillows, decorative lighting—are easy to add and do not interfere with the practical use of spaces. Windows and opening hatches have screens for bug protection and airflow during quiet nights at anchor.

Owner Feedback, Insights, and Common Tips

According to owners, the Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman is a reliable boat that balances comfort and fishability without sacrificing one for the other. Regular feedback includes praise for the dry ride—not just due to the hull shape, but also the bow flare and high freeboard, which together keep spray away from the decks and crew. People appreciate how quickly the cockpit drains when rinsing after fishing or cleaning up, preventing standing water or fish debris from being trapped.

Visibility from the bridge is often rated as excellent, with no blind spots that can make maneuvering at docks or in tight channels a challenge. The bridge seating is comfortable for a captain and a few guests, and the layout lets everyone enjoy the view or participate in spotting fishing grounds.

Some tips from experienced owners include:

• Always keep up on cleaning the raw water and freshwater systems to avoid blockages or odors.
• Flush the engines thoroughly with fresh water after every trip to keep cooling passages free of buildup.
• Keep spare fuses, bulbs, and impellers on board, as these are quick fixes for common issues.
• Change the anodes and check all through-hull fittings each season, especially before longer trips.
• Wax the hull every 3 to 6 months to protect the finish and make it easier to clean after each outing.

Customization and Owner Modifications

Many Buddy Davis 52 owners make personal upgrades to fit their style or needs. Common upgrades include new electronics (multi-function displays, radar, and digital engine monitoring), additional rod holders or outriggers for enhanced fishing, and customizing cockpit seating to add extra comfort or storage. Some add underwater lights to the transom for evening fishing or to attract bait at night.

In the galley, upgrading to new appliances—such as induction cooktops, ice makers, or drawer-style refrigerators—makes meal prep easier. Bedding and upholstery changes, as well as adding more advanced air conditioning or entertainment systems, are also popular. If you are looking at used models, reviewing the list of upgrades in the listing gives you a better picture of the boat’s setup and value.

Survey and Inspection: What to Watch For

When you are ready to inspect a Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman, go with a clear checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked. Many buyers hire professional marine surveyors to inspect the hull, check bulkheads and stringers for cracks, and look for leaks around portlights and hatches. A full survey should include:

• Running the engines up to temperature and checking for abnormal smoke, vibration, or warning alarms
• Inspecting all bilge pumps, float switches, and through-hull fittings, including gate valves and hoses
• Examining all deck hardware to ensure there is no movement, rust, or corrosion
• Testing electronics, navigation lights, and switches at the bridge and main panel
• Checking the main breaker panel and battery switches for support, rust, and signs of water
• Reviewing the interior for moisture, mildew, or signs of leaks around windows, hatches, and in storage areas
• Walking the whole deck to check for soft spots or flexing, especially near heavily-trafficked areas

It helps to be present at the survey so you can learn about routine checks and identify which issues can be corrected quickly and which might be bigger repairs.

Documentation and Record Review

Always ask for and review:

• The boat’s original build sheet, noting hull number, installed gear, and optional equipment
• Engine and generator manuals, service and parts logs, including dates and hour readings
• Electrical and plumbing diagrams, if available, for troubleshooting or upgrades
• Schedules for replacement of key items (like running gear, shafts, seals, and hoses)
• Certificates for safety and radio equipment where required for offshore work
• Documentation of previous upgrades, repairs, or any notes on professional yard service

This paperwork helps you predict what maintenance is overdue, what might be needed soon, and ensures smooth ownership, registration, and resale when the time comes.

Questions to Ask When Viewing a Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman

You want to be as informed as possible when reviewing a specific boat, and that starts with asking the right questions. These should include:

• How many hours are showing on the main engines and generator?
• Who has handled routine maintenance, and are service records available?
• Has the boat spent most of its time in saltwater or freshwater?
• When were the last upgrades to navigation and electronic systems?
• Have there been any issues with leaks or repairs to the decks?
• What is the age and condition of the air conditioning and waste systems?
• What safety gear is on board and up to date?
• Were any major refits done (rebuilt engines, new wiring, new flooring or galley features)?

Carefully record the answers, and compare what you hear to what’s in the paperwork and listing details.

Frequently Overlooked Details

Here are details that are sometimes missed but are important when looking at a Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman:

• Bilge ventilation: Check that all vent fans run when toggled at the panel and that grates are clear of dust and water intrusion.
• Cockpit scuppers: These should be free of debris and should drain quickly when you hose down the deck.
• Hardtop and bridge canvas: Look for tears, leaks, and frame rust, and test all zippers and snaps.
• Ladder and steps: See if rubber non-skid pads are secure, and check for wiggle or rust at mounting bolts.
• Anchor locker drainage: Pour water through the locker to confirm it drains from the bottom, not from the deck.
• Hinge and latch operation: Open and close every locker, hatch, and window to check for sticking or unusual resistance.

Prepping for Your First Cruise

If you purchase a Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman, your first trip should start by double-checking all standard gear, fueling up, and making sure all provisions are stowed away. Walk through every system with the previous owner or broker, if possible. Make a habit of checking oil, coolant, and fuel levels each day you operate the boat. Note engine temps and listen for unusual noises. Plan your route with backups for fuel and safe harbor, and give yourself time to learn the handling at slow speeds and near the dock.

Have all necessary safety gear within reach (PFDs, fire extinguishers, and flares). Test VHF radios, navigation electronics, and autopilot on your way out. Once underway, allow each crew member to take turns at the helm so everyone gets comfortable operating the boat.

Final Thoughts: Take the Next Step

Getting ready to own a Buddy Davis 52 Sport Fisherman is more about having good information and making careful choices than it is about luck. Take your time to look through real details, ask for paperwork, and learn from others who know these boats. If you are ready for more help or want to walk through the best options available on the market right now, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today. They can provide insights that fit your needs and answer any questions you may have about this model.

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