Yachts for sale / Mikelson 43 Sportfisher

2012 Mikelson 43 Sportfisher

Huntington Beach, CA, US 48.7 ft · 15.83 ft' beam 2 cabins
Asking
$549,000
Our Thoughts

This 2012 Mikelson 43 Sportfisher represents a mature, well-equipped platform combining Tom Fexas's proven deep-V hull design with modern pod-drive efficiency and comprehensive cruising and fishing capability. Powered by twin Cummins QSB 6.7L 480-horsepower common-rail diesels turning Zeus pod drives with joystick control and SkyHook dynamic positioning, the vessel delivers approximately 22-knot cruise and 30-knot top speed with the range and fuel economy expected from efficient diesel propulsion. At 48.67 feet in length with a 15.83-foot beam and 3.25-foot draft, she offers the stability and salon volume of a significantly larger yacht while maintaining the maneuverability and docking ease that pod-drive systems provide.

The hull design keeps engine noise low in the salon by mounting the Cummins diesels beneath the cockpit, lowering center of gravity and contributing to the soft, dry offshore ride the deep-V configuration is known for. With 600-gallon fuel capacity and 200-gallon water tanks, the Mikelson 43 is genuinely long-range capable, making her equally suited to extended island cruising or serious offshore sportfishing.

The fishing package is tournament-grade: dual in-transom bait tanks, a full tackle storage system, 20-foot Precision outriggers with Maximizers, six stainless steel rocket launchers, and twelve flush-mounted rod holders throughout the cockpit and deck. The cockpit features a dedicated teak deck, transom door with swim platform access, fresh and saltwater washdown systems, and a teak tackle sink and bait prep area. A marlin tower with bench seating and railing provides elevated sight lines for serious anglers.

The two-stateroom layout offers genuine comfort for extended voyages. The forward master stateroom includes a queen berth with ensuite head featuring a separate stall shower, overhead hatch, opening portholes, and substantial hanging lockers and drawer storage. The mid-ship guest stateroom provides a double lower berth and upper single berth, hanging locker, and natural light. The aft galley features granite countertops, American cherry cabinetry, a Summit refrigerator/freezer, Panasonic microwave, Kenyon two-burner electric cooktop, U-Line icemaker, and ample storage. The salon showcases 360-degree windows, a U-shaped dinette with chase lounge that converts to a large berth, an L-shaped dinette that converts to a berth, and a hidden overhead rod locker. Teak and holly sole flooring throughout adds warmth and character.

The flybridge is a full command center and entertaining space: forward helm station with engine controls, steering wheel, and autopilot; aft tournament station with joystick, engine controls, steering wheel, and autopilot; twin Stidd helm seats; circular dinette with chart table access; sink; and a 360-degree flybridge enclosure completed in 2024. Stairs from the cockpit to the flybridge (not a ladder) improve accessibility and safety.

Electronics and navigation are comprehensive and current. The Garmin package includes two 7215 multi-display touch screens at the flybridge forward station, two 7212 multi-display touch screens at the flybridge aft station and cockpit, Garmin Radar with open array antenna, and dual Garmin 200 VHF radios with salon remote microphone and Simrad VHF backup.

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

Transferable LLCThe owner will consider all reasonable offers. 2012 Mikelson 43’ Shortfisher – Zeus Pods | Luxury | Performance | Fish ReadyThis 2012 Mikelson 43 Shortfisher combines legendary Tom Fexas design with Mikelson’s renowned craftsmanship to create one of the most versatile sportfishers in her class. Equally at home chasing tuna offshore or cruising the islands in comfort, she offers the ideal balance of fishing functionality, cruising luxury, and efficient performance. Powered by twin Cummins QSB 6.7 480 HP diesels with Zeus pod drives, she delivers excellent economy, easy joystick handling, and impressive maneuverability. With her 600-gallon fuel capacity, wide 15’8” beam, and solid fiberglass hull, she provides the range, stability, and comfort of a much larger yacht. Highlights & Features Twin Cummins QSB 480 HP with Zeus Pods – joystick control + SkyHook dynamic positioning Cruise 22 kts / Top 30 kts (approx.) Massive 15’8” beam for an open salon & large cockpit 600 gal fuel | 200 gal water | 60 gal holding – long-range capable Tournament-style cockpit with dual in-transom bait tanks, fish boxes, tackle storage & transom door Flybridge with forward helm, circular dinette, twin helm seats & full electronics package Two-stateroom layout: forward master with island berth + guest cabin to port (twin berths) Full head with separate stall shower Aft galley opens to salon – granite countertops, cherry cabinetry, premium appliances Spacious salon with large windows, L-settee, entertainment center & teak/holly sole Utility room beneath salon for systems access & additional storage Generator, air conditioning, outriggers, rocket launchers, and upgraded electronicsPerformance & DesignThe Mikelson 43’s Tom Fexas-designed deep-V hull delivers a soft, dry ride and exceptional efficiency. Engines mounted under the cockpit lower the center of gravity and keep the salon quiet, while the Zeus pods make docking in tight marinas effortless. Whether heading offshore for serious sportfishing or cruising comfortably with family and friends, the Mikelson 43 Shortfisher performs with confidence and style. RemarksMeticulously maintained and turnkey ready, this Mikelson 43 represents one of the finest examples of this sought-after model. Her combination of build quality, layout, and modern pod-drive technology makes her an exceptional opportunity for buyers seeking big-boat features in a manageable 43-foot package.

2012 Mikelson 43 Sportfisher: Twin Cummins Zeus Pod Sportfish with Flybridge, Marlin Tower, and Tournament Cockpit
Overview
The 2012 Mikelson 43 Sportfisher represents a thoughtfully engineered balance between serious offshore fishing capability and comfortable extended-cruising luxury. Built on a Tom Fexas-designed deep-V hull and measuring 48.67 feet overall with a commanding 15.83-foot beam, this dual-stateroom sportfisher combines tournament-grade fishing systems with a well-appointed salon and galley layout suited for family cruising or island hopping. Powered by twin Cummins QSB 6.7 480-horsepower common-rail diesel engines paired with Zeus pod drives, the vessel delivers joystick control, dynamic positioning via SkyHook, and efficient cruising characteristics that justify her 600-gallon fuel capacity and proven range. Located in Huntington Beach, California, this low-hour example (1,875 engine hours) has been systematically maintained and upgraded with current-generation electronics, a new watermaker, recent battery installations, and a refreshed flybridge enclosure, positioning it as a capable platform for both tournament fishing and comfortable coastal or bluewater cruising.
Design and Hull Construction
The Mikelson 43's design heritage reflects Tom Fexas's signature approach to sportfish hull development: a deep-V bottom that transitions smoothly through the chines, delivering a soft, predictable ride in variable sea states while maintaining efficiency at cruise and wide-open throttle. The 15.83-foot beam—generous for a 43-footer—provides inherent stability and contributes to the spacious open salon and large cockpit layout without sacrificing seaworthiness. The solid fiberglass construction, combined with engines mounted beneath the cockpit floor, lowers the center of gravity and minimizes engine noise transmission into living spaces, a detail that distinguishes this platform from center-console or conventional transom-mounted alternatives. The hull's draft of 3.25 feet permits access to shallow-water anchorages and coastal cuts while maintaining adequate underbody for offshore stability and fuel efficiency. The wide beam and moderate draft ratio supports the vessel's ability to cruise comfortably at 22 knots while achieving top speeds near 30 knots, a performance envelope that balances fuel economy with timely transit to fishing grounds or cruising destinations.
Power, Propulsion, and Joystick Control
Twin Cummins QSB 6.7 480-horsepower common-rail diesel engines deliver the reliability and torque characteristic of Cummins marine packages, with documented service history including main engine and gear cooler service in February 2025 and new raw water pumps installed in August 2023. The Zeus pod drive system—featuring automatic trim, power steering, and trolling valve functionality—eliminates the need for traditional shaft logs and struts, simplifying through-hull penetrations and reducing drag. More importantly, the Zeus system enables joystick control at both the flybridge forward helm and aft tournament station, as well as from a flip-out auxiliary joystick in the cockpit, allowing single-handed maneuvering in tight marina approaches or precise positioning over structure while fishing. The SkyHook dynamic positioning feature, integrated into the Zeus autopilot system, automatically maintains the vessel's heading and position using GPS and compass inputs, a functionality that proves invaluable when drifting or anchoring in current-swept locations or when the operator needs both hands free for rigging or fighting fish. The system supports efficient trolling-valve operation, reducing engine RPM to minimal levels for live-bait presentations or slow-speed structure work.
Fuel Capacity, Range, and Systems
The 600-gallon fuel capacity—substantial for a 43-footer—supports extended offshore operations and long-distance cruising without frequent refueling. At cruise speed (approximately 22 knots), the twin Cummins diesels consume fuel efficiently, a characteristic of modern common-rail architecture and the hydrodynamic advantages of the Zeus pod system. The 200-gallon freshwater capacity, paired with a new SeaPro watermaker (installed 2025), ensures that extended passages or island stays do not depend on shore-based water supplies, a comfort feature that extends the vessel's range and self-sufficiency. An Onan 9-kilowatt generator, housed in a soundshield enclosure and serviced in March 2025, supplies 120/240-volt AC power for air conditioning, galley appliances, and entertainment systems while at anchor or during calm-weather cruising when main engines are not running. The electrical plant includes five new 8D 12-volt batteries (installed 2025) split into house and engine-start banks, supported by a Magnum 2000-watt inverter/charger, a ProMariner backup battery charger, a ProSafe galvanic isolator, and a VSR battery relay system. This redundancy and capacity support extended off-grid operation, critical systems reliability, and the power demands of modern navigation, entertainment, and comfort equipment. A Muir horizontal windlass with both bridge and foredeck controls, paired with a Bruce Claw anchor and 5/16-inch high-test chain, simplifies anchoring in varying seabed conditions and provides the mechanical advantage necessary for secure holding in strong tidal or wind conditions.
Fishing Systems and Cockpit Layout
The cockpit embodies tournament sportfish design principles: a large, uncluttered working deck with dual in-transom bait tanks, integrated fish boxes, and a transom door that facilitates the loading and securing of catch. Twenty-foot Precision outriggers equipped with Maximizers support spread presentations and reduce line tangles during multi-line trolling. Twelve stainless-steel rocket launchers and six flush-mounted rod holders provide secure storage for rigged rods and backup tackle. A tackle storage locker, bait-prep sink, and washdown system (fresh and saltwater) complete the functional fishing station. The cockpit features teak decking, stainless-steel side rails running from the transom to the bow, a molded bow pulpit with railings, and a swim platform with transom shower and hot/cold capability—amenities that reflect the vessel's dual mission as both a fishing platform and a comfortable cruising home. A staircase (rather than a ladder) leads from the cockpit to the flybridge, a detail that improves accessibility and safety, particularly for guests or crew moving between deck levels during extended passages.
Flybridge and Helm Stations
The flybridge encompasses a forward helm station with engine controls, steering wheel, and Zeus autopilot integration, paired with an aft tournament station featuring a joystick, independent engine controls, and its own autopilot interface. Two Stidd helm seats provide ergonomic support during extended helm time, while a circular dinette with chase lounge offers social seating and converts to a sleeping berth for additional guests. A chart table with navigation reference, a sink for galley prep or washdown, and access to the marlin tower complete the upper-deck layout. A 360-degree flybridge enclosure, newly installed in 2024, protects occupants from weather while maintaining visibility and allowing natural ventilation when conditions permit. The hardtop structure supports radar and antenna mounting and provides shaded protection for the helm and social areas. Tower upholstery has been refreshed, and the marlin tower—accessible via a ladder from the flybridge—provides an elevated platform for spotting game fish, tuna, or dolphins during offshore operations. The dual-helm-station design reflects the vessel's fishing heritage: the forward position suits extended cruising and open-ocean transits, while the aft station, positioned near the fighting chair and tackle storage, enables the captain or mate to maintain precise boat control while anglers work the cockpit.
Electronics and Navigation
A comprehensive Garmin electronics suite supports navigation, fish-finding, and communication across multiple stations. Two Garmin 7215 multi-display touch screens occupy the forward flybridge helm station, while two Garmin 7212 units serve the aft tournament station and cockpit repeater position. This redundancy ensures that navigation and fish-finding data remain available even if a primary display requires service, and it permits independent operation of multiple fishing lines or simultaneous crew coordination during busy periods. A Garmin open-array radar system provides real-time weather and sea-surface imagery, critical for safe offshore passage planning and identifying weather systems that might affect fishing conditions or safety. The Zeus autopilot, with SkyHook integration, interfaces with the Garmin network, enabling automated waypoint navigation, dynamic positioning, and collision-avoidance features. Communication is supported by a Garmin 200 VHF radio with salon remote microphone and a new Simrad VHF radio (installed 2024), providing dual-frequency capability and ensuring clear communication with the Coast Guard
Length
48.7 ft
Beam
15.83 ft'
Year
2012
Builder
Mikelson
Model
43 Sportfisher
Cabins
2
What type of boat is a Mikelson 43 Sportfisher, and what makes it suitable for both fishing and cruising?
The Mikelson 43 Sportfisher is a 48.67-foot center console-style sportfisher built on a Tom Fexas-designed deep-V hull, engineered to deliver a soft, dry ride and exceptional fuel efficiency. The vessel balances serious offshore fishing capability with comfortable cruising accommodations, featuring a two-stateroom interior, full galley, and salon with 360-degree windows. The wide 15.83-foot beam provides stability and interior volume, while the tournament-style cockpit with dual in-transom bait tanks, fish boxes, and tackle storage supports dedicated anglers. The design allows owners to pursue tuna and other offshore species while maintaining the comfort and range needed for extended island cruising or family boating, making it versatile across different boating lifestyles.
How do the twin Cummins diesel engines and Zeus pod drives perform, and what are the fuel economy and speed specifications?
This Mikelson 43 is powered by twin Cummins QSB 6.7-liter 480-horsepower common-rail diesel engines paired with Zeus pod drives, delivering approximately 22 knots cruising speed and 30 knots top speed. The diesel engines provide excellent fuel economy compared to gasoline alternatives, while the Zeus pod drives feature auto-trim, power steering, and trolling valves for precise control. The 600-gallon fuel capacity extends range significantly, supporting long-distance offshore runs and multi-day cruising without frequent refueling. The engines are mounted under the cockpit, which lowers the center of gravity and keeps the salon quiet during operation. With 1,875 hours on the engines and recent service records including new raw water pumps (08/2023) and main engine/gear cooler service (02/2025), the powerplant is well-maintained and ready for immediate use.
What joystick and autopilot systems are included, and how do they improve handling and positioning?
The vessel features dual Zeus joysticks—one in the cockpit (flip-out hidden locker) and one on the flybridge aft station—providing intuitive single-lever control for docking and maneuvering in tight spaces. The Zeus autopilot is installed at both the forward flybridge helm and aft tournament station, with the advanced SkyHook dynamic positioning feature that automatically holds the boat's position using GPS, allowing anglers to maintain precise location over fishing grounds without constant throttle adjustment. This combination eliminates the need for traditional wheel steering in many situations, reduces fatigue during long days on the water, and dramatically improves safety and precision when positioning for fishing or anchoring. The joystick system makes the 48-foot vessel handle like a much smaller boat, a significant advantage in crowded anchorages or when docking single-handed.
What is the flybridge layout, and how is it configured for fishing and navigation?
The flybridge features a forward helm station with full engine controls, steering wheel, and autopilot access, allowing the captain to operate the vessel from an elevated vantage point with 360-degree visibility. An aft tournament station includes a joystick, engine controls, steering wheel, and autopilot, designed for anglers to control the boat while actively fishing. The flybridge includes a circular dinette that converts to a berth, a sink, and chart table for navigation planning. A staircase (not a ladder) from the cockpit provides easy access, and a new 360-degree enclosure (2024) protects occupants from weather while maintaining visibility. The marlin tower with bench seat and railing offers additional height for spotting fish, and the tower upholstery was recently renewed. This layout supports both serious tournament fishing operations and comfortable cruising, with two independent helm stations allowing flexibility in boat handling and watch rotation during extended voyages.
What electronics and navigation equipment are installed, and how do they support offshore fishing and navigation?
The vessel is equipped with a comprehensive Garmin electronics package including four multi-display touch screens: two Garmin 7215 units at the forward flybridge station and two Garmin 7212 units at the aft tournament station and cockpit, providing redundancy and flexibility across multiple helm positions. Garmin radar with open array antenna supports navigation and weather monitoring in low-visibility conditions. Navigation systems include a Garmin 200 VHF radio with salon remote microphone and a new Simrad VHF radio (2024) for backup communication. The Zeus autopilot with SkyHook is integrated throughout, enabling precise position-holding and waypoint navigation. This electronics suite provides the situational awareness, chart plotting, and fish-finding capability necessary for offshore operations, while the multi-station setup allows navigation and fishing control from either the flybridge or cockpit depending on conditions and fishing strategy.
What are the cockpit and fishing features, and how is the space organized for tournament or serious recreational fishing?
The tournament-style cockpit features a teak deck and is organized around serious fishing functionality. Dual in-transom bait tanks with circulation systems keep live bait fresh during long fishing days, while integrated fish boxes provide storage for the catch. Twenty-foot Precision outriggers with Maximizers support spread fishing and trolling operations, and twelve stainless steel rocket launchers hold rigged baits and lures within immediate reach. Six stainless steel flush-mounted rod holders are positioned throughout the cockpit, and a hidden overhead rod storage locker in the salon keeps additional rods organized and protected. The cockpit includes a tackle storage area and bait prep sink, allowing anglers to rig and maintain equipment without leaving the fishing zone. A transom door with hot/cold shower and swim platform enable easy access to the water and crew comfort. Stainless steel side deck rails and a molded bow pulpit with rails provide safe movement around the vessel during active fishing, and the wide beam creates a stable platform for fighting large fish.
What is the interior cabin layout, and how does it support extended cruising or family boating?
The interior features a two-stateroom, one-head configuration with a forward master stateroom containing a queen berth, ensuite head with separate stall shower, two large hanging lockers, drawers, overhead hatch, and opening portholes. The mid-ship guest stateroom includes a double lower berth and upper single berth, hanging locker, overhead hatch, and portholes. The spacious salon features 360-degree windows, an L-shaped dinette that converts to a berth, a U-shaped dinette with chase lounge that converts to a large berth, and a "hidden" overhead rod locker. The aft galley opens directly to the salon and includes granite countertops, American cherry cabinetry, a Summit refrigerator/freezer, Panasonic microwave, Kenyon two-burner electric cooktop, U-Line icemaker, and ample storage. The salon features a teak and holly sole and entertainment center with a new Samsung smart TV (2023). A large under-salon utility room provides access to systems and additional storage. This layout comfortably accommodates a family or small group for multi-day cruises, with sleeping capacity for up to six people and galley facilities for meal preparation.
What mechanical systems support comfort and reliability during extended offshore cruising?
The vessel is equipped with a new SeaPro watermaker (2025) that produces fresh water from seawater, eliminating dependence on water dockage and supporting extended cruising to remote locations. An Onan 9-kilowatt generator in a soundshield (serviced 03/2025) provides reliable electrical power for air conditioning, galley equipment, and all 12-volt systems. The air conditioning and heating system operates throughout the interior, maintaining comfort in varying climates. The electrical system includes five new 8D 12-volt batteries (2025)—two for house power and two for engine start—with a new Magnum 2000-watt inverter/battery charger (2025) and backup ProMariner battery charger. A VSR battery relay/combiner and ProSafe galvanic isolator protect the electrical system. Fresh water systems include a Sureflow 12-volt pump, Raritan water heater, and water purifier with UV light and cartridge filters. A Jabsco quiet flush electric head with holding tank, macerator, and deck pump-out supports sanitation. These systems enable comfortable, self-sufficient cruising and reduce the need for frequent shore-based services.
What deck equipment and anchoring systems are included, and how do they support safe boat handling?
The vessel features a Muir horizontal windlass with both bridge and foredeck controls, allowing the captain to deploy and retrieve the anchor from multiple locations. A Bruce Claw anchor with 5/16-inch hi-test chain provides secure holding in various bottom conditions. A new Steelhead Marine WD 800 hydraulic dinghy davit (2024) with removable Weaver dinghy chocks enables safe deployment and retrieval of a tender without manual lifting. Fresh and saltwater washdown systems at the bow and cockpit support deck cleaning and fish processing. Stainless steel side deck rails from cockpit to bow and a molded bow pulpit with rails provide safe movement around the vessel in rough conditions. Cockpit and foredeck flood lights enable safe nighttime operation and docking. An engine room fire suppression system protects against mechanical emergencies. These systems collectively support safe, confident operation in varied sea states and anchoring conditions, reducing crew fatigue and enhancing safety during extended offshore passages.
What communication and entertainment systems are integrated, and how do they support connectivity during cruising?
The vessel features a new Starlink high-speed internet antenna (2023) that provides reliable broadband connectivity regardless of location, enabling remote work, weather monitoring, and real-time fishing reports during extended cruises. A new Fusion stereo system (2023) with Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and AM/FM radio includes JL speakers and amplifier, with a cockpit remote for music control while fishing or cruising. A new Samsung salon smart TV (2023) supports streaming entertainment and weather monitoring. The communication suite includes a Garmin 200 VHF radio with salon remote microphone and a new Simrad VHF radio (2024) for redundant safety communication with other vessels and shore-based services. An EPIRB beacon (new 2024) provides emergency positioning and rescue capability if the vessel requires assistance offshore. This integrated system balances modern connectivity and entertainment with safety communication, supporting both the practical needs of offshore operation and the comfort expectations of extended family cruising.
What is the fuel and water capacity, and how does the design support long-range offshore fishing and cruising?
The Mikelson 43 carries 600 gallons of fuel and 200 gallons of fresh water, with a 60-gallon holding tank for waste. The 600-gallon fuel capacity combined with the efficient twin Cummins diesel engines and economical cruising speed of 22 knots provides extended range for offshore fishing trips to distant banks and seamounts without refueling. The wide 15.83-foot beam and solid fiberglass hull construction deliver stability in rough seas and a comfortable motion, reducing fatigue during long passages. The new SeaPro watermaker generates fresh water from seawater, effectively extending the practical water range beyond the 200-gallon tank capacity. The deep-V hull design and diesel power deliver soft, dry ride characteristics that reduce pounding in offshore conditions. The two-stateroom interior with full galley and head facilities enables multi-day or week-long cruising with sleeping accommodations for up to six people. These design elements collectively support confident, self-sufficient offshore operations, whether pursuing distant fishing grounds or cruising to remote anchorages for extended island stays.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel.

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