Yachts for sale / Contender 44 ST

2021 Contender 44 ST

Dunedin, FL, US 43.8 ft · 12 ft' beam
Asking
$698,000
Our Thoughts

The 2021 Contender 44 ST is a 43.83-foot center console purpose-built for serious offshore fishing and extended-range cruising. Powered by quad Mercury Verado outboards, this vessel combines the proven construction and fishability Contender is known for with modern electronics and tournament-grade fish-handling capacity.

Performance & Propulsion

The quad Mercury Verado engine package delivers the speed, efficiency, and reliability expected from a modern offshore platform. Mercury's Joystick Piloting with Skyhook integration provides precision station-keeping and single-hand maneuvering—particularly valuable in tight docking situations or when positioning over structure in rough conditions. The 12-foot beam and solid construction provide the stability needed for extended offshore operations in variable sea states.

Navigation & Electronics

Twin 24-inch Garmin GPS displays offer redundancy and excellent visibility from the helm, while the Garmin GHP Autopilot handles long-range cruising duties efficiently. The electronics package supports both navigation and fish-finding capability, essential for serious anglers working offshore grounds.

Fishing Platform & Storage

The 44 ST's layout prioritizes fish handling and deck functionality. A 340-gallon forward fish box, twin 110-gallon aft fish boxes, and two 55-gallon transom livewells provide substantial capacity for tournament fishing or extended offshore trips. Four 10-foot rod lockers and four flush-mount gunnel rod holders accommodate serious tackle loads. Twin Rhodan 120-pound thrust GPS-guided trolling motors enable precision positioning and stealth fishing approaches. Outriggers are installed for offshore trolling applications. Additional storage includes 315 gallons of forward storage and a forward anchor locker, supporting the cruising and operational needs of extended offshore trips.

Deck Hardware & Seaworthiness

Heavy-duty construction is evident throughout: dual heavy-duty stern lifting rings, dual 10-inch stern cleats, midship 8-inch cleats with hause pipes, a custom aluminum recessed bow handrail, and a bow lifting ring integrated into the floor peak locker. A pop-up cleat and forward anchor locker round out the deck hardware package.

Fuel & Water Capacity

The 600-gallon fuel capacity provides the range and confidence required for extended offshore operations, while 70 gallons of water supports comfort during multi-day trips.

This 2021 Contender 44 ST represents a fully equipped offshore fishing platform with the electronics, fish-handling systems, and structural quality to support serious tournament fishing or luxury offshore cruising from the Florida coast.

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

2024 Contender 44ST – Quad Mercury Verados | Ultimate Offshore Fishing MachineDominate the offshore scene with the legendary Contender 44ST—a center console built for serious anglers who demand elite performance, unmatched range, and tournament-level capability. Known as one of the most feared and respected fishing platforms on the water, the 44ST is engineered to outpace, outmaneuver, and outfish anything in its class. With a commanding 44-foot length and an expansive 12+ foot beam, this vessel delivers exceptional stability, deck space, and fishability. Backed by an incredible 600-gallon fuel capacity, the 44ST offers the range and confidence to push far offshore and back without compromise. Powered by quad Mercury Verado outboards, this boat delivers blistering speed, smooth handling, and proven reliability—making it equally suited for tournament competition or luxury offshore cruising. Key Features & Highlights Quad Mercury Verado Engines – Power, speed, and efficiency Mercury Joystick Piloting with Skyhook – Precision control and station-keeping at the touch of a button (2) Garmin 24” GPS Displays – Premium navigation and fish-finding technology Garmin GHP Autopilot – Effortless long-range cruising Outriggers – Ready for serious offshore trolling Twin Rhodan 120 lb Thrust GPS-Guided Trolling Motors – Ultimate positioning and stealth fishing capabilityFishing & Storage CapabilitiesDesigned with hardcore anglers in mind, this 44ST is fully equipped to handle big water and big game: 340 Gallon Forward Fish Box (2) 110 Gallon Aft Fish Boxes (2) 55 Gallon Transom Livewells 315 Gallon Forward Storage (2) 10’ Rod Lockers (4) Flush Mount Gunnel Rod Holders Forward Anchor Locker with StorageDeck & HardwareBuilt tough with premium components and thoughtful design: Heavy Duty Bow Lifting Ring (Floor Peak Locker) (2) Heavy Duty Stern Lifting Rings (2) 10” Stern Cleats (2) 8” Midship Cleats with Hause Pipes 8” Pop-Up Cleat Custom Aluminum Recessed Bow HandrailAdditional Specs Fuel Capacity: 600 Gallons Water Capacity: 70 Gallons Beam: 12+ Feet Length: 44 FeetIf you're looking for a no-compromise offshore fishing platform that blends cutting-edge technology with legendary Contender performance, this 44ST deserves your attention. Serious inquiries only—this vessel will not last.

2021 Contender 44 ST: Quad Mercury Verado Offshore Fishing Center Console
Overview
The 2021 Contender 44 ST is a 43.83-foot center console designed for serious offshore fishing operations and extended-range cruising. Built on a proven platform known for tournament-grade performance and heavy-duty construction, this vessel combines a spacious 12-foot beam with a 600-gallon fuel capacity, enabling confident passage to blue-water fishing grounds and back. Powered by quad Mercury Verado outboards and equipped with advanced Mercury Joystick Piloting and Skyhook station-keeping technology, the 44 ST delivers the precision control and reliability demanded by professional and recreational anglers targeting large pelagic species in open ocean conditions. The Contender 44 ST category represents a mature segment of center console design where deck space, fish-handling infrastructure, navigation electronics, and propulsion systems are engineered as an integrated platform rather than a collection of features. This vessel reflects that philosophy through its layout, which prioritizes angler access, storage capacity, and operational efficiency without sacrificing seaworthiness or range.
Propulsion and Performance
The quad Mercury Verado outboard configuration provides the 44 ST with modern two-stroke efficiency, fuel economy, and maintenance advantages characteristic of Verado technology. Mercury Verado engines are recognized for smooth power delivery across a wide throttle range, making them suitable for both high-speed transits to fishing grounds and precise low-speed maneuvering required in tournament or technical fishing scenarios. The four-engine setup distributes power across the transom, improving weight distribution, redundancy, and handling characteristics compared to twin or triple configurations, while the Verado platform's fuel injection and advanced combustion management support extended offshore operations within the vessel's 600-gallon fuel capacity. Quad outboard propulsion on a 44-foot center console also simplifies trim and tilt management across a wider range of sea states and loading conditions, a practical advantage when the vessel is loaded with fuel, water, ice, catch, and crew for extended offshore runs.
Helm, Navigation, and Boat Control
The 44 ST's helm station is equipped with dual Garmin 24-inch GPS displays, providing comprehensive navigation, sonar integration, and fish-finding capabilities across redundant screens. This display configuration supports chart plotting, real-time waypoint management, electronic chart updates, and full sonar overlay—essential for offshore navigation where visual references are absent and precise positioning over structure, temperature breaks, or known fishing marks is critical. Mercury Joystick Piloting with Skyhook technology transforms helm operation at low speeds and during station-keeping. The joystick interface allows single-handed directional control and forward/neutral/reverse commands, while Skyhook engages GPS-based dynamic positioning that holds the vessel's heading and position without anchor deployment. This system is particularly valuable during trolling, when deploying or retrieving fishing lines, or when maintaining position over a specific location in moderate to rough sea states without constant throttle and trim adjustment. The Garmin GHP autopilot provides hands-free long-range cruising, automatically maintaining heading and tracking waypoints, reducing fatigue on offshore transits and improving fuel efficiency through consistent throttle and trim management.
Fishing Systems and Deck Infrastructure
The 44 ST's fishing capability is built into its structural and systems design rather than added as aftermarket modifications. The forward fish box holds 340 gallons of chilled seawater or ice, providing substantial capacity for large pelagic species or multiple fish per angler during tournament or multi-day operations. Two aft fish boxes, each rated at 110 gallons, offer additional storage flexibility and allow crew to segregate species or manage catch organization during extended fishing days. Dual 55-gallon transom livewells enable deployment of live bait for trolling or chunking operations, with the transom location providing direct access from the helm and cockpit without crossing the main deck. This positioning supports efficient bait management and live-release protocols during catch-and-release fishing or when maintaining bait viability for extended periods. Twin Rhodan 120-pound thrust GPS-guided trolling motors provide precision positioning and stealth approach capability independent of main propulsion. These electric motors are particularly effective for positioning over structure, maintaining trolling course during light winds, or approaching feeding fish without main engine noise. GPS guidance allows waypoint-based trolling patterns or return-to-mark functionality, reducing crew workload and improving consistency during long trolling days. Four 10-foot rod lockers distributed across the vessel provide secure, organized storage for rigged rods and backup tackle, protecting equipment from weather and UV degradation while keeping rods accessible without cluttering deck space. Flush-mount gunwale rod holders offer additional rigging points for active trolling lines, and the forward anchor locker includes dedicated storage for ground tackle and additional gear.
Deck Layout and Seating
The 44 ST's 12-foot beam provides substantial deck width, enabling safe movement between port and starboard sides during active fishing operations and reducing the sensation of confinement during extended offshore days. The center console design maintains an unobstructed cockpit with 360-degree angler access, a critical feature for tournaments or situations requiring rapid response to strikes or changing conditions. Heavy-duty bow lifting rings mounted in a floor-peak locker and dual stern lifting rings rated for substantial loads support secure tie-down of large fish, equipment, or additional gear, and enable efficient handling during haul-out or transport. The transom configuration includes dual 10-inch stern cleats and additional 8-inch cleats positioned midship with hause pipes, providing multiple secure attachment points for docking, towing, or securing equipment. The custom aluminum recessed bow handrail integrates safety and aesthetics, providing crew handholds during forward movement or rough water transit without creating snag points or obstructions. An 8-inch pop-up cleat offers flexible deck utility without permanent obstruction of deck space.
Storage and Onboard Systems
Beyond fishing-specific storage, the 44 ST incorporates 315 gallons of forward storage capacity (distributed across two compartments) for provisioning, spare parts, safety equipment, and cruising supplies. This volume supports extended offshore operations where resupply is not feasible and redundancy in spare engines parts, filters, belts, and hydraulic fluid is a practical necessity. The 70-gallon water capacity supports basic freshwater needs for crew hydration, washdown, and galley operations during multi-day offshore trips, though extended operations may require supplemental water storage or rationing protocols typical of offshore fishing vessels.
Why This Vessel Represents Serious Offshore Capability
The 2021 Contender 44 ST is purpose-built for anglers and operators who prioritize range, reliability, and fish-handling infrastructure over cabin accommodations or luxury features. The quad Verado configuration, dual Garmin displays, Joystick Piloting with Skyhook, trolling motor integration, and comprehensive fish storage reflect an engineering philosophy that treats fishing capability as the primary design driver. The 600-gallon fuel capacity positions this vessel in the extended-range offshore category, enabling 200+ nautical mile round-trip operations to continental shelf breaks, deep-water canyons, or distant fishing grounds where fuel economy and range confidence are prerequisites for professional or serious recreational operations. The combination of GPS-guided trolling motors, dual fish boxes, forward and aft storage, and modern navigation electronics supports tournament competition, multi-day offshore expeditions, and professional charter operations with equal competence. The deck layout prioritizes angler safety and efficiency, the helm provides precision control and navigation integration, and the propulsion system delivers the speed, reliability, and efficiency required for competitive offshore fishing in the modern era. For buyers seeking a proven offshore fishing platform with demonstrated tournament heritage, comprehensive fish-handling systems, and the range to access premier fishing grounds, the 2021 Contender 44 ST offers a mature, well-integrated solution.
Length
43.8 ft
Beam
12 ft'
Year
2021
Builder
Contender
Model
44 ST
What makes the Contender 44 ST a center console designed specifically for offshore fishing?
The Contender 44 ST is purpose-built for offshore anglers with a 44-foot length and 12-foot beam that provides the stability and deck space needed for extended big-water operations. The vessel combines a center console layout with 600 gallons of fuel capacity, allowing serious fishermen to reach distant offshore grounds and return safely. The design integrates multiple fish storage systems—including a 340-gallon forward fish box, two 110-gallon aft fish boxes, and two 55-gallon transom livewells—directly into the hull structure, making fishing capability central to the boat's architecture rather than an afterthought. This configuration, paired with quad Mercury Verado outboards, creates a platform engineered to handle rough seas, maintain precision positioning, and deliver the range required for tournament-level offshore fishing.
How do the quad Mercury Verado engines perform on a 44-foot center console?
The quad Mercury Verado outboard package on the 44 ST delivers the power, speed, and fuel efficiency expected from one of the marine industry's most proven engine systems. Verado outboards are known for smooth acceleration, reliable performance across varying sea conditions, and the ability to maintain consistent cruising speeds over long distances—critical factors when covering offshore distances on a 600-gallon fuel load. The quad configuration distributes power evenly across the transom, improving handling characteristics and providing redundancy so that the boat remains fully operational even if one engine requires service. Verado engines are also designed to work seamlessly with the boat's Mercury Joystick Piloting system, allowing single-hand control and precision maneuvering when positioning over structure, reefs, or fish marks.
What is Mercury Joystick Piloting with Skyhook, and how does it improve fishing and boat handling?
Mercury Joystick Piloting with Skyhook is an integrated control system that allows the operator to command the boat's direction and position with a single joystick, eliminating the need for separate throttle and steering inputs. Skyhook is the station-keeping feature that uses GPS to hold the boat's exact position and heading, even in wind and current—invaluable when drifting over a productive fishing area, deploying live bait, or setting up for a precise cast to structure. For offshore anglers, this system reduces fatigue during long days on the water and allows the captain to focus on fish-finding and crew management rather than constant helm adjustments. The joystick control is intuitive for both experienced boaters and newer operators, and it integrates directly with the boat's Garmin navigation suite, creating a unified helm experience.
What navigation and fish-finding electronics are included on this 44 ST?
The vessel is equipped with dual Garmin 24-inch GPS displays, which provide large, high-resolution screens for navigation, fish-finding sonar, and chart viewing—essential tools for offshore fishing where precision waypoint navigation and bottom structure identification are critical. The dual-display setup allows the operator to dedicate one screen to navigation and the other to sonar or fish-finding functions, or to mirror displays for redundancy. The Garmin GHP Autopilot system works in concert with these displays, enabling the boat to maintain course and speed automatically during long cruising legs, reducing operator fatigue and improving fuel efficiency on offshore runs. Together, these Garmin systems represent a modern, integrated electronics package that supports both fishing-specific tasks and comfortable, efficient cruising.
How do the twin Rhodan 120 lb thrust GPS-guided trolling motors enhance fishing capability?
The dual Rhodan trolling motors provide electric-powered, GPS-guided positioning that allows anglers to hold precise locations and move slowly across fishing grounds with stealth and control. Unlike the main Verado engines, trolling motors operate at very low speeds and produce minimal noise and vibration, making them ideal for approaching fish, working live bait presentations, and fishing shallow or sensitive areas without spooking game fish. The GPS-guidance feature means the operator can program waypoints and have the trolling motors automatically follow a precise path, useful for working structure, ledges, or specific bottom contours. With 120 pounds of thrust per motor, the twin setup provides sufficient power to move a 44-foot center console against moderate wind and current, giving anglers the control and positioning flexibility required for serious offshore tournament fishing.
What fish storage and livewells are available, and how do they support extended offshore fishing trips?
The 44 ST incorporates a comprehensive fish-handling system with a 340-gallon forward fish box for primary catch storage, two 110-gallon aft fish boxes for additional capacity or species separation, and two 55-gallon transom livewells for keeping bait and smaller fish alive during the fishing day. This multi-component approach allows anglers to manage different types of catch separately, maintain water quality for live bait, and maximize storage for a full day of offshore fishing without compromising deck space or boat balance. The forward fish box placement integrates the primary storage into the hull structure, reducing weight distribution issues and keeping the largest storage volume low and centered. The transom livewells are positioned for easy access and water circulation, supporting the boat's role as a serious fishing platform where fish care and catch management are integral to the design.
What rod storage and deck hardware does the 44 ST provide for fishing operations?
The vessel features four 10-foot rod lockers positioned throughout the boat, providing secure, organized storage for rods and reels when not in use and protecting tackle from UV damage and saltwater corrosion. Four flush-mount gunnel rod holders are integrated into the boat's sides, allowing anglers to rig multiple lines for trolling or to stage rods for quick access during active fishing. The deck is also equipped with heavy-duty bow and stern lifting rings, 10-inch stern cleats, 8-inch midship cleats with hause pipes, and an 8-inch pop-up cleat, all designed to handle the loads and stresses of offshore fishing operations, including trolling line tension, outrigger deployment, and anchoring. A custom aluminum recessed bow handrail provides secure footing and handholds in rough seas, and the forward anchor locker with integrated storage supports extended offshore anchoring and adds additional stowage for fishing gear and supplies.
How does the 12-foot beam and center console layout improve stability and deck space for fishing?
The 12-foot beam on a 44-foot center console creates a wide, stable platform that resists rolling in offshore seas and provides ample side-to-side deck space for multiple anglers to fish simultaneously without crowding. The center console design positions the helm in the middle of the boat, improving visibility in all directions and allowing the captain to monitor fishing activity across the entire deck. This layout also distributes weight more evenly than a traditional side-console design, improving fuel efficiency and sea-keeping characteristics. The wide beam supports the installation of outriggers, multiple rod holders, and heavy fish storage systems without compromising the boat's stability or handling. For offshore anglers, this combination of beam width and center console positioning creates a fishing platform where multiple crew members can work comfortably, safely, and productively in demanding ocean conditions.
What is the fuel capacity and cruising range of the 44 ST for offshore fishing trips?
The 44 ST carries 600 gallons of fuel, a substantial capacity that supports extended offshore range and provides confidence for reaching distant fishing grounds and returning safely. With quad Mercury Verado engines, actual range depends on cruising speed, sea conditions, and load, but the 600-gallon capacity is engineered to support full-day offshore fishing trips to distant reefs, wrecks, and deep-water structure without requiring fuel stops. The large fuel capacity also means the boat can cruise at economical speeds for long transits while maintaining reserve fuel for contingencies. The 70-gallon water capacity supports the crew's freshwater needs during extended trips, and the combination of fuel and water storage is integrated into the hull to maintain proper weight distribution and stability.
What type of boater is the Contender 44 ST designed for?
The Contender 44 ST is engineered for serious offshore anglers who prioritize fishing capability, range, and reliability over other considerations. The boat appeals to tournament fishermen, charter operators, and dedicated private anglers who fish offshore regularly and require a platform that can handle big water, support multiple crew members, and deliver the fish-finding, positioning, and storage systems needed for competitive or professional fishing. The vessel also suits experienced boaters who value precision handling, advanced electronics, and the ability to cruise comfortably to distant destinations. The center console layout, quad outboard power, and integrated fishing systems indicate this is not an entry-level boat but rather a specialized platform for operators with offshore experience, a clear understanding of their fishing and cruising needs, and the skills to manage a 44-foot center console in open ocean conditions.
How does the Contender 44 ST compare to other offshore center console models in terms of deck layout and functionality?
The Contender 44 ST is distinguished by its integrated approach to fishing functionality, where fish storage, livewells, rod lockers, and deck hardware are engineered as core design elements rather than optional additions. The forward fish box is incorporated directly into the hull structure, the transom livewells are positioned for optimal water circulation and accessibility, and the rod locker placement allows anglers to organize multiple rigs without cluttering the deck. The center console position, combined with the 12-foot beam, creates exceptional sightlines for the operator and unobstructed fishing space along both sides and the transom. The dual Rhodan trolling motors, outrigger capability, and Mercury Joystick Piloting system represent a level of integrated technology and positioning control found on purpose-built offshore fishing platforms rather than general-purpose center consoles. This design philosophy—where every major system is optimized for fishing performance and offshore durability—positions the 44 ST as a specialized platform for anglers who demand serious fish-catching capability from their vessel.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Jupiter Marine Sales - Sarasota. 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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