Introduction: Two Center Consoles, One Tough Choice

When it comes to center consoles in the 30-foot range, the Sportsman Open 322 and the Sea Fox 328 Commanderstand out as versatile, feature-packed platforms perfect for fishing and family adventures alike. Both boats offer impressive layouts, thoughtful designs, and an abundance of features that cater to anglers and leisure-seekers. While these boats share many similarities, they have distinct strengths that appeal to different boating preferences.

The Sportsman Open 322 is an excellent choice for those who prioritize premium craftsmanship and top-tier fishing amenities. From its high-quality finishes to its intuitive layout and cutting-edge tech, this boat is designed with serious anglers and discerning families in mind. It brings a level of refinement that stands out in the center console market.

The Sea Fox 328 Commander, on the other hand, maximizes its space with exceptional efficiency. It seamlessly integrates massive livewell capacity, plentiful seating, and a well-balanced layout that blends fishing and family features without feeling cramped. While it might not surpass the Sportsman in overall fishability, its ability to make the most of every inch onboard is undeniably impressive.

Both models are versatile enough to handle offshore fishing expeditions and laid-back family outings. Whether you’re chasing pelagics, hosting a sunset cruise, or heading to the sandbar for the day, these boats offer the performance, comfort, and flexibility needed for all-day adventures. Choosing between them comes down to priorities: the Sportsman Open 322 offers a higher-quality finish and a more fishing-forward design, while the Sea Fox 328 Commander excels in livewell capacity and clever space utilization, making it a family-friendly powerhouse.

Specifications:

Fishing Features: Where Space Meets Fishability

When it comes to fishing capabilities, both the Sportsman Open 322 and the Sea Fox 328 Commander deliver in spades, offering layouts and features that will make any angler’s day on the water smoother and more productive. That said, these boats approach fishability from slightly different angles, with the Sportsman leaning into high-quality execution and the Sea Fox maximizing capacity and space efficiency.

Sportsman Open 322: A Thoughtful Fishing Platform

The Sportsman Open 322 sets itself apart with its clean, open cockpit layout, providing plenty of space for anglers to maneuver while still offering top-tier fishing amenities. The twin 30-gallon pressurized transom livewells—one on each side—are a standout feature. These aquarium-style livewells not only allow you to carry multiple bait types without mixing them but also make it easy to monitor your bait at a glance. For anyone who’s had to deal with struggling baitfish, this is a game-changer.

Storage is another area where the Open 322 shines. With 240-quart macerated fish boxes at the stern, 120-quart midship boxes, and a 100-quart cooler under the forward lounger, there’s no shortage of space for your catch and supplies. Rod storage is equally impressive, with a combination of dual-row rocket launchers on the hardtop, flush-mounted gunwale holders, under-gunwale racks, and vertical storage inside the console.

Prep work is a breeze with the leaning post, which features a built-in sink and cutting board, creating a practical station for rigging lines and baits. And for those looking to take their fishing to the next level, the optional second station provides enhanced visibility and access to the action.

Sea Fox 328 Commander: Capacity and Efficiency

The Sea Fox 328 Commander comes to the fight with massive livewell capacity that sets it apart. The transom houses a 35-gallon aquarium-style livewell on one side and a 55-gallon see-through livewell in the center. Combined, these offer unmatched bait storage, allowing you to handle multiple types of bait with ease while keeping everything visible and organized.

Storage doesn’t stop at livewells. The Commander features large in-floor fish boxes at the stern and midship compartments that double as rod storage. Add to that a dry storage box under the forward console lounger, and you’ve got enough room for rods, tackle, and personal gear without sacrificing cockpit space.

Rod storage is another area where the Sea Fox excels. With 21 stainless steel rod holders built into the gunwale and transom, plus ample rocket launchers on the hardtop, this boat offers more placement options than the Sportsman, giving anglers a slight edge in rod accessibility.

The Bottom Line on Fishing

Both boats deliver exceptional fishing platforms, but they do so in different ways. The Sportsman Open 322 focuses on refinement and thoughtful design, with features like the aquarium-style livewells, extensive rod storage, and well-placed fish boxes that make fishing easy and efficient. The Sea Fox 328 Commander, on the other hand, takes a “more is more” approach, offering massive livewell capacity and rod storage that maximize every inch of space. For anglers who prioritize quality, the Sportsman edges ahead, while those who need sheer capacity and space efficiency will appreciate what the Sea Fox brings to the table.

Family Features: Comfort Without Compromise

Both the Sportsman Open 322 and the Sea Fox 328 Commander strike a balance between serious fishing functionality and family-friendly design. These boats are built to deliver a versatile experience that ensures everyone on board—whether they’re casting lines or lounging in the sun—has a comfortable and enjoyable day on the water.

Sportsman Open 322: Luxury Meets Practicality

The Sportsman Open 322 doesn’t just cater to anglers; it’s also designed with families in mind. At the bow, plush wraparound seating provides a cozy place to relax, complete with a removable filler cushion and optional bow table that transforms the area into a dining or sunbathing spot. The forward console lounger adds another layer of comfort, offering ample space to stretch out and enjoy the ride.

At the helm, the dual bucket seats with flip-up bolsters ensure a smooth, comfortable experience for the captain and a companion. A spacious, enclosed head inside the console makes long days on the water more convenient, particularly for families with kids. The leaning post is more than just a fishing feature; it doubles as a practical prep station and a social hub, keeping everything within easy reach.

For added versatility, the cockpit layout is open and uncluttered, making it easy for passengers to move around without feeling cramped. When it’s time to anchor up, the integrated swim platform and sturdy dive door provide easy access to the water, whether for swimming, snorkeling, or simply cooling off.

Sea Fox 328 Commander: Spacious and Efficient

The Sea Fox 328 Commander earns high marks for its efficient use of space, blending fishing features with thoughtful family-friendly amenities. The bow seating is both spacious and versatile, with wraparound loungers that can be paired with an optional table for dining or socializing. Beneath the forward console lounger, a large dry storage box keeps personal items safe and secure, adding to the practicality of this space.

At the helm, three premium captain’s chairs provide both comfortable and functional, with flip-up bolsters that make standing or sitting equally enjoyable. The enclosed console houses a roomy head with enough space to stand, making it a useful feature for families spending a full day on the water.

The transom features a wide, fold-away bench seat that tucks neatly into the stern when not in use, ensuring plenty of open cockpit space for fishing while still providing ample seating when it’s time to cruise. With its integrated swim ladder and walk-through transom, the Commander makes water access a breeze, whether you’re taking a dip or unloading gear at the dock.

The Bottom Line on Family Features

The Sportsman Open 322 leans into luxury, with premium finishes and a layout that feels open and inviting. Its seating, head compartment, and thoughtful design make it a fantastic choice for families who want a boat that doubles as a social space. The Sea Fox 328 Commander, while slightly more utilitarian in feel, maximizes its layout to provide more storage and efficient seating options, ensuring families have everything they need for a comfortable day on the water.

Ultimately, both boats deliver in the family-friendly department, but the choice comes down to whether you value the Sportsman’s upscale touches or the Sea Fox’s space-savvy design. 

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the Sportsman Open 322 and the Sea Fox 328 Commander comes down to what you value most in a center console. Both boats deliver exceptional versatility, combining fishability with family-friendly features to create platforms that excel on the water.

The Sportsman Open 322 edges ahead in overall quality, with its refined finishes, thoughtfully designed fishing features, and a family-friendly layout that feels spacious and luxurious. From its dual pressurized aquarium-style livewells to its extensive rod storage and premium seating, it’s clear this boat is built with attention to detail. If you’re looking for a fishing-first center console that doesn’t skimp on comfort or style, the Sportsman is a strong contender.

The Sea Fox 328 Commander, on the other hand, shines with its impressive livewell capacity and clever space utilization. It’s a boat that makes the most of every inch, offering generous storage, plenty of rod holders, and a layout that doesn’t feel crowded, even with a full crew onboard. For families who need flexibility and anglers who value efficiency, the Sea Fox provides an excellent blend of features at a competitive price point.

Ultimately, whether you lean toward the Sportsman’s polished feel or the Sea Fox’s practical ingenuity, both boats offer an exceptional experience for anglers and families alike. The decision comes down to your priorities, but either way, you’re getting a center console ready to create lasting memories on the water.