Spend more days running confidently across Tampa Bay, reaching offshore fishing grounds, or anchoring at Egmont Key without constantly working around space, storage, or comfort limitations.

Many owners find their current boat forces tradeoffs—either strong fishing capability with limited comfort or a family layout that sacrifices fishing efficiency. The Sportsman Heritage 261 is designed to remove that compromise by delivering a balanced layout that supports serious fishing while remaining comfortable for cruising, sandbar stops, and long days on the water around St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Sarasota.

At the helm, dual Garmin 12” GPSMAP multifunction displays give clear navigation and sonar visibility so routes, structure, and depth changes are easier to read in real time. Integrated digital switching and wireless phone charging keep helm controls organized and accessible, reducing distraction and helping the operator stay focused while underway.

Comfort at the helm remains just as important as performance. Dual premium helm chairs with sliding and swiveling bases support long runs across the Gulf while maintaining visibility and control. The fiberglass hardtop with integrated navigation lighting and tempered glass windshield improves protection from the sun and weather while maintaining airflow through the vented windshield.

Fishing capability is built directly into the cockpit layout. Dual aquarium livewells, macerated in-deck fish boxes, rod storage, and wide walkaround access allow anglers to work lines and manage gear without crowding the deck. When the fishing gear is stowed, the bow converts quickly into a large sun deck and social seating area for sandbar stops or evening cruising.

Throughout the boat, integrated storage, coolers, and washdown systems simplify cleanup and gear management, so less time is spent managing equipment and more time is spent enjoying the water.

Thunder Marine prepares each boat for real-world use in Tampa Bay, ensuring electronics, systems, and rigging are properly set up before delivery.

Meet with Thunder Marine to walk through this exact configuration, understand how it fits Tampa Bay's use, and review delivery and long-term support.
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Ownership with Thunder Marine

• Thunder Marine provides local service and support from St. Petersburg, so help is always nearby when needed.

• Each owner receives a detailed walkthrough of electronics, boat systems, and operation before the first trip.

• Service scheduling, parts access, and warranty support remain handled locally to reduce downtime during the boating season.

• Thunder Marine stays involved after delivery so ownership remains straightforward and predictable.

Key Specs

• Length: 26' 6"

• Beam: 9' 5"

• Draft (up): 22"

• Deadrise at Transom: 22°

• Approx. Dry Weight: 5,668 lbs

• Approx. Bridge Clearance w/ Top: 9' 4"

• Approx. Bridge Clearance w/ Second Station Top: 10' 8"

• Max Horsepower: 450 HP

• Number of Engines: 2

• Engine Make & Model: Yamaha F200XSA / Yamaha LF200XSA

• Total Horsepower: 400 HP

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 182 gallons

• Approx. Usable Fuel Capacity: 164 gallons 

• Freshwater Tank Capacity: 20 gallons

• Transom Aquarium Livewells: 16 gallons (x2)

• In-Deck Fish Boxes: 112 qt (x2)

• Console Cooler: 68 qt

• Yacht Certified: Yes

Features

Helm & Electronics

• Dual Garmin GPSMAP 1243xsv 12” multifunction displays providing navigation, sonar, and charting visibility

• Garmin VHF 115 radio supporting reliable communication offshore and across Tampa Bay

• Garmin Apollo premium stereo paired with JL Audio speakers and amplifiers for clear sound underway
  

• SeaStar Interact digital switching system simplifying control of onboard systems from the helm

• Scanstrut wireless charging pads keep phones powered and secured while running

• SportLink electronics integration, connecting onboard systems for simplified monitoring

Helm Protection & Operation

• Fiberglass hardtop with integrated navigation lights providing shade and improved visibility

• Integrated tempered glass windshield with ventilation, improving airflow at the helm

• Stainless steel steering wheel with control knob supporting precise maneuvering when docking

• Helm pad improves comfort during extended runs

Seating & Social Areas

• Dual premium helm chairs with sliding and swiveling bases supporting long offshore runs

• Rear bench seat with flip-flop backrests, allowing the cockpit to convert between cruising and fishing

• Bow seating with removable backrests creates a forward lounge area

• Electric-actuated bow sun deck/table expanding space for sandbar use

• Premium Serenity Sileather upholstery designed for durability and easy cleaning in Florida conditions

• YETI Tundra 65-quart cooler with pad and tie downs for additional cold storage

Fishing Systems

• Dual 16-gallon aquarium livewells supporting live bait fishing

• Dual macerated in-deck fish boxes improve catch storage and cleanup

• High-speed livewell pickup maintains bait health while underway

• Under-gunwale rod racks and flush-mounted rod holders organize gear while keeping decks clear

Deck & Construction

• Advanced fiberglass stringer system built without wood for long-term structural durability

• Anchor windlass system with anchor and 300’ line simplifying anchoring over reefs or at sandbars

• Built-in swim platform with dual four-step ladders, improving water access

• Dual side entry doors with full 180° swing and a removable ladder supporting diving or swimming

• Grip Tex yacht-style non-skid deck improves traction while moving around the boat

• Stainless steel hardware and Gemlux fittings designed for saltwater durability