Case Study: Strongback Metal Boats powers high-performance Bristol Bay gillnetters with Cummins QSC8.3 marine engines

Bristol Bay Everything in 32-Feet

Strongback Metal Boats builds 32-foot Bristol Bay gillnetters for one of Alaska’s most demanding fisheries, where vessels must maximize fish-handling capacity, crew comfort, and performance within strict length limits. The challenge was to fit substantial accommodations, working deck space, and strong propulsion into a compact boat that could handle intense, short-season commercial fishing.

Cummins supplied twin QSC8.3 marine engines, each rated at 493 HP, paired with jet drives for the vessel’s propulsion system. The result was a high-performance 32-footer with light-boat speeds of about 30 knots, ample room for crew and gear, and capacity to support heavy fishing operations, helping Strongback Metal Boats produce a versatile and effective vessel for Bristol Bay.

Strongback Metal Boats

Rory Pitsch

Strongback Metal Boats