Reel Easy

Saltwater Fishing Reel Easy

2025 Eastern 998 – Extended to 35' LOA by JC Boats – Tournament-Winning, Fully Equipped Downeast

Originally built as a 31’ Casco Bay, this Eastern 998 underwent a professional 3.5’ hull extension in 2017 performed by Jack Caddario of JC Boats, the original Eastern hull builder. The modification was fully documented, and the vessel was federally re-documented post-conversion. The result is a significantly more capable 35’ Downeast with a stable, efficient running surface and excellent offshore pedigree.

The boat has been surveyed in 2025, 2022, and 2017, with hull construction featuring Airex core and Airex C70-40 (carbon fiber strand) reinforcement in the cockpit area. Hullsides have been sounded inside and out and found dry and structurally solid. While some cosmetic refinishing is optional for the next owner, the vessel is mechanically strong, well-outfitted, and turnkey for serious fishing or mixed family use.

Ride & Capabilities

This platform delivers the classic Downeast combination of seakeeping, economy, and versatility. She tracks confidently in a following sea, settles comfortably at anchor, and drifts beautifully on the drift line. Her pronounced hard chine enhances stability and provides a composed ride in a range of conditions.

Proven across charters, tuna fishing, and coastal cruising, she offers a rare blend of commercial-grade capability and family-friendly layout.

A better outfitted 35’ Downeast at this price will be hard to find.

Performance

• Cruise: 13 kts @ 2200 RPM (~11 GPH)
• Fast Cruise: 14 kts @ 2400 RPM (conditions dependent)
• WOT: 17–18 kts @ 2850 RPM

Power & Mechanical

• Cummins 6BTA – 2,390 hrs
• Oil serviced every 100–150 hrs
• Aftercoolers cleaned every other season
• Valves adjusted in 2024
• Fresh oil change; winterized
• 1.75" Shaft with new cutlass bearing and PYI dripless seal (Spring 2025)
• 22 x 20.5 RH 4-blade Veem Nibral prop
• Westerbeke 5.5 kW generator (~1,360 hrs; serviced every 150–200 hrs)
• Bow thruster (needs brushes)
• Stern thruster (non-functional; repair or removal recommended)

Electronics & Helm

• Simrad NSS Evo3S 12” MFD
• Simrad NSS Evo2 9” (autopilot controller + multifunction use)
• Simrad Halo 20+ radar (2024)
• Simrad Autopilot w/ NAC-2 interface
• (2) ICOM VHF radios
• AC Durabrite LED floodlights (4)
• Rear helm station
• Glendinning fly-by-wire single-lever control to mechanical actuator
• TV integrated with main Simrad
• Glomex antenna

Deck, Fishing, and Utility

• ElectraDyne 12V hauler with roof-mounted davit
• Custom tackle center with 40-gal livewell
• Tuna door
• 8 swivel rod holders
• Raw-water washdown
• New midships & aft bilge pumps
• New Wynn front center window (2024) – hull top confirmed dry during install
• Gin pole

Interior & Systems

• Air conditioning with reverse-cycle heat
• Bus heater
• AC/DC refrigerator
• Microwave
• Whale stove
• Hot water heater (engine coolant loop)
• 8D battery upgrade (2023)
• Approx. 40-gal freshwater system
• Approx. 10-gal holding tank (estimate)

Tournament Resume

A proven competitor in major Northeast events, including:

• 2017 Newburyport Shark & Tuna Tournament
• Winner – 2019 Bluefin Blowout
• 2019 Newburyport Shark & Tuna Tournament
• 2020 Boston Bluefin Classic
• 2024 Bluefin Blowout