Makocraft 445 Commander Pro boat test

Gold Coast-based Makocraft has expanded its pressed alloy range with the launch of a new side-console bay fishing rig called the 445 Commander Pro. For this review, it was paired with a 60hp Mercury outboard and a Dunbier Centreline trailer.  

This compact, easily transportable boat has a modest transom deadrise angle to keep it stable at rest and quick to plane, coupled with a finely drawn bow and stem up forward. Being light, the Makocraft will bounce a bit in mixed-up sea conditions but the ride softens when you trim the nose into the chop.

With two people aboard, the test boat achieved a top speed of 28.5 knots (52.8km/h) on the Gold Coast Broadwater. With just the skipper, it’ll top 30 knots (55.6km/h).

The Makocraft accelerates quickly onto the plane and responds nicely to throttle input. The test boat also proved to be safe, well-mannered through turns, comfortable and easy to drive. 

Our test boat was optioned with the Makocraft Black Ops pack, which adds the painted graphite grey topsides, matt black stripes, Black Ops logos and two rod holders.

Other options include a trolling motor mounting platform, 50lt underfloor fuel tank, and a Garmin EchoMap 95sv multifunction display.

The 445 is designed for mixed boating and fishing activities. To that end, it’s fitted with elevated bow and stern casting decks and a deep centre cockpit to increase safety.

There’s an anchor well against the front bulkhead, a spacious safety gear storage bin that can also stow a trolling-motor battery, and a plumbed 100lt livewell.

Surrounding the 320mm raised front casting platform are 210mm-wide extruded sidedecks that double as side seats in calm conditions. The sidedecks can be used to mount flush-fitted rod holders, navigation lights, and electronic gear for inland fishing in combination with an electric trolling motor. 

The 445 Commander Pro is also available with a tiller-steer set-up, but I’d be opting for the side console with forward controls for the convenience and driving comfort.

The helm console is quite large for a small boat. Its fascia panel can accommodate one large multifunction display or two smaller ones. There’s also ample flat dash space for a compass and electronic devices.

The sports steering wheel and side-mount throttle are well placed and you’re sheltered behind the clear acrylic windshield that’s secured to a useful handrail. Other features include a pair of cockpit grabrails, stern carry/drag handles (no cleats), transom boarding steps with rails, and twin transom transducer brackets. 

The Makocraft 445 Commander Pro SC is a versatile, full-featured, ready to fish, general boating and fishing package. This market segment includes a broad range of boats but the 445 hits the sweet spot.

It has a safe, well-mannered, easy handling hull and lots of standard features and equipment - all for an attainable purchase price. 

Price correct as of 17 May 2024

• Priced from: $29,880
• Price as tested: $38,000

• LOA: 4.65m
• Beam: 2.05m
• Hull weight (approx): 325kg
• Towing weight (approx): 820kg
• Fuel capacity (optional): 50lt
• Maximum power: 60hp

A FULL REVIEW OF THE MAKOCRAFT 445 RAN IN THE APRIL-MAY (VOLUME 39.2) ISSUE OF CLUB MARINE MAGAZINE.

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