2024 Bennington 20 SF-SPS

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Bennington’s fishing-friendly 20 SF-SPS might come from the brand’s most affordable series, but we were impressed by its features and construction. Exterior fencing eschewed boring rectangular patterns with a bold swoop backed in a contrasting color and texture. Two-color asymmetrical patterns with Serene Soft Touch vinyl and a Simtex accent add an upscale feel to the interior seating. The roto-molded helm was impressively contoured and capped with an acrylic top and glare-reducing brow. ­Vinyl weave flooring came standard. 

Designed as a fishing-focused entry in the Bennington lineup, the SF features a pair of fishing seats forward, upgraded on our test boat to high-back captain-style recliners. Sorry, you can’t lie about the size of your catch; roto-molded corner units feature lids with rulers. One serves as a livewell, the other for storage. Rail-mounted rod holders near each chair are ready to secure a pair of rods vertically.

There’s plenty more aft. Perimeter fencing stretches the length of the deck, making space for two additional bass seats with fold-down backrests. A central tackle station adds an additional livewell, two more rod holders on each side, an etched ruler, and a pair of cup holders and rod holders. A trio of slide-out tackle boxes are within reach. An optional roto-molded rod locker can be positioned inside the starboard fencing. Our test boat’s textured vinyl flooring below seemed like an odd pairing, but it’s attractive, comfortable underfoot, and promises to be readily washable.

Bennington’s SPS (Sports Performance System) is ready to get you to your favorite fishing hole quickly as well as comfortably cruise the local lake. It includes a trio of full-length 25-inch pontoons, with lifting strakes on the center tube, performance foils on the insides of the outside logs, solid round keels, and an underdeck wave shield. SeaStar hydraulic steering rounds out things. Underway, handling was sharp and smooth. During testing, a Yamaha 115 outboard produced a brief 3.7-second time to plane and 34.3 mph top speed.

High Points

• L-shaped lounge opposite the helm provides social seating. 
• Optional Trolling Motor Gate features a panel-less bottom half for installation.
• Saltwater Package has sacrificial anodes and sealed lifting strakes.

How We Tested

• Engine: Yamaha F115
• Drive/Prop: Outboard/Yamaha 13¾” x 14″ 3-blade aluminum
• Gear Ratio: 2.15:1 Fuel Load: 11 gal. Crew Weight: 155 lb.

Pricing and Specs

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Source: https://www.boatingmag.com/boats/2024-bennington-20-sf-sps-pbbg/