Bayliner Element F21 Review

Center console fishing boats aren’t new by any means, but the continuing evolution of center consoles from hardcore fishing boats to more versatile, multi-role designs has clearly driven sales and made this one of the fastest-growing categories in boating.

With their ability to satisfy a range of activities from exploring the lake to pulling the kids on a tube – and without giving up any of their legendary fishability – center consoles continue to attract new fans worldwide. One look at Bayliner’s all-new Element F21 shows why.

With its 21-foot length and nearly eight feet of beam, the new Bayliner Element F21 is a perfect example of modern center console design. It has all of the expected elements of a center console fishing boat, including large fore and aft raised casting decks with cavernous storage compartments beneath, trolling motor pre-wiring on the bow deck, a fully self-bailing cockpit with a 500 gph bilge pump, bow anchor locker and storage compartment, flip/flop double-wide Captain’s seat with a cooler beneath, port and starboard rod storage plus six additional vertical rod racks around the console, and sizable live well for the day’s catch.

The Element F21’s massive front casting deck conceals spacious storage compartments beneath. A bow live well is available as an option.

Where the Element F21 distinguishes itself is with its additional, family-friendly features that give this boat so much more capability. A close look at that expansive aft casting deck reveals flip-up, forward-facing jump seats in the corners that take the boat from angling platform to family runabout. With seating for up to 10 people, this isn’t your typical fishing boat.

The aft casting deck of the Element F21 transforms from a large fishing space to a family runabout with twin, forward-facing jump seats.

To make the most of the Bayliner Element F21’s capabilities, add the optional bow filler cushions which not only provide a bit more comfort for passengers riding up front, but convert this area into a generous sun pad. Adding the available Bimini top (with storage boot) allows even greater passenger comfort.

The driver gets spoiled in the Element F21, with an elegantly designed helm station with plenty of space for adding aftermarket electronics. The stainless steel steering wheel adds an elegant touch, while a large storage compartment in the console base provides secure and convenient storage for bulky gear.

The helm is simple, straightforward and deigned with plenty of space for aftermarket electronics.

Standard power for this boat is a Mercury 115 four-stroke, which delivers smooth acceleration, plenty of low-end grunt for getting up out of the hole, and surprising fuel economy. Those who might prefer a little extra power can upgrade to a Mercury 150 four-stroke. Either way, with the smooth ride of Bayliner’s M-Hull design and its generous 30-gallon fuel capacity, the Element F21 offers plenty of range so you can follow the fish when the bite is on.

A removable cooler nests in the base of the standard leaning post. The foot rest can tilt up out of the way if desired.

The standard hull for the Bayliner Element F21 is Arctic white with attractive F21 badging, but grey, black, blue and glacier green hull side colors are also available. All come with six mooring cleats and a single-axle, self-guiding galvanized trailer.

Bayliner has long enjoyed a strong reputation for value. With it’s versatile design, comfortable amenities and solid fishing credentials, the all-new Element F21 takes those values forward for a new generation of boating families.

Specifications

• LOA: 20’ 8”
• Beam: 7’ 9”
• Dry weight: n/a
• Fuel capacity: 50 gal.
• Passenger capacity: 10
• Max power: 150 hp