THE WINNING EDGE: islamorada 21R
In the world of elite fly fishing tournaments, every detail matters — the difference between Grand Champion & runner-up can come down to the smallest of details, we’re talking by factors of inches & minutes. For Captain Greg Dini, those details added up to major wins at both the March Merkin and the Don Hawley Invitational. The common denominator? His new Chittum 21R. Built for speed, silence, and shallow water performance, the 21R isn’t just a boat — it’s a competitive edge in a class of its own.
”This year’s tournaments, just like every year are very competitive. Any advantage you can get typically helps over the stretch of tournament season. Being able to get to the fish quicker and more comfortable was definitely an advantage this year in the new 21R.”
Running the 21R with a 25 fury prop & getting an easy 78 mph with full fuel. Topping out in the low 80’s when it’s light on fuel
In these tournaments, which typically last 3-5 days, fishing all day no matter the conditions can take a toll on even the most season anglers. Consider this year’s Don Hawley— some of the worst weather in recent memory with driving rain & wind, chasing bite windows & constantly adjusting. Strategy was quick & ever changing but Dini & Carruthers has the advantage- “The weather was snotty all week and the boat got us to our fish quick and comfortable. The best thing about the 21R is that when you get there it’s incredibly polable. The boat is a machine and definitely an advantage when fishing out of one.”
“ The new 21R is a great choice for the way we tournament fish. We have the speed, range and comfort we need throughout our tournament season.”-Capt. Greg Dini
Placing 3rd in the Herman Lucerne, 3rd in the Golden fly, winning the Hawley and taking 5th in the Gold Cup. Add a March Merkin victory to that & plenty of other top 10 finishes for other Chittum anglers— There’s no doubt that the winning advantage is real & proven.
This boat was in the planning stage for quite a while and we decided the time was right for an entirely new category. There have been many boats in the 19-21’ range that looked like a flats boat but the weight, draft and other issues kept them from being able to perform as a real skiff. Our designs, materials and technology were able to change that in the new Islamorada 21R.
