The 2017 Jim Smith Walkaround Express is a high-performance offshore sportfish designed for anglers who want tournament-level capability in a more compact and versatile package.
This 43-foot cold-molded boat is powered by quad 2023 Mercury Verado 350 outboards with approximately 370 hours, giving it a modern propulsion setup while retaining the proven hull design associated with Jim Smith Tournament Boats. With the asking price reduced to $999,000, it presents an interesting opportunity for buyers who want serious fishing performance without ordering a new custom boat.
The boat has also received several practical upgrades, including a Seakeeper gyro stabilizer, bow thruster, diesel generator, updated air conditioning, KVH TV5 satellite system, and fresh enclosure. Kept on a lift, the vessel has been protected from prolonged water exposure and is equipped for offshore fishing, fast coastal cruising, and comfortable overnight trips. Its walkaround configuration also makes moving around the deck convenient during fishing and docking.
Is the 2017 Jim Smith Walkaround Express for Sale?
Yes, the 2017 Jim Smith Walkaround Express is offered for sale and is currently presented as a well-equipped used sportfish. The vessel's combination of a cold-molded hull and newer 2023 quad Mercury outboards makes it especially attractive to buyers who prioritize performance, reliability, and modern propulsion without taking on the full cost of a new custom build.
The layout is particularly suitable for serious offshore anglers. The teak cockpit, cover boards, mezzanine seating, rocket launcher, and fishing equipment create a practical working environment for tournament-style fishing. At the same time, the single cabin and onboard amenities provide enough comfort for weekend trips, coastal cruising, or longer days on the water. The walkaround deck also gives the owner convenient access forward and makes the boat more versatile for general cruising.
2017 Jim Smith Walkaround Express Price
The current asking price is $999,000, following a reduction from the previous $1,195,000 price. This adjustment makes the boat considerably more interesting for buyers comparing high-performance used sportfishers in the 40-foot range. The final market value should still be considered alongside engine hours, maintenance records, electronics, hull condition, and the condition of the fishing systems.
The four 2023 Mercury Verado 350 engines and Platinum extended warranty through spring 2030 add meaningful value because they can reduce near-term propulsion risk. Buyers should also consider the Seakeeper, bow thruster, generator, air conditioning, satellite equipment, and other upgrades when comparing this Jim Smith with less extensively equipped boats.
Performance and Propulsion
The 2017 Jim Smith Walkaround Express is powered by four 2023 Mercury Verado 350 outboards, producing a combined 1,400 horsepower. With approximately 370 hours, the engines remain relatively young compared with many used sportfish propulsion packages. The quad-engine configuration provides strong acceleration, useful redundancy, and the ability to cover offshore distances quickly.
Four high-output gasoline outboards will naturally create significant fuel consumption, particularly when running at high speeds. Buyers should request verified fuel-burn figures and conduct a sea trial to confirm acceleration, cruising performance, engine synchronization, temperatures, RPM, steering response, and overall handling. The Platinum extended warranty through spring 2030 is another important ownership advantage, but the exact warranty terms and transferability should be confirmed before purchase.
Exterior Design and Construction
The 43-foot Jim Smith Walkaround Express uses a cold-molded hull construction developed for strength, stiffness, and relatively low weight. This construction approach is well suited to a performance-oriented offshore sportfish, where efficient weight distribution and hull rigidity can contribute to speed and handling. The walkaround design also provides practical access around the console and forward section of the boat.
The cockpit is arranged for serious fishing, with a teak deck, cover boards, mezzanine seating, rocket launcher, and ample working space. The Seakeeper gyro stabilizer helps improve comfort while drifting or running offshore, while the bow thruster adds useful control when maneuvering at low speeds. The boat's lift-kept history is also beneficial, although the hull, deck, hardware, transom, stringers, and underwater components should still receive a detailed inspection.
Interior and Accommodation
The interior is compact compared with larger convertible sportfishers but provides useful overnight capability through its single-cabin arrangement. This makes the Jim Smith more versatile than a pure open fishing boat, allowing an owner and guests to spend a night aboard after a long offshore trip without turning the boat into a full-size cruising yacht.
Several onboard systems improve comfort during extended outings. Updated air conditioning, a diesel generator, KVH TV5 satellite dome, and fresh enclosure allow the boat to function in different weather and operating conditions. The interior is best suited to buyers who prioritize cockpit space and fishing performance while still wanting basic accommodation and modern conveniences.
What to Check Before Buying a 2017 Jim Smith Walkaround Express
Before making an offer, arrange a professional marine survey and a complete sea trial. The four 2023 Mercury Verado 350 outboards should be checked individually for engine hours, diagnostic history, service records, lower-unit condition, cooling performance, steering, propellers, and charging systems. Confirm the Platinum warranty documentation, expiration date, remaining coverage, and whether it can be transferred to the new owner.
The cold-molded hull should also be inspected carefully for moisture, structural damage, previous repairs, stress areas, and signs of impact. Test the Seakeeper, bow thruster, generator, air conditioning, navigation electronics, satellite equipment, batteries, pumps, and fishing systems.
Reviewing the lift-storage history, recent invoices, and complete maintenance records will help establish the boat's true condition and determine whether the $999,000 asking price represents a sound purchase.