Hewescraft: A Legacy Built on Aluminum and Ingenuity
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Pioneer
Hewescraft’s story began in 1948 when World War II veteran Bob Hewes set out to build a boat for himself and his friends. Using simple aluminum sheets and basic tools in Colville, Washington, Bob crafted his first fishing boats. When his friends lost interest, Bob recruited his younger brother Ralph to help. That fourth boat marked the start of a family business that continues to thrive today.
Initially operating under the name Hewes Flying Service, the company later became Hewes Marine Company before adopting the now-famous brand name Hewescraft. Over more than seven decades, leadership passed to the second generation of Hewes family members, yet the company remains firmly rooted in the small Washington community where it all began.
Today, Hewescraft offers a broad lineup of welded aluminum boats, from compact inland models to offshore cruisers, with dozens of customizable configurations to fit a wide range of boating needs.
What Makes Hewescraft So Popular?
Hewescraft’s reputation isn’t accidental. It’s built on core principles and smart design choices that set the brand apart.
1. Unmatched Safety Standards
Safety is at the heart of Hewescraft’s philosophy. Every boat is engineered to stay afloat even if capsized or submerged—surpassing minimum requirements set by the U.S. Coast Guard and Transport Canada. This extra margin of safety gives owners confidence to tackle rough or unpredictable waters.
2. Functional, Fishing-Focused Design
Hewescraft boats are made with anglers in mind. Thoughtful deck layouts, ergonomic driving positions, spacious cockpits, and expansive fields of vision help make fishing easier and more enjoyable. Instead of prioritizing aesthetics, Hewescraft focuses on functional features that help you fish smarter.
3. Durable All-Welded Aluminum Construction
Built with heavy-gauge, welded aluminum, Hewescraft boats offer superior durability and corrosion resistance. This rugged construction withstands years of use in challenging environments—whether you’re on rivers, lakes, or coastal waters—far better than many riveted or light-gauge alternatives.
4. Lifetime Warranty on Hulls and Welds
Hewescraft stands behind its craftsmanship with a lifetime warranty on every hull and weld for the original owner. This rare guarantee underscores the company’s confidence in its build quality and provides peace of mind to boat owners.
5. Excellent Value Over Time
By balancing price, features, and performance, Hewescraft boats deliver outstanding value. The 180 Sportsman, for example, has been a best-seller for decades, beloved by families and anglers alike for its combination of safety, function, and affordability.
6. Proven in Tough Conditions
Hewescraft’s rugged boats are trusted in some of the most demanding environments—Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and coastal waters. Their variable-deadrise hulls offer stable, comfortable handling in rough water, making them ideal for offshore fishing and big-water adventures.
Why Choose Hewescraft for Your Next Boat?
If you’re shopping for a new boat, Hewescraft offers several compelling reasons to consider:
-
Built for Safety: Designs exceed regulatory standards and perform reliably even in tough conditions.
-
Functional Fishing Platforms: Purpose-built to help anglers fish effectively and comfortably.
-
Durable and Long-Lasting: Heavy-gauge, all-welded aluminum hulls built to last.
-
Strong Resale Value: Reputation and quality often translate to better resale prices.
-
Family-Built Heritage: A company with deep roots and a legacy of craftsmanship and community.
Choosing Hewescraft means more than just buying a boat—it means joining a community of boaters who value rugged dependability and thoughtful engineering. Whether you’re chasing trout on a mountain lake, hunting salmon offshore, or hauling gear upriver, Hewescraft offers a range of boats tailored to fit your lifestyle.
