Regulator 23 (2014) Review: Lou Codega’s Deep‑V Center Console Returns with a Transom
The transom is back on the Regulator 23. For 2014, Lou Codega updated the design to a 24‑degree deep‑vee hull and added an engine bracket that extends usable deck space aft. The result is a more modern, roomy center console that keeps Regulator’s performance focus while borrowing the softer, radiused transom styling now common across the fleet.
Beyond the additional aft deck created by the bracket, the 2014 Regulator 23 introduces several practical upgrades: a standard transom seat for comfortable crew seating, a hardtop that is roughly 50 percent larger (almost beam to beam), a dedicated head compartment within the console, and a flush foredeck for clean lines and easy movement on the bow. The wider hardtop increases shade and functional space for electronics and grab rails, improving comfort for offshore runs and long days on the water.
Codega designed this boat with a single Yamaha F300 outboard in mind. The platform and bracket are optimized around that power package, and the manufacturer reports that the boat remains sporty despite a roughly 1,000‑pound increase in displacement caused by the bracket, the larger hardtop, and added components. In preliminary testing the Regulator 23 with a Yamaha F300 reached a top speed of 46.9 mph. At a cruising speed just under 30 mph (about 4,000 rpm), it returned about 2.34 mpg, demonstrating that the revised hull and propulsion pairing preserve usable performance for fishing and family boating.
Deck Layout and Storage
The foredeck and cockpit layout on the Regulator 23 emphasize fishing utility and comfortable dayboat accommodations. Bow seating includes dry storage beneath the seats, keeping gear protected from spray and salt. Recessed port and starboard rails run from amidships to the bow, giving secure handholds and a finished appearance. A lockable centerline foredeck compartment provides a dedicated place for rods, while an insulated 55‑quart cooler stows under the forward console seat to keep drinks and bait chilled.
The cockpit is arranged with serious anglers in mind: a raised transom livewell sits within easy reach of the fishing platform, and a 120‑quart raised fishbox provides plenty of capacity for catches. The transom seat folds and converts the stern into comfortable seating when not working fish, and the enlarged bracket adds extra standing room on the aft deck—useful for casting, fighting fish, or boarding from a dock or tender.
Console, Electronics and Comfort
The standing, lockable console provides six feet of headroom and houses a private head compartment—an important comfort feature on a 23‑foot center console. The dash is laid out to accept two 17‑inch flush‑mounted displays, giving plenty of room for multifunction navigation and fishfinding systems. Thoughtful ergonomics and the sizable hardtop make the console a practical helm for long runs offshore.
Tankage, Fishability and Pricing
The Regulator 23 carries 149 gallons of fuel, supporting extended days offshore and long-range runs without frequent refueling. With the combination of a dedicated livewell, large fishbox, and abundant rod storage, the 23 remains a true fishing boat first, while the transom seating, large hardtop, and dry storage make it a comfortable family boat for cruising and day trips.
The standard base price for the Regulator 23 equipped with a single Yamaha F300 was listed at $86,995 for the 2014 model year. That price reflects the boat’s factory layout, standard hardtop, and factory‑installed systems.
In summary, the 2014 Regulator 23 updates the classic Regulator formula with a transom, a larger hardtop, and a focus on single‑engine efficiency. It keeps the brand’s reputation for solid, predictable offshore manners while improving deck utility and onboard comfort—an appealing package for anglers and boaters who want a capable, compact center console.
June 2014 issue