2010 Carolina Skiff JV13

History of Carolina Skiff

Carolina Skiff is an iconic American boat brand known for its rugged, versatile, and affordable skiffs and center consoles. With a reputation built on simplicity, durability, and performance, Carolina Skiff has become one of the most recognized names in the shallow-water and coastal boating world.

Founding & Early Years

• Founded: Late 1980s

• Founder: Joe Kirkland

• Original Location: Waycross, Georgia

• Carolina Skiff started with a simple mission: build durable, no-nonsense boats that could handle shallow waters, rough use, and a wide variety of applications—from fishing to commercial work.

Core Design Philosophy

• Flat-bottom or semi-V hulls for exceptional shallow-water performance

• Unibody construction using fiberglass and foam core for unsinkable hulls

• Basic, rugged builds that are easy to maintain and customize

• Unmatched versatility—used by recreational boaters, anglers, guides, and even government agencies

Carolina Skiff’s hallmark has always been simplicity and value—delivering capable boats at price points that attract a broad range of users.

Expansion and Popular Models

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Carolina Skiff expanded its lineup with a focus on:

• DLX Series: Classic workhorse skiffs

• JV and J Series: Lightweight, economical models great for small lakes and creeks

• Sea Chaser Line (introduced in the 2000s): A more feature-rich series targeting offshore and bay anglers, with deeper V-hulls and added comforts

• Ultra Elite and LS Series: Family-friendly boats with more creature comforts for cruising and watersports

Manufacturing and Growth

• The company moved production to a larger facility in Waycross, Georgia, which continues to serve as its headquarters and manufacturing hub.

• Carolina Skiff has remained privately owned and proudly made in the USA, emphasizing quality control and in-house construction.

Reputation & Legacy

Carolina Skiff boats are known for:

• Unsinkable hulls

• Shallow draft

• Long-term durability

• Easy repairs and modifications

• Wide customer base ranging from budget-conscious beginners to seasoned coastal fishermen

They are especially popular in the Southeast U.S., where tidal flats, sandbars, and oyster beds demand tough, shallow-running boats.

Today

Today, Carolina Skiff continues to innovate while staying true to its roots. Its fleet includes models for:

• Inshore and nearshore fishing

• Family cruising

• Commercial and utility applications

The company has also invested in modern tooling, updated styling, and advanced features to meet the expectations of today's boaters while still offering value-driven designs.