Customer’s Ultimate Seahawk Experience Will Inspire You to Buy One Yourself

When it comes to offshore fishing, safety and reliability are non-negotiable. For Jock Vondeling, a dedicated angler from Portland, Oregon, finding the right boat was a decision that could mean the difference between a great day on the water and a disaster. After extensive research, he landed on the North River Seahawk, and six years later, with over 1,150 hours on the main motor and more than 400 crossings of the Columbia River Bar, he wouldn’t consider any other brand.

Why Did Jock Choose a North River Seahawk?

Jock’s decision to buy a North River Seahawk was driven by one key factor: safety.

“I wanted to fish in the ocean safely—something that would get me back alive.”

The open ocean and the Columbia River Bar, known for its unpredictable and rough waters, demand a boat that can handle extreme conditions. After comparing different makes and models, Jock felt confident that the North River Seahawk was the best choice.

Beyond safety, he also wanted a boat that was fish-friendly, durable, and virtually maintenance-free, and the Seahawk checked all those boxes. Jock has taken his Seahawk through some of the most challenging waters in the Pacific Northwest. With over 400 crossings of the Columbia River Bar, he’s had the opportunity to test the boat in all sorts of conditions.

“I’ve never felt unsafe, even in pretty rough conditions.”

That level of confidence comes from the Seahawk’s high freeboard and sturdy hull design, which allow it to handle heavy waves without feeling unstable. Whether he’s targeting salmon, steelhead, or tuna, the boat delivers a smooth and steady ride. What good is a boat if it doesn’t help you catch fish? According to Jock, the Seahawk is a “fishy” boat, meaning it has all the right features to maximize fishing success.

“We’ve caught a lot of salmon, a lot of steelhead, a lot of tuna. It’s just been really great and pretty much problem-free.”

With ample deck space, quiet polymer flooring, and a solid, durable build, the Seahawk creates an ideal environment for serious anglers.

After six years of heavy use, Jock’s North River Seahawk still looks almost brand new.

“It looks fairly new still, after six years. I’ve got 1150 hours on the main motor. So I put a lot of use into it, and it still runs great. Still looks new.”

One of the key reasons? High-quality materials and superior craftsmanship.

• Polymer flooring – Super durable, rot-resistant, and quiet underfoot.

• Heavy-duty aluminum construction – Built for the toughest conditions.

• Minimal maintenance – No major issues even after years of heavy use.

For Jock, the durability and ease of ownership make the Seahawk an unbeatable investment.

Would he buy another North River? Without hesitation, yes.

“This is my second North River, and I wouldn’t really consider a different brand.”

In fact, Jock has recommended North River boats to two of his fishing buddies, both of whom ended up buying one. That kind of loyalty speaks volumes about the brand’s reliability and performance.

Final Thoughts: Is the North River Seahawk Worth It?

If you’re in the market for a boat that can handle tough offshore conditions, help you catch more fish, and stand the test of time, the North River Seahawk is a top contender.

• Unmatched safety in rough waters
• Smooth and stable ride
• Proven durability after years of heavy use
• Great for serious anglers
• Minimal maintenance required

Jock’s experience proves that the Seahawk isn’t just a boat—it’s a long-term investment in safety, reliability, and fishing success.