1981 Anderson Custom Boats Anderson 22

Anderson 22: The Rugged Skiff That Started It All

1. General Information

The Anderson 22 is the boat that launched Anderson Custom Boats: Bill Anderson's original abalone skiff, created in the early 1980s to serve California's booming commercial abalone fishery. Over the decades this tough, dependable and hard-working 6.71 m hull became the boat of choice for the growing dive industry, and it has steadily evolved into far more than a simple skiff. Built for the rigours of commercial fishing in the cold, rough waters of the Santa Barbara Channel, it also appeals to demanding recreational owners who want a genuinely bulletproof platform for offshore fishing, diving and coastal exploring. Offered as a pilothouse or centre console, it sleeps two to three and carries roughly 379 to 568 L of fuel for long days on the water.

2. Construction and Design

Every Anderson 22 is built by hand around a hand-laid fibreglass hull, with decks and cabin hand-constructed in fibreglass over wood and finished with non-skid surfacing for secure footing on a wet, working deck. With a 2.39 m beam, a 0.61 m hull draft and a dry weight of around 2,268 kg, the boat has the heft and stability needed to carry heavy loads of gear and catch through steep, cold seas. The layout is deliberately practical, giving open deck space aft for working, diving or fishing, while the pilothouse version adds a protected helm for long runs offshore. Because each boat is custom built, owners can specify equipment and fit-out to match commercial or recreational use.

3. Key Features

Proven commercial pedigree: Designed as an abalone skiff and refined through decades of commercial fishing and dive work.

Hand-laid fibreglass hull: A heavy-duty laminate and fibreglass-over-wood deck and cabin produce a rugged, long-lasting structure.

Pilothouse or centre console: Choose weather protection for offshore runs or open, all-round access for fishing and diving.

Flexible power: Single or twin outboards, gas or diesel sterndrive, or a diesel inboard can be specified.

Generous fuel capacity: Roughly 379 to 568 L of fuel supports long working days and extended trips.

4. Summary

The Anderson 22 is aimed at owners who put toughness and reliability first: commercial fishermen, divers and serious recreational anglers who need a boat that can work hard in demanding conditions year after year. It meets the needs of buyers looking for a compact yet heavy-duty pilothouse or centre console platform with real offshore capability, room for gear and a flexible choice of power. For anyone who values hand-built craftsmanship and a genuine commercial heritage, this classic Californian workboat remains an outstanding choice.