When fisherman Bill Hammer installed roll fin stabilizers on his 56-foot longliner, he was hoping to improve his fishing operation.
However, he also made history for Wesmar because it was the first known installation of an active fin stabilization system on a fishing vessel anywhere in the world.
Mr Hammer, of the longliner Silver Lady, says Wesmar's equipment greatly benefits his fishing operations and he has seen the numerous benefits of installing the Wesmar RS1600 stabilizer system on his boat. Mr Hammer credits the installation of the Wesmar stabilizers to saving fuel, time, increasing crew safety, comfort, and improved overall product.
Mr Hammer estimates that the stabilizers saves him 10-15% in fuel costs, saying with the stabilizers he can back off the throttle by about 100-150 RPM and still maintain his original speed, therefore increasing efficiency.
“Anyone longlining for cod, halibut and albacore can appreciate the value of stability and lift in rough waters. By maintaining full boat speed in rough water conditions, fishing boats are more efficient and safer. The boat is not awash with water causing the catch to slosh around in the fish hold and crew slipping around on the decks,” states Mr Hammer. “I can't imagine operating without them.”
Mike Langrud, Sales Manager for the West Coast at WESMAR states, “The addition of WESMAR equipment to vessels is important to the overall efficiency, safety, and comfort of all those aboard a vessel.”
