What Is a Half Tower and Why It’s a Game-Changer for Anglers

If you’ve spent any time chasing fish offshore or sight-casting inshore, you’ve probably noticed more and more center consoles running around with an extra “mini tower” above the helm. That, my friends, is a half tower, and it’s quickly become one of the most sought-after features for serious anglers and weekend boaters alike.

At Sportsman Boats, we build our half towers to elevate your fishing experience, literally and figuratively. Whether you’re scanning for cobia in the Chesapeake Bay, chasing mahi offshore, or keeping an eye on a crowded inlet, a half tower gives you the visibility, comfort, and control that serious fishermen demand.

What Exactly Is a Half Tower?
A half tower, sometimes called a “second station,” is a raised helm located on top of your boat’s hardtop. It’s smaller and lighter than a traditional full tower, offering the best of both worlds: the extra elevation for sight fishing and navigation without adding unnecessary height or weight. From this elevated position, you have full control of the boat; steering, throttle, trim, and engine controls are all duplicated up top, allowing you to drive, maneuver, and spot fish comfortably while maintaining full command of your vessel.

Why Anglers Love Half Towers
The first and most obvious advantage of a half tower is unmatched visibility. Fish don’t always announce themselves, and when you’re looking for cobia, tarpon, or bait schools, seeing them first makes all the difference. A half tower gives you those extra few feet of elevation that dramatically increases your field of vision, helping you spot fish cruising near the surface, read current lines and rips, and notice subtle color changes in the water.

It also allows you to see obstacles or floating debris earlier and navigate tight channels or sandbars with confidence. On the Lower Chesapeake Bay, that kind of visibility can mean the difference between spotting the fish and just hearing about it later.

Half towers are also beloved for their comfort and versatility. Unlike traditional full towers that require a climb and often expose you to wind and spray, a half tower is comfortable, convenient, and built right into the boat’s design. You can switch between stations in seconds; run the main helm when the water’s rough, or pop up to the tower when conditions calm down and the bite turns on. It’s all about flexibility and ease of use.

For anglers who love sight fishing, the tower is an invaluable tool. The added height allows you to see movement, shadows, and color changes that you’d completely miss from deck level. That means more opportunities and, ultimately, more fish in the box.

Another big advantage is that a half tower gives you a second perspective when running and docking. Having that top-down view of your surroundings makes approaching a marina, a sandbar, or another vessel far easier. It’s functional, yes, but it’s also just plain fun.

The Sportsman Difference
At Sportsman Boats, our half towers aren’t an afterthought; they’re engineered into the boat from the first design phase. Every detail is considered to ensure our towers maintain the boat’s balance and center of gravity while providing a comfortable, safe, and fully functional second helm.

Each tower includes 2 JL speakers, full engine controls, a 9” Garmin display with full digital switching, blinker-style jackplate control, and ergonomic seating. And because we take pride in our craftsmanship, every tower matches our signature clean finish and premium aesthetic.

More Fun on the Water
Even when you’re not fishing, the half tower adds a whole new level of excitement to your time on the water. Kids love climbing up for the view, your friends will want a turn behind the wheel, and there’s nothing quite like watching a sunset from your second station. It’s a feature that turns an already capable boat into an all-around adventure machine.

Ready to Experience the View from the Top?
If you haven’t driven from a half tower yet, you’re missing out on one of boating’s greatest thrills. Visit your local Sportsman Boats dealer to climb up, take a look around, and see why more anglers are making the move to half towers. Once you’ve driven one, you’ll understand why we call it a game-changer.