First Take

Unless you were specifically looking for the fishing amenities, you might overlook them and instead just view this new Mirage X3 Party Fish as a really comfortable and great value-priced family model. That’s because Sylvan perfectly disguises its fishing features with this layout and that’s also probably what we like most about it.

Kind Of A Big Deal

Forget what you think fishing chairs typically look like because your eyes are about to be opened. In the stern is a fishing station with two high-back helm chairs that slide, swivel and recline. These might just be the two most comfortable seats you’ve ever fished from and they’re perfectly positioned within reach of the fishing station that includes a large 24-gallon aerated livewell as well as rod holders. Even if you don’t fish, this setup could just as easily be used for a picnic area. There are two stern gates that give you access to either side of the swim deck with a tall deluxe stainless ski/tow bar in between that was upgraded from the standard ski/tow pylon this model comes with.

Moving forward, the exact same helm chair that is part of the fishing station is identical to the one for the captain. This boat is designed to hit a specific price point in the entry-level segment, but the nice thing about the helm console is there is room to add a digital GPS map or other features if desired. As is, the dash is centered on multi-function gauges, with a row of well-labeled rocker switches below and access to the Jensen Bluetooth stereo. This is also where the captain controls the power Bimini top. There are no USB ports at the helm or any type of a glove box or phone cubby, but otherwise you should be covered.

Directly across from the helm is a bench seat with chaise lounges at each end and built into the back of the rear-facing one is a pop-up changing room with a curtain that stands an impressive 6-foot, 6 inches tall when open. There are two more chaise lounges in the bow, proving there are plenty of comfortable seats for everyone and we like the gray vinyl. The upgraded Sea Weave flooring flows well with the interior colors and another option we like is the deep in-floor ski locker.

Closer Look

The three 25-inch diameter pontoons are on the long list of standard features on this model, with the center tube having lifting strakes on both sides in addition to the strakes on the inside of the outer pontoons. The painted black tubes are an option, but they really flow well with the standard exterior black rails and panels so it’s an upgrade that should be strongly considered. Above deck, the railing around the perimeter varies from 24 inches in the bow to nearly 28 inches tall for the majority of the boat.

Performance

Our test boat was powered with a Mercury 150hp four-stroke engine and it pairs nicely with the SPX PR25 Performance package. Our run from zero-to-20-mph was steady and gradual with a time at over 6 seconds and at full throttle we topped out at 36 mph.

Final Thoughts

Both anglers and cruisers can enjoy this model that is value-driven and designed to keep everyone on board happy.