The 3070 Express from Pursuit has handily filled a couple of niches since it was introduced. Anglers looking to move up from their current 24- or 28-footers appreciate the extra space and seakeeping abilities of this larger model, while those ready to add more comfort to their fishing activities are finding that the 3070 fits their needs perfectly. By design, the 3070 is set up to do a little of everything, and defining it seems to be a bit of a challenge.

In cockpit and center helm configuration the 3070 is definitely an express design. From a discreet step molded into the forward cockpit corners, it features a generous 10 1/2-inch runway coming forward that widens to well over 16 inches before you break onto the bow deck.

Getting from the 'pit to the pulpit is an easy traverse. Well-placed grab bars integral to the wraparound windshield frame are sturdy and in the right place to keep you glued to the boat even when seas are lumpy. The bow deck is enclosed in a one-piece, stainless bow rail that hits most people just above the knees. The rail is through-bolted or drilled and tapped into backing plates molded into the deck. This makes working forward to handle the anchor secure and safe.

The cabin is snug, but plenty serviceable for overnighting. A double berth lies along the port bow, with a cedar-lined hanging locker and head with shower aft of that. To starboard, a stacked service center includes a microwave, sink and storage beneath. The dinette lies opposite the head, and on the bulkhead above the countertop is the breaker and electrical panel, visible and easy to reach. However you use it, there's no shortage of acreage.

In fact, all the storage areas on the 3070 are roomy. Access to mechanical systems is simple and well placed behind flush hatches. An especially interesting feature is the battery tray, which is electrically activated to slide out within reach behind a hatch in the starboard transom bulkhead. When the tray is retracted, the batteries sit on the centerline, allowing access to pumps in the bilge below, through the same hatch.

The cockpit is roomy and well laid out for fishing. The bait well in the transom is flanked to starboard by a sink with a shower hose, and to port by a large transom door. A handy jump seat for watching baits is built into the back of the helm. This is a feature Pursuit appears fanatical about, and if you've ever spent time watching the wake, you know how convenient such a seat can be. Opposite the jump seat, to port, is a built-in cooler backed up against the L-shaped passenger seat.

The bridge deck is hinged at the forward edge, and raises on mechanical rams to reveal a monstrous, full-width compartment for rod storage - or storage of anything you want to lock away out of sight. The helm seat adjusts electrically fore and aft, and up and down. Access behind the instrument panel is simple, as the entire molded unit tips forward, giving you plenty of room to get your arms inside.