Candlefish 13

The Candlefish 13 is a versatile small fishing skiff, a compact version of the Candlefish 16 model.

The Open Version Candlefish 13 has bench seats running fore and aft on both sides of the boat and an unobstructed walkway on the centerline so you can move about the boat without barking your shins on thwarts.

The Bridgedeck Version uses a layout that worked well in the Candlefish 16 models. The Bridgedeck layout allows the captain to handle the boat from the rear, sitting on either side, while passengers are situated in folding padded seats on the bridgedeck, facing forward. All the gear and various items one might carry in a skiff like this can be stowed and kept organized in the lockable bridgedeck compartment, out of sight and secure, instead of swilling about your feet in the bilge as they often do in skiffs.

Speed with modest load and a 30hp outboard would be something around 30 mph but you can also put much smaller outboards on her if you choose. Long shaft 20” height outboards are the best fit. Keel and bilge keels help keep her bottom clean and unblemished when beaching her and we really like a small trailer as a pairing to her to keep launching and retrieving as simple as possible.
Optional Plywood Floorboards are offered for the Open Version; alternatively timber planks can be used and sourced locally.  

This model was originally named the Oolichan. In 2025, Sam renamed it the Candlefish 13 to better reflect its design as a scaled-down version of the Candlefish 16 hull.

LOA:  13′ 2" --  4.02m

Beam:  5' 7.25″ --  2.08m

Draft:  6.5″ --  16.5 cm

Weight Dry:  278 lbs. --  126 kg.

Useful Load:  650 lbs. --  295 kg.

Max HP:  30-hp Outboard

Epoxy required to build the Candlefish 13:

• Two #3 Epoxy Kits are required to build this boat.

Epoxy required by item:

• Resin 6 gal
• Slow Hardener 3 gal
• Wood flour, cell-o-fil fillers, & pumps

NOTE: Boat plans will need to be purchased from Devlin Builders, separately for all kit variations.