Having already tested the Formula 457 CCS, the Sport model, we reported a splendid day on Biscayne Bay, so we couldn’t resist an invitation to test the CCF, the Center Console Fish model. However, we wanted to experience the boat as a real fish boat, so we gathered a group of enthusiastic anglers and headed out again to see if Formula really captured its fishing niche. We returned with a load of dolphin after a fabulous day, going about 10 miles out into the great blue and also returned with a glowing review of what we knew was a good boat for cruising, but now, we can say, YES! She CAN fish!
Above: A 2025 Formula 457 CCF center console fishing boat underway on the water. Photo via Formula Boats. Below: Our @boatsdotcom Instagram reel recounting our crew’s fishing adventure aboard the new 457 CCF.
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Model Overview
The Formula 457 CCF is the same boat as the CCS from the helm forward, but from the second row of seats to the transom—and above—she is a total fishing machine. She’s built for anglers who demand high performance and durability in offshore environments, even when seas get rough. Equipped with Formula’s signature FAS3TECH® hull design, the boat ensures a smooth and reliable ride, providing the renowned stability and handling Formula is celebrated for.
Above: Starboard side view of the new Formula 457 CC center console fishing boat underway on the water—note the full tower with yacht-like upper helm, akin to a flybridge. Photo via Formula Boats.
With generous deck space, ample fuel capacity, and an impressive range, she is designed to maximize fishability. A tower and upper helm station are ideal for sight fishing, while two 50-gallon livewells, an in-deck fish box, built-in ice maker and extensive tackle storage make this boat exceptionally well-suited for serious anglers.
Above: Full speed ahead! Portside aerial view of the new Formula 457 CCF with full tower underway. Photo via Formula Boats.
Cockpit Layout & Seating
Behind the back row of the front-facing captain’s chairs is a rear-facing mezzanine—and note that ALL of the seating is air conditioned, at the helm from front and back and for the rear seats and mezzanine from the back. TWO 18,000 BTU units serve the helm and aft seating, so you are assured of having a cool breeze at your back, regardless of the summer heat! Each seat also has an inductive phone charger so don’t miss all the photos and video of your catch!
Above: Passengers lounge on the rear-facing mezzanine of the Formula 457 CCF, while a woman enjoys access to the water via the wide swim platform next to the boat’s triple 600hp Mercury V12 outboard engines. Photo via Formula Boats.
The mezzanine seat folds down manually over the cutting board, sink and tackle station and beneath the counter are rows of drawers, divided to hold tackle and Plano boxes and storage. A huge cooler extends electrically from under the counter to hold all your beverages, food and ice, just watch your toes when pulling that out! The folded down seat also acts as an additional bench seat above the cooler or a step that can take you from the counter, up several ladder steps—not rungs—real convenient steps—up to the second station.
Above: The view from the tower down to the aft deck and transom, rigged with triple 600hp Mercury V12 engines. Photo via Formula Boats.
Cockpit Features
The cockpit is a wide expanse to work a catch, utilizing the 13’ 9” beam. Thick decking provides comfort and wide walkways port and starboard giving anglers room to pass each other as they work the sides and back of the boat. Doors on each side and on the transom also facilitate pulling in a big one or boarding. A lock-in diving ladder works for diving and swimming.
Above: Anglers fishing off the portside of the new Formula 457 CC boat. Photo via Formula Boats.
Two large, self-draining fish boxes facilitate fender storage to starboard, while to port, the fish box with an optional chill plate and ice maker kept those big dolphin fresh and cold all day. A starboard refrigerator adds more chill space and to port, a trash container and cabinet with a paper towel holder and fire extinguisher make both convenient.
Upper Helm Station & Tower
This upper station is not just a tower, its a covered platform more like a flybridge, and includes a captain’s chair with full controls. There’s a Garmin screen, as well as forward and aft facing lounges for passengers to comfortably join the captain, with an excellent view to spot fish—as our anglers did on this trip. Communication was easy between the upper and lower station, so the fishing crew and captain could trade instructions.
Above: A man drives a 2025 Formula 457 CCF from the tower’s upper helm station. Photo via Formula Boats.
A glass hatch with a non-skid top closes for safety, so again, watch your step if you don’t close the hatch! The upper station can be taken apart in two pieces for transport, stowed on the bow, and its bridge clearance ranges from 10-13’ to include the radar and light.
Fishability & Storage
Having nine people on board, six of them fishing without getting in each other’s way, proved that this 45’ boat provides more than adequate space to bring lots of fishing buddies on board. Wide gunwales facilitate standing and removable cushions at the bow to make seats and the windlass anchor space another casting or reeling platform.
Above: Catching fish on the new Formula 457 CCF center console boat. Photo via Formula Boats.
As mentioned, two pressurized 50-gallon live wells on the transom can hold lots of live bait and our test boat had one live well converted to hold dive tanks securely with a starboard insert. An optional grill is to port to cook up your catch.
Above: Twin Livewells on the transom of the Formula 457 CCF. Photo via Formula Boats.
Proving the fishing capability of the Formula 457 CCF, using the radar, we spotted some birds and quickly moved in on them. Using the over 200+ pilchers from the pressurized live well, we promptly excited a nice sized dolphin got the bull on the hook. The live bait attracted a few of his buddies and quickly we had havoc in the cockpit, with everyone moving in unison, with room to work the four landed fish with ease. We were all excited by the size of the catch—bigger than what we had seen all summer. The big boat obviously attracted big fish in the 15-20 pound range!
Starboard fresh and saltwater washes on retractable hose reels helped to and rod/gaff storage keep things orderly and we got the blood and guts hosed off the pristine deck in short order. Everything drains offboard, keeping water out of the bilge, in a large center hatch on the rear deck, along with a Seakeeper 6 gyro stabilizer and generator. Formula also has an optional filet table that locks into the transom mount, along with an optional grill, so you can prepare your catch and grill it up—all onboard!
Power & Performance
Above: Anglers fishing beside the triple 600hp Mercury V12 engines on the stern of the Formula 457 CCF center console boat. Photo via Formula Boats.
The triple Mercury 600 outboards proved their strength and seaworthiness, quietly and quickly getting us to our catch and holding with the joystick Skyhook and Seakeeper at work. This power works equally well for the Formula 457 CCS and CCF, so you can cruise and fish in comfort on either model. But opting for the CCF, easy cruising and optimal fishing is possible for all on board—just pick your focus, a seat or place to stand and everyone can be happy on the Formula 457 CCF!
Above: A view of the engines on the stern of the Formula 457 CCF while underway. Photo via Formula Boats.
Bow Area & Storage
The comfy front-facing bow lounge does not open—there’s plenty of other storage under every seat and behind numerous hatches—so that seating remains open for passengers and the space below provides head room for the berth, galley and large head and shower below—all beautifully accessorized and air-conditioned for total comfort and visual appeal.
Above: Friends lounging in the bow area of the new Formula 457 CCF center console boat. Photo via Formula Boats.
Cabin Interior
Above: The cabin interior on the Formula 457 CCF features a sleeping berth and galley with natural light from skylights above. Photo via Formula Boats.
The sleek exterior of the Formula 457 CCF belies the surprising comfort and luxury of its air-conditioned cabin below deck. Designed with weekend getaways in mind, the cabin features a U-shaped lounge that converts into a spacious double berth, a well-appointed galley complete with a fridge and microwave, and a fully enclosed head with a separate stand-up shower for added convenience. Skylights are seamlessly integrated to bathe the space in natural light, enhancing the open, airy feel of this thoughtfully crafted retreat—an impressive array of amenities for a 45-foot center console fishing boat.
Above: The cabin interior also features a fully enclosed head with separate stand up shower. Photo via Formula Boats.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Formula 457 CCF exceeded our expectations, proving itself to be a versatile powerhouse that balances luxury with serious fishability. With her high-performance Mercury outboards, spacious and meticulously designed cockpit, and a wealth of thoughtful fishing features, it’s clear that Formula has crafted a center console that caters to anglers without compromising on comfort or style. Whether you’re planning a leisurely cruise or an ambitious offshore fishing trip, this boat offers the flexibility, power, and elegance to handle it all. The 457 CCF is a genuine angler’s delight, ready to tackle the open waters with confidence and finesse.
Specifications:
Length: 49’1″ (w/ platform)
Beam: 13’9″
Draft: 4’6″
Weight: 33,250 lb.
Fuel: 700 gal.
Max HP: 1,800
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