The Herreshoff Fish Class Sloop first appeared in 1915 as the larger sister of the Buzzard's Bay 12 1/2, "Dough dish" or "Bullseye" sloop. The two small sailboats at 12 1/2 and 16 feet waterline length, were designed to handle the steep chop that can develop suddenly on any given summer's afternoon around Buzzards Bay. And with their proven seakeeping character, it's no wonder these two versions have gained so much favor over the years.
These 20 foot half-decked sloops spread twice as much canvas as their popular little sisters and carry an additional backstay as standing rigging.
Of the two main sail plans provided, the gaff rig allows a shorter mast and better off-the-wind performance. The self-tending jib or fore-stays'l is common to both plans.
The longer length allows for a small cuddy, handy for gear and stowage. You might also find shelter from a squall. I've seen a few designs make use of the space to outfit alternative power, either gas or electric. The
compartment can store a small outboard motor or provide housing for batteries to power an electric drive.
Unlike the Buzzards Bay 12 1/2 the coaming is held aft of the mast. The cockpit cover or boom tent is more easily buttoned-down at anchor.
Both boats gather their lineage from he Buzzards Bay 15 and 25 footers, but lack the long deck overhangs Nat Herreshoff drew for the larger racing yachts. The Fish Class Sloop is also a close relative to the 26 foot Alerion Nat designed for his own escapes to Bermuda from around 1910 on. Without a doubt, these boats hold impressive credentials.
Further reading about Herreshoff Mfg. Co.
- A colorful collection, Herreshoff Sailboats
by Gregory Jones documents the outstanding qualities of Nat's designs with historical perspectives.
- Capt. Nat Herreshoff, The Wizard of Bristol
by L. Francis Herreshoff provides an insight into the life of the man behind these great boats as seen through the eyes of an admiring son. From steam-powered launches to American Cup defenders, the biography offers a unique perspective of his close friends and influences.
- The Hart Nautical Collection at M.I.T. holds Nathaniel G. Herreshoff's original drawings. Boat Plans and Research Services by appointment.
- Browse the Herreshoff Marine Museum online articles or plan a visit to Bristol Rhode Island.
Joel White's Flatfish Design
One of the possible disadvantages was remedied by Joel White's centerboard version, called the Flatfish. The shallower draft makes a lot of sense. At about 2 feet with the centerboard up, the boat is easily launched from a trailer and carries the versatile character of a beach cruiser. Not a bad trade-off for the minimal loss of space. And Joel's plans retain the hull form and scantlings in every other way. Flatfish plans are available from the
WoodenBoat Store. 
Recommended Boat Builders
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