Captain Rich Doherty runs a high-performance East Cape Evo 17V Carbon series skiff out of Fish River Outfitter, the kind of technical shallow-water boat where every pound, every degree of drag, and every inch of the skeg and keel matters. Operating in oyster-rich coastal flats, hull protection isn't a luxury — it's a necessity.

After more than a month running with Armus applied to the underside, skeg, and keel, the results have been measurable. Rich gained 5 mph on his top-end speed, reports a noticeably smoother, more stable ride on plane, and is seeing real fuel savings on the water. But for flats anglers who know the pain of oyster rash, the added layer of protection underneath is what stands out most.

Operating in shallow, oyster-filled waters is part of daily life for Captain Rich Doherty of Fish Responders Charters, and it’s where boat hulls take their toughest beating. To protect his vessel and enhance its performance, Rich applied Armus Hull Pro, an eco-friendly nano coating designed to reduce drag and prevent hull abrasion.

The difference was immediate. Rich gained an impressive 5 mph on the top end and noticed how effortlessly his skiff now planes across the water — describing it as “feathered out” and smoother than ever before. Beyond speed, he’s also seen real fuel savings and a major reduction in hull friction, giving him the range and control he needs for long days guiding clients through Florida’s shallow coastal waters.

With Hull Pro applied, Rich also gains peace of mind against oyster rash — the scratches and scarring common to skiffs that fish hard near reefs and flats. The coating forms a hard, slick barrier between his hull and the abrasive environment below, protecting his gelcoat from wear and tear while maintaining a high-gloss finish.