The 2001 Ford Explorer Sportsman concept has surfaced for auction on Bring a Trailer, offering enthusiasts a rare glimpse at a once-forgotten SUV designed for fly fishers.
Originally unveiled at the 2001 North American International Auto Show, the concept was based on Ford’s third-generation Explorer and marketed as a vehicle to fulfill the dreams of fly anglers seeking untouched fishing spots.
The Explorer Sportsman stood out with its satin metallic green bodywork and silver accents, complemented by power deployable running boards, 17-inch wheels, and a fully detachable roof rack. Ford described the roof rack as extending forward and folding down, allowing easy loading of fishing rods, nets, and other gear from the side of the vehicle.
The interior blended tradition with luxury, featuring woven leather seats and Bloodwood trim, a wood sourced from forests in Victoria, Australia, and Queensland, New South Wales. Additional highlights included billet aluminum accents and a GPS navigation system operated by an on-board mouse—a far cry from today’s touchscreens.
A Unique Feature: A 30-Gallon Live Fish Tank
The concept also boasted a 30-gallon live fish tank, mounted on rollers and lockable in the cargo compartment, catering to anglers who wanted to transport their catch.
Current Auction Details and Condition
While the Explorer Sportsman concept has largely faded from memory, it recently reappeared on Bring a Trailer. As of the latest update, bidding has reached $12,500. However, the listing notes that the power deployable running boards are no longer functional. Despite this, the vehicle appears to be in excellent overall condition.
Powertrain Discrepancy: A Mazda-Sourced Engine
The concept’s original press release touted a 240 hp (179 kW / 243 PS) V8 engine, but the current listing reveals it was actually equipped with a Mazda-sourced 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a four-speed automatic transmission. Regardless of its powertrain, the vehicle is not street-legal, limiting its practical use.
For those interested in owning a piece of automotive history, the Bring a Trailer listing is available for review before the auction concludes.
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