In commercial fishing, every minute on the water counts. From engine start-up at the dock to navigating high seas and tight harbors, operators demand equipment that delivers performance, durability, and control. That’s exactly what ZF offers the industry in its innovative W340 transmission and TotalCommand Control System. Built with commercial and recreational fishing applications in mind, these products bring together brute strength and refined control to meet the challenges of today’s workboats and tomorrow’s greener vessels.

A Transmission Built for the Real World

Developed specifically for commercial fishing boats and other workboats, the W340 is built tough, with a cast-iron construction that reflects ZF’s commitment to ruggedness and reliability in even the most demanding conditions.

The W340 offers a medium duty rating of 602 horsepower at 2,300 rpm, and a continuous duty rating of 508 hp at 2,100 rpm across most gear ratios, giving operators the muscle for daily operations and extended runs alike. ZF’s exclusive Supershift2 technology comes standard, delivering ultra-smooth clutch engagement and precise transmission output. This gives captains and crews confidence in the moment and fewer delays due to drivetrain hesitation or inefficiency.

Designed for flexibility, the W340 pairs effortlessly with a wide range of engines and propulsion systems, including waterjets and surface-piercing propellers. Its compact footprint helps maximize valuable space on board, and a built-in emergency ‘get home’ feature speaks to ZF’s commitment to safety in all its products.

The W340 is backed by an extended warranty option and ZF’s extensive customer support system, which includes the ZF Marine mobile service app, a global dealer support network, and the 24/7 ZF hotline at 1-833-ZF-WRENCH.

TotalCommand: Taking the Helm to the Next Level

Pairing raw transmission strength with next-generation control is ZF’s TotalCommand, a fully integrated propulsion control system that brings intuitive handling and fine-tuned response to commercial and recreational fishing vessels of all types. Whether you're maneuvering into a crowded harbor or holding position over a fishing ground in unpredictable weather, TotalCommand offers the precision and confidence needed to make split-second decisions.

At its core, TotalCommand is built around ZF’s legacy of control excellence, evolving from the company’s ClearCommand and MicroCommand systems. The new platform incorporates advanced CAN-bus communication, providing real-time engine synchronization and transmission coordination—no extra buttons or guesswork required.

Captains will immediately notice the ergonomic design of the controls, developed in collaboration with renowned Italian designers Giorgetto and Fabrizio Giugiaro. The sleek levers and intuitive touchpad allow easy access to all major system functions. With visual indicators, LED status cues, and seamless multi-station control for up to six helm locations, TotalCommand makes modern vessel control feel like second nature.

Especially setting the system apart is its integrated joystick maneuvering, now available for shaft-line commercial vessels. With JMS® (Joystick Maneuvering System), operators gain fluid, fingertip control over engines, transmissions, and thrusters, enabling side-stepping, 360° pivot turns, and station-keeping even in tight quarters or tough conditions.

For vessels requiring dynamic positioning, TotalCommand’s DP0 system offers both open-loop and closed-loop configurations. The premium closed-loop version keeps a vessel pointed in a set direction by automatically compensating for wind, current, and other environmental forces—vital features for offshore fishermen trying to hold on target over a productive reef or drop line.

Like the W340, TotalCommand meets or exceeds standards from the world’s top marine classification societies, including ABS and DNV. It has been rigorously tested and field-proven, giving captains the kind of reliability and precision only available from a company with ZF’s pedigree.

Ready for the Future: Hybrid Solutions from ZF

As the commercial fishing industry moves toward greener, more sustainable operations, ZF is helping to lead the charge. The company offers a range of hybrid-ready marine products designed to support the transition to low- and zero-emission vessels, as well as a new ENC transmission series for all-electric vessels. These solutions are ideal for those seeking to reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions without sacrificing power, control, or uptime.

From hybrid transmissions to electronic control integrations, ZF’s marine portfolio is ready to meet the evolving demands of fishing operations while balancing environmental responsibility with day-to-day performance.

Learn more about ZF Marine’s full line of propulsion and control systems at: ZF Marine Products