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Fishing Kayak Review: Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD

By
Ric Burnley
-
kayak angler stands up and casts from a Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD fishing kayak
A capable hull and full-feature cockpit goes from paddling to pedaling and motor power. | Feature photo: Roberto Westbrook

For many anglers, fishing is a mission. Preparing gear, loading the truck, strategizing a plan, launching the attack, adapting, defending, defeating and conquering another species. For these anglers, Wilderness Systems developed the new Recon 120 HD.

With paddle, pedal or motor power, the Recon 120 HD gives anglers a choice of propulsion to meet the needs of today’s battlefield. The boat comes rigged from the factory and ready to fish, or it can be armed to the teeth with accessories and electronics.

Person on sit-on-top fishing kayak with rod Fishing Kayak Reviews

Recon 120 HD is rigged and ready

Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD Specs
Length: 12’8”
Width: 38”
Weight: 115 lbs
Capacity: 450 lbs
MSRP: $2,449
wildernesssystems.com

The Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD fits in the category of standup, full-feature kayaks with multiple propulsion options. Compare the Recon HD with the NuCanoe Flint or the Vibe Shearwater XD.

These kayaks appeal to anglers looking to cover a lot of water and fish hard in mostly sheltered areas. They are also popular with enthusiastic beginners looking for stable kayaks that can grow with them.

Wilderness Systems has a lot of boats in the standup category. Their Radar 135 offers pedal and motor power with the Helix PD and MD systems. The ATAK has a Helix MD motor without a pedal option. So, the Recon HD gives the owner pedals with the ability to add an electric motor.

The Recon 120 is wider and more stable than the ATAK 120 or Radar 115. Also, the Recon is heavier than the other standup boats in Wildy’s line.

Man stands and casts from the Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD fishing kayak
A capable hull and full-feature cockpit goes from paddling to pedaling and motor power. | Feature photo: Roberto Westbrook

Designed to satisfy demanding anglers

Wilderness designed the Recon to satisfy a very demanding audience: the tournament angler. Kayak tournaments are offering big money prizes and competitive anglers require every advantage.

To win a bass tournament, serious competitors require an outboard electric motor to get to the fishing grounds and then switch to pedal and paddle to maneuver into hidden honey holes.

Currently, tournament rules are all over the board with motor requirements. Some tournaments don’t allow motors but allow pedal systems. Other tournaments allow an electric motor. To fish both sides of the fence, an angler needs a full-function pedal boat that can be motorized when the rules allow it.

On the other hand, the Recon’s 12-foot waterline and factory fishing features make the boat a great choice for entry-level anglers who are excited about exploring the limits of kayak fishing. With the Recon’s unmatched stability and reliable pedal power, new anglers get a solid platform to develop confidence and skills.

Wilderness Systems gets smart

The Recon 120 HD’s design is based on Wilderness’s SMART Hull Technology. SMART stands for stability, maneuverability, acceleration, responsiveness and tracking. The designers focus their experience on balancing all elements of hull shape and cockpit layout to maximize performance.

With their latest offering, Wilderness’s experience pays off in a design that really is smart. The Recon’s wide hull is assisted by a tunnel design. The bottom of the boat has two tunnels running down either side of a central keel. The keel keeps the Recon traveling straight, even when wind and waves push the boat’s wide and high gunnels.

The outer pontoons move volume to the outside for rock solid stability and improved tracking. To improve efficiency, the tunnels let the water pass with less resistance. This design concept is common on Wilderness boats and other standup kayaks.

But the Recon takes the idea to a new level.

Bow detail of the Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD fishing kayak
SMART hull design combines sharp entry with a tunnel hull for an efficient ride. | Photo: Roberto Westbrook

One of the problems of a tunnel hull is noise. Not only does a heavy boat slap its way through the waves, but water passing through the tunnels often gurgles in the scuppers.

Wilderness tackled this problem two ways. First, they curved the scuppers to reduce water boiling up through the deck. Then, the Recon’s pedal scupper is baffled with plastic bristles. These touches keep water moving smoothly across the bottom of the boat for a faster and quieter ride.

The Recon’s chine is also carefully designed for efficiency with a flared bow and stepped stern to allow the big boat to pass smoothly through the water.

Recon 120 HD is still a pleasure to paddle

Considering the Recon’s 38-inch waistline and 115-pound weight, every effort has been made to improve handling. These touches help pedal and motor performance, but the design allows the big, heavy boat to paddle better than similar boats in the standup kayak category.

While new pedal anglers may not consider the advantages of paddling efficiency, experienced drivers know there are many times when paddling performance is a game changer.

Standup fishing requires the angler to paddle the kayak from an elevated position. Even with a trolling motor mounted in the stern, when the water is too shallow or weed-choked for a propellor, a kayak’s advantage is going super shallow with a paddle or push pole.

Maneuvering the boat through wind and current and then into boat docks and lily pad fields gives the kayak angler an advantage. The Recon hull design tames the big boat’s bullish nature for a full-feature standup kayak that handles like a smaller, lighter boat.

Tournament-ready rigging and outfitting

The topside of the Recon continues the SMART design mantra. Relying on their pro staff’s tournament experience, Wilderness incorporated favorite features from the most popular bass sleds.

Starting in the bow, a huge hatch with a deep bin and watertight lid will hold tackle trays and bags of soft plastics.

Storage is further extended in the wide-open stern. One of the cool things about Wilderness Systems kayaks is the extensive line of matching factory accessories. The stern well is specially designed to host a Wilderness Kayak Krate, a covered, sealed thermoformed gear box with four rod holders and a separate tackle tray in the lid.

Stern detail of the Wilderness Systems Recon 120 HD fishing kayak
The Recon 120 has plenty of room for full size crate and more. | Photo: Roberto Westbrook

Another feature tournament anglers appreciate is the Recon’s abundant horizontal rod storage. In the heat of competition, there is no time to cut one lure off and tie on another. Savvy anglers have multiple purpose-built rods with different lures ready to go. More rods can equal a better chance at offering a trophy fish its favorite meal.

The Recon HD has deep channels down each side of the cockpit capable of accommodating three rods. The channels have a padded platform to protect the reels and a short bungee to keep the rods onboard.

Not only do the horizontal rod holders expand storage, but they allow an angler to safely stage rods without interfering with overhanging tree limbs.

One thing the Recon doesn’t have is a flush mount rod holder. The boat does have gear tracks on each side of the cockpit to add an elevated rod holder. And there is plenty of flat space for the owner to install a flush mount rod holder behind the seat.

Another update to the Recon HD is the redesigned AirPro ACE seat. The breathable, padded mesh and ergonomic design are sturdy and soft.

Seat position is one of the most important considerations for pedal boaters. Getting the angle of the legs just right will ease fatigue and improve comfort.

The new AirPro seat slides on a track in the frame. To release the seat, pull a lever under the legs and it moves easily to any position. The operation is similar to a manual seat control in a car. Compared to other boats with frame seats, the AirPro ACE is one of the easiest to dial in for a perfect fit.

To power the Recon HD, Wilderness installed their well-tested Helix Pedal Drive. After years on the water, Wilderness has had time to sort out the bugs for a solid and reliable pedal system.

Helix PD offers pedal performance

The Helix drive is light and simple. The drive clips into a base in the kayak and connects with a heavy pin and two latches. When the kayak enters shallow water, simply kick a pedal on the base and the lower unit pops up through the hull.

To reengage the propeller, just push the head unit back down through the scupper and it clicks into place. In our tests, the Helix HD was one of the fastest pedal systems to go into zero draft mode. The trick is lining up the propellor so it passes through the pedal scupper.

The pedal system is tested to be powerful and responsive. Matched to the rudder, the Helix PD works smoothly and turning the kayak is intuitive, although the rigging could be sturdier. Once the rudder is dialed in, it is more than competent to turn the big boat.

With the Recon 120 HD, Wilderness Systems set out to design a tournament-ready pedal kayak. Instead of using their Helix MD motor drive, they give the owner the option of running a more powerful and responsive electric outboard or trolling motor. Remove the rudder and install Wilderness’ motor plate to make room for a transom-mount motor with plenty of space in the stern for a lithium-ion or lead-acid battery. A small hatch provides access to the inside of the boat to run rigging.

Up your game with the Recon 120 HD

While the Recon 120 HD is focused on standup tournament fishing, the stable and efficient design makes it a great boat for inexperienced anglers, too. Of course, at 115 pounds and 38 inches wide, the boat can be a bear to handle, but Wilderness’ SMART design tames the beast.

Related articles

Wilderness Systems kayak reviews

Sit-on-top fishing kayak reviews

Pedal fishing kayak reviews

This article was first published in Kayak Angler Issue 46. Subscribe to Kayak Angler and get the magazine delivered to your front door. Download the Kayak Angler Magazine+ app to seamlessly glide between the digital archives, the latest articles and videos.

 

A capable hull and full-feature cockpit goes from paddling to pedaling and motor power. | Feature photo: Roberto Westbrook

 

When Is The Best Time To Buy A Kayak?

By
Paddling Magazine Staff
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a touring kayak sits on a rocky beach in fall
Feature photo: Skyler Ewing/Pexels

There is no best answer to the question, when is a good time to buy a kayak? The best time to buy a kayak varies depending on your purchasing objectives: Is your priority to have the best selection? Or are you simply interested in finding the best price for a kayak? This article will provide you with a summary of what kayaks are available over the course of the year, and will offer guidance on when is the best time to buy a kayak for you.

two people paddle Evoke kayaks past a flowerpot island How Much Does A Kayak Cost?

When to buy a kayak

What time of year is best to buy a kayak? There are two conflicting realities to contend with in choosing when to buy a kayak: availability and price. If selection is your primary goal, then you should shop for a kayak in May or June when retailers receive their season’s stock. The importance of shopping early became crystal clear when the pandemic launched a revival of outdoor activities and Covid-19 imposed supply chain limits on production of outdoor gear.

As the pandemic continues, demand for kayaks is still outstripping supply. Shopping early in the season gives you the best opportunity to find the kayak of your dreams. With kayak shortages, it makes sense to put price aside and shop early to find a kayak that’s safe, comfortable and meets your performance needs.

On the other hand, shopping later in the season (specifically in late August and September) once rewarded patient shoppers the best chance of scoring a good deal. You may still get lucky—but it’s not a sure thing. Kayaks remaining on shop floors at this time of year are often the leftovers, obscure sizes or less desirable models.

Sure, you might find a sale as store owners attempt to clear out stock, but you’ll certainly miss out on the wider selection offered earlier in the paddling season.

When do kayaks go on sale?

The answer to the question “when do kayaks go on clearance?” is simple. The cost of a kayak tends to go down at the end of the paddling season, when stores are looking to clear out summer stock and move into the autumn and winter retail seasons. Here are some details to help you pinpoint when kayaks go on clearance at various popular outlets.

  • When do kayaks go on sale at Costco?

    You’ll find kayaks on sale at Costco in August and September, when they’re no longer seasonally relevant and more space is needed in-store for other goods. You may also get lucky and find remaining kayaks at clearance prices around Thanksgiving.

    exterior of a Costco Wholesale store Best Costco Kayaks For 2026

  • When do kayaks go on sale at Academy?

    Besides late-season autumn sales, kayaks often go on sale at Academy around holidays—such as Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. Shopping these earlier sales will give you better selection but the discounts may not be as significant as end of season.

  • When do kayaks go on sale at Bass Pro?

    Watch for holiday kayak sales at Bass Pro, especially Memorial Day and Fourth of July if you’re looking to strike a balance between price and availability.

  • When do kayaks go on sale at Walmart?

    As Walmart’s tagline suggests, kayaks are sold at everyday low prices at Walmart. However, you may score clear-out deals on leftover kayak stock at the end of the summer.

    Outside of a Walmart Best Walmart Kayaks For 2026

  • When do kayaks go on sale at Canadian Tire?

    Keep track of the weekly flyer to watch for kayaks on sale at Canadian Tire. Of course, you can also score great deals at the end of the season, particularly in August when stores switch stock from watersports to winter sports.

  • When do Menards kayaks go on sale?

    Menards sells a limited range of watersports equipment, including kayaks and SUPs. You’re most likely to find Menards kayaks on sale in August and September. It’s also a good idea to follow the Menards flyer to catch weekly sales earlier in the paddling season.

When do new kayak models come out?

New kayak models come out in the spring, to match the time when paddlesports, outdoors and big box stores begin to display summer stock. But don’t wait till spring if you’re looking to paddle off in the latest and greatest kayak from your favorite manufacturer.

Most manufacturers offer pre-season sales on new kayak models at local dealers. Attending a paddlesports trade show such as Canoecopia is another great way to check out (and pre-order) the year’s newest kayaks.

Do kayaks get cheaper in the winter?

You may wonder, “do kayaks get cheaper in the winter?”—especially if you’re looking to surprise a loved one with a unique Christmas gift. Kayaks may go on sale in the months leading up to winter, as retailers attempt to clear out the previous season’s stock. Sometimes you can find discount kayak prices around Thanksgiving. Bear in mind, however, you’ll have a smaller selection than other times of year.

Custom ordering a new kayak in the winter is another option, but don’t expect a discount. You can also plan to attend a paddling trade show, such as Canoecopia in Madison, Wisconsin, or the Outdoor Adventure Show in several Canadian centers. These events are a great spot to check out the newest kayaks and receive expert advice from industry professionals—and often also take advantage of special sale prices.

Feature photo: Skyler Ewing/Pexels

 

Best Kokopelli Packrafts For 2026

By
Jake O'Flaherty
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a bunch of Kokopelli packrafts laid out on the ground
Feature photo: iStock

One of the newest products in the paddling world, packrafts have “blown up” in adventure circles. Modern explorers have turned to these compact inflatables to access waterways that might be impossible to reach otherwise—leading to incredible firsts, like crossing the North Pole by human power.

Packrafts are durable enough to trust in remote environments, and they pack small enough to fit in a backpack or bike handlebar bag on the way there. Drive, bike, hike or even ski to the water’s edge, inflate the raft, load your gear and jump in.

Built like a miniature whitewater raft and typically paddled with a kayak paddle, a packraft’s inflatable chambers are forgiving and buoyant. You can paddle them with kids or dogs, on flatwater or in current. You won’t keep up with hard-shell kayaks, but the removable fins in some models help you track (stay on a straight course) for greater efficiency.

Colorado-based Kokopelli Packrafts debuted their first product on Kickstarter. Launching their ideas on a crowdfunding platform like Kickstarter allows companies like Kokopelli Packrafts to gauge demand while they raise the cash needed to get their prototypes into mass production. Kokopelli’s offerings have since expanded to include ultralight packrafts that roll up to the size of a shoebox, burly whitewater packrafts and inflatable kayaks. You’ll find Kokopelli packrafts in outfitters and retailers across North America.

Kokopelli’s innovative inflatables are driven by the adventurers who use them, pushing the limits of what’s possible. You don’t need to be a hardened explorer to enjoy a packraft though; they are great, supremely portable boats for quick outings anywhere. They pack down small enough to store in your closet or bring on the subway—something you probably shouldn’t do with a full-size kayak.

This article will help you find the right Kokopelli packraft for your paddling goals, whether you’ll take it on an alpine lake or through the metro to the waterfront. We’ll give an overview of the types of inflatables Kokopelli makes, as well as some tips for buying new and used. You’ll also find links to curated lists where you can learn more about specific models and where to buy them.

Best Kayak Brands For Fishing, Sea Kayaking, Touring & More

Shopping for a used Kokopelli packraft?

You can save some money by choosing to buy a used packraft. Even better, Kokopelli’s web store has an awesome “Garage Sale” section where you can buy blemished and open box models. Check here for deals on the boats—you’ll easily save a few hundred dollars. Purchasing from the company means that the warranty still applies when you register your packraft.

If you choose to buy a used Kokopelli packraft from another source, like a friend or online classified, ensure that all the parts are present. If pieces are missing, you can purchase replacements through Kokopelli’s website.

Also be sure to fully inflate the packraft so you can check for punctures or air leaks at the seams and valves. If there is a TiZip zipper (used to access interior storage space within the packraft’s tubes), pay special attention to that area. If the owner has properly lubricated and cared for the zipper, it should be water- and airtight. If it isn’t, or if the zipper is jammed, you may need to replace the TiZip.

Kokopelli provides replacement TiZips and will replace them for you. They have a range of other repair services offered on their website to get your used packraft back into top shape.

For more tips on what to look for when selecting a used inflatable, read our article How To Buy A Used Kayak.

Kokopelli packraft buying advice

Kokopelli conveniently divides their packraft offerings into three series: Adventure, Lake and Whitewater. There are differences in the design and price of these boats as they align with the different possibilities for each type of packraft. We’ll give an overview of each category and touch on the activities these boats are suited for.

A few key features found on Kokopelli’s packrafts are the seating systems, valves and optional TiZip storage system. Like many other inflatable boat manufacturers, Kokopelli’s seats are predominantly inflatable. Most of their models also come with an EVA foam backband that provides additional support.

You’ll find Leafield D7 valves on all Kokopelli packrafts. These are the gold standard as far as air-stoppers go. Nearly every high-quality inflatable uses these valves, and Kokopelli is no exception. For multi-day trips, Kokopelli offers the TiZip storage feature. This airtight zipper is placed on the outside of the pontoon. It allows you to store gear inside the inflated pontoons, protecting your gear in an efficiently packed manner. TiZip is an optional add-on to all Kokopelli packrafts.

Adventure Series

Kokopelli’s Adventure series packrafts are their all-arounders. These packrafts aren’t dialed in to one thing, but are made for dabbling in various activities. You can use them on small lakes or down moderate whitewater without worries. Within this series falls the XPD, Rogue Lite and Rogue R-Deck.

The XPD is built with bombproof 1000D Nylon, the same material used for whitewater rafts, which Kokopelli also uses in their whitewater series. It’s a bit bulkier when packed compared to the Rogues but still fits easily into a small duffel. At 14 pounds, it’s pretty easy to carry around in a vehicle or backpack. These rafts are durable enough to withstand the pressures of tough use. The XPD comes with a removable skeg (fin that attaches to the hull) for better tracking on flat water.

The Rogue packrafts are the ultimate option for anyone who prioritizes portability. Deflated and rolled, the Rogue Lite is roughly the size of a roll of paper towels and weighs just six pounds. The Rogue R-Deck, adds a bit more bulk and three pounds with its spray deck (which prevents water from splashing into the raft).

These packrafts are designed for light and fast trips—they can attach to handlebars for bikepacking or stash in a hiking pack nearly unnoticed. The Rogues inflate quickly, in less than 10 minutes or even faster with Kokopelli’s electric Feather Pump.

Lake Series

Designed for exploring on calmer waters, Kokopelli’s Lake Series comprises the ultralight Hornet-lite, two-person Twain and Moki inflatable kayaks. The Hornet-Lite packs smaller than any of Kokopelli’s other models and weighs a trim five pounds. It’s forgiving stability and low price make it a great option for beginner paddlers who will stick to calm waters.

The Twain is Kokopelli’s self-described “Packhorse,” with 10 feet of space to seat two paddlers. It’s also a great choice for a solo paddler who wants more space for large canine companions, extra gear or even just legroom. Kokopelli’s other packrafts are around seven feet long, so this additional three feet of space opens up gear options for a week or more in the backcountry. The longer waterline, combined with a removable fin, also gives the Twain good tracking on flat water. You can even add an electric motor to the fin box when you have a lot of water to cover.

With their longer, tapered hull shapes, Kokopelli’s Moki kayaks excel in flatwater conditions. Kokopelli’s three kayaks feature two solo designs and one tandem, the Moki II. These inflatable kayaks are all built with a drop-stitch floor, a construction technique that allows inflatables to retain flat, rigid shapes. Integrating this into the kayak’s hull helps it track (travel in a straight line) and paddle faster.

All Moki kayaks also include a removable skeg (or fin) to further enhance tracking. The removable spraydecks of the Moki I and II add protection against wind and splashing waves, and paddlers can also choose to wear a sprayskirt that creates a seal between the paddler and the deck to keep water out of the kayak. The Moki I is a 12-foot solo kayak suited for recreational use or short overnight trips on calm waters. The Moki II Tandem stretches out to 15 feet and boasts a 600-pound capacity in its multi-chambered hull. The beginner-friendly Moki Lite is a compact, 10-foot kayak with an open cockpit for easy entry and exit.

Whitewater Series

Kokopelli’s rugged Whitewater Series includes the Recon and Nirvana models. Kokopelli uses their toughest reinforced PVC on the Recon packraft so it can handle any abuse on the water. At 18 pounds, it’s their heaviest packraft, making it less suitable for hike- or bike-access trips. Choose the lighter Nirvana for those harder-to-access whitewater trips, as it weighs less than 12 pounds and easily packs into a small duffel.

Both the Recon and Nirvana whitewater packrafts can be purchased with either a spraydeck or as a self-bailing iteration. Self-bailing packrafts are great for paddlers in warm waters who want to be able to jump in and out of the boat easily. Water exits through one-way openings on the bottom of the self-draining raft. Thigh braces anchored to the raft enable you to stay securely seated in the self-bailing packrafts.

Kokopelli’s spraydeck-equipped packrafts fit more like whitewater kayaks, with the paddler’s legs braced beneath the deck. The paddler wears a sprayskirt that attaches to the deck’s coaming (rim around the seat area) to prevent water from entering the packraft. Spraydeck packrafts are good options for running colder rivers, as you’ll stay warmer and a lot drier than in an open, self-bailing packraft.

If you’re still not sure which Kokopelli packraft best suits your needs, take the short quiz “Which boat is right for me?” on their website. Choose from a few easy options about where and how you want to use the boat, and presto—Kokopelli will recommend the model(s) that best fit your goals.

Accessories

Whatever Kokopelli packraft you choose, you will also have options for accessories and add-ons. Many of their packrafts come with a four-piece kayak paddle, which can also be purchased separately. This paddle can easily be stashed in a pack during transit. Whitewater packrafters can upgrade to Kokopelli’s four-piece edition of the classic Werner Powerhouse paddle.

The rechargeable Feather Pump shortens inflation time to less than a minute for most boats. Finally, Kokopelli’s Delta series of dry bags are tailored to fit in TiZip-equipped pontoons or in the bow of the packrafts.

Repairs and warranty

The TiZip system has a limited one-year warranty, and every other part of the packraft has either a limited three-year or lifetime warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, depending on the model.

If something happens to your packraft that isn’t covered by the warranty, don’t throw the packraft out. Kokopelli does complete repairs on their packrafts, and they also sell kits to do your own repairs, whether in the field or at home.

  • Where are Kokopelli packrafts made?

    Kokopelli packrafts are made in China.

  • Kokopelli packraft dealers

    Kokopelli packrafts can be ordered directly from the company or through their authorized dealers, including MEC and REI. Find a full list of Kokopelli packraft dealers using their dealer locator.

Kokopelli packraft comparison

  • Kokopelli packraft vs Alpacka

    Alpacka is another Colorado-based packraft company that builds their premium packrafts in the state. One of the pioneers of modern packrafting, Alpacka’s rafts have been tested on remote rivers around the world. They offer more specialized rafts, with a larger selection of packrafts to fill different niches.

    Choose an Alpacka if you know exactly what type of packrafting you want to do. Kokopelli’s packrafts land at a slightly lower price point and are more suited to general, “all-around” use. Choose Kokopelli if you’re going to dabble in more varied casual paddling—some lakes, slow rivers or whitewater. Both companies have solid repair services and warranties backing their products.

Feature photo: iStock

 

3 Steps To Stick The Balance Brace

By
Conor Mihell
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man performs the kayak balance brace maneuver
A properly executed kayak balance brace is almost as relaxing as a break on shore. | Feature photo: Scott MacGregor

The first sea kayakers devised the balance brace as a means of gaining stability in rough water and a way to stretch out their lower bodies without leaving their boats. In the balance brace maneuver, the kayak is held at the capsize point indefinitely—without ever going over—using the flotation of the upper body and Greenland-style paddle. Pressure from one leg is needed to hold the paddler in the boat while the other is free to dangle. It’s almost as relaxing as a break on shore.

[ Watch: How To Perform The Sculling Brace In A Sea Kayak ]

Modern-day paddlers should think of the balance brace as a party trick that’s practical. Not only does it look good; it also makes a solid rough-water survival position and is the basis of several Greenland rolls.

Almost as relaxing as a break on shore. | Photo: Scott MacGregor
A properly executed kayak balance brace is almost as relaxing as a break on shore. | Feature photo: Scott MacGregor

How to Stick the Kayak Balance Brace

1 Lean Back and Scull

Start off by leaning the kayak and sculling with the paddle to keep the boat upright. Lean back as far as you can on the stern deck and work on twisting at your hips to expose the back of your PFD to the water—think of arching your back. Use your lower leg—the one that’s in the water—to keep the boat from capsizing by exerting steady pressure on the foot and thigh braces. Relax the other leg—you can even take it off the foot brace.

2 Act Like an Outrigger

Now stop sculling altogether. Arch your back and let your head fall into the water; maintain a steady pressure on your lower knee; and hold the paddle motionless across your chest, allowing it to float to the surface. The boat should be kept as level as possible; your body acts like an outrigger to keep the kayak from capsizing.

[ Paddling Buyer’s Guide: View all outriggers & stabilizers ]

3 Sit Back Up

Returning to the upright position from the balance brace is as simple as sitting up. It’s possible to scull your way up, but unnecessary. It’s easiest to bring your body over the back deck of the kayak by pivoting at your hips. Remember to bring your head up last.

Paddling Magazine Issue 65 | Fall 2021

This article originally appeared in Paddling Magazine Issue 65. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions here, or download the Paddling Magazine app and browse the digital archives here.

 

A properly executed kayak balance brace is almost as relaxing as a break on shore. | Feature photo: Scott MacGregor

 

How To Run Small Drops In Your Kayak

By
Stuart Smith
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male whitewater kayaker uses a boof technique to kayak over small drops
You need to choose the right boof to run small drops in your kayak. | Feature photo: Tyler Toohey

For the best way to kayak small drops, look no further than the boof. Boofing lifts you clean off the lip of a drop and prevents your bow from diving on landing. Even in the best conditions, you need to choose the right boof and pay attention to the bow–stern trajectory of the boat, because landing dead flat is a real shock. Read on for an introduction to this fine art, plus two types of boof to try for yourself.

[ Watch: Six Rad Women Boofing In Mexico ]

How to run small drops in your kayak

Why boof?

Most of the time, inadvertent penciling off small drops works out—but when it doesn’t, the results can be crushing. If something is lurking below or when you are unsure what is down below, keep the bow up on the surface.

Photo: Tyler Toohey
You need to choose the right boof to run small drops in your kayak. | Feature photo: Tyler Toohey

Small drops and pourovers with sticky recirculations are good places to boof. You can land on the boil, skip off and ricochet clean of the drop. This is great for tighter recirculations or when you have a must-make move immediately downstream. A clean boof means you are more likely to land in control and on line for the next move.

Timing is critical when running small drops and practice is essential to having a reliable boof. When on the river, utilize every possible object or drop to learn to launch the bow high and land clean.

2 types of boof to try

1 Sweep-and-leap boof

On small drops with a smooth green lip, a well-timed sweep and pull stroke can lift the boat clear of the water and allow for a controlled launch. Approach the drop slowly, so you are in control and the boat is loose on the water rather than embedded in the flow or caught in its own wave. The bow should be somewhat off perpendicular to the recirculation below—say 30–45 degrees or so.

As the bow reaches the lip, sweep the bow downstream and up, into the air, off your stern upstream edge. When the boat extends out over the drop, thrust your hips forward, transition to the opposite edge and throw your upper body forward to help the stern clear the falling water. You land on an outstretched power stroke on the side opposite to the initiation sweep.

[ For top picks and expert reviews, check out Paddling Magazine’s guide to the best whitewater kayaks here. ]

On bigger drops, you’ll need less sweep, or more angle to the drop, because you are falling further and the boat has more time to spin.

2 Power boof

Sometimes, there is no substitute for a power boof. You can execute power boofs on almost all drops. Powerful strokes, good strength and a light boat make power boofing easier. The concept is to pull with a lifting power stroke, so the bow rises as you fall.

Start with some forward lean, rotate the upper body with a long reach to the bow for a forward stroke, then wait until the boat starts to drop. With your paddle, reach over the lip of the drop into the curtain of falling water, pull and lift with your knees. Keep your power stroke close to the boat and don’t lean too far back—pull with the upper body more or less neutral, heaving the boat forward as it teeters off the lip.

[ Read more: Complete Guide To Kayak Boofing Techniques ]

Paddling Magazine Issue 65 | Fall 2021This article originally appeared in Paddling Magazine Issue 65. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions here, or download the Paddling Magazine app and browse the digital archives here.

 

You need to choose the right boof to run small drops in your kayak. | Feature photo: Tyler Toohey

 

Recreational Kayak Review: Old Town Otter

By
Paddling Magazine Staff
-

There’s a lot to like about the Old Town Otter kayak. This classic sit-inside recreational kayak may be discontinued, but there are plenty of these compact, lightweight and virtually indestructible kayaks floating around on the used market—often for bargain prices and ideal for beginners looking for a taste of kayaking.

The Old Town Otter offers excellent value in a basic, entry-level recreational kayak that fits a wide range of paddlers and performs well in flatwater conditions.

Since the Otter’s conception in the 1990s, various Otter models have been sold at outdoor stores across North America by the thousands. The models included: the original Old Town Otter; the Old Town Otter XT; the Old Town Otter Sport; and the Old Town Otter Plus kayak. All were nearly the same, with a stable 9-foot, 6-inch hull, great handling, a large, easy to enter cockpit and simple outfitting. An Old Town Otter Twin two-person recreational kayak was also produced for a period of time.

For the sake of simplicity, our review describes the general features of all Old Town Otter models and highlights any differences in the models when relevant.

Kayak Reviews

On the water with Old Town’s Otter

Old Town Otter Specs
Length: 9’6” / 2.9 m
Width: 28.5” / 75 cm
Weight: 39 lbs / 17.7 kg
Capacity: 225 lbs / 102 kg

Performance

The Old Town Otter kayak is best described as short and squat; its overall dimensions contribute to modest speed, excellent maneuverability and rock-solid stability. This recreational kayak is easy to handle in flatwater conditions and up to Class II moving water, if equipped with a spray skirt.

The short length makes the Old Town Otter perfect for exploring narrow rivers and wetlands; however, the short length makes it bob like a cork in waves and chop—stick to sheltered water and easy rivers for best performance and safety.

Market and demographics

This is the quintessential beginner kayak and it’s hard to find a body type that won’t fit in the Old Town Otter. In fact, Otter owners indicate that its maximum capacity of 225 pounds can easily be pushed to 250 pounds without compromising performance or seaworthiness.

There’s enough legroom inside for paddlers up to 6’2” (190 cm) tall. Yet its short length and easy handling makes the Old Town Otter perfect for youngsters ages 8 and up.

The Old Town Otter kayak is a great boat for the cottage, beach or campground, offering worry-free durability. It’s also a good choice for paddlers looking for a lightweight kayak that’s easy to car-top and carry to the launch.

Comfort

The Old Town Otter kayak’s rudimentary outfitting reveals its stature as a “vintage” recreational kayak. The original Old Town Otter model did not include foot pegs, a standard feature in all kayaks today (foot pegs are one upgrade included in the Old Town Otter XT).

Invest in a newer kayak such as the Old Town Loon if you desire cushy seating, adjustable thigh braces and other comfort features. If you’re handy, it’s easy to add comfort to the Old Town Otter with glued in foam pads and DIY seat modifications.

About the Otter kayak

Design

Design features and details

The Old Town Otter kayak offers no surprises on the water, owing to its stable, flat bottom and symmetrical hull design. Its lines mirror everything you’d expect in a kayak: a pointed bow and stern with low profile to minimize exposure to winds, front and back decks for seaworthiness, as well as a large cockpit for easy entry and exit. The bow widens quickly to its 28.5-inch maximum width, offering reassuring stability but compromising speed and glide.

The bow and stern are both low profile and close to the water, making the Old Town Otter easier to handle in winds but also meaning that choppy waves can break over the ends of the kayak.

Shorter kayaks are always more maneuverable than long ones, and the compact, 9.5-foot Old Town Otter is easy to turn and handle. However, the flipside of short length is a lack of speed and glide, and the Otter is no exception. Traveling any distance in the Otter will be a workout compared to longer kayaks.

Material and construction

Besides a user-friendly hull design, another big attribute of the Old Town Otter kayak is its bombproof construction. The Otter is made from rotomolded polyethylene plastic.

The fact that original Old Town Otter kayaks manufactured over two decades ago are still going strong attests to the supreme durability of this no-maintenance material. Leave it on the dock, drag it over rocks or store it in a snowbank for the winter: regardless of the abuse, the Otter kayak will come back for more.

Design trends

With its design dating back to the 1990s, the Old Town Otter is one of the original recreational kayaks. It was conceived at a time when kayaking was divided into two disciplines: whitewater and touring.

Early recreational kayaks like the Old Town Otter created a new category for beginners, cottagers and day paddlers, providing stable and comfortable designs that were more compact and easy to transport than traditional sea kayaks and far easier to paddle than dedicated whitewater kayaks.

Old Town Otter kayak outfitting and accessories

As a pioneering recreational kayak the Old Town Otter was among the first to include features that are standard in today’s entry-level kayaks, including the high back seat. The seating arrangement on the Old Town Otter feels basic compared to some of the ultra-adjustable and padded seats in contemporary kayaks, but it’s still very supportive and easy to modify with glued-in padding.

Foot pegs were added to the Old Town Otter XT kayak model, offering good support that adjusts easily with a push button—just be sure to avoid tracking too much sand and grit into the cockpit, since this can jam sliding foot pegs. Standard replacement Old Town Otter kayak foot pegs are available from the manufacturer and other kayak retailers.

The Old Town Otter kayak spray skirt is available to stretch over the kayak’s 38- by 19-inch cockpit to keep waves and chop out of the kayak and provide protection from the elements; spray skirts are available in lightweight nylon (best for sheltered waters) and robust neoprene (best if you want to paddle the Otter in whitewater). Look for a spray skirt size of 2.5 from popular manufacturer Seals Sprayskirts to fit all Old Town Otter models except the tandem Old Town Otter Twin.

Pick up an Old Town Otter kayak cockpit cover to keep creepy crawlies out of your kayak when it’s in storage.

Opportunity for modifications

Like any kayak, there are plenty of ways you can improve a basic Old Town Otter kayak. Start by adding foam to the seat, hip area and thigh braces to custom fit your body to the boat—a key modification if you’re looking to paddle in moving water where good boat control is necessary. You can also glue a thin layer of foam beneath your heels in the cockpit to pad your heels and keep your feet comfortable.

The deck rigging on many used Old Town Otter kayaks can be replaced with tighter bungees and lines for better on-deck storage of small essentials. It’s easy to spend an afternoon making an Otter kayak more comfortable and functional with modifications.

How it compares

The original Old Town Otter was an instant classic, helping to define recreational kayaking as a new genre. Old Town followed up the success of the Otter by modifying it with models like the Old Town Otter XT and renaming it (and changing some dimensions) as the Old Town Loon.

The most similar model in Old Town’s current kayak lineup is the Old Town Loon 106.

  • Old Town Otter vs Otter XT

    If you have a choice, go for the Old Town Otter XT over the original edition. The Otter XT features the same dimensions and identical performance, with the critical upgrade of adding adjustable foot pegs to the cockpit.

    Foot pegs improve paddler fit in the boat and allow you to paddle more efficiently by transferring energy from your entire body to the kayak, making your strokes more effective. Foot pegs also reduce paddler fatigue by improving posture while seated in the kayak.

  • Old Town Loon vs Otter

    The Old Town Loon replaced the Old Town Otter kayak with key comfort features like more adjustable seating and a variety of lengths and sizes to fit a wider range of paddlers. The current Old Town Loon 106 measures a foot longer than the Otter, upping its maximum paddler capacity to 272 pounds.

    Old Town Loon kayaks include padded seats (the current model’s ACS2 seat is one of the best on the market) and dry hatches for storing gear for a day trip. Simply put, the Old Town Otter kayak looks primitive alongside the creature comforts of the newer Loon. A variety of Loon kayaks are available in different lengths to match different paddler sizes and needs.

Where to buy the Old Town Otter

You will no longer find Old Town Otter kayaks at outdoor stores since the model was discontinued by the manufacturer. Besides trolling yard sales in cottage areas, your best bet is searching Old Town Otter kayak Craigslist for a bargain on this classic entry level kayak.

Expect to pay between $150 and $250 for a used Old Town Otter kayak in good shape. Similar Old Town Loon kayaks are available at paddlesports retailers across North America.

Old Town Otter pros and cons

Pros

  • One of the earliest recreational kayaks to hit the market, the Old Town Otter kayak helped define a new style of safe, comfortable and easy to paddle kayaks meant for day touring and cottage use on sheltered water
  • Predictable handling in flatwater and river conditions
  • Compact dimensions and a relatively light weight for portability
  • Outstanding durability that’s proven to stand the test of time

Cons

  • As a classic design, the biggest knock on the Old Town Otter kayak is its primitive outfitting compared to modern recreational kayaks
  • Look for the upgraded Old Town Otter XT kayak for adjustable foot pegs and be prepared to make some modifications to the basic cockpit to add comfort
  • Compact dimensions limit its overall speed (yet also make it super easy to handle)

Related articles

Old Town kayak reviews

Sit-inside recreational kayak reviews

SEE ALL KAYAK REVIEWS

 

The Dirty Little Secret of Pro Deals

By
Jeff Moag
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Photo: Artem Peretiatko/istock.com
Photo: Artem Peretiatko/istock.com

Don’t get Todd Frank started on pro deals. The veteran retailer owns The Trail Head and Trail Head River Sports in Missoula, Montana, where seemingly everyone in town has a pro deal or a hookup.

You already know what he’s going to say.

“There’s not a day that goes by where we’re not faced with somebody who comes in getting sized for a product or looking at a product, and then as they walk out the door,” he says. “They’re like, ‘Hey, thanks for the help. My buddy’s a fishing guide. I’m just going to get this on pro deal.’”

Frank can only watch the sale walk out the door, and wonder about the irony. After all, the whole point of pro deals is supposed to be getting gear into the hands of core users who will sing its praises, thus driving full-price retail sales. The discount is supposed to go to the guy on the sales floor answering the questions, not the dude who came in off the street looking for advice.

[ Discover the year’s best kayaks in the Paddling Buyer’s Guide ] 

Or is it? What if some pro-deal programs have evolved into another way to move inventory? That’s how it looks to a growing number of industry veterans.

“Fifteen years ago, pro-dealing was a marketing tool. A handful of store employees got pro deals, and that was it. Now anyone can get a pro deal and it’s become a full-on sales channel,” says Immersion Research president John Weld. “It’s one of the key reasons why the retailer-manufacturer relationship is falling apart.”

The typical pro-deal discount ranges from about 30 to 60 percent, which pencils out to a sales price that is comparable—and in many cases higher—than wholesale. As the number of people with access to pro deals has continued to grow, retailers and some manufacturers say the programs have become a way for brands to sell direct-to-consumer at a discount, without violating MAP [minimum advertised price] policies.

Photo: Artem Peretiatko/istock.com
Photo: Artem Peretiatko/istock.com

Liberal pro deal programs risk weakening both retail sales and brand integrity, says Brian DeFouw, head buyer at Confluence Ski and Kayak in Denver. “It’s really pandering to a direct-to-consumer model that is not supportive of retail and doesn’t do what the brands claim,” he says. “All it does is cheapen their gear. It just means people won’t pay retail for it.”

DeFouw says it’s not at all unusual for customers to waltz into his shop and boast about their pro deals they receive directly from brands or, increasingly, through third-party online platforms. That in itself is a mark of how far they are from the core of the industry. “They want to get fitted for stuff. They want advice and they want to know how things are going to work, and you’re like ‘Oh, you’re a pro, who do you paddle for?’ and they say their buddy is with the fire department.”

DeFouw says easier access to pro deals undermines what should be the core market for outdoor specialty retailers—active enthusiasts with good jobs outside the industry. “The majority of the customers who come in bragging about their pro deals make three times in a year what I make,” he says. “If you’re a real pro, you’ve probably taken the vow of poverty to work in the industry. Those are the real influencers—not guys who join the Alpine Club and get 60 percent off on all these brands.”

Ten or 20 years ago, most brands managed their pro programs through their marketing departments, with an eye toward getting their gear into the hands of people others looked to for advice, be they retail employees, guides or local ringleaders. Now a number of third-party companies manage pro deals en masse, making it easier for anyone with a connection to the outdoor industry to access discounts from multiple brands with a single application. Online platforms such as ExpertVoice, Outdoorly, Liberty Mountain, IPA Collective and Outdoor Prolink manage pro programs for hundreds of brands in exchange for fees and commissions.

Todd Frank, The Trail Head and Trail Head River Sports“The definition of what was pro really started to change when these third-party sites came on the scene, and that’s because their business model was pushing as much product through that channel as they could. I don’t call it pro deals anymore. I call it discount direct-to-consumer.”  —Todd Frank, Trail Head River Sport

“The definition of what was pro really started to change when these third-party sites came on the scene, and that’s because their business model was pushing as much product through that channel as they could,” Frank says. “I don’t call it pro deals anymore. I call it discount direct to consumer.”

ExpertVoice CEO Tom Stockham takes issue with that characterization. “We exist to help consumers make more confident full-price buying decisions, period, full-stop,” he says. “We think we have figured out a unique way to do so that is good for brands, good for retailers, good for consumers and good for experts.”

ExpertVoice is the largest of the third-party pro sites, with more than one million members—the company calls them “active experts”—in a variety of outdoor and outdoor-adjacent industries, from retailers and guides to fitness instructors and pet store workers. Stockham says the company facilitated about $150 million in sales in the last 12 months.

A coalition of independent specialty retailers sees that channel as an existential threat to their stores and the brands they sell, and is urging its members to fight back. In June, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance (GOA) circulated a letter to industry leaders claiming ExpertVoice erodes the ability of brands to sell at full price in other consumer channels, including direct-to-consumer, big box specialty, and independent specialty outdoor retailers.

Easier access to pro-deals undermines what should be the core market for outdoor specialty retailers, some say. | Photo: Nick GOTTLIEB
Easier access to pro-deals undermines what should be the core market for outdoor specialty retailers, some say. | Photo: Nick Gottlieb

“Creation of off-price loyalists at the expense of brand equity cements a change in consumer buying behavior that is immediate and irrevocable,” GOA states in the letter, provocatively titled “The ExpertVoice Consumer Database and Permanent Brand Damage.”

The letter characterizes ExpertVoice’s business strategy as bringing a whole lot more people into the pro deal tent, and letting them stay as long as they like. Take an avalanche safety course for backcountry skiing? You’re in—and not just for ski gear. Depending on the platform and brand, you could also gain access to discounts on gear for hiking, climbing, biking and paddling.

[ Also read: The Paddlesports Industry Just Experienced Unprecedented Growth. Now What? ] 

The issue of bloated pro deal access has been simmering for years and came to full boil after ExpertVoice opened access to what GOA calls “general association databases” such as healthcare workers, firefighters, police and active military, as well as “paid membership organizations with no qualification requirements.” The latter includes nonprofits such as the American Canoe Association, Paddle Canada and American Whitewater, but also the for-profit streaming service Teton Gravity Research.

“Teton Gravity Research put out a promotion saying, ‘Join TGR and get an ExpertVoice membership,’” says GOA spokesman Drew Simmons of Pale Morning Media. “That’s not a pro. That’s like somebody buying a subscription to Sports Illustrated and getting a discount.”

The same holds for people who get pro deals through professional affiliations. If you work for the U.S. Department of the Interior—that’s the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish & Wildlife and National Park Service, among others—you qualify as an ExpertVoice pro, whether you’re a river ranger on the Grand Canyon or a desk jockey in Washington, D.C.

Nobody is saying the river ranger shouldn’t have a pro form, but Frank says when a wildland firefighter walks into his shop with a brand new pair of Scarpa ski boots to be mounted, it feels like overreach. “You should be able to get a Scarpa wildland firefighting boot,” he says. “We could probably even stretch and say you should get a pro deal on packs, sleeping bags and anything else that’s associated with your job—but the sidebars on the sort of gear you can buy just aren’t there.”

Stockham says it’s up to the brands to decide how widely their deals are shared, choosing categories of experts that fit their marketing strategy. “Typically a brand would say they want to target people who currently work at a given retailer, and that is the only access those people would get and that brand would deliver,” Stockham says.

ExpertVoice was founded in 2004 as Experticity, a pro site and online training forum for retail employees in the outdoor industry. It still serves that purpose, but critics say its primary role has evolved into that of a discount sales channel. And, claims GOA, once you’re in, you’re in for good.

“Based on ExpertVoice membership statistics listed on their website, the ExpertVoice database includes a significant number of “phantom” employees—consumers who have gained permanent brand discount status through an ExpertVoice approved company or organization, yet do not exist on that group’s actual member list.”

As evidence, GOA compares current employment figures at its 86 member retailers and four big-box chains with the number of people shown as employees of those stores on the EpertVoice website. The results suggest many ExpertVoice pros hold onto their discount privileges far longer than their retail gigs. For example, Rutabaga Paddlesports in Madison, Wisconsin, has 23 people on payroll and 163 registered as pros at ExpertVoice. Nantahala Outdoor Center, a North Carolina outdoor store and rafting outfitter with just 20 full-time employees, had 531 affiliated pros on the ExpertVoice website. Those specialty numbers pale in comparison to Dick’s Sporting Goods, which reports about 50,100 current employees and had 130,449 people registered as pros on the ExpertVoice website when GOA conducted its search on May 20, 2021.

[ Also read: How COVID Killed The Big Box ]

Paddling Business verified the figures on the ExpertVoice website, which on June 5 reported 130,924 members with a Dick’s affiliation, and 553 connected to NOC. By June 10, after the GOA letter had been distributed, the ExpertVoice website tool had been changed so a search of “Dick’s Sporting Goods retail employees” now returns a result of “1,000 employees or more,” rather than a precise figure.

GOA’s criticism has left other pro-deal platforms scrambling to distance themselves from ExpertVoice. Outdoor Prolink went so far as to release a “manifesto” in June, which details how its program and member list differs from those of ExpertVoice, without mentioning that company by name.

When done right, pro deals can be very effective marketing tools, industry veterans claim. | Photo: Aaron Black-Schmidt
When done right, pro deals can be very effective marketing tools, industry veterans claim. | Photo: Aaron Black-Schmidt

“While our membership base may seem small in comparison with others, we will not compromise when it comes to maintaining our authenticity,” declares the manifesto, which also touts Outdoor Prolink’s origins in founder Gareth Richard’s basement in (where else?) Boulder, Colorado. The company says it does not does not accept “enthusiasts, ‘experts’ or hobbyists; subscribers, members of or donors to outdoor clubs, non-profits or publications; students and participants of outdoor skills courses,” or people who don’t work in the outdoor industry.

“Treating a pro purchase program as nothing more than a direct-sales channel is dangerous territory, and we believe this mentality is what has led some of our competitors to loosen qualification restrictions in order to boost sales,” Outdoor Prolink Chief Marketing Officer Kenzie Rodriguez said in an emailed response to written questions from Paddling Business.

None of the online pro sites are running a particularly tight ship, as reporters for industry magazine The Voice discovered last year when they applied to five pro deal platforms including ExpertVoice and Outdoor Prolink using fake personas and bogus documentation. While “Minnie Mouse” only scored one pro deal with Liberty Mountain (using a coffee-shop punch card as proof of employment) a faux yoga instructor was accepted by four out of five platforms, and a fictitious outdoor store employee went five-for-five. The magazine used the same three personas to apply directly to pro programs at six different brands, with a 27 percent success rate.

“I registered for ExpertVoice as a dead president using a fake pay stub from the U.S. government, and was approved in basically an hour,” Frank says.

Outdoor Prolink says its pros are required to submit new documentation every 12 months or lose their privileges. The platform currently has 130,000 members—about equal to the number of former and active Dick’s Sporting Goods employees with an ExpertVoice hookup.

Stockham says the GOA letter overstates the significance of those top-line numbers, which in the ExpertVoice system deliberately include both current and former employees. “They think of a pro program as you’re either in or you’re out with one credential, but that’s not how our system works,” Stockham says. “Ours includes a bunch of credentials, much more like a LinkedIn profile than a single ticket.”

[ Also read: 6 Paddlesports Innovations You May Have Missed ]

Just as LinkedIn doesn’t scrub your old jobs from your resume when you move on, ExpertVoice doesn’t remove former work affiliations. If you pushed rubber for Nantahala Outdoor Center one summer, that experience stays on your ExpertVoice profile no matter what you’re doing now. Take those 130,449 Dick’s employees. Stockham says only 21,812 were active on the ExpertVoice website in the 12 months. He also said—twice, because we asked him to clarify this point—that all 21,812 are current Dick’s employees. Of those, he says roughly 3,800 made a purchase through ExpertVoice in the last year.

“For most organizations your credential is only good [on ExpertVoice] for a limited amount of time. Each year your credential expires and you have to re-verify,” Stockham says. While retail store owners can choose to manage their employee lists on the ExpertVoice website, they can’t remove former employees from the program—nor should they, Stockham says. “Just like on LinkedIn, your former employer can’t go in and erase your past job.”

One thing retailers can do is ask brands not to participate with third-party pro sites, and choose not to carry those that do. “We are purposefully not working with brands that support ExpertVoice,” says Rutabaga Paddlesports owner Darren Bush. “We’re walking away and we’ve told brands this is why we’re walking away. If enough people do this, brands will stop working with ExpertVoice.” Some already have. Yakima closed its store on ExpertVoice after hearing from Bush and other specialty retailers. “The magic order-writing pen seems to be what makes vendors listen,” Frank says.

Third-party sites are only one reason pro deals have proliferated in recent years. Brands that manage their own programs have increased volume through pro channels as well. Look no farther than Patagonia and prAna, both of which print lavish pro-deal catalogs, Weld says. “To say that isn’t a legitimate sales channel for them is nonsense.”

Patagonia gets high marks for controlling pro-form access, requiring regular verification from its pros. But the brand has also used the program to push seasonal sales, particularly through “friends-and-family” promotions allowing a savvy pro to fill the space under a Christmas tree with discounted gear—and have the unintended effect of training consumers to wait for the discounts rather than purchasing at full price from retailers.

[ Also Read: 21 Paddlesports Industry Leaders On What Matters Most Right Now ] 

If pro deals are a slippery slope, it’s the ski and apparel industries that are sliding out of control. Paddlesports by comparison has so far managed to pick its way downstream, even as the gradient continues to increase. That’s not to say pro-deals aren’t pervasive in paddlesports. They’re just less pervasive. Even Weld, an outspoken critic of the current pro-deal environment, runs an active pro-form at Immersion Research.

“Manufacturers can easily get addicted to pro deals. It’s easy money. You basically get wholesale pricing, except you’re getting it at net zero on a credit card,” he says. Pro deals also typically include modified warranty policies reducing the expense and hassle of returns.

When done right, pro deals can be very effective marketing tools. Look no farther than Jackson Adventures, which built its brand around the whitewater exploits of company namesake Eric “EJ” Jackson and his family. The company later extended the strategy to build a powerful presence in the kayak fishing segment.

The key is demanding return on the pro deal investment, and coordinating strategy with retailers, says James McBeath, Jackson’s lifestyle and outdoor marketing lead. “We’re actually aligning team members with our dealers,” he says. The company keeps a tight rein on pro discounts, with preference to team members who are good on a dealer sales floor or active in local paddling communities. That wasn’t always the case.

“In the old days, EJ had such a huge whitewater team that at the end of the season these boats all of a sudden started flooding into the used market,” McBeath says. Now, when team members trade up, Jackson asks them to sell their old boats through local dealers.

Such cooperation will have to be at the heart of any successful pro deal reform, Weld says. The flip side of brands selling direct to consumer is retailers taking fewer reorders. These trends have tracked in parallel in recent years, as internet sales have increased and on-demand shipping has become more common.

“We’ve gotten into this spiral, where manufacturers say to retailers, ‘If you’re not going to hold inventory we’re going to keep selling direct.’ You get into this position where manufacturers can replace, or at least deeply augment, the retail sales channel with a pro-deal channel and bingo, here we are.” —John Weld, Immersion Research 

“We’ve gotten into this spiral, where manufacturers say to retailers, ‘If you’re not going to hold inventory we’re going to keep selling direct.’ You get into this position where manufacturers can replace, or at least deeply augment, the retail sales channel with a pro deal channel and bingo, here we are,” Weld says.

[ Also Read: 21 Paddlesports Industry Leaders On What Matters Most Right Now ] 

Reining in pro deals would take an industry-wide effort, with all sides willing to give a little, he says. This includes retailers committing to more preorders and brands agreeing to a sort of pro-form armistice. Reform is the goal, because it’s not the concept of pro deals that’s flawed, it’s the execution. The idea someone can get an ExpertVoice membership simply by subscribing to Teton Gravity Research raised hackles at GOA, but the linking of third-party pro platforms with advocacy organizations does have an upside. Last year Outdoor Prolink made American Whitewater one of four featured non-profits that members can donate to at checkout, and raised more than $5,000 for the organization.

Weld turned the non-profit backdoor on its head. Becoming an American Whitewater member won’t get you an Immersion Research pro form, he says—but you also won’t get one without it.

“We made every pro deal customer join American Whitewater,” Weld says. “Without an AW membership, or something similar if you’re a sea kayaker, you can’t get a pro deal. I would encourage all manufacturers in our industry to adopt this program.”

Paddling Business 2021 CoverThis article was first published in the 2022 issue of Paddling Business. Inside you’ll find the year’s hottest gear for canoeing, kayaking, whitewater and paddleboarding. Plus: Industry leaders on surviving COVID, the dirty little secret of pro deals, brand consolidation and more. READ IT NOW »

Photo: Artem Peretiatko/istock.com

 

Solo Canoe Review: Old Town Discovery 119

By
Paddling Magazine Staff
-
Man paddling solo canoe
Photo: Courtesy Old Town Canoe & Kayak

Maine-based Old Town Canoe Company has been building canoes since 1900. It’s reasonable to view Old Town’s Discovery 119 solo canoe as a descendent of the company’s iconic wood-and-canvas canoes. That’s quite a legacy to uphold, and the Old Town Discovery 119 canoe honors and updates the tradition with nimble performance and durable polyethylene plastic construction.

The Discovery 119 canoe is an outstanding choice for fishing and recreational use, suitable for single-blade canoe and double-blade kayak paddles. Its compact dimensions and ability to go anywhere make it especially popular among anglers and hunters.

This Old Town Discovery 119 canoe review will highlight its design characteristics and performance attributes, letting you know if you’re the right paddler for this versatile solo boat.

Canoe Reviews

On the water with the Discovery 119

Discovery 119 Specs
Length: 11’9” / 3.6 m
Width: 32.5” / 83 cm
Weight: 50 lbs / 22.7 kg
Capacity: 450 lbs / 204 kg
MSRP: $999

Performance

The Old Town Discovery 119 canoe boasts an impressive blend of speed, stability, maneuverability and tracking—with enough carrying capacity for short solo canoe camping trips, angling outings and duck hunts. The Discovery 119’s compact dimensions allow it to accelerate quickly, especially when propelled with a double-bladed kayak paddle; cruising speed is impressive given its short length.

At 32.5 inches wide, the Old Town Discovery 119 strikes a fine balance: it’s narrow enough for easy solo paddling yet also remains quite stable for novice paddlers. There’s plenty of room ahead of the paddler to fit a well-behaved mid-sized dog. The handling of any canoe is determined by its length and rocker (is the bow-to-stern profile of the hull curved like a banana or flat?). The Discovery 119 has moderate upturn at the bow and stern, creating some rocker for maneuverability.

Meanwhile, the Old Town Discovery 119’s sub-12-foot length adds to its ease of handling—though this comes at the expense of some glide and speed (shorter canoes tend to be slower than longer ones). The Discovery 119 is easiest to handle with a double-bladed paddle; some steering stroke technique is required if you want to propel this craft with a single-bladed paddle.

Market and demographics

“Versatile” is perhaps the best word to describe the Old Town Discovery 119. It makes an excellent solo tripping canoe for smaller paddlers and an excellent day tripper for larger paddlers or those who like to get on the water with their dog. The Discovery 119 is all the boat you need if you’re looking for a general-purpose solo canoe that excels in the conditions encountered on small lakes and gentle rivers.

Man lifting solo canoe out of lake and onto shore
Photo: Courtesy Old Town Canoe & Kayak

Old Town Discovery 119 whitewater performance is adequate for Class I and II rivers in the hands of a skilled paddler. Overall, this canoe performs admirably, is easy to carry and cartop, and is built to last.

Fishing is a blast in the Old Town Discovery 119. With reassuring stability and plenty of space for rods and tackle, the Discovery 119 is a solid choice for anglers. Once again, versatility is the name of the game: The Discovery 119 is a crossover canoe, an excellent choice for dedicated paddlers who also like to fish. In fact, a dedicated Old Town Discovery 119 Solo Sportsman model is available, rigged with rod and ammo holders and a kayak-style seat for added stability.

Comfort

The basic Old Town Discovery 119 canoe comes equipped like a traditional canoe with ash-framed web seats and ash crossbars. It’s best for use with a single-bladed paddle in the kneeling or sitting position, though it’s also comfortable with a longer kayak-style paddle.

The upgraded 119 Solo and 119 Solo Sportsman models both have a kayak-style adjustable, bucket-style seat with an articulated backrest and adjustable foot braces. The lower seat position makes it most comfortable for use with a double-bladed paddle.

About the Discovery 119 canoe

Design

Design features and details

The Old Town Discovery 119 canoe has the look and feel of a traditional canoe. It paddles predictably, responding nimbly to paddle strokes and remaining stable in rough conditions. Credit the Discovery 119’s shallow arch hull (which responds to weight shifts smoothly) and straight sides for this solo canoe’s predictable performance.

The compact 11.9-foot length combines with moderate rocker for good maneuverability around obstructions and in moving water. The Old Town Discovery 119’s polyethylene construction is extremely buoyant; its blunt entry lines at the bow and stern allow the canoe to float over waves, making for a dry ride in choppy conditions.

Material and construction

The Old Town Discovery 119 canoe is constructed of three-layer polyethylene, a stiff and durable plastic laminate. Old Town stands behind the durability of its canoes: The Discovery 119 comes backed with a limited lifetime warranty.

The Old Town Discovery 119 will easily stand up to most impacts encountered while whitewater canoeing and is plenty tough for the entire family to use around the cabin. The weight penalty that comes with bombproof construction is minimal in the compact Discovery 119; the base model weighs a manageable 50 pounds.

Design trends

The Old Town Discovery 119 bridges the gap between traditional solo canoes and compact “pack” canoes, which are often propelled with double-bladed kayak paddles. You get the best of both worlds: A durable, river-ready craft with elegant lines that can be used with either a canoe or kayak paddle. What’s more, the Discovery 119 is also a perfect choice for dedicated paddlers who like to hunt and fish.

Old Town Discovery 119 outfitting and accessories

The standard Old Town Discovery 119 comes equipped with a traditional ash-framed web seat, hung from the gunwales. It looks Spartan, but has the advantage of versatility, allowing you to sit to either side to tilt the canoe or to kneel with your feet tucked underneath (so long as your feet aren’t too large). This is the preferred posture for many experienced paddlers and highly recommended for engaged paddling and whitewater conditions.

Outfitting in this traditional-style canoe remains basic, with ash thwarts and carry handles molded into the bow and stern decks. Note that the Old Town Discovery 119 is outfitted for solo paddling and lacks a center thwart or yoke for portaging; you’ll want to buy a removable yoke if you plan on portaging the Discovery 119 for any distance on canoe trips.

Side shot of camo solo canoe

The Old Town Discovery 119 seat gets an upgrade in the Solo and Solo Sportsman models, with a kayak-style bucket seat installed close to the floor of the canoe. It’s the best choice if you intend to use a kayak paddle (at which point the included foot braces become essential). These versions include drink holders and, in the Sportsman model, fishing rod and ammunition holders.

Ready-made Old Town Discovery 119 trolling motor kits are not available from the manufacturer, however many Discovery 119 anglers have come up with creative DIY solutions to retrofit their canoe with a trolling motor mount bracket.

Old Town Discovery 119 modifications

The easiest way to make an Old Town Discovery 119 seat upgrade is to select either the Solo or Solo Sportsman model, both of which come with a kayak-style seat and adjustable backband for lumbar support. If you have the time and skills to make upgrades yourself, it’s possible to carve a custom seat from closed-cell foam and install it in the hull with a structural adhesive, such as Vinyl Tec 2000. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure a lasting bond.

Another seat upgrade is to replace the standard, bench-style seat with a contoured seat, which are available online. With this approach you can change the height of the seat below the gunwales with different length spacers and bolts.

Warranty

The durable Old Town Discovery 119 comes backed with a limited lifetime warranty, which covers the three-layer polyethylene hull and deck plates, covering defects in workmanship and materials.

How it compares

  • Old Town Discovery 119 vs Guide 119

    The Old Town Discovery 119 and Old Town Guide 119 are the same canoe, except the guide has a tractor-style molded plastic seat, with backrest. This style of seat is better for those who prefer a double-blade kayak paddle. Otherwise, performance is virtually identical. The Guide 119 was produced for Dick’s Sporting Goods in the U.S.—and has since been discontinued. The Old Town Guide 119 is still available on the used market; begin by searching Old Town Guide 119 Craigslist.

  • Old Town Discovery 119 vs Next

    Old Town plugged the Next as “the future of paddling,” touting this 13-footer as a cross between a canoe and kayak. It’s longer and narrower than the Old Town Discovery 119, making it somewhat faster and easier to paddle, at the expense of stability. The Next tips the scales at 59 pounds, nearly 10 pounds heavier than the Discovery 119 solo canoe. It boasts the same three-layer polyethylene construction.

    Comfort-wise, the Next features Old Town’s Element Seating System, which offers great adjustability. Choose the Old Town Discovery 119 if you’re looking for a traditional solo canoe experience and prefer a single-bladed paddle. The Next features far more bells and whistles—and is a superior choice if you want to use a kayak paddle.

  • Old Town Discovery 119 vs Old Town Pack

    The main difference between the Old Town Pack and Discovery 119 is construction: The discontinued Pack was made of Royalex, a durable plastic laminate that is stiffer and somewhat lighter than polyethylene. As a result, the 12-foot Pack weighs only 33 pounds, making it a great choice for canoe trips with lots of portages. Otherwise, the two canoes are virtually identical.

    Similar to the Old Town Discovery 119, the Pack is ideal for those who prefer using a single-bladed canoe paddle. It also features an ash-frame web seat that’s hung from the gunwales. The Pack was a popular canoe and remains available on the used market; try searching Old Town Pack on Craigslist or Kijiji.

Man paddles solo canoe
Photo: Courtesy Old Town Canoe & Kayak

Where to buy the Discovery 119

Old Town Discovery 119 solo canoes are widely available from paddlesports retailers across North America; visit the Old Town website for a complete list of retailers. Looking to save a few dollars? Google Old Town Discovery 119 Craigslist to comb the used market.

Discovery 119 pros and cons

Pros

  • Great for those who wish to paddle independently
  • Big enough to be safe and seaworthy
  • Small enough and cleverly designed to be easy to control, even for beginner paddlers
  • Can be paddled with a single- or double-bladed paddle
  • Provides stable platform for anglers to fish from
  • Performance is plenty adequate for Class I and II rivers
  • Solid tripping canoe for outings up to a week in length

Cons

  • Old Town Discovery 119 Solo or Solo Sportsman are better if you prefer an adjustable kayak-style seat
  • Will need to buy a removable portage yoke if you wish to use it for canoe trips where portages are necessary
  • Weighs a solid 50 pounds, making it a bit of a grunt to load on taller vehicles and a challenge for longer portages

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How To Complete A Cross-Country Canoe Trip

By
Frank Wolf
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Frank Wolf and friend embark on a cross-country canoe trip
“I’m going up the country, babe don’t you wanna go/I’m going to some place where I’ve never been before/I’m going, I’m going where the water tastes like wine.” —Canned Heat | Feature photo: Frank Wolf

You don’t have to be superhuman to cross a continent by canoe. With the right mindset and some preparation, anyone with determination and a love of canoe tripping can cross continents by paddle power alone. Here are some tips from an epic expedition to help as you prepare for your own cross-country canoe trip.

How to complete a cross-country canoe trip

On April 18, 1995, Roman Rockliffe and I dipped our paddles into the Bay of Fundy. We had no support team and little funding; only a canoe and a dream.

In the following six months, we paddled up the Saint Lawrence, sloshed across the Great Lakes, hopped through the Boundary Waters, danced across Lake Winnipeg, toiled up the North Saskatchewan, grunted over the Rockies and then flew down the Fraser. On October 12 we splashed down in the Pacific Ocean and tasted its salty broth, bringing our great adventure to a close.

How did we pull off this continent-spanning journey without hitting the wall—or each other? Read on to find out how you can do it too.

Frank Wolf and friend embark on a cross-country canoe trip
“I’m going up the country, babe don’t you wanna go/I’m going to some place where I’ve never been before/I’m going, I’m going where the water tastes like wine.” —Canned Heat | Feature photo: Frank Wolf

5 tips for a successful cross-country canoe trip

1 Pick the right partner

Some might think on a 180-day canoe trip you’d want your best friend or partner to be your companion. It could work, sure…or you could be at the throat of your dear friend and ruin that relationship forever.

[ Read more: 19 Deadly Sins A Canoe Tripper Should Avoid ]

In order to do all 5,000 miles from the East to West coasts, you have to be prepared to paddle and portage for 10 to 12 hours a day, every day. So pick out a determined individual who loves to trip and shares your dream.

2 Gear up

A 180-day trip requires the same gear as a weekend trip. All you essentially need is a canoe, tent, stove, pot set, paddles and basic clothing. Ah yes, one more thing…

When we got to the Rockies, we faced a 250-mile portage over the divide between the North Saskatchewan and the Fraser. Get a canoe cart for that section. We slugged through in seven mind-numbing days, pulling our canoe and gear along the Yellowhead Highway. I shudder to think of toting our load the same distance on our backs.

[ Read more: Mike Ranta’s Third Cross-Canada Canoe Trip ]

3 Fuel the engine

We discovered on our journey we could average about 40 miles per day on flat water, 55 miles per day downstream and 30 miles per day upstream. Portaging, of course, cut down these distances.

To keep the engine humming at this pace, we ate a very basic diet. It consisted of oatmeal for breakfast, peanut butter and jam on tortillas for lunch, and some facsimile of freeze-dried noodles and gravy for dinner. Energy bar breaks during mid-morning and mid-afternoon rounded out our Spartan diet.

canoeist on a cross-country canoe trip
Anyone with determination and a love of paddling can complete a cross-country canoe trip. | Photo: Headshatter/Pexels

We sent our food ahead to towns along the route by mail before we left. Call ahead and talk to the person in charge of each respective post office so they’ll hold it beyond the usual 30 days before returning it to the sender.

Often you’ll be able to find a cheap buffet in the town where you pick up your cache. Go on in, then amaze, confound, and finally bring the poor proprietor to tears as you proceed to eat every last bit of food on the buffet table.

4 Get half a year off to go on a trip

Don’t let a job get in the way of a dream. Ask your superiors nicely. If they refuse, quit. There are thousands of jobs out there but there is only one trip of a lifetime. Let the canoe become your office and the tent your home. “Back in the days when I canoed across the country…” is going to sound better to your grandchildren than, “Back in the days when I processed insurance claims….”

5 Maintain an adventurous attitude

If on day 10 you’re hoping for day 180, the trip is as good as over. On long trips, the best mental approach is to savor every day, one paddle stroke at a time. You can never look ahead. Living in the moment is the way to go. Remind yourself that you will never pass this way again.

[ See also: Why We Always Remember Our Canoe Trip Campsites ]

On a point-to-point canoe trip, every dip of the blade brings you in contact with different sights and sounds that are gone a moment later. When it’s pissing rain, you’re paddling upstream, the bugs are hammering you, and you miss your family and friends, think to yourself, “Where in the world would I rather be?” Inevitably, your answer will be, “Nowhere. Nowhere but here, on a canoe trip across a continent.”

 

“I’m going up the country, babe don’t you wanna go/I’m going to some place where I’ve never been before/I’m going, I’m going where the water tastes like wine.” —Canned Heat | Feature photo: Frank Wolf

 

Best Fishing Kayaks For 2026

By
Joe Potoczak
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Low angle of man sitting on sit-on-top fishing kayak and lifting a fish out of the water.
Feature photo: Courtesy Wilderness Systems

The marriage of watercraft and angling have been hand in hand since, well, the invention of boats. Sport fishing has come a long way though, and the days of holding a rod in your mouth while back paddling away from the mangroves is all but forgotten in the wake of pedal drives, flush-mounted rod holders and accessory tracks found on today’s best fishing kayaks.

Whether you fish competitively or just for fun, there’s a modern fishing kayak to suit your needs and appetite. From affordable, easy-to-use recreational kayaks with just enough fish-focused features, to elaborate rigs costing thousands of dollars and capable of landing massive offshore trophies.

Fishing kayaks are also available in a range of propulsion options. Some are paddled the old-fashioned way. Others employ a fin or propeller system that’s powered by foot pedal drive. In recent years fishing kayaks have also come to accept electric trolling motors, for fully motorized kayaking.

The number of brands and models of fishing kayaks to choose from can be intimidating. Our goal is to get you on the water so you can start doing what you love: catching fish. This article will share everything you need to know to compare the best fishing kayaks and find the one that will make your kayak angling dreams a reality.

woman paddles the Eddyline Caribbean 10 kayak under rosy skies Best Kayaks For 2025

Shopping for a used fishing kayak?

Buying a fishing kayak can be a big investment. You’ve probably peeked at a few price tags and asked yourself how a fishing kayak could cost more than your first car. A great way to find a deal on a quality fishing kayak is to purchase used. But before jumping into the rabbit hole and searching “Craigslist fishing kayak” or “fishing kayak Kijiji”, you need to know what to look for.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying a used fishing kayak.

Know what you are looking at and what you want

Classified ads can use terms like fishing kayak broadly. The ad should have plenty of photos of the kayak, as well as details. If not, get more photos and details.

Be sure you have the brand, model and any other specifics like length to help you research a specific used kayak. If you are uncertain, ask the seller questions about how and where they used the kayak.

When deciding what kind of fishing kayak you need, use the buying guide section of this article as a reference.

Does the price of a used kayak make sense compared to buying new?

Depending on which brand of fishing kayak you find there can be a wide price range for the sticker price of a new boat. Do your brand research and see how much of a deal you are actually getting for the pre-loved boat.

If you are scooping up an expensive kayak for under $1,000, that’s great. But if you are looking at models which only cost a few hundred dollars when bought new, consider if the beat-up boat that’s growing mold under the seller’s porch is actually a better deal than a new purchase.

Be skeptical of owner-installed modifications

Souping up your rig is a common kayak angler pastime. The idea of going overboard doesn’t really exist for kayak anglers, at least not when it comes to adding additional gear mounts or installing a trolling motor mount via two-by-fours.

Making modifications to your fishing kayak is fun but, when purchasing a used fishing kayak, be skeptical of the work others have done to the kayak. Look for cracks and gaps around any bolts and holes which have been added. These will leak, and be points of failure on a kayak. Self-made modifications aren’t exactly manufacturer approved, so unless you’ve found the dream rig you could never put together on your own, it’s better to have a kayak on which you can make your own modifications.

Will this kayak actually work for your needs?

There are a lot of fishing kayak models on the market. Some are good, and some are terrible. You want to know a kayak has the speed, tracking, performance and (perhaps most of all) stability you will be comfortable with. The only way to know for sure if a fishing kayak is the best for you is to get it out on the water. See if you can meet the seller near a launch site, or make other arrangements for test paddling before committing to a purchase. Have your PFD, paddle and paddling layers with you unless these items are part of the sale.

For more tips on what to look for when selecting a used fishing kayak, read our How To Buy A Used Fishing Kayak.

Fishing kayak buying guide

Buying your first fishing kayak can be a really exciting time, but with so many options and different designs out there, figuring out how to choose a fishing kayak can also be really confusing. We’ve created this all-inclusive, definitive guide to answer your questions and make buying a fishing kayak a smooth and fun process.

Where will you be fishing?

The first question when choosing a fishing kayak is always, “where are you going to be fishing most of the time?” Specifically, what type of water will you be paddling in? If you’re going to be trolling for big lake trout for 90 percent of your fishing, you probably don’t need a super stable (and slower) kayak designed for standup fishing.

Are you going to be fishing faster moving water in rivers and creeks? Are you going to encounter rapids? If so, you’ll want a shorter, more nimble fishing kayak, usually less than 12 feet. Most moving water anglers will also want to avoid pedal drives that can be damaged on underwater rocks.

Are you going to be fishing bigger lakes, ponds or inshore? You’ll want a kayak which can get up and move, somewhere between 12 and 16 feet long.

Open ocean? You’ll want the longest and skinniest boat you can paddle comfortably so you can get out far with ease. Boats longer than 16 feet are going to be best for your type of kayak fishing. Secondary stability (how stable the kayak feels when tilted to the side) will be an important factor for an open ocean fishing kayak.

What’s your experience level in a kayak or canoe?

This question is more about balance than anything. Your experience level helps determine how skinny a boat can be before you feel unstable. Brand new paddler anglers are going to want a boat that is wider, at least 32” wide, so they don’t feel like they’re about to tip over with every cast. A more experienced angler who’s used to feeling a nimble craft rocking beneath them will be able to upgrade to a more nimble boat, something skinnier than 32”, which will make paddling around more enjoyable.

How does the kayak fit?

Turns out one size does not fit all. A larger angler may feel more comfortable in a wider kayak while a shorter angler looks for a narrow boat. Smaller, lighter paddlers may prefer to paddle while larger, heavier anglers go farther with less effort by using pedals or a motor.

Fit comes down to more than length and width of the kayak. The kayak’s seat is the first thing to test. Not only should the seat be padded, fast drying and adjustable, but it must provide a solid platform for paddling or pedaling. Matching the angler’s body size to the seat size ensures the kayak fits like a glove.

Paddle, pedal or motor

Traditional paddle kayaks get where they are going the old-fashioned way. Paddle kayaks are lighter and cheaper than pedal- or motor-equipped alternatives. Aside from weight and cost, paddle power is better suited to some environments. If you’re going to be fishing swift moving rivers where you need to be agile and shallow, rocky bottoms come up fast, then a paddle kayak makes great sense.

One of the downsides to a paddle-only kayak is the need to use your hands for multiple tasks while fishing. It can quickly get frustrating to try to multitask with your hands. Both pedal- and motor-powered kayaks give anglers a hands-free option. This is a great advantage if your main focus is fishing, you have the room in your budget and you don’t mind hauling the additional weight of a pedal drive or trolling motor.

Both pedal and power options keep you on the water longer through the use of leg muscles or a marine battery. Most fishing kayak manufacturers now offer pedal-drive models, and many companies are now offering kayaks with motors or motor kits.

Pedal power keeps the experience simpler and human-propelled (and so remains a great way to exercise), and requires less overhead and maintenance than a trolling motor. If you want the stealth of a kayak, but the range and ease of a big motorboat, then check out boats with a motor option.

Sit-on-top vs sit-inside

Whether an angler should get a sit-inside or a sit-on-top kayak is really a mix of personal preference and the style of fishing you’ll be doing.

A sit-on-top fishing kayak is the most popular for kayak angling. A sit-on-top kayak is like having an open workbench. Almost everything, including the seating area, is laid out on the deck of the kayak. The seat being on top of the flat deck is the main feature of a sit-on-top kayak. This gives the paddler access to much of the kayak deck space while underway. You can reach a tackle box, swing a leg over the side to land your fish and, on models with sufficient stability, you may even stand up to cast or gain a better view.

Sit-inside kayaks are another type of fishing kayak, and are a bit of an old-school choice. With a sit-inside kayak the paddler sits within the interior of the kayak. It’s a nice way to stay out of the elements, but decreases mobility for an angler. Sit-inside kayaks usually have hatches to store gear internally, this can be helpful if you are spending more time paddling than going through your lures, but also limits access to your tackle.

One of the biggest downsides to a sit-inside kayak is in the consequences of a capsize. When a sit-inside kayak capsizes the open cavity of the kayak fills with water. This means you have to get to shore and empty the kayak before you can re-enter. With a sit-on-top kayak, if you fall over or the kayak capsizes, you can just climb back on. If you’re going to be fishing out in the ocean or on a big lake where there’s a chance you could flip and have to get back in quickly and easily, a sit-on-top is the best option.

Hull design

The hull design will tell you a lot about how the kayak will perform on the water.

If the kayak has a pronounced keel running down the center then the boat is designed to track nicely in a perfect straight line. If the bottom of the hull is smooth with no keel protruding then the boat will be more agile and turn on a dime, but also harder to stand in. Pontoon hulls have a W-shape and are some of the most stable overall, though they generally plow slowly through the water. Pontoon shapes provide a great hull shape for a wide kayak with a standing platform within the cockpit.

When considering hull design the most important factor for kayak anglers is usually stability.

There are two types of fishing kayak stability. Primary and secondary. Primary stability is the amount of effort it takes to tilt the boat onto its edge, or in other words, to engage the secondary stability. Once on its edge, secondary stability is the amount of effort it takes to actually flip the boat over.

The easiest way to think about the two types of stability is to look at a jon boat compared to a sea kayak. Jon boats have flat bottoms with tons of primary stability, but the straight sides have very little secondary stability. It’s very hard to get a jon boat on its side, but once it is on its side, since there’s no secondary stability, the boat just flips right over. A sea kayak on the other hand has little primary stability, meaning it can tip over onto its edge pretty easily, but then it has more secondary stability so paddlers can carve on their edge or recover.

As a guideline, when it comes to width, the wider the fishing kayak the more stable it’ll be and better for standing. If you need a kayak to stand up and cast or sight fish from all day, then look toward wider fishing kayaks. Of course there are other factors to consider in hull shape, but as a general principle, the concept of more width equals more stability holds true.

A final consideration is length. In general, length equals speed—if everything on two different boats was exactly the same, the longer boat would be faster. If you need a boat that can go the distance or battle big tides, a faster boat might be the better option for you. Shorter boats tend to be more agile, so if you’re fishing moving water where dodging rocks is a factor, then you might want a shorter, stubbier boat that can turn on a dime.

Hull materials

Rotomolded plastic

The vast majority of fishing kayaks you’ll come across on your shopping quest will be made from rotomolded polyethylene. Most kayaks are rotomolded polyethylene because it is easy to produce and durable. You can slam up against rocks, structures, trees, the beach, and these things will keep on truckin’. The hull of a rotomolded kayak is produced as one piece with a rotational mold in an industrial-size oven.

Thermoformed plastic

Some companies have started making fishing kayaks from thermoformed plastic. Thermoformed plastic kayaks are often lighter than rotomolded kayaks. A thermoformed kayak can be made of various types of plastic, though polyethylene and ABS are popular. Thermoformed kayaks are produced in a top and bottom half and joined with a seam around the waterline.

Composites

Fishing kayaks made of composite materials such as carbon fiber are starting to pick up traction. The materials are expensive, but the performance and weight can be unmatchable. Composites such as carbon or fiberglass are mixed with resin and laid in layers. Composite kayaks can be cracked, but they can also be repaired. These can be some of the highest cost kayaks you’ll come across.

Inflatables

Inflatable kayaks can be a great option for anglers who don’t want to car-top or trailer their boats, or don’t have the storage space for a 12-foot rigid kayak. Inflatables can be made of various materials, but PVC or polyurethane-coated fabrics are most common. Simple inflatables are among the cheapest fishing kayaks available, but are also slower and have fewer fishing features.

Fishability features

Accessories like gear tracks, rod holders, livewells, tackle storage, camera and video mounts, light mounts and deck padding can all add to a boat’s fishability and make it a real fishing-ready craft.

Some boats come fully rigged with all the gadgets you might want, so you’re ready to fish the moment you buy your boat. One way beginner boats cut cost is with fewer rod holders, gear tracks and hatches. For beginners, accessories are less important—you can always add gadgets and gear down the road.

A final word of advice

Try out as many different boats as you can before you buy. Your local paddling shop is also a great place to ask questions and seek demos of various models. While you are there check out accessories like paddles and PFDs designed for use with fishing kayaks.

There is still a lot of water to cover when it comes to discussing the best fishing kayaks. Here are answers to some of the top questions kayak anglers have.

  • Are kayaks good for fishing?

    Kayaks make a great watercraft for fishing, especially those specifically designed for kayak angling. A kayak is easy to transport, less paperwork and upkeep than a motorized boat, and generally more affordable to purchase. The best part of fishing from a kayak though may be the ability to reach places a motorized boat can not, and taking part in a physically engaging and environmentally friendly activity while fishing.

  • Is a fishing kayak worth it?

    You do not need to purchase a kayak specifically designed for fishing in order to fish from a kayak. However, if your main aim for heading out on the water is fishing, then a kayak designed specifically for angling can make the experience much more enjoyable. Fishing kayaks include features such as rod holders, gear mounts and tank wells to store your rods, tackle and bait. Higher end fishing kayaks may even have pedal drives or electric trolling motors to keep your hands free for more fishing action.

  • Can you fish from a kayak?

    You can absolutely fish from a kayak. Choose a kayak equipped with rod holders and other fishing-focused features for the easiest kayak angling experience. Some fishing kayaks are even designed with enough width and stability to use as a standing platform for casting.

  • Should I buy a fishing kayak?

    Whether you buy a fishing kayak or another type of kayak is largely dependent on your primary use for the kayak and the types of waterways you’ll be paddling. If you expect to use the boat primarily for fishing outings, then a fishing kayak is the best choice, as these types of kayaks include rod holders and storage areas for tackle.

    Fishing kayaks are also designed with stability in mind for casting and fighting fish. If you plan to paddle more recreationally with some casual fishing on the side, then a lighter weight and cheaper recreational kayak may be more appropriate for your needs.

  • Kayak vs fishing kayak

    Fishing kayaks share many of the same design elements as most other kayaks. Some of the most affordable fishing kayaks are simply recreational kayak designs with a few additional features specific to fishing, such as rod holders, gear mounts and tackle or bait storage areas.

    Higher priced fishing kayaks include deck and hull shapes specifically designed around kayak fishing, including pontoon hulls for standup stability and pedal drive or electric motors for greater range and speed. These fishing kayaks are also considerably more expensive than a basic kayak.

  • Fishing kayak vs touring kayak

    Kayaks labeled as fishing kayaks have different dimensions and features than those labeled as touring kayaks. A fishing kayak is usually wider and much more stable than a touring kayak.

    Touring kayaks are generally longer and narrower, and have more speed to cover distance on a paddling focused outing, while fishing kayaks are usually designed more for comfort and stability over speed.

    A fishing kayak also includes fishing specific features such as rod holders, accessory tracks and tankwells for on deck storage. By comparison, a touring kayak will have a more streamlined deck profile, and most storage will be within the kayak and accessed through hatches on the deck.

  • Fishing kayak vs jon boat

    A fishing kayak differs from a Jon boat in design and usually propulsion. A Jon boat is a lightweight, flat bottomed boat powered by a small motor. While some kayaks have started to include electric trolling motors, fishing kayaks are generally powered by human effort with a paddle or foot pedal drive.

    Another difference between using a fishing kayak versus a Jon boat is paperwork. Since a Jon boat is a motorized vessel, it will require registration in more jurisdictions than a kayak.

  • Fishing paddleboard vs kayak

    A fishing paddleboard refers to a standup paddleboard rigged for fishing. A standup paddleboard has a flat open deck, and is paddled from a standing position with a long, single-blade paddle.

    Fishing from a standup paddleboard has benefits such as an increased line of sight and superior stealth. Plus, you can attach gear to just about anywhere on the deck. Some hybrid paddleboards even have a removable seat so you can sit to rest or fight fish.

    On the other hand, fishing from a kayak provides more capability and stability in rough water conditions, and a kayak also has more storage space.

  • Fishing boat vs kayak

    A fishing boat usually refers to a motorized vessel. Fishing kayaks have the advantage of being lighter, and capable of reaching shallower and tighter waterways. Fishing kayaks generally have less overhead cost as well, are easier to maintain, store and transport, and provide a physically active and environmentally friendly fishing experience.

  • Fishing kayak vs recreational kayak

    Fishing kayaks and recreational kayaks are often quite similar in design. However, fishing kayaks have more features for dedicated kayak anglers, including rod holders, gear tracks and tackle storage areas. Choose a fishing kayak if fishing will be your primary on-water focus; a recreational kayak is a solid choice for paddlers who may want to occasionally toss a line.

  • Fishing kayak vs regular kayak

    Fishing kayaks have a general resemblance to other types of kayaks, especially recreational kayaks. Recreational kayaks are intended for use on calm, sheltered water and slow moving waterways. Recreational kayaks generally prioritize stability over speed.

    Fishing kayaks tend to have similar overall performance to recreational kayaks, however they will also include fish-focused features such as rod holders or larger tankwells for storage.

    Fishing kayaks may also have specific design elements such as a pontoon hull for increased stability, or a flat open area in the cockpit to provide a platform for standing, which you would not find on a regular recreational kayak.

  • What makes a good fishing kayak?

    A good fishing kayak should have a comfortable seat for spending extended time sitting while you are on the water. A fishing kayak should also feel stable enough for you to cast, fight and land fish. Good fishing kayaks have a thoughtful layout of storage space for your tackle, rods, paddle and other accessories.

  • Sit in or sit on kayak for fishing

    Both sit-inside and sit-on-top kayaks are capable of fishing, but the vast majority of dedicated fishing kayaks are of a sit-on-top design. The reason for this is simple: sit-on-tops tend to be wider and more stable, with open decks that allow better paddler mobility and access to gear. A sit-inside will also fill with water should you capsize, while a sit-on-top will not, and can easily be re-entered if the paddler falls off or tips over in deep water.

  • What size fishing kayak do I need?

    The size of the fishing kayak you need is dependent on how and where you plan to use your fishing kayak. A 12-foot kayak is a great starting length for a good all-around fishing kayak. Choose a longer kayak if your ambitions run to covering more ground on open bays and larger lakes.

  • Fishing kayak features

    Some of the most common fishing kayak features include flush-mount and swiveling rod holders, gear tracks for mounting fish finders and other accessories, open tankwells for tackle storage, small hatches for dry storage, a paddle holder and an elevated folding seat.

  • How much does a fishing kayak weigh?

    The weight of a fishing kayak is dependent on its construction, size and design. It’s common for simple, paddle-powered fishing kayaks to weigh over 50 pounds. Pedal-powered fishing kayaks, with their complex pedal drive and elevated lawn-chair seat, can weigh well over 100 pounds.

    In general, fishing kayaks are often heavy and cumbersome to lift and transport. For this reason, kayak anglers typically use a cart to wheel their kayak to and from the water.

  • Fishing kayak width

    Fishing kayak width will vary with each fishing kayak model. Many fishing kayak designs will commonly be wider than other types of kayaks to provide more stability for casting and fighting fish, and even standing on the kayak. For a beginner-friendly fishing kayak, look for widths greater than 32 inches.

  • Best length for fishing kayak

    The best length for a fishing kayak largely depends on how and where you plan to use your kayak. The 10- to 12-foot range is the most common length of fishing kayak. This size provides a good overall length for a variety of waters, with a user-friendly blend of speed, maneuverability, and ease of storage and transportation.

    If you’ll mostly be fishing bigger lakes, ponds or inshore, you will want a kayak that is faster for covering distance, somewhere between 12 and 16 feet long.

  • Fishing kayak weight capacity

    A fishing kayak’s weight capacity will vary with each kayak model. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the combined weight of you and your gear is within the kayak’s maximum weight limit. In general, fishing kayaks have higher weight capacities than similarly sized recreational kayaks.

  • How much do fishing kayaks cost?

    Entry level kayak anglers looking to purchase a new fishing kayak should expect to spend around $1,000 for a paddle-powered kayak, and about $2,000 for a pedal-drive fishing kayak. The top fishing kayak models can cost $4,000 or more.

  • Why are fishing kayaks so expensive?

    The price of a fishing kayak will likely be higher than a similar recreational kayak because of the inclusion of specialized outfitting accessories for kayak anglers. The price is also higher because many fishing kayaks are larger than recreational kayaks, requiring the use of more materials in production. Advanced features like pedal drives or e-motors also drive the price of these fishing kayaks much higher than paddle-powered models.

  • Do fishing kayaks flip easily?

    Fishing kayaks are generally very stable, and most of the popular designs do not flip easily. Paddlers should understand there is always a possibility of capsizing. Dress appropriately, wear a properly fitting PFD (personal flotation device), and check the kayak’s maximum capacity before use.

  • Fishing kayak speed

    The speed of a fishing kayak is relative to its length and shape, as well as a paddler’s ability. All other things being equal, longer equals faster. A fishing kayak with a long, narrow waterline is capable of more speed than a short, wide kayak.

    Expect most paddle-powered fishing kayaks in the 10- to 12-foot range to have an average speed of around 2 mph, and be able to pick up to a higher speed of around 3 mph.

    Pedal drive kayaks will have a similar average speed as a paddle kayak, but can reach top speeds of around 5 mph.

    Finally, motorized fishing kayaks, such as Old Town kayaks with Minn Kota trolling motor, can travel at sustained speeds over 4 mph.

  • Are fishing kayaks safe?

    Like any other kayak, the safety of fishing kayaks relies on the proper use of personal safety equipment, good judgment and an understanding of appropriate waterways for your ability level and the kayak you are using.

    Keep in mind there is always the possibility of a kayak capsizing. Practicing how to self-rescue is an important skill.

    For an inexperienced paddler, a sit-on top fishing kayak is a safer choice than a sit-inside design. Unlike sit-in kayaks, which will flood with water if they tip over, a sit-on-top kayak doesn’t take on water and won’t sink if capsized.

  • Are fishing kayaks stable?

    Fishing kayaks are some of the most stable in the kayak market. In fact, some fishing kayaks are stable enough to allow comfortable standup fishing. Look for a fishing kayak with a pontoon hull for maximum stability.

    Paddlers should understand there is always a possibility of capsizing. Dress appropriately, wear a properly fitting PFD (personal flotation device), and check the kayak’s maximum capacity before use.

  • Where to buy a fishing kayak

    Fishing kayaks are widely available across North America at many big-box outdoor, hardware and department stores, as well as through online retailers like Amazon. The best place to purchase a fishing kayak, though, is your nearest paddling specialty shop. Paddling specialty shops have a vast understanding of kayaks and your surrounding waterways, and can provide you with proven advice for purchasing the best fishing kayak for your needs.

  • Can you tour in a fishing kayak?

    While you can certainly tour shorter distances in a fishing kayak, this is not the most efficient craft for covering many miles. Fishing kayaks have less hull speed and glide than dedicated touring kayaks, as well as less interior storage space. However, if you pack thoughtfully and plan a bit more time, a fishing kayak—especially longer models (14 to 16 feet) designed for offshore fishing—can be used for ambitious day tours or even a multi day excursion.

  • Can you use a fishing kayak on the river?

    There are fishing kayak models designed with rivers in mind. Some will even handle mild rapids as well. A fishing kayak intended for the river will be shorter with a smooth, flatter bottom for better maneuverability.

  • Most stable fishing kayak

    It’s difficult to say which fishing kayak model is the most stable, however, in general wider fishing kayaks with a pontoon hull provide more stability and a better platform for standing.

  • Fastest fishing kayak

    As a general rule, longer, narrower and lighter fishing kayaks are the fastest. Take this into account when assessing the top speed of different fishing kayaks.

    Expect the fastest paddle-powered fishing kayaks to top out around 3 mph, with motorized and pedal drive kayaks reaching a max speed of about 5 mph.

Fishing kayak reviews

How does a specific fishing kayak model perform on the water? What’s the story with the brand? What are popular modifications for a fishing kayak? Our comprehensive reviews discuss on-water performance, company background, design and popular modifications, as well as specifications, price and places to purchase.

 

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