The Ultimate Guide To Using A Compass For Paddlers

December 29, 2021

person moving the bezel on a compass, over a map with another person watching on. — Practice these skills often and you might be surprised by what you find—but not where you find yourself. | Photo: Andrew Strain

Many rely on satellite-assisted, turn-by-turn GPS navigation for everything from driving in the city to day hiking unfamiliar trail networks, but electronic navigation is no substitute for traditional map and compass skills. Electronics can fail, but whichever compass you choose to buy—from the fanciest to the most basic—won’t require lithium batteries or a reliable satellite connection to guide the way.

There’s no more visceral reminder of why paddlers need to master these skills than stroking for 20 eerie minutes into a foggy whiteout with the wind in your ears and the hairs standing up on the back of your neck. At its most basic, navigation is about getting from A to B. But being a skilled navigator is much more—it is an empowering way of better understanding our planet and safely exploring our place within it.

Identify the tools of navigation

Fortunately for backcountry travellers, the tools of navigation are simple, minimal and easy to carry:

Topographic map or nautical chart for your area of travel
Orienteering compass
Watch
Length of string
Pencil
Marine deck compass is optional but highly recommended

Read maps and charts

Maps and charts are the single most useful source of navigation information for paddlers. Map-reading, the art of correlating what you see on paper to what you see around you, is the foundation of sound route finding. Maps can provide clues to potential hazards and direct us to campsites, water sources and scenic areas.

Marine charts and topographic map. — Depending on where you paddle, you’ll need some combination of maps and charts to navigate successfully. | Photo: Virginia Marshall

Depending on where you paddle, you may rely on topographic maps, marine charts or a combination of both. While maps emphasize land features—such as elevation and relief (using contour lines), roads and trails—marine charts focus on maritime features like water depths, tidal current speed and direction, buoys and other aids to navigation.

Paddlers are unique in that we spend time in both environments. In coastal areas with prominent features and frequent boat traffic, marine charts are indispensable. On freshwater and in areas with indistinct coastlines or infrequent boat traffic, maps are more commonly used. Topographic maps are particularly invaluable for locating potential landing sites and identifying coastal features like cliffs, headlands or inflowing rivers.

Compass basics

Whether you’re tackling open water crossings, weaving among island mazes or hunting for an elusive campsite in the fog, a compass is invaluable. Use a compass to orient yourself within the landscape, define a line from A to B, and pinpoint your position by establishing bearings to known landmarks.

Identify the parts of a compass

Compass with labels indicating the parts.

Baseplate

Transparent, so you can see your map through it, with at least one straight edge for taking bearings and transferring them to your map.

Rulers

Use with your map’s scale to measure distances.

Direction-of-travel arrow

Shows you which direction to point the compass when you’re taking or following a bearing.

Rotating bezel

This outer ring surrounding the needle housing is printed with direction indicators (N, S, E, W) and 0° to 360° markings.

Index line

Located at the top of the bezel, this is your “read bearing here” mark.

Magnetized needle

The red end (white on some compasses) of the needle always points to magnetic north.

Orienting arrow

Used to orient the bezel with magnetic north, it has an outline shaped precisely to fit the magnetized end of the needle.

Orienting lines

Parallel lines rotating with the bezel; correctly aligning these with the north-south grid lines on a map aligns your orienting arrow with north.

Most handheld orienteering compasses also include a lanyard for hanging the compass around your neck, but kayakers will find this string is most useful for measuring distances on your map, or girthing to your decklines or PFD to prevent accidental drops overboard. If your compass isn’t advertised as floating, it will sink!

Adjust for declination

Finding north on a map is a no-brainer—it’s at the top. But while maps and charts are oriented to the geographic North Pole (or “true north”), your compass needle points to a different location: magnetic north. The difference between the two is called declination (or variation) and results from the ever-shifting nature of the Earth’s magnetic field.

Hands using a key to set declination on the back of a compass. — Set the declination for your trip area in your orienteering compass, and you won’t have to think about it again. | Photo: Virginia Marshall

This magnetism originates deep within the planet’s mineral-rich core and the circulation of this fluid core means our magnetic poles are in constant motion. In fact, magnetic north has been drifting from the Canadian Arctic toward Siberia for over a century, and is currently migrating at a rate of about 40 miles per year. Today, true north and magnetic north sit about 250 miles apart.

Prince William Sound: 16 degrees East | Apostle Islands, Lake Superior: 2.4 degrees West | Bay Of Fundy: 16.7 degrees West

The fixed position of the geographic North Pole simplifies cartographers’ jobs, but it means compass users have to do a bit of math to ensure our map and compass are speaking the same language. In Canada and the continental U.S., declination can vary from nearly 20° east on parts of the West Coast, to nearly 20° west on areas of the East Coast. Compensating for this declination is key to taking accurate bearings. A 15° error, for example, on a mile-long crossing puts you a quarter-mile away from your target.

Check your chart or map for the declination value for your trip area. It will be listed in the map margin, or indicated within your chart’s compass rose. Since magnetic north is always on the move, declination also changes over time. If you are using an older map or chart, you’ll need to update the declination using the listed rate of change or, better yet, consult an online magnetic declination calculator or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) current world magnetic model.

In eastern Canada and eastern United States, ADD declination when moving from a map bearing to a field (magnetic) bearing, and SUBTRACT declination to translate your compass bearing to your map. West of the Great Lakes and Mississippi River, do the opposite.

A bit of preplanning goes a long way here. Before your trip, update your maps with this year’s current declination. Make sure any bearings you plot on your map are adjusted for declination and marked with an ‘M’ for magnetic, so they’re compass-ready. Many orienteering compasses also have an adjustment screw on the back of the baseplate, which allows you to set-and-forget the declination right in your compass. If you paddle in the same area most of the time, set your compass to the local declination and you won’t have to do any more math.

Orient your map

Before you begin taking and following bearings, your first step should be orienting your map so it aligns with the actual landscape around you. Once you’ve set declination, map orientation is easy:

Compass on a map — Before you begin taking and following bearings, your first step should be orienting your map. | Photo: Virginia Marshall

Lay map on a flat surface

Start by laying out your map on a flat surface. Place your compass on the map with the direction-of-travel arrow pointing toward the top of the map and one straight edge of the compass at the edge of the map.

Rotate the bezel

Rotate the bezel so N (north) lines up with the direction-of-travel arrow.

Spin the map

Carefully spin the map (don’t touch the compass) while watching the magnetic needle. Continue turning the map until the red end of the magnetic needle is within the outline of the orienting arrow.

Ta-da! Your map is now oriented correctly to the real world. Take a moment to become familiar with how recognizable landmarks like islands, headlands and hills are represented on the map. How many can you now identify through just a basic sense of direction?

Refer to your map often as you paddle, because staying found is far easier than finding yourself after you are lost.

[ Read more: Never Get Lost Again ]

How to take a bearing

If thinking about bearings and degrees brings on high school trigonometry flashbacks and exam sweats, don’t panic. A bearing is just a different, more precise way to describe a direction. On a compass, north is equivalent to 0° or 360°, east is 90°, south is 180° and west is 270°. A compass bearing is simply the angle—measured clockwise—between north (0°) and your direction of travel.

Compass on a map, taking a bearing from one point to another — Don’t panic! A bearing is just a different, more precise way to describe a direction. | Photo: Virginia Marshall

One important caveat to keep in mind when you are learning how to use a compass: Bearings are always relative to a specific location. In order for a bearing to be useful you must know where you are taking the bearing from, or what you are taking the bearing on. If you are truly lost, and have no way to orient yourself, a compass is of little use.

How to take a bearing from a map

Taking a bearing from your map is a useful way to confirm your heading in navigationally challenging landscapes—for example, when a labyrinth of islands obscures your destination. You can also plot the bearings for all large, obvious crossings along your route beforehand, to simplify compass work while afloat.

On your map or chart, align the straight edge of your compass baseplate between where you are (1a) and where you want to go (1b). If you are plotting the bearing ahead of time, choose well-defined start and finish points, like islands or points of land. If your compass edge isn’t long enough, extend it with a sheet of paper and a pencil line.
Make sure the direction-of-travel arrow is pointing toward your destination (in other words, your compass isn’t upside down).
Firmly holding the baseplate to the map, rotate the bezel until the orienting lines on the compass are parallel to the north-south grid lines on your map (longitude lines if you’re using a chart). For this process, just ignore the magnetic needle. Make sure the N (north) marker on the bezel is pointing toward the top of your map (not south).
Look at the index line to read the bearing at the top of the compass bezel.
Now you can use your compass to follow that bearing to your destination. Don’t forget to add or subtract declination, if needed, to get your magnetic bearing.

How to follow a heading from a compass bearing

As you paddle along, the direction your bow is pointing is called your heading. On calm water, your bearing and heading should be the same angle. Of course, paddlers often have the added challenge of compensating for sideways drift due to wind, waves or current.

To follow a heading using an orienteering compass

Check the bearing is correctly dialed in at the index line on the compass.
Place the compass on a flat surface near the middle of the boat where you can see it, with the direction-of-travel arrow pointing away from you and the edge of the baseplate parallel to the keel line. The deck of your sprayskirt works well for this.
Without touching the compass, turn your boat until the red end of the magnetic needle is inside the outline of the orienting arrow. Your bow is now pointing toward the bearing you took from your map.
Paddle forward, monitoring your compass and adjusting your heading to keep the magnetic needle inside the orienting arrow.

How to take a bearing in the field

If you know where you are and want to identify an unknown landmark that you can see, you can take a magnetic bearing in the field and plot it on your map.

Hold your compass flat with the direction-of-travel arrow (1a) pointing away from you and directly at the landmark (1b).
Rotate the bezel until the red end of the magnetic needle is inside the orienting arrow.
Look at the index line to read the magnetic bearing you’ve just captured.
Subtract declination if you are east of Lake Superior, or add it if you are west, to convert the magnetic bearing to a true (map) bearing. Dial the adjusted bearing in at the index line on your compass bezel.
Now you can transfer that bearing to your map to identify your mystery landmark. Lay the compass on your map with the bottom outside edge of the baseplate anchored to your location.
Pivot the entire compass baseplate around the anchor point until the orienting lines are parallel with the north-south grid lines on your map (6a), and the north marker on the bezel is pointing toward the top of your map (6b).
Your unknown landmark (7a) lies somewhere along the line established by the edge of the compass baseplate (7b). If you extend the line, you should be able to figure out what it is—perhaps a distant lighthouse tower, or maybe just a mirage.

Where am I? How to triangulate position

If you don’t know exactly where you are, but can identify two or more landmarks, you can use multiple bearings to find precisely where you are on the map. Two landmarks will give you what’s called a bisect—while three intersecting bearings provide a triangulation.

triangulation using a compass — Three intersecting bearings provide a triangulation, allowing you to determine your location on a map. | Photo: Virginia Marshall

Take a bearing to a known landmark.
Add or subtract the declination to convert the magnetic bearing to a true (map) bearing. Dial this number in at the index line on your compass bezel.
Place the compass on your map with the top corner of the baseplate anchored to the known landmark.
Pivot the whole compass around the anchor point until the orienting lines are parallel with the grid lines on your map and the north marker on the bezel is pointing to north on your map.
Draw a pencil line along the straight edge of the compass baseplate. Repeat these steps with a second and third landmark. For the most precise fix, try to select landmarks that are at least 60° apart, and avoid those that are close to 180° apart. Landmarks can be anything recognizable: look for prominent summits, river mouths, valleys, bays, beaches, islands or human-constructed features like communication towers, lighthouses, marine lights, buoys, buildings, etc.
If the three lines you draw meet at a single point, this is your precise location. Most of the time, however, the lines will form a small triangle—your location is somewhere in this area. Re-check your work if your triangle is very large; you likely have at least one significant error.

6 tips for using a compass while paddling

Navigating with a compass adds a measure of security, especially when paddling unfamiliar waters or in low visibility. As with any developing skill, be sure to practice on calm, easy days with good visibility before relying on your compass in more challenging conditions.

Two sea kayakers padding in the fog. — Navigating with a compass adds a measure of security, especially when paddling unfamiliar waters or in low visibility. | Photo: Andrew Strain

1 Round to the nearest 5°

On the water, it’s virtually impossible to gauge angles of less than 5°. Adjust map bearings to the nearest 5° so they’re easier to remember and more realistic to follow while paddling.

2 Write it down

Note the bearing in your logbook, on your map, or on a dive slate so you don’t forget it.

3 Get a back bearing

The back bearing is useful to know if you plan to return along the same route, or in case you need to turn back in poor visibility. You can read your back bearing off the bezel at the bottom of your orienteering compass (opposite the index line), or calculate it by adding or subtracting 180° to your bearing. For example, if your bearing is 240°, the back bearing is 240° – 180° = 60°.

4 The deviation is in the details

The magnetic needle on your compass is affected by anything in its vicinity that carries a magnetic field. This means a can of beans or a camp stove packed in your front hatch—or even your electronic wristwatch—can mess with your compass bearing. If you’re not sure whether an object is magnetic, move it toward your compass to see if the needle makes an obvious shift.

5 Compass uncertainty

Without a visual target, compass uncertainty and paddling go together like fish and chips. The farther we travel along a course, the greater the uncertainty becomes. Keep crossings as short as possible, and divide long journeys into shorter legs.

6 Using backstops

If possible, choose bearings that allow you to take advantage of natural backstops, such as obvious landmarks, so you don’t go too far beyond your target by mistake. You can also use time backstops. For example, if the paddle to your lunch site should take two hours at your average paddling speed, and you leave at 10 a.m., then your time backstop might be 12:15 p.m. If you pass this time backstop, you have either miscalculated the required crossing time, underestimated the distance or veered off your heading.

[ Read more: 6 Reasons To Go GPS ]

Types of kayak compass

Paddlers use two types of compasses: a handheld orienteering compass, and a deck-mounted marine compass. While an orienteering compass is essential for map work, nothing beats the ease of use of a marine compass for following a heading. We recommend using both when navigating.

Orienteering compass

Use an orienteering compass for all map-and-compass work, such as plotting bearings or using triangulation to fix your position.

Pros: Compact; can be adjusted for declination; includes a ruler and straight edge for measuring distance and taking bearings from a map.

Cons: Must be held level to ensure an accurate reading; not easy to sight bearing while paddling.

Choose a quality orienteering compass like the Suunto M-3G for the best precision and features, including a screw to set declination and an elongated baseplate for easier map work. The sturdy, flat profile slips unobtrusively into your map case, pocket or under your decklines.

Another reliable option for paddlers is the Suunto MCB, which features a floating housing and folding sighting mirror that doubles as an emergency signaling device.

Marine compass

Use a marine compass for following a magnetic heading.

Pros: Intuitive, easy to sight bearing on large numbers; hands-free; set forward on the kayak to minimize seasickness; accurate in bumpy conditions or when kayak is edged.

Cons: Indicates only magnetic direction; cannot be adjusted for declination or used to take map bearings.

The Silva 70P is designed for use with kayaks that have a molded-in compass recess on the deck. It mounts permanently with four simple screws for a secure fit. Because the compass dome sits nearly flush with your kayak deck, this style is also durable and protected from most impacts.

If your kayak doesn’t have a compass recess, a removable deck compass such as the Silva 58 Kayak Compass is designed to clip into your decklines. Some paddlers prefer this style because it can be mounted closer to the cockpit for easier sighting, and removed to avoid damage during transport.

How to use a marine compass

Using a marine compass is dead-easy: point your bow at the object you want the bearing of, and read the magnetic bearing at the “lubber line”—the line marked on the side of the compass dome, facing the paddler.

More navigation methods for paddlers

If you think of navigation as the act of following a line between two points, there are a number of different types of lines that we can follow. Line-of-sight is the easiest and most obvious. A compass bearing is another type of line, as are shorelines and other natural “handrails.” Ranges offer yet another line to get from A to B.

Piloting

When it comes to actual navigation, we spend the vast majority of our time using the simple method of piloting. This is the process of keeping track of where you are by relating features on your map or chart to real world observations. One very easy way to do this is to follow a natural handrail—paddling a coastal corridor, for example. As you journey along, keep track of any shore or water-based features and checkpoints—such as prominent headlands, islands, inflowing rivers or buoys—marked on your map. These give you periodic “fixes” along the line of your handrail.

Aiming off

When visibility is poor or sideways drift is a concern, experienced navigators “aim off.” This is the practice of deliberately planning a course to either side of a shore-based target, to account for factors like wind, current, drift or compass uncertainty. Imagine, for example, you can’t see the campsite you are crossing to. If you aim intentionally to the right of the campsite, you will know to turn left when you reach the shoreline. This is particularly useful in featureless terrain and on long crossings.

Similarly, aim upwind or up-current to compensate for drift. As a general rule, adjust your course by 15° for a 15-knot crosswind or 15° for every 1 knot of current speed when paddling across the current. Don’t have a compass? Hold your hand at arm’s length from your face and make a fist—index knuckle to pinky knuckle is about 10°; make a shaka (spread your thumb and pinky) to measure 20°.

Ranges

Ranges are another useful tool for navigating in wind and current, especially when crossing smaller channels. Look for two objects ahead that line up along your direction of travel—these could be a prominent tree or rock on the shore lining up under a notch in a hill. If wind or current pushes you off this line, adjust your course accordingly so the objects remain aligned.

Dead Reckoning

Dead reckoning navigation is based on yet another type of line: a timeline. It is useful for predicting how long a trip will take or estimating current position when traveling out of sight of land, along a non-descript coastline or in foggy conditions—basically whenever piloting isn’t practical. Dead reckoning uses a simple formula: D = S x T (Distance = Speed x Time). In order to make accurate predictions, you’ll need a way of measuring all three variables. Distance can be measured on your map using a string or your compass ruler and the map scale. Wear a watch and always note your start time and any significant breaks. Finally, track your speed in a variety of conditions to get a reliable sense of how fast you paddle in calm water, headwinds and tailwinds.

Practice how to use a compass

Reading about navigation techniques and how to use a compass is a great first step to point you in the right direction. Now get out on the water or in your local green space with a map in one hand and a compass in the other. Practice these skills often and you might be surprised by what you find—but not where you find yourself.

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.

Practice these skills often and you might be surprised by what you find—but not where you find yourself. | Feature photo: Andrew Strain

Hybrid Fishing SUP Review: Vibe Cubera 120

Ric Burnley

December 28, 2021

man stands and fishes from the Vibe Cubera 120 Hybrid fishing kayak paddleboard hybrid — The Vibe Cubera 120 Hybrid paddles like a kayak, fishes like a SUP. | Feature photo: Roberto Westbrook

There is a secret fishing hole 100 yards from the small parking lot for my community library. The launch requires carting my kayak across the library lawn, so needless to say I don’t like to hang around too long. Commando fishing requires quick action, so the local library is a perfect location to test Vibe’s redesigned and renamed Cubera 120 Hybrid.

The launch is through a row of thick hedges and across 20 yards of marsh grass then dropping down a muddy bank pocked with clusters of oysters. Not surprising, I get some weird looks from the library patrons. Especially after I return from a trip, popping through the hedges, covered in mud and saltwater, grunting and wheezing as I drag my kayak across the grass, with a stringer full of speckled trout, striped bass and redfish on deck.

Person on sit-on-top fishing kayak with rod

Fishing Kayak Reviews

Vibe’s new Cubera is a potent mix

Vibe Cubera 120 Hybrid Specs

Length: 12’

Width: 33.5”

Weight: 72 lbs

Capacity: 475 lbs

MSRP: $1,099

www.vibekayaks.com

The Cubera 120 Hybrid is a hybrid standup paddleboard and kayak. It fits in the same category as the Kaku Wahoo or new Hobie Lynx. The wide, flat deck and shallow draft make these hybrids a standup paddleboard. A frame seat makes them a kayak. The idea is to capture the best of both worlds and overcome the disadvantages of each platform.

A standup paddleboard is simple to transport, store and carry. On the other hand, a kayak is stable, easier to operate and carries more gear.

The trick with a hybrid is to harness the power of both a SUP and kayak. To this end, the Cubera is a success. Shaped like a paddleboard and rigged like a kayak, I load the boat with gear, rods and paddle.

I can slide the Cubera fully rigged into the back of my pickup truck and I’m ready to go when I get to the launch. Instead of using a cart to move my kayak to the water, I just drag the Cubera a short distance across the grass.

Once on the water, I can sit and paddle to the fishing grounds with a kayak paddle. Then, switch to a SUP paddle or push pole to stand and fish. The kayak and SUP hybrid is perfect for quick trips on sheltered waters where standup fishing is on the menu.

Reintroducing a Maverick

Vibe’s new Cubera is a redesign of their original Maverick hybrid with more fishing features and a new seat option. I reviewed the Maverick in the Spring 2018 issue of Kayak Angler where I said, “The Maverick combines features of a rotomolded kayak and foam-filled hard board to create a new type of hybrid anglers will feel comfortable using and abusing.”

The same is true with the Cubera. To build the Maverick, Vibe developed technology to fill a plastic shell with foam. The plastic is thinner than their rotomolded kayaks to save weight, while the foam makes the board stiff and unsinkable.

Unlike most foam-filled hard boards with epoxy and fiberglass skin, the Cubera’s plastic flesh will not bruise or bleed. The rotomolded plastic makes the Cubera almost indestructible.

a view of the seat and rigging on the Vibe Cubera 120 Hybrid fishing kayak/paddleboard — Room to party out back. | Photo: Roberto Westbrook

The foam core also makes the Cubera stiff and strong. With a 475-pound capacity, the Vibe can carry up to 100 pounds more stuff than some competitors. The advantage is a larger angler will feel more comfortable standing and fishing on the Cubera. With limited deck space and no internal storage, a 300-pound angler could carry 100 pounds of gear. But where would it all fit on a SUP?

The foam also makes the Vibe heavier than other SUPs. At 72 pounds without the seat, the Vibe is as heavy as a traditional kayak. It is considerably heavier than other standup paddleboard hybrids. Carrying the Cubera under one arm like a SUP is a stretch. With the 33.5-inch beam, I had to stretch my arm to reach the recessed grab handle in the deck.

SUP shape, compact kayak weight

The Cubera is more kayak than standup paddleboard. Beside the standup paddleboard shape with low gunnels, shallow draft and flat deck, the hybrid is as heavy and wide as a small kayak.

Still, the Cubera’s low profile make it easier to drag or cart. The bow slides across the soft ground and the Cubera has reinforced and replaceable plates on the stern. Dragging from the bow is tough because the molded fins dig into the ground like a land anchor. It’s easier to pull the Cubera around by the stern handle.

The SUP shape is more convenient to store and transport. The Cubera slides into a pickup truck bed and fits perfectly on a cartop roof rack. I prop the board against the side of my garage and cover it with a tarp, but it would be possible to lift the Cubera to the garage roof rafters.

Another advantage of the SUP hybrid is stability. The Cubera may be as heavy as a small kayak, but it is lighter than a typical standup kayak. The Cubera is 10 pounds lighter than Vibe’s Shearwater flagship standup boat. On the other hand, the Cubera is slightly heavier than their Yellowfin 120. But I dare you to try and stand in the performance-oriented Yellowfin.

Fishing rod, paddle and go. | Photo: Roberto Westbrook

Best seat on a paddleboard. | Photo: Roberto Westbrook

So, with the Cubera, I get standup stability with the weight of a compact kayak. On the kayak side of the story, the Cubera may be heavier than a traditional standup paddleboard, but the extra weight gives the hybrid capacity to carry a full arsenal of gear and a full-feature frame seat.

Pedal straight through the chop

The Cubera’s hull is a modified version of their tunnel design with shallow keel and channels to improve performance. A hint of flare in the bow and tumblehome in the stern keeps the hybrid paddling straight. The Cubera also has three small, molded finlets to further improve tracking.

A low gunnel cuts below the wind but it does expose gear and tackle to waves and spray. While the Cubera doesn’t handle as well as a performance kayak, it has some advantages over a standup kayak.

The day I met Kayak Angler photographer Roberto Westbrook to shoot photos of the Vibe, the wind was blowing 20 knots out of the south. Although we launched in a secluded harbor, I had no worries pointing the Cubera into the wind.

The board splashed through the short-period wind chop, and I appreciated the low profile design and high capacity for keeping the bow out of the water and the boat paddling straight. Facing these conditions in a traditional standup boat would have been drier, but a lot more difficult to paddle.

Another advantage from the kayak side of the family is the Cubera’s rigging potential. While the incredible capacity tempts me to pack everything and the kitchen sink, the SUP side of the tree encourages me to keep rigging to a minimum.

I attached a Stealth QR-1 X elevated rod holder to a gear track on the gunnel. The QR-1 X is perfect for a SUP because the locking cam keeps my rod secure on a SUP where there is more potential for the rod to go overboard.

For gear and rod storage, I secured Railblaza’s Kayak Crate with the bungees and clips in the stern. In less than a minute, the Cubera is ready to fish.

Stand tall or sit in comfort

A kayak is easier to paddle than a SUP. Standing and paddling on a board takes balance and a lot of energy. Sitting with a double blade paddle is easier to propel the boat and keep it straight.

To turn the hybrid into a mini kayak, the Cubera uses their new Summit seat. This is the same seat as the Shearwater. With four positions, the seat can be raised, lowered, reclined and turned into a standing platform.

man stands and casts from the Vibe Cubera 120 Hybrid fishing kayak/paddleboard — The Vibe Cubera 120 Hybrid paddles like a kayak, fishes like a SUP. | Feature photo: Roberto Westbrook

Fold the seat back forward and add the poling platform and brave anglers get an extra few inches of elevation. The higher I stand in the kayak, the more I can see through the water. Since the Cubera is intended for standup sight fishing, being able to see the fish farther from the kayak gives an advantage to the angler.

The Summit seat is the most advanced seat on a hybrid SUP and kayak. It’s also the heaviest. The adjustable positions and quick-dry mesh covering make it one of the most comfortable options. In the low position, the seat makes for efficient paddling. In the high position, I could sneak along a mud flat looking for signs of fish. Then, I can stand on the deck or climb onto the poling platform to hunt down my prey.

Catch the Cubera 120 Hybrid

While the Vibe Cubera 120 Hybrid doesn’t have the range of a traditional kayak, and it is heavier than a hard-shell standup paddleboard, the advantages of stability, portability and fishability make the Cubera the best of both worlds.

Vibe kayak reviews

Sit-on-top 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.

The Vibe Cubera 120 Hybrid paddles like a kayak, fishes like a SUP. | Feature photo: Roberto Westbrook

Survive Just About Anything On Your Next Paddling Trip

Paddling Magazine Staff

December 27, 2021

Anyone who’s been on an overnight paddling trip knows that it pays to plan ahead. But some things are easier to anticipate than others, especially when it comes to wildlife, wild weather and the people you might meet along the way. To help you prepare for anything, we’ve gathered expert tips from paddlers who have been there before—and survived to tell about it.

Survive anything on your next paddling trip

1 Your first skinny dip

Kathleen Gallagher is probably the unluckiest first-time skinny dipper. The canoe trip virgin followed Wild Women trip mates into inviting Murray Lake, but the inaugural dip didn’t go as planned. “I felt a flapping between my thighs” as the snapping turtle clamped down, recalls Gallagher. Although Gallagher’s injuries were easily remedied with a happy face Band-Aid, keep these tips in mind when baring your bottom.

1. Choose a secluded lake

Skinny dipping is illegal in some parts of North America. Beth Mairs, founder of Wild Women Expeditions, asks us to, “Think practical. It’s ridiculous to wear a wet bathing suit or drag it around throughout a canoe trip.”

2. Be safe

Pick a clean location and watch out for glass, garbage, clams and snapping turtles. The last thing you want is to ride in an ambulance naked.

3. Enjoy

Nothing is more wonderful than the feeling of lakewater on your skin.

2 A forest fire

Forest fires spread quickly—up to eight kilometres per hour—much faster than we can run or paddle. The smell of smoke, a light dusting of ash on canoes or tents and unusual behaviour from birds and mammals are usually the first signs of an encroaching fire.

Surviving a forest fire | Photo: Hap Wilson — Follow these steps to survive a forest fire. | Photo: Hap Wilson

The SAS Survival Guide recommends staying calm, upwind of the fire (if possible) and moving to the closest body of water such as a lake or river. If you become trapped in the fire, do the following:

Keep your clothes on, as they protect you from the intense heat of a fire. Cover any exposed skin.
Semi-immerse yourself in the water. Care should be taken to avoid hypothermia.
Cup your hands around your nose and mouth or breath through a bandana.

[ Watch: Canoeists Airlifted From Lake As Forest Fire Approaches ]

3 Lightning

Lightning strikes down more people than tornadoes, snowstorms and hurricanes and remains a top offender in storm-related deaths.

One strike, you’re out. | Photo: istockphoto.com — With lightning, it’s one strike and you’re out. | Photo: iStock

According to Environment Canada, nine to 10 people are killed and 92 to 164 are severely injured in Canada each year. And if you’re a guy, the stats don’t point in your favour. NASA says you’re four times more likely to be struck. So here’s how to avoid this 27,760°C bolt.

Head to shore as soon as you see a flash of lightning or hear a rumble of thunder.
Avoid being the tallest thing around. Stay away from tall trees, hilltops, cliffs, open water and caves. Find a level spot of terrain.
Adopt the lightning ready position. Crouch down with your feet close together, preferably on a Therm-a-Rest insulated sleeping pad or PFD, to wait out the storm.
Remove any jewellery and stay away from metal objects—this is not the time to be fiddling with aluminum tent poles.
If you’re in a group, spread out—it’s your best chance of survival.

4 The first scratch

The chalk-like squeal of Kevlar grinding over granite isn’t pretty, especially when you notice the trail of red gelcoat left behind. Before playing the blame game or signing divorce papers, understand this law of attraction: shiny, new, expensive canoes are magnetically attracted to rocks. Install skid plates for good measure.

Photo: istockphoto.com — Does this image send chills up your spine? | Photo: iStock

5 Blood-sucking leeches

Do thoughts of the scene in the 1986 hit movie Stand By Me, where child actor Wil Wheaton pulls a fat, slimy leech out of his underpants, send chills up your spine? If so, there’s little reason to worry—only a few species of leeches feed on humans. However, if one attaches to you, here’s what to do.

Do: The best method is to wait 10 to 20 minutes until the leech detaches itself. But if that’s too gross, place your fingernail next to the leech’s mouth, which is located on its thinner end, and slowly slide the nail underneath to dislodge its sucker. Wash the wound with soap and water.

Don’t: As tempting as it might seem, don’t rip the leech off. This tears your skin and can cause infection. Another treatment commonly prescribed is the application of salt or heat from a flame. While these methods work, they cause the leech to regurgitate into the open wound, which can cause infection, and is even grosser.

6 Broken tent pole

Remember, prevention is key, and yes—even 10mm aluminum poles can break. When putting poles together, make sure that they are well seated into each other and be careful not to drop them on hard surfaces.

If your pole breaks on trip, a pole sleeve in your repair kit really comes in handy. Fresh out of pole sleeves? Grab a strip of birch bark (from a dead tree), wrap it around the pole a few times and slap on some duct tape to hold it in place.

7 Locals

It goes without saying, if you hear banjo music make sure you paddle as fast as you can and don’t look back. All kidding aside, as representatives of the paddling community it is our responsibility to act in a respectable and friendly manner toward locals. Keep in mind that we are in their backyard.

Friendly conversation, leaving the site clean and keeping your speed down when driving through small communities helps boost the public image of paddlers. Also, before travelling to an area, learn the public put-ins and camping.

8 Icy water

Don’t panic. Panic can result in inhalation of large amounts of water and zap precious energy critical to survival. The U.S. Search and Rescue Task Force says that “cold water robs the body’s heat 32 times faster than cold air and all efforts should be given to getting out of the water fast.”

Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger from Pexels — Don’t panic if you fall into icy water. | Photo: Eberhard Grossgasteiger/Pexels

Failing a speedy exodus from this numbing situation, conserving energy will effectively extend your survival time. “Cross your arms tightly against your chest and draw your knees up” if you’re wearing a PFD, says the Canadian Red Cross. “The HELP (Heat Escape Lessening Position) can increase your survival time by 50 per cent.” Prevention is your best means of survival.

9 River strainers

A strainer is a tree that has fallen in the current and traps everything that tries to float through it. According to river rescue experts, if you are out of your boat and headed towards a strainer, swim aggressively towards it and try to launch yourself up on top of it.

[ Watch: 4 Strokes To Survive River Strainers ]

10 Losing your canoe

If you’ve followed wilderness tripping wisdom, you’ll be travelling in a group of at least three canoes. Pare down your kit and stash excess gear in a location you can return to. Now the two remaining boats have three paddlers each and it’s time to go canoe hunting. Be aware that the missing canoe is an elusive creature and you may very well have to finish your trip without it.

If you’re tripping solo, your canoe trip has just turned into a hiking trip. A satellite messenger, full maps of the area, a compass and a GPS device are extremely handy in these situations.

11 Being lost in the woods

The first thing you should do is S.T.O.P.—Stop, Think, Observe and Plan. Created by SAS survival instructor Lofty Wiseman, this acronym may save your life. Stop moving, take an inventory, make yourself comfortable and assist searchers by being noticeable. If your plan is to move, leave a trail of clues that searchers can follow.

Lost? The first thing you should do is S.T.O.P.—Stop, Think, Observe and Plan. | Photo: Pixabay

12 Marshmallow burn

After discussing the hazards of waving about flaming marshmallows with a group of 13-years-olds, Family Camping contributor and guide Virginia Marshall was smacked in the cheek with a flaming ball of sugar and gelatin. “It was surprising and painful,” recalls Marshall, who was left with a second-degree burn.

Instead of waving it, Marshall offers this advice: If your marshmallow catches on fire, calmly blow it out, and make sure your first aid kit is stocked with moist burn pads.

13 Living without Facebook

Update everyone in your group with your status hourly. Comment on everything anyone else says. Invite other paddlers you meet to be your friend. Bring chalk to write on rock walls. Send invitations to people for all events, like breakfast and dishes. Give thumbs up to everything you like. Begin campfire stories with, “My name is Jim and I’m a social media-holic.” Do solo trips.

14 Capsized canoe

If you are travelling in a group and you capsize in the middle of a lake or moving river, then a canoe-over-canoe rescue may be your best option.

Form a T-shape with the rescue canoe alongside the end of the overturned boat.
Grab the end of the capsized canoe and lift it onto your gunwales while instructing the swimmers to push down on the far end to help break the suction of the overturned boat.
Slide the upside-down canoe across your gunwales so both ends are out of the water, then flip the drained boat right side up and slip it back into the water.
Stabilize the canoe alongside your own while the swimmers climb back in one at a time.

15 Avoid hypothermia

Avoid hypothermia by staying warm and dry. The best defense is to always wear appropriate immersion protection when paddling in cool temperatures and especially when paddling on cold water.

If someone is cold and shivery, getting the person out of wet clothes and into warm, insulated gear is the first order of business. Use the casualty’s own heat generating ability. Think lots of hot chocolate, squats and running on the spot. Be on the lookout for the “umbles”—stumbles, mumbles and fumbles—which may mean their body temperature is dropping.

In the advanced stages of hypothermia, the person becomes disoriented and confused and may stop shivering. Bundle in sleeping bags and place Nalgene bottles filled with hot water alongside groin and under armpits. Seek emergency medical care.

[ Browse the widest selection of boats and gear in the Paddling Buyer’s Guide ]

16 Survive a moose attack

Moose are pretty chill creatures, but according to Wikipedia, in terms of raw numbers, moose attack more people than bears and wolves combined—usually with only minor consequences.

Not a-moosed to see you. | Photo: Follow Me North Photography

Males may be more aggressive in the fall during the rut, and females in summer while protecting calves. Give moose a wide berth and watch for warning signs that a charge may be imminent: ears back, grunting and stomping feet.

Should a moose charge, try to:

Make a run for it, but know that moose can run at 35 kilometers an hour.
Get behind a large tree and play a 720-kilogram game of ring around the rosy, keeping yourself opposite the moose.
If a moose knocks you down, adopt a fetal position and protect your head. Play dead and don’t fight back. The moose may stomp and kick at you, but will generally leave. Minor consequences, my (bruised) ass.

Paddling Magazine Issue 65 | Fall 2021

This article originally appeared in the Fall 2010 issue of Canoeroots Magazine and 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.

Capsized canoe in your group? Learn how to survive anything on your next paddling trip. | Feature photo: Virginia Marshall

Best Lifetime Kayaks For 2026

Jake O'Flaherty

December 26, 2021

Founded in Utah in 1986, Lifetime Products has a long history of sporting goods innovation. The first product they made was basketball nets, and they were a big deal. Lifetime basketball nets featured a quick-adjust system, making the nets easy to raise or lower with just a broom handle. This caught on quickly, and soon every driveway basketball net was a Lifetime.

Today, you’ll see Lifetime nets on courts around the world, but the innovation didn’t stop there. The company grew and expanded their manufacturing to include picnic tables, sporting goods and many other products that require plastic strong enough to withstand the elements at a reasonable price.

When Lifetime Products acquired Emotion Kayaks in 2011, it was a natural transition to paddlesports. The merger combined Emotion’s knowledge of recreational kayak design with Lifetime’s robust plastic manufacturing processes. Lifetime adapted their experience producing high-density polyethylene plastics to producing affordable recreational kayaks that are perfect for beginners.

Wear A Life Jacket

Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Lifetime kayaks are great for those who want a stable and reliable kayak without making a hefty investment. Lifetime offers both sit-on-tops and sit-inside kayaks, as well as dedicated fishing and youth kayaks.

Lifetime kayaks are ideal for new kayakers or those who know they want to stay in sheltered waters. They are great for short outings at the local beach, slow-moving river or quiet lake. These plastic kayaks are very affordable, and their sturdy plastic construction requires very little maintenance. With different types to choose from, there are Lifetime kayak options for all body sizes.

Top picks: Lifetime kayaks

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100

Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 Specs

Length: 10’0”

Width: 31”

Weight: 51 lbs

Capacity: 275 lbs

MSRP: $629.99 USD

Buy from:

LIFETIME AL’S AMAZON CAMPSAVER

From our review:

“The Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 is a sit-on-top kayak intended for kayak fishing. It is most suitable for day trips on mild waterways including small lakes, bays and slow moving rivers.

That’s a great start, but is the Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100 fishing kayak ocean capable? In concept, the Tamarack Angler 100 could be used…” [ Read full review ]

Lifetime Wave Youth

Lifetime Wave Youth Specs

Length: 6’0”

Width: 24”

Weight: 18 lbs

Capacity: 130 lbs

MSRP: $235 USD

Buy from:

LIFETIME AL’S AMAZON

From our review:

“The Lifetime Wave 60 Youth kayak features outstanding stability—a critical performance feature for parents concerned about their children’s safety. A flat bottom keeps the kayak from feeling tippy at first float; in fact, the Wave 60 Youth is stable enough to be used as a swim platform.

The stern of the kayak is blunt and low to the water to create a swim-up deck for kids to climb aboard. The Lifetime Wave 60 Youth kayak maximum capacity is 130 pounds, and the manufacturer recommends…” [ Read full review ]

Lifetime Payette 98

Lifetime Payette 98 Specs

Length: 9’8”

Width: 30”

Weight: 45 lbs

Capacity: 250 lbs

MSRP: $579.99 USD

Buy from:

LIFETIME AMAZON CAMPSAVER

Paddle your way to adventure with the Lifetime Payette kayak, a sit-inside kayak designed for stability and control. Whether you want to explore a mountainside lake or venture down a picturesque river, the Payette will take you there in style. The large cockpit with comfortable backrest allow for long paddling adventures and the enclosed storage compartment will let you store your gear while you’re on the water. Enjoy the durability of the UV-protected, impact-resistant construction and the convenience of front and rear T-handles that make transport to and from the water easier than ever. The Lifetime Payette is the perfect kayak to take along on trips with friends or family.

Lifetime Lotus 80

Lifetime Lotus 80 Specs

Length: 8’0”

Width: 30”

Weight: 38 lbs

Capacity: 250 lbs

MSRP: $399.99 USD

Buy from:

LIFETIME

The 8 ft. Lifetime Lotus Kayak has a comfortable backrest perfect for long kayaking adventures. Its compact design easily fits inside the average apartment or home closet, and the back end allows the kayak to stand upright. With additional features like a tankwell storage with secure bungees, a stable hull design, and UV-protected construction, the standard Lotus is the true “do it all” kayak. From paddling to fishing, the Lotus ™ is perfect for your outdoor adventure.

Lifetime Guster 100

Lifetime Guster 100 Specs

Length: 10’0”

Width: 30”

Weight: 46.5 lbs

Capacity: 275 lbs

MSRP: $679.99 USD

Buy from:

LIFETIME

The Lifetime Guster Kayak is a sit-in kayak with the perfect combination of comfort, stability, and performance. The ST Performance Hull design provides the speed, tracking, and maneuverability for just about every water condition from large lakes and bays to slow moving rivers and creeks. From comfort and convenience to performance and durability, the Guster is equipped with features that are built around the paddler. Features like the adjustable backrest, padded seat and thigh pads, and adjustable foot braces give you the most comfortable seating in your kayak. The excellent seating options give you easy access to the hull for storage. The front and rear handles let you quickly transport the kayak to and from the water. The Lifetime Guster Kayak is the perfect option for recreational kayaking.

Lifetime Kokanee 106

Lifetime Kokanee 106 Specs

Length: 10’6”

Width: 37”

Weight: 77 lbs

Capacity: 425 lbs

MSRP: $739.99 USD

Buy from:

LIFETIME AL’S AMAZON

The Lifetime Kokanee 106 Tandem Kayak is a unique sit-on-top design that allows for solo or tandem paddling making it a great choice for those looking for extra versatility and value in a recreational kayak. Hit the water with a friend using the two adjustable backrests or simply move one of the backrests to the center position and you can paddle solo. The comfortable high backrests and multiple footrest positions help you dial in your comfort level. Bungee cords on the bow and stern help keep gear within reach while paddling and a storage hatch to give you access to the hull for additional storage space. The Kokanee 106 features a durable build that is UV-protected, and impact resistant. Enjoy a trip to a tranquil lake or calm ocean bay with the Lifetime Kokanee.

Best Lifetime kayaks

Some of Lifetime’s most popular kayaks are their sit-on-top and fishing kayaks. To learn more about these best-selling kayaks, follow the links to our dedicated articles about them. There, you will find specific buying advice and detailed run-throughs of each Lifetime lineup.

Best Lifetime Kayaks For 2026

Shopping for a used Lifetime kayak?

Consider buying used if you are unsure whether kayaking is something you will stick with long-term, or if you are looking to save even more money. Lifetime kayaks are affordable to begin with, and finding them used can be a great score. There are a few things you’ll want to consider when looking at used kayaks.

Overall condition

All Lifetime Kayaks are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). HDPE is a plastic that is strong and impact-resistant. Even with frequent use, it’s unlikely that the kayak will get damaged to the point that it’s unusable. Most scratches and abrasions are superficial. The exception is if there are cracks or holes right through the hull (bottom) of the boat. For a sit-inside kayak, these are pretty obvious to see. On sit-on-top kayaks, pick the kayak up and listen for water sloshing around inside. This is a good indicator that there is a hole in the hull.

Storage and transport

One common cause of damage to used kayaks is the use of ratchet-style straps to secure the kayak when transporting it. People who use the ratchet straps tend to over tighten them, as the plastic bends under pressure. This can cause warping or distortion of the kayak hull. Look for damage from the ratchet straps along the sides of the kayak; bending and distortion will be obvious.

UV damage may be another potential issue with a used Lifetime kayak. Storing the kayak in direct sunlight will weaken the plastic over time. Look for excessive fading on one side of the kayak, and apply firm pressure to the hull and deck. If it feels spongy or appears sun-bleached, this doesn’t mean that the kayak is unusable, but it may wear out more quickly.

Outfitting

Thoroughly inspect the outfitting components of the kayak, like the foot pegs, hatch, seat and seat back—it’s more likely that these will be worn or damaged. Make sure that any buckles clip, and that adjustable foot pegs (if they’re present) slide forward and backward. It’s not a deal-breaker if they are broken. Contact Lifetime, and their customer service team will help source replacement parts.

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

Lifetime kayak buying advice

When you’re looking for the best Lifetime kayak, think about what kind of kayaking you want to do. Here, we’ll give an overview of the types of kayaks available in Lifetime’s lineup. See if any align with your paddling goals. We’ll also cover commonly asked questions about these kayaks.

Lifetime has over 20 different kayak models in their product lineup. These are broken down into four categories: Sit-inside, sit-on-top, fishing and youth kayaks.

Sit-inside

As their name suggests, sit-inside kayaks feature closed decks and a cockpit (seating area) which the paddler sits inside. Entering and exiting a sit-inside kayak takes a bit more technique and practice, but the covered deck offers better protection from wind, cold, rain or harsh sun. Sit-inside paddlers also find they have a bit more control as their legs can engage the kayak sides for a better connection with the boat.

Lifetime offers a selection of solo sit-in kayaks ranging in length from 9 feet to just over 10 feet. In the kayak world, these are classified as recreational kayaks, which are defined by their wide cockpits, relatively short length (compared to touring kayaks) and flat bottoms. They’re designed for ease of use and reassuring stability; if you’ve never kayaked before you can slide into one of these and quickly figure out how to get where you want to go. They’re so stable that capsizing isn’t much of a concern.

The downside of recreational sit-inside kayaks is that they are more difficult to enter and exit than a sit-on-top and are designed exclusively for use on calm, sheltered waters. However, for those new to the sport or who just want something cheap and easy to store and transport, a recreational sit-inside is a great choice.

Know The Local Hazards

Check navigation charts before you launch.
Check with those who have local knowledge of man-made and natural hazards, e.g. low-head dams; sweepers, strainers and undercuts; tides and currents; and rocks and shoals.

Sit-on-top

Sit-on-top kayaks are even easier to use than sit-inside kayaks. Jump on with a paddle in hand, and you will figure out how to use it. New paddlers don’t have the feeling of confinement that can occur with sit-inside kayaks. Lifetime sit-on-top kayaks are extremely popular, with solo and two-person models ranging from the 6-foot Lifetime Wave 60 youth kayak to the 11-foot Lifetime Temptation 110 kayak. Read our in-depth analysis to learn more about the Best Lifetime Sit-on-top Kayaks.

Fishing

Lifetime’s fishing kayaks include a wide variety of sit-on-top models, as well as the Payette Angler 98 sit-inside kayak. Fishing kayaks share the same overall shapes and design features as Lifetime’s recreational kayaks, and are similarly stable and easy to use. What sets them apart is the addition of angler-specific features that make fishing from the kayak easy and incredibly fun. Rod holders, frame seats (for a higher seating position and better vantage of the water) and extra bungee cords to hold tackle are some standard Lifetime fishing kayak add-ons.

“Pro” models from Lifetime like the Tamarack Pro 103 and Stealth Pro 118 include a universal slider to add extra rod holders or gadgets like a fish finder, as well as an integrated live well and molded-in ruler for measuring your catch. At the top of the Lifetime fishing kayak lineup is the Renegade pedal drive kayak, which allows anglers to propel the boat with their legs while keeping their hands free for fishing.

Youth

Kids will enjoy kayaking much more if they are in a boat that fits them. Smaller-sized youth kayaks are scaled-down versions of Lifetime’s regular recreational kayaks. The Lifetime Wave 60 is only six feet long. Its short length makes it much easier to control and lighter to carry. The sit-on-top style is user-friendly and the back of the kayak has a swim-up deck for easy re-entry. The Wave 60 kayak is recommended for ages five and up and has a 130-pound weight capacity.

Kayaking is a great way to spend quality time together. Peaceful days on the water create lasting memories and can start a lifetime of being active in the outdoors. If the kids are too young to paddle their own kayak, consider a tandem: Lifetime’s sit-on-top tandems are easily controlled by a single adult and allow kids to paddle as much as they want.

The best advice we can offer is to always test paddle before buying any boat. Of course, that’s a challenge at most of the big box outlets where many recreational kayaks are sold. Try to borrow a Lifetime kayak from a friend for a test paddle in real-world conditions. The more time you can spend on the water in a similar style of kayak, the better the purchasing decision you will make.

Here are answers to some of the most common online questions about Lifetime kayaks.

Are Lifetime kayaks good?

Lifetime kayaks are affordable, easy to use and relatively durable. Does Lifetime make good kayaks for you? It depends on the type of paddler you are. Lifetime kayaks are a great match for new paddlers and casual anglers who just want to float around for a few hours or explore calm waters close to shore. If you are an experienced kayaker seeking a fast boat with lots of storage space, look elsewhere.
Lifetime kayak models

Lifetime makes a wide variety of recreational kayak models suited for different uses and body types. These include sit-inside kayaks, solo and tandem sit-on-tops, fishing kayaks and youth kayaks.
Who makes Lifetime kayaks?

Lifetime kayaks are made by Utah-based sporting goods brand, Lifetime Products. They are known for making other outdoor equipment such as basketball nets, patio furniture and playground equipment. Lifetime specializes in the use of durable high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in their products.
Where are Lifetime kayaks manufactured?

Wondering if Lifetime kayaks are made in the USA? Like all their products, Lifetime kayaks are built in their Utah manufacturing facility.

What is a Lifetime kayak made of?

Lifetime kayaks are made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic through a process called blow-molding. Blow-molding is a common way to make plastic products that are strong and affordable. A plastic tube is heated, and a mold is pressed around it. Air is then blown into the plastic, which expands into the mold.
Are Lifetime kayaks rotomolded?

Lifetime kayaks are blow-molded in their Utah manufacturing facility, using high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which keeps their kayaks cheap.
How much do Lifetime kayaks weigh?

The weight of a Lifetime kayak depends on the model. Weights range from 40 lbs to over 100 lbs. Longer kayaks weigh more, as do sit-on-tops compared to sit-in kayaks, simply because they use more material. Polyethylene plastic—like that used in all Lifetime kayaks—is one of the heavier materials to build a kayak with; those looking for a lighter kayak should seek out thermoformed plastic or composite material options.

Carry A Whistle (And A Light For Night Use)

Every paddler should have a whistle attached to his/her life jacket.
Carry a light at night. Consider carrying a distress signal device.

Lifetime kayak price

Lifetime kayaks are very affordable. Lifetime adult sit-inside kayaks cost $500 to $600. Lifetime sit-on-top kayaks start at $440. Kids kayaks are even cheaper, under $250.

How much does a Lifetime kayak cost compared to other kayak brands? Lifetime kayaks are on the lower end of the price range. These no-nonsense recreational kayaks are simply designed with rudimentary outfitting to keep costs low. If you are looking for bells and whistles, look to other (more expensive) kayak companies.
Lifetime kayak dealers

Curious where to buy Lifetime kayaks? They are available through many different sources, including direct from the manufacturer. Brick-and-mortar Lifetime kayak retailers include many big-box stores like Home Depot, Dick’s Sporting Goods or Walmart. You can also get a Lifetime kayak delivered to your door through Amazon.
Lifetime kayak warranty

All Lifetime kayaks come with a five-year limited warranty.
Holes in Lifetime kayak

If you are new to the world of sit-on-top kayaks, you may be wondering why there are holes in the deck of your kayak. These are scuppers, holes designed to drain any water that splashes onto the deck, like a self bailer. The rubber valves also prevent large amounts of water from gushing up from below.

Lifetime kayak comparison

Pelican vs Lifetime kayaks

Pelican kayaks are a behemoth manufacturer producing over 100 different kayak models. Like Lifetime, they focus on recreational kayaks, making sit-inside and sit-on-tops. Pelican offers more variety in their kayak range. Some models land at comparable prices to Lifetime, while other Pelican kayaks are much more expensive. Many Pelican kayaks are made with twin-sheet thermoforming—a more costly process that makes these plastic kayaks much lighter.

If you are fine spending a bit of extra money for a lighter kayak, go for a Pelican. If you want to keep costs down with a basic boat, choose a Lifetime.
Perception vs Lifetime kayak

Compared to Lifetime, Perception kayaks are geared toward more experienced paddlers, with more refined outfitting and designs reflected in their higher prices. Expect to pay a bit more for a Perception, but you will be rewarded with a better-performing kayak. Perception kayaks also have more comfortable seating and adjustment options. Their longer, sleeker kayaks will be faster on the water.

If you want to commit to kayaking, spend the extra money and get a Perception. If you still aren’t sure if kayaking is for you, save the cash and choose a Lifetime. Once you’re in love with kayaking, you can always upgrade.

Vibe vs Lifetime kayak

Vibe makes high-end sit-on-top fishing kayaks. Vibe kayaks cost more than Lifetime kayaks but have many more features like advanced frame seats, rudders and optional pedal-drive or electric motor propulsion. These are kayaks for the serious kayak angler. If you’re hooked on kayak fishing, skip straight to Vibe kayaks.

If you’re more of a casual paddler and occasional angler, Lifetime kayaks get the job done at less cost.
Sun Dolphin vs Lifetime kayak

Like Lifetime, Sun Dolphin is another popular recreational kayak brand. They started out making old-fashioned pedal boats, and have since expanded to kayaks, paddleboards, dinghies and other recreational watercraft. Both brands make sit-inside, sit-on-top and youth kayaks with an emphasis on accessibility, affordability and stability.

Comparing the two brands, there are a few key differences. Sun Dolphin’s kayaks weigh 5 to 10 pounds less than equivalent models from Lifetime, while Lifetime kayaks tend to be a little cheaper. Both brands produce durable and reliable kayaks. Slight differences with specific models may be the deciding factor for you, like additional bungees, hatch shape or color.
Ascend vs Lifetime kayak

Ascend kayaks are comparable to Lifetime in price, and may be even cheaper. Like Lifetime, Ascend makes polyethylene recreational kayaks, with both sit-in or sit-on-top options available. They come in more neutral earth tones compared to Lifetime’s bright colors.

Both Ascend and Lifetime have large cockpits on their sit-inside kayaks for easy entry and ergonomic design for comfort on the water. Ascend’s open design may be easier for plus-size paddlers who still want a sit-in kayak. They also have a higher weight capacity, 300 lbs compared to 250 lbs on most Lifetime sit-ins. Ascend kayaks do not come with hatches like some Lifetimes, instead having an open back hull for on-deck storage.

If the hatch is something you want, opt for a Lifetime kayak. Both will be exceptionally stable and are good kayaks for beginners.
Emotion vs Lifetime kayaks

In 2011, Lifetime acquired Emotion Kayaks. Emotion is a widely-known recreational kayak manufacturer, and with the acquisition, Lifetime was able to source some of their quality designs and styles. Today, the Emotion Tide 103 sit-in kayak is made by Lifetime. Some older Emotion models may still be found on store floors. Expect them to closely resemble the modern Lifetime kayaks in design and performance.

Decorated Kayaks Illuminate Copenhagen Canals (Video)

Paddling Magazine Staff

December 25, 2021

Approximately 700 kayakers gathered on a Copenhagen canal earlier this month to celebrate St Lucia Day. Their kayaks were illuminated with festive string lights and luminous decor, creating a visual display that encompassed the festive spirit of the holidays.

[ Also watch: Florida’s Bioluminescent Kayaking In Clear Kayaks ]

Also known as the “Feast of Saint Lucy ”, St Lucia Day is a Christian feast day observed during the run-up to Christmas on December 13. “It’s a peaceful time,” said Lucia Parade organizer Gustavo Cordes.

[ View all Recreational Kayaks in the Paddling Buyer’s Guide ]

In the video, kayakers can be seen gathered together to share the celebration and sing songs from the water. “It is a real success. People love it,” said Cordes. Catch the best parts here.

The Send Boys Get Sendy In Kenya (Video)

Paddling Magazine Staff

December 22, 2021

It comes as no surprise that the latest Send edit is jam-packed with adventure and nail-biting moments. Dane Jackson, Bren Orton, Adrian Mattern and the rest of the crew recently journeyed to Western Kenya to go kayaking on some of the country’s most beautiful and technical whitewater rivers.

[ Also watch: Bren Orton Gets Sucked Under A Tree ]

Paired with Bren’s first-hand narration of the trip, we catch glimpses of narrow creeks winding through thick jungle, chocolate milk-colored waterfalls, and Kenyan locals looking to give kayaking a try.

[ Watch more Whitewater Videos here ]

But that’s not to say there weren’t any hairy moments along the way. Watch the team deal with a hippo encounter, a river-wide sieve, a nasty tree-pin and more. Catch the video here.

Best Pedal Kayaks For 2026

Virginia Marshall

December 22, 2021

man pedals a pedal kayak from Perception — Feature photo: Courtesy Perception Kayaks

First of all, why a pedal kayak? If you are new to kayaking, or even (perhaps especially) if you are a long-time paddler, you may be asking yourself this question. Pedal-drive kayaks offer some unique advantages over more traditional paddle kayaks, like hands-free kayaking, increased range and stability, and the ability to enjoy both leg propulsion and paddle power from the same kayak.

Pedal drive kayaks have exploded in popularity, particularly among kayak anglers. Being able to control the movement of a kayak without a paddle allows anglers to focus on casting and fighting fish. Some pedal drives allow a kayaker to move forward, turn, reverse, hold position and even travel sideways or diagonally—all without touching a paddle.

The increased efficiency of leg propulsion has also allowed manufacturers to build larger, more stable kayaks for stand-up fishing. These boats are much heavier than basic paddle kayaks, but the pedal drives make them easy to propel despite the added weight. And the appeal of a spacious, stable kayak extends beyond fishing to include families and recreational kayakers who want a kayak that doesn’t feel wobbly in the water.

When buying a pedal-powered kayak, there are some things to keep top of mind. One consideration is price: the complexity of the pedal drive mechanism and the specialized hull designs mean that you should expect to pay more for a foot pedal kayak than a conventional paddle kayak. Read on for our advice for choosing the best pedal kayak for you, whether you are shopping for a new boat or exploring the used market.

woman paddles the Eddyline Caribbean 10 kayak under rosy skies

Best Kayaks For 2025

Shopping for a used pedal kayak?

Since Hobie permanently revolutionized kayaking with the invention of the original MirageDrive pedal kayak in 1997, pedal powered kayaks have been in a state of constant evolution. New and improved pedal drive systems emerge every few years, with the latest innovations offering more power, lighter weight, better reliability and groundbreaking advancements like the ability to pedal not just forward and reverse, but to also maneuver sideways and diagonally.

Despite ever-changing technology, pedal drive kayaks can last for many years if they are properly cared for. With 25 years of history, there are a lot of options for those interested in a used pedal kayak. You may be able to find earlier versions of the best pedal kayaks of 2022 on the used market. These earlier models can offer great value for anyone just starting out or on a budget while shopping for a high-quality pedal kayak.

With any used kayak purchase, think about what type of kayaking you are planning to do most of the time. Will you be using the pedal kayak for casual exploration and fitness, or more as a dedicated fishing platform? If so, will you fish in shallow water, rivers or offshore waters? The previous owner may tell you what they used the kayak for and how it performed, and you can compare this with your own kayaking goals.

Finding a good foot-pedal kayak on the used market could be as simple as approaching your local outfitters and asking if they have any boats from their rental fleet available for purchase. Another option is to start with an online search, like “pedal kayak Craigslist” or “pedal kayak eBay”. Along with Facebook Marketplace and other online classifieds, you can also reach out to specialized interest groups, such as a local kayak angling club, to help you find fishing-ready, pedal-powered kayaks.

When shopping for a used pedal kayak, be sure to thoroughly inspect the boat, paying particular attention to the pedal drive and outfitting.

Pedal drive

Pedal drive mechanisms are designed to be robust, but it’s still important to check a used pedal drive for any wear or damage that could affect its operation. Check to see that the pedals, prop or fins move as they should, and that there’s no binding or unusual sounds. The mechanism should move smoothly without resistance or grinding noises—if the propulsion unit sounds like it’s packed with sand, it probably is.

Also check to see that the pedal drive raises or retracts as designed. Nothing beats an on-water test drive, but if you can’t get the boat in the water, elevate it off the ground so that you can complete a full inspection of the pedal drive in action. Keep in mind that a replacement pedal drive can run upwards of $700, so you want to be very sure that this critical component is working as it should!

Outfitting

As technology has changed, pedal kayak manufacturers have updated features and outfitting to reflect the newest trends. Newer models may have more comfortable seating, better gear tracks and more rod holders. Keep in mind that if the used boat you are considering doesn’t have all the features you want, you can always add or update them later. Aftermarket seats, rigging and accessories are widely available.

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

Pedal kayak buying guide

Even after you’ve read a few articles and spoken with kayakers who love their pedal drives, you may be wondering, Should I buy a pedal kayak? And, if so, what type or brand of pedal kayak? Chat with more experienced kayakers who use pedal drive kayaks in the environments you wish to explore. This will help you better understand which boats are best- suited to these waters, trip lengths and activities.

If you are passionate about fishing, speak with kayak anglers from both paddle and pedal camps to get a sense of which may work best for you. This list will also answer many of the questions you may have when it comes to buying and using pedal kayaks.

What is a pedal kayak?

A pedal kayak is any kayak that uses foot propulsion—by means of a pedal drive that turns a propeller or moves fins under the hull—to power the boat. Most pedal-powered kayaks can also be propelled with a paddle, although these boats tend to be wider and heavier than standard paddle kayaks, making them less efficient and harder to move with upper body muscles.

Some pedal-drive kayaks also have mounts for using a trolling motor or a sail, adding even more versatility to their propulsion options.
How does a pedal kayak work?

A pedal kayak uses an innovative through-hull mechanism that translates the energy from spinning or pushing the pedals to a propeller or pair of fins beneath the hull. Pedal kayak fins are an ingenious example of biomimicry—that is, nature-inspired innovation that copies forms or designs found in the natural world.

In the case of pedal kayaks, the movement and shape of the fins emulate the incredible efficiency of a penguin’s wings as it “flies” underwater.
Can you paddle a pedal kayak?

While it is technically possible to paddle any kayak, including a pedal kayak, the enjoyment you take from paddling (and the efficiency) will have much to do with the width, weight and shape of the kayak. The wider and heavier a kayak is, the more difficult (and slower) it will be to paddle.

For this reason, the largest pedal kayaks designed with standup use in mind are not well-suited to paddling. Look for a lighter, narrower pedal kayak if you’re hoping to enjoy both pedaling and paddling.
Types of pedal kayaks

There is truly a pedal kayak for everyone, with designs ranging from ultimate fishing platforms that cater to the diehard kayak angler, to more generalist models for fitness and recreation. On both ends of the spectrum, users can also choose the material that best suits their needs—whether that’s a durable rotomolded plastic construction, lighter thermoformed plastic layup, or an inflatable design that can be packed into a duffle for storage and transportation.

There are also two types of pedal drives: push pedal and rotational pedal. The push pedal mechanism utilizes pedals that are pushed and pulled in an alternating motion to transfer energy to fins mounted beneath the kayak. A rotational pedal drive is more like a bicycle where the force is applied in constant rotation to turn a propeller. Fins and propellers have different advantages—with passionate fans on both sides—so choosing a system may simply come down to deciding which you most enjoy using.
Pedal vs paddle kayak

Pedal kayaks and paddle kayaks each have their different strengths and environments where they excel. Choose a pedal power kayak if hands-free and/or standup use is important to you, or if you are looking for a stable, efficient sit-on-top kayak for covering longer distances on open water.

If you are looking for a simple, lighter weight, inexpensive kayak with the option to sit on top or sit inside, then a paddle kayak may be perfect for you. Paddle kayaks are also better suited to rivers, shallows and weed-choked lakes.

Pedal boat vs pedal kayak

A pedal kayak is designed for efficient and enjoyable day trips on a wide variety of waterways. Pedal kayaks are available in one-person models, or tandem models where one person sits directly behind the other, allowing for a faster hull shape with greater maneuverability.

A traditional pedal boat, on the other hand, is like a dock with pedals—slow, heavy, awkward to maneuver and best suited to leisurely excursions where speed and distance are not important. Pedal boats are propelled by two people sitting side-by-side, making them nearly as wide as they are long.
Pedal kayak vs trolling motor

Can’t decide between a pedal kayak and a motorized kayak? A growing number of pedal kayaks can also easily accommodate an electric trolling motor. Adding a trolling motor to your pedal kayak is a great option if you are looking to spend longer on the water, extend your range or increase the versatility of your ultimate fishing kayak.
Are pedal kayaks worth it?

Hands-free kayaking, ease of use and greater versatility are just some of the reasons for pedal kayaks’ booming popularity. Pedal kayaks also offer tremendous advantages for anglers, since they allow casting and reeling on the move, and sometimes standup fishing.

When considering whether these boats are worth the added expense, keep in mind that many pedal kayaks also have specialized features that increase their value, such as sophisticated seating, rod holders and other accessories.
Fastest pedal kayak

Some of the fastest pedal kayaks tested include the Hobie Mirage Lynx with Turbofins, the Old Town Predator PDL and the Ocean Kayak Malibu Pedal.
Lightest pedal kayak

Hobie makes two of the lightest pedal kayaks: the Hobie Mirage Lynx is an 11-foot pedal kayak that weighs just 63 lbs fully rigged (47 lbs without the drive unit). Hobie’s inflatable hybrid is even lighter—the Mirage iTrek 9 Ultralight has a fully rigged weight of 37 lbs.

For anglers, the Slayer Propel 10 from Native Watercraft is the lightest 10-foot pedal drive fishing kayak on the market, weighing in at 62 pounds (without the drive unit).
Most stable pedal kayak

Most pedal drive kayaks are inherently stable as their hulls are wider and heavier than traditional kayak designs. The pedal drive itself also adds stability to the kayak, as it acts something like a daggerboard on a sailboat to steady the kayak in the water. Among the most stable pedal fishing kayaks are the super-sized Hobie Pro Angler 14 and sturdy Old Town Predator PDL.
How fast can a pedal kayak go?

Pedal kayak top speeds will vary depending on the kayak’s length, hull shape, weight and type of pedal drive. For an average pedal kayaker, expect your sustained speed to be about 3-4 mph (5-6.5 kph) with a sprint speed of 7-8 mph (11-13 kph).
Are pedal kayaks faster?

It is a commonly held belief that pedal kayaks are faster than paddle kayaks. In fact, most head-to-head tests have shown that pedal and paddle are similar in terms of average speed. A paddle kayak may actually sprint faster, while a pedal kayak has greater torque for propelling heavier loads faster.

Of course, each kayak’s top speed will depend on the length, weight and shape of the hull, and the proficiency and endurance of the kayaker. For novice kayakers, pedaling is more intuitive and less reliant on technique—therefore, pedal kayaks can be faster than paddle kayaks for beginners.
Are pedal kayaks easier?

For many novice kayakers, pedaling comes more naturally than paddling. It takes practice and instruction to develop good paddling technique and the stamina to paddle longer distances without tiring. Pedaling, on the other hand, uses the larger and more powerful muscles of your legs, so you can go farther, faster.

Additionally, pedal mechanisms also make you more stable. Coupled with a wider hull, this can make pedal kayaks feel less prone to flipping over when you’re still finding your balance.
How far can you pedal a kayak?

How far you can pedal a kayak will depend on many factors, including your fitness, the weather and water conditions, the design of the kayak and more. Start with shorter trips, and increase your distance as you gain fitness and experience.
Pedal-powered kayak price

Pedal kayak prices range widely, from about $900 for a budget pedal kayak to nearly $4,000 for a premium pedal fishing kayak. Specialized pedal sailing kayaks can cost even more, up to $5,300 for a one-person kayak and $8,300 for a two-person kayak.

Why are pedal kayaks so expensive?

Pedal kayaks are more expensive than basic paddle kayaks because of the complexity of the pedal-drive mechanism, and the specialization of the pedal kayak itself. Keep in mind that more innovation, materials and accessories are required to produce a pedal kayak compared to the average recreational paddle kayak.
Pedal kayak brands

Well-known pedal kayak brands with great track records include Hobie, Native Watercraft, Old Town, Ocean Kayak, Wilderness Systems, NuCanoe, Jackson Kayak, Brooklyn Kayak Company (BKC), Propel, Perception Kayaks, Viking Kayaks, Vibe Kayaks, Bonafide, Eddyline Kayaks and Pelican International.
Where to buy a pedal kayak

The best place to buy a new pedal kayak is from your local kayak shop. Check kayak manufacturers’ websites to find your nearest dealer. Entry-level, budget pedal kayaks are also available from many major retailers, including Dick’s Sporting Goods, Amazon, Costco and Walmart.

Pedal kayak reviews

Browse these reviews of the top pedal kayaks through the lens of your own interests. Do you relate to the writer? Do their experiences match what you are looking to do? The best pedal kayaks are well designed and comfortable, but they may be aimed at generalist kayakers or a more specialized market.

These reviews will help you find the best pedal kayak to suit your needs.

Best Perception Kayaks For 2026

Jake O'Flaherty

December 22, 2021

Photo: Courtesy Perception Kayaks

Perception has been making kayaks for over 40 years. Throughout the decades, their boat designs constantly evolved, playing with hull shapes, volume and materials to build better performing kayaks. In 1977, Perception introduced some of the first rotomolded plastic kayaks, a revolutionary innovation that paved the way for kayaking’s explosive growth in the 1990s and early 2000s. Until that point, kayakers had been limited to hand-made composite craft.

Durable, affordable and—most importantly—easily manufactured, plastic kayaks allowed for mass production and distribution. Throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s, Perception Kayaks brought the sport to the general public with industry-leading recreational, touring and whitewater designs. Their experimentation with kayak design led to many of the modern shapes we see today.

Today, Perception Kayaks is owned by the Confluence Outdoor group, which also includes five other paddling companies, among them Wilderness Systems and Dagger Kayaks. In more recent years, Perception’s focus has shifted towards recreational sit-inside and sit-on-top kayaks, fishing kayaks and day touring boats. These kayaks continue to be made with durable rotomolded polyethylene plastic, keeping the prices low.

Perception kayaks are great starter kayaks for families, recreational paddlers and kayak anglers with limited budgets. With a Perception kayak, paddlers will get solid performance and some features that are found on more expensive models. As most of these are recreational kayaks, they are best suited for casual paddlers exploring calm waters on shorter outings.

If this sounds like your paddling goals, read on to learn more about the best Perception kayaks. This guide includes links to specific models and reviews, advice for buying new and used Perception kayaks, and answers to common questions.

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

Shopping for a used Perception kayak?

If you can find a used Perception kayak, you’ll spend less and get more value out of your dollars. Perception kayaks have been around for over 40 years, and they are distributed across North America. There’s a good chance you will be able to find both current and classic models on the used market. Keep these pointers in mind when shopping for a used Perception kayak.

Knowing where to look is the first step. To find used Perception kayaks, check online classifieds like eBay, Kijiji, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Browsing these websites or searching, for example, “eBay Perception kayak” may yield models that are now discontinued. Even though these kayaks are no longer being produced, they are still great designs.

Some models were discontinued to avoid competition or redundancy with Dagger, another brand in the Confluence Outdoor family, and others may have just gone out of style. If they are in good condition, these older models may be a perfect fit for your needs.

Keep in mind that it may be difficult to source replacement parts for discontinued models. Seats, foot pegs, buckles and bungees are all parts that may need to be replaced on an older, used kayak. If some of these parts are missing or damaged, it may not be a deal-breaker. Contact Perception and see if they have any compatible replacement parts. If you are handy, you may also be able to improvise a repair with parts from your local hardware store.

Some of the used Perception kayaks you find may be whitewater kayaks. When whitewater kayaking entered the mainstream in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, durable plastic kayaks like the Perception Mirage and Dancer were at the forefront of innovation. While the outfitting may be rudimentary compared to modern whitewater kayaks, these early boats are just as fun to paddle today as when they were introduced decades ago.

If you are looking to get into whitewater paddling, grabbing a cheap, older kayak is a great way to enter the sport while saving money for whitewater courses and instruction. Closely inspect a used whitewater kayak, checking for any cracking along the hull resulting from hard impacts.

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

Photo: Courtesy Perception Kayaks

Perception kayak buying guide

Understanding the different types of Perception kayaks will help you find the most suitable kayak for your needs. Their current lineup includes six different categories: sit-on-top recreational, sit-inside recreational, sit-inside day touring, fishing, tandem and kids kayaks. Let’s take a closer look at these categories, along with some of the models within them, to help you find the best Perception kayak for your paddling aspirations.

Sit-on-top kayaks

Sit-on-top kayaks are the easiest kayaks to use. These kayaks have open decks and wide hulls that are extremely stable. Unlike sit-inside kayaks, on a sit-on-top, the paddler’s legs do not slide inside the kayak. Because you don’t need to lower yourself into the kayak, a sit-on-top is easier to enter and exit. If you capsize or fall off in the water, you can just clamber back aboard. Sit-inside kayaks require more technique to re-enter and the closed cockpits can make some new paddlers feel confined or claustrophobic.

Sit-on-top kayaks’ high stability and open design makes them great for casual recreational paddlers on sheltered waters and slow-moving rivers. Many have molded-in foot rests so that multiple people can share the same kayak without needing to adjust anything. Because there are few moving pieces on sit-on-top kayaks, fewer things can break.

Perception offers a wide selection of sit-on-top recreational designs, from the simple, budget-priced Rambler and Access to the more feature-rich Pescador and pedal drive-equipped Pescador Pilot and Crank, which allow you to propel the kayak with your legs. The Perception Hi Life is a hybrid sit-on-top/paddleboard that is so stable that you can stand up on it.

The candy-colored Hi Five is a sit-on-top kayak sized and designed specifically for kids. Many anglers also prefer sit-on-tops, and most of Perception’s fishing kayaks are made in this style (more on those below).

Sit-inside kayaks

Perception’s sit-inside kayaks range from the short Drift 9.5 recreational kayak and kid-friendly Prodigy XS to the sleek Carolina 14 touring kayak. Sitting inside the kayak gives a bit more control than sit-on-top kayaks as the paddler’s legs engage with the sides of the cockpit.

They also provide some protection from sun, rain and splashing waves on your legs as you paddle. If you plan on graduating to a longer sea kayak, or you want a bit more control, choose a sit-inside. These are great starter boats to help you grow your skills.

Consider length when you are looking at sit-inside kayaks. Generally, longer kayaks—like those in Perception’s day touring lineup, including the Expression, Conduit and Carolina models—are quicker and track (travel in a straight line) better. Shorter, wider kayaks like the Drift 9.5 and JoyRide are much more stable and turn more readily. They are also easier to store and transport. If you plan on paddling with your friends, look at their boat lengths. You should try to get something similar so that you are not struggling to keep up.

Remember that most of these kayaks, with the exception of the Carolina 14—do not have bulkheads (interior walls within the hull of the kayak). Without bulkheads, a sit-inside kayak won’t float well if it capsizes. For this reason, sit-inside kayaks without bulkheads should only be used in sheltered waters on calm days. If you plan to paddle offshore (further than you could swim), it’s imperative that your kayak has bulkheads.

Fishing kayaks

Fishing kayaks use similar hull designs to recreational kayaks, but include fishing-specific outfitting and accessories. Rod holders, tank wells and tackle storage areas are standard. Another common feature is a frame seat that is more supportive and allows you to sit higher on the water for easier casting, stalking and fighting fish.

Perception’s most stable fishing kayak, the Outlaw 11.5, features an open deck with grip pads so you can stand up for an even better perspective. Perception’s current lineup includes four sit-on-top fishing kayaks and one sit-inside, the Sound. Their popular Pescador series offers three models, including the pedal-powered Pescador Pilot, which allows anglers to keep their hands free for fishing on the move.

Photo: Courtesy Perception Kayaks

Tandem kayaks

Tandem kayaks have two seats and are meant to be paddled by two people. Tandems have higher weight capacities and more stability than solo kayaks. They’re a great option to get on the water with a less experienced kayaker or a child. Perception sells three recreational tandem models: the sit-on-top Rambler 13.5 and Tribe 13.5, and the sit-inside Cove 14.5.

Use this as a start, and remember that online research will only get you so far. The best advice we can offer is to always test paddle before buying any boat. Of course, that’s a challenge at most of the big box stores where Perception kayaks are sold. Try to borrow a Perception kayak from a friend for a test paddle in real-world conditions. The more time you can spend on the water in a similar style of kayak, the better the purchasing decision you will make.

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Perception kayaks.

Are Perception kayaks good?

Perception Kayaks makes good quality recreational and fishing kayaks priced in the low- to mid-range. They have a variety of models, including tandem and kids kayaks, all made with durable plastic materials. Read the rest of the Perception Kayaks Buying Guide for more details.
Types of Perception kayaks

Types of Perception kayaks include fishing kayaks, pedal-powered kayaks, sit-inside and sit-on-top recreational kayaks, day touring kayaks, as well as tandem (two-person) kayaks and kids kayaks. Perception fishing kayaks are exceptionally stable and have rod holders and accessories for more efficient angling.

Perception Kayaks began making whitewater kayaks in the 1970s, and some Perception whitewater kayaks are still available on the used market.
Perception kayak models

Perception Kayaks’ current lineup includes over 25 different kayak models. These range in length from the 6-foot Hi Five kids kayak up to the 14.5-foot Cove tandem kayak. Perception makes sit-inside and sit-on-top kayaks for recreational paddling, day touring and fishing.
Discontinued Perception kayaks

With over 40 years of boat-building history, there have been a great many now-discontinued Perception kayaks through the decades. In the 1980s through early 2000s, Perception Kayaks was a key player and industry leader in whitewater kayaking and made river runners, playboats and slalom kayaks.

While Perception no longer makes whitewater kayaks, you’ll still find plenty of Perception whitewater kayaks—as well as discontinued touring and recreational kayaks—on used classifieds pages.
What is the lightest Perception kayak?

The lightest Perception kayak in their current lineup is the Prodigy XS, for kids and petite paddlers. It weighs just 26 lbs. For other paddlers, the Drift 9.5 weighs 40 lbs.
Perception kayak weight

Perception kayaks are average in weight compared to other recreational kayaks, ranging from 26-pound kids kayaks to 85-pound fishing kayaks. Like most other recreational and fishing kayak manufacturers, Perception Kayaks makes their boats from rotomolded plastic.

Thermoformed kayaks, such as those made by brands like Delta or Eddyline, will be lighter than similar-sized rotomolded kayaks. Composite kayaks, like Swift’s carbon fiber recreational boats, are even lighter (but much more expensive).
Perception kayak weight limit

Except for their youth kayaks, the weight limit of Perception kayaks is at least 300 lbs. Sit-on-top kayaks have a higher weight capacity, with tandem kayaks having the highest weight limits, generally sufficient for two adult paddlers. This is average compared to similar recreational kayak brands.
Perception kayak dimensions

When viewing kayaks, many companies, including Perception, have a number in the kayak’s name (for example the Carolina 12.0). The number indicates the length of the kayak in feet. Perception kayaks range from 6-foot kids kayaks to 14.5-foot tandems.

Other dimensions like the width and volume are found in the product specifications. The width refers to the kayak at the widest point. The cockpit size (for sit-inside kayaks) is another dimension worth looking at, but it’s best to try a kayak in person to truly know if it is going to be comfortable for you.

What are Perception kayaks made of?

Perception kayaks are made of high-density polyethylene. This strong and inexpensive plastic is great for kayaks; it bends and flexes instead of breaking. Although it isn’t the lightest kayak material, it is quite durable.
How are Perception kayaks made?

Perception kayaks are made by rotomolding high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This process is commonly used for making kayaks. It involves pouring plastic pellets into a shaped mold. The mold is then heated and rotated so the plastic melts into the shape of the kayak.
Where are Perception kayaks made?

Perception Kayaks are made in their Greenville, South Carolina, factory.
Who makes Perception kayaks?

Perception Kayaks’ expert molders and craftspeople make their kayaks in a facility in Greenville, South Carolina, alongside sister brands in the Confluence Outdoor group (including Wilderness Systems, Dagger, Mad River, Adventure Technology and Boardworks).
Who owns Perception kayaks?

Perception Kayaks is owned by Confluence Outdoor, a group of six paddlesports brands that also includes Wilderness Systems, Dagger, Mad River, Adventure Technology and Boardworks. All of the company’s products are made in the USA in Greenville, South Carolina.
Where can I buy a Perception kayak?

Perception kayaks are distributed through outdoor retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods or Dunham’s Sports, as well as many independent paddle shops. Use their dealer locator tool to find the one nearest to you.
When will Perception kayaks be back in stock?

Like many outdoor gear companies during the pandemic, Perception Kayaks experienced a boom in sales coupled with delays in the supply chain, decimating their stock. They are working to fill orders, and the company’s recommendation is to contact local Perception dealers for the most up-to-date information.
What happened to Perception kayaks?

Perception kayaks have moved away from whitewater kayaking and touring, instead focusing on recreational and fishing kayaks. Current models are widely available across North America, and are still being produced in their South Carolina manufacturing facility.
Perception kayak warranty

Perception kayaks come with a 5-year limited warranty for the hull and deck of their kayaks. Parts and outfitting like foot pegs, bungees and seats have a 1-year limited warranty. You must register your kayak within 30 days of purchase to be eligible for the warranty.

Compare Perception kayaks

Wilderness Systems vs Perception kayaks

Both Perception and Wilderness Systems kayaks are owned by Confluence Outdoor and produced in Greenville, South Carolina. Perception kayaks are more entry-level, with less refined outfitting and a lower sticker price. Wilderness Systems kayaks are targeted to a mid-high price range, reflected by the construction and outfitting options.

They also make longer touring kayaks like the Tempest and Tsunami, as well as top-of-the-line fishing kayaks. If you are looking for a touring kayak that can handle rougher conditions, or you’re an avid kayak angler looking for all the bells and whistles, opt for Wilderness Systems. If you want to save some money and still get a quality recreational or fishing kayak, choose one of Perception’s boats.
Perception vs Hobie kayaks

Hobie exclusively makes pedal-driven sit-on-top kayaks for recreation and fishing. If you are looking for a pedal drive kayak, Hobie has many more options to choose from than Perception Kayaks, including a line of Mirage Inflatable pedal kayaks. In addition to inflatables, Hobie also makes thermoform pedal kayaks, which are lighter than rotomolded ones, and sailing kayaks with pedal drives.

Hobie’s Mirage system is one of the best on the market, making pedaling easy and efficient. If you’re willing to spend more on a pedal drive kayak, look at Hobie kayaks. If you have a limited budget, Perception’s two pedal drive models—the Crank and Pescador Pilot—are durable and cost less.
Sun Dolphin vs Perception kayaks

Sun Dolphin kayaks are another recreational kayak brand. Their kayaks are entry-level in terms of pricing and performance. If budget is the sole motivator in your kayak purchase, Sun Dolphin offers cheaper kayaks. Perception’s kayaks cost a bit more but have more refined seating systems, storage compartments and their longer kayaks are faster than Sun Dolphin’s.

If you’re looking for a kayak that can cover a bit more distance, or is outfitted better, opt for a Perception.
Perception kayak vs Lifetime

Lifetime brand makes low-end recreational kayaks for casual paddlers. They are sold through big-box stores and online retailers like Walmart and Amazon. These cheap kayaks are adequate for someone who doesn’t want to make much of a financial commitment to kayaking, or just wants a boat to use for short outings.

For a bit more money, Perception kayaks have more refined outfitting and designs for improved comfort and performance. With over 25 models, including tandem, kids and fishing kayaks, there are more options to choose from with Perception. Bottom line: Lifetime kayaks will perform well enough for an hour or so on calm water.

If you are looking for something more than that, choose Perception.
Vibe vs Perception kayak

Vibe makes premium sit-on-top fishing kayaks. This small company focuses exclusively on kayaks for fishing. They are mid-range in terms of price but have lots of different customization options. If you’re a dedicated kayak angler, you would be hard-pressed to find a kayak with more versatility than Vibe’s Shearwater 125.

This kayak has jet propulsion as well as pedal-drive and paddle-power options. Vibe kayaks come at a higher price than Perception’s fishing kayaks, so if you just want something simple or are more of a casual angler, choose Perception. For the serious kayak fisherman, Vibe kayaks are a great option.

Dagger vs Perception kayak

Both Perception and Dagger kayak brands are owned by the Confluence Outdoor group. While Perception offers recreational and fishing kayaks—most of them sit-on-top designs—Dagger focuses on whitewater and performance day touring kayaks. These kayaks are for paddlers who want to push the limits a bit more, playing in the surf or current.

Dagger kayaks are made of burlier plastic than Perception kayaks to handle heavier impacts. Most Dagger kayaks are sit-inside designs with tighter-fitting cockpits to allow more control of the boat, compared to the spacious cockpits or sit-on-top designs of Perception kayaks.

Look at Dagger kayaks if you plan to do any sort of rough-water or whitewater paddling. If you’re content to stick to calm waters, Perception’s kayaks better suit your needs.
Ocean Kayak vs Perception

Ocean Kayak makes sit-on-top kayaks exclusively, with more sit-on-top options than Perception. Some of the sit-on-tops are comparable between these two companies, especially the lower-priced ones. However, Ocean Kayak also makes sit-on-top kayaks designed for more open water touring, like the Tetra 12, which is longer and faster than any of Perception’s one-person sit-on-tops.

If you’re set on a sit-on-top, take a look at the Ocean Kayak lineup; if you are looking for a sit-inside kayak, Perception is the obvious choice.
Pelican kayak vs Perception kayak

Pelican makes a vast selection of recreational kayaks, many of which are extremely similar to Perception in price and design. Pelican’s kayaks are made with RAM-X, a high molecular weight polyethylene. This material results in a slightly lighter kayak than Perception’s high-density polyethylene boats. Like Perception, there are lots of different Pelican kayaks to choose from.

If you are trying to decide between these brands, it’s best to compare individual models of kayaks. Where they do differ is in some of the more specialized boats. Perception’s Carolina day touring kayak is unparalleled by any of the boats Pelican makes.

If you are looking for a day touring kayak that acts much like a small sea kayak, look at Perception’s longer sit-inside models.
Ascend vs Perception kayak

Ascend is Bass Pro Shop’s in-house kayak brand. They have a small selection of sit-inside and sit-on-top kayaks mostly focused on fishing. These kayaks are very stable, with higher-than-average weight capacities. They are marginally cheaper than Perception kayaks.

Choose an Ascend kayak if you’re looking for a more simple kayak with lots of stability. Perception kayaks are a bit quicker on the water because of their tapered shape, and they have more options for pedal-driven kayaks or day touring.
Old Town vs Perception kayak

Both Perception and Old Town are well-established kayak brands with a reputation for making quality products. Like Perception, Old Town’s kayaks are also made with durable and inexpensive rotomolded plastic. Perception has more kayaks under $800 USD, so if you’re on a tight budget, choose Perception.

Old Town makes sit-on-top recreational kayaks as well as longer, sit-inside touring kayaks like the Looksha 17 (formerly the Necky Looksha). For kayaks longer than 13 feet, you will find more options from Old Town, making them a solid choice for those who enjoy longer tours.

Photo: Courtesy Perception Kayaks

Perception kayak reviews

Reviews are helpful tools to understand the kayak beyond the information given by the manufacturer. Reading reviews from other kayak users is helpful in deciding which boat will be best for you. As you read the reviews, consider where you plan to kayak, and the kind of conditions you’d like to paddle in. See if it matches what the reviewer describes.

Fishing Kayak Review: Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS

Paddling Magazine Staff

December 22, 2021

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS is a sit-on-top fishing kayak popular with anglers who want to get on the water without the price tag attached to many of today’s more elaborate fishing kayaks. The low cost and ease of use of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 help this beginner-friendly fishing kayak make sport fishing accessible to everyone.

Sun Dolphin is a Michigan-based kayak brand manufactured in the United States. It is the largest kayak manufacturer in the world by production volume. Sun Dolphin kayaks are so widely available across North America, you’d be hard pressed to find a big-box department store, hardware store or outdoor chain that doesn’t carry these boats. From Walmart to Tractor Supply Company, the availability and attractively low price of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS are two major reasons for the widespread popularity of this fishing kayak.

Sit-on-top kayaks like the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS are the most common style of fishing kayaks. A traditional sit-inside kayak has a hollow hull and a cockpit opening in which the paddler sits, legs extended under the deck. A sit-on-top design has more of a flat deck, on which there is a fixed seat or molded seating area. With a sit-on-top, the paddler is not enclosed within the kayak, but rather sits on top of the open deck enjoying more freedom of movement and access to gear, but less protection from the elements or waves.

Wear A Life Jacket

Everyone, even strong swimmers, needs to wear a life jacket at all times when on the water. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once you fall into the water. Even a light wind can blow any paddlecraft away from you, faster than you can swim.
Always wear a USCG-approved Level 70 or Type III life jacket designed for paddling.

Anglers value the open deck of a sit-on-top since it provides more accessible storage and mounting options for rods, tackle, fishing crates and other accessories. A sit-on-top kayak also allows anglers mobility on their craft. They can reach gear, cast, throw a leg over the side and, on the most stable sit-on-top models, even stand. A sit-on-top like the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 ft fishing kayak is also easier to climb on and off compared to sliding into a sit-inside kayak.

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS fishing kayak’s user-friendly design, along with its low price point and widespread availability at major retailers across North America, have given this boat a large following within the angling community. Read on for a full Journey 12 SS review to learn more about this popular fishing kayak.

Fishing Kayak Reviews

On the water with Sun Dolphin’s Journey 12

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 Specs

Length: 12’0” / 3.64 m

Width: 30.75” / 78 cm

Weight: 48 lbs / 22 kg

Capacity: 395 lbs / 179 kg

MSRP: $499 USD / $667 CAD

Performance

One of the most valued characteristics of any fishing kayak is stability. After all, anglers need to be able to concentrate on landing fish without worrying that they’re the one who’s going to be released into the water. Some users of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 ft fishing kayak report a “tippy” feel to the boat.

Think of a kayak as having two types of stability: how it feels when sitting flat on the water (known as “initial stability”), and how the kayak feels when tilted side-to-side (known as “secondary stability”). Secondary stability is most important in rough water, allowing a kayak to rock with waves passing underneath rather than capsizing.

Kayaks with a wide, flat hull generally have good initial stability, but are less balanced when tilted on edge.

Kayak’s with a rounded or V-shaped hull and rounded transition from the bottom of the kayak to the sidewall generally have better secondary stability, but may feel tippy when sitting flat on calm water.

With its rounded hull profile, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 favors good secondary stability rather than rock-solid initial stability. At 30.75 inches wide, it’s also a bit narrow compared to other fishing kayaks in its class, which may explain why users initially feel the kayak is “tippy.”

The sensation of a kayak tending to tip toward a side feels odd at first. If you find the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS feels unstable, try relaxing your lower body and letting the kayak sit how it wants to in the water. After a few outings, if you still feel uncomfortable, you may want to try a fishing kayak with a wider and flatter hull.

What a narrower, sleeker kayak like the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS trades off in stability, it makes up for in speed. A basic rule for kayak speed is that longer and narrower hulls are faster than shorter or wider hulls. At 12 feet long and just over 30 inches wide, the Journey 12 SS is quicker than many recreational fishing kayaks in its class.

Market and demographics

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS is an entry-level sit-on-top kayak and falls within the category of recreational fishing kayaks.

What makes the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 an entry-level kayak? The price point for one. The Journey 12 retails for $499 USD, this is at the very low end of the fishing kayak price scale. Sun Dolphin achieves this low price by keeping outfitting and features bare-bones, another reason this kayak rates as entry-level in a feature-hungry fishing market.

Recreational kayaks like the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 are best suited for paddling and fishing sheltered lakes and bays, as well as slow-moving rivers.

About the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS

Design

Design features and details

As mentioned earlier, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS is a sit-on-top kayak. This means the seating area and gear storage areas are molded into the deck of the kayak. This is in contrast to a sit-inside kayak design, where you slide your lower body into the enclosed or partially-enclosed cockpit of the kayak. The sit-on-top design allows more freedom of movement, easier entry and exit and better access to gear, but less protection from the elements or splashing waves.

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 has a pronounced V-shaped bow—like a sailboat or ship—that helps it cut through waves and deflect spray in choppy conditions. Combined with its high sides, this makes the Journey 12 a fairly dry ride on the sheltered waterways where it’s intended to be used.

A word of caution, however: Sun Dolphin doesn’t include scuppers on the Journey 12 SS. What’s a scupper, you ask? Scuppers are the drain holes commonly found under your legs and seat within the cockpit and tankwell of sit-on-top kayaks. Any water splashing into the kayak drains out through the holes. Some water can also enter through the holes. In calm conditions, water lapping up the scuppers can be unwanted. To avoid this, paddlers often use scupper plugs until water needs to be drained.

Without scuppers, the inevitable reality is that splashing waves, boat wakes, rain or paddle drips will enter the cockpit and have no means to escape. Because the seat is the lowest point within the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS, you can expect to find yourself sitting in a puddle.

A large kayak sponge is the easiest way to remove small amounts of water. But, should a large wave or hauling in a trophy lunker swamp the cockpit with water, a kayak bilge pump is useful to have handy. Fortunately, water in the boat is more of an inconvenience than a safety concern; unlike many sit-inside recreational kayaks, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 sit-on-top will remain floating and able to paddle even if swamped.

Carry A Waterproof VHF Radio, Use Your Phone Only As A Backup

A handheld VHF marine band radio allows you to communicate with the Coast Guard and other boat traffic. Use Channel 16 only for hailing and emergencies. The radio should be waterproof, because it is virtually certain to get wet.
A cell phone, even if in a waterproof case or sealable bag, might not work, so don’t rely on it as the primary means of emergency communication.

Material and construction

Sun Dolphin kayaks are built using high density polyethylene. This type of polyethylene, also referred to as HDPE, is a common material used in manufacturing recreational kayaks because it is an inexpensive yet durable plastic. HDPE is susceptible to damage from long-term UV exposure, so Sun Dolphin uses a UV-stabilized polyethylene that slows the degradation process. It’s also recommended that you store your Journey 12 fishing kayak indoors or away from direct sunlight to ensure the best performance over time.

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS fishing kayak accessories and outfitting

Remember, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS is an inexpensive kayak stripped of many bells and whistles to keep the price down. However, from bow to stern, the Sun Dolphin manages to squeeze in a number of useful, angler-specific outfitting features and accessories.

Near the bow of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 ft fishing kayak is a forward tankwell for storage. This tankwell is recessed into the deck of the kayak, and has bungee cord rigging over it to secure your gear. A small, screw-top hatch in the tankwell accesses below-deck storage for stashing items you don’t need to keep as handy. Do not assume this hatch is watertight. Any items that need to stay dry should be in a dry bag.

An appreciated outfitting feature within the cockpit are the adjustable foot braces. These sliding foot braces provide the ability to fine tune your leg position, with a greater range of adjustability than simple molded-in foot rests. Foot braces are critical to providing good support for efficient paddle strokes and paddler comfort.

The seat of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 is basic and bare-bones compared to the luxurious frame seats available on more expensive fishing kayaks. Some users complain that the thin seat pad and simple backband on the Journey 12 bucket seat do not provide adequate cushioning or support.

Another common remark is that the low positioning of the seat limits paddler reach, making it awkward for shorter paddlers to take comfortable strokes. Keep in mind that seat outfitting is generally easily modified with a few pieces of closed-cell foam and adhesive. This may be all you need to improve comfort and fit.

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 includes three rod holders. Two rod holders are flush-mounted into the kayak directly behind the cockpit. The third is a swiveling rod holder installed toward the front of the cockpit, between the paddler’s knees.

Most Journey owners find the forward rod holder is far enough forward it won’t cause an issue with paddle strokes.The swiveling capability can be useful to troll a line on a reverse drift along an undercut bank, or to have a rod ready for action at the first sight of tailing redfish.

Next to the cockpit is a bungee paddle holder. This is useful to stow your paddle while fishing.

The most unique feature on the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS is the removable storage pod that fits snugly in the kayak’s rear tankwell. The pod, which Sun Dolphin refers to as the P.A.C. (Portable Accessory Carrier), provides dry storage and can be easily removed if you prefer to use the open tankwell. You can even tow the P.A.C. behind the kayak if you need extra storage space.

The triangular shape of the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS front and rear tankwells accommodate smaller bags and boxes but do not fit the much-loved milk crates so many kayak anglers have come to adopt for ease of organization and transportation of tackle.

Besides the bungee paddle park, P.A.C., stern drain plug and forward rod holder, there aren’t many other Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS parts to consider. The lack of scupper holes means scupper plugs are not in any way needed.

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS mods

The Sun Dolphin Journey 12 provides a simple, bare-bones platform that kayak anglers can modify to suit their needs and preferences. Paddlers of the Journey 12 often upgrade the seat, install accessory mounts and even trolling motors.

Sun Dolphin itself doesn’t offer much in the way of custom accessories, so any modifications are the work of paddler innovation. Fortunately, the popularity of the Journey 12 means there is a large community of anglers using this kayak and documenting their DIY modifications on YouTube and elsewhere.

A seat upgrade is one of the most common user improvements. Anglers may opt to simply replace the thin seat with thicker foam, or install an elevated folding frame seat. Premium fishing kayaks often feature an elevated, lawnchair-style frame seat for enhanced comfort and a better view into the water. Some DIY modifiers create an elevated seat in the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 by installing a thick piece of foam paired with a folding seat, such as the Cascade Mountain Tech stadium seat or the GCI Sit Backer canoe seat. Keep in mind that the higher position of a frame seat may be more comfortable, but also reduces stability. Test any DIY mods out on calm waters near shore before paddling off to more remote fishing holes.

Know The Local Hazards

Check navigation charts before you launch.
Check with those who have local knowledge of man-made and natural hazards, e.g. low-head dams; sweepers, strainers and undercuts; tides and currents; and rocks and shoals.

Another simple Sun Dolphin Journey 12 modification anglers can make is the addition of accessory tracks, such as these low profile tracks from Scotty. Accessory tracks screwed to the deck provide a place to mount removable rod holders as well as add electronics such as a fish finder, GPS or action camera. Kayak anglers can purchase mounts for different uses through brands like Scotty and RAM.

How it compares

Within the Sun Dolphin fishing kayak lineup, the Journey 12 SS is their mid-range sit-on-top. The Journey 10 is a shorter kayak with a similar design, while the Boss 12 SS is Sun Dolphin’s premium fishing kayak with a catamaran-style, stand-up fishing capable hull and higher end features like a frame seat. Sun Dolphin also produces two sit-inside fishing kayaks, the basic Excursion 10 and the larger, more deluxe Excursion 12 SS.

Sun Dolphin Journey 10 vs 12

If you are deciding between the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS and Journey 10 SS, the main differences between these two popular sit-on-top fishing kayaks are dimensions and capacity. These differences result in some subtle, and some not-so-subtle, changes to performance and who is going to enjoy these boats.

At 9’6”, the Journey 10 is over two feet shorter than the 12-foot Journey 12. A general rule for kayaks is the longer the kayak, the faster it will be. This means the Journey 10 is significantly slower with less glide than the Journey 12.

The dimensions of a kayak are also factor into its volume, which affects its buoyancy and weight capacity. The Journey 10 has a maximum capacity of 250 pounds, compared to the Journey 12’s capacity of 395 pounds. This 145-pound difference could be an important consideration for larger paddlers.

So if the Journey 10 is slower and can carry less weight, is there any reason paddlers should choose it? For one, storage and transport. The Journey 10’s shorter length makes the kayak easier to balance and swing around when carrying. Not to mention a sub-10-foot kayak can even fit in some vans, SUVs and apartments.

Length is also an important factor in the waterways you paddle. A longer kayak is harder to turn, a shorter kayak quicker to maneuver. If you are paddling tight waterways, the Journey 10 will provide more maneuverability.

For most kayak anglers the Journey 12 provides a more versatile craft, but the Journey 10 is a sound option for skinny-water anglers and smaller paddlers.
Sun Dolphin Journey 12 vs Boss 12

In comparison to the Boss 12, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 is lighter, more maneuverable and lower cost. The Journey 12 is geared to the kayak angler seeking a basic kayak to enter the sport at a low cost.

The Boss 12 SS has a wide, super-stable catamaran-style hull and a flat open area on the deck providing a standing platform for casting. The Boss 12 SS also features an elevated frame seat, larger tankwells that can fit fishing crates, twice as many rod holders as the Journey 12 and more options for mounting accessories. On the other hand, the Boss 12 SS also weighs 78 pounds, nearly twice as much as the Journey 12.

All around, the Boss 12 is a more comprehensive fishing kayak. If you want a stand-up capable fishing kayak, the Boss 12 SS is the obvious choice. Go with the Journey 12 SS if you want a lightweight, portable kayak that’s just as fun for recreational paddling as it is for fishing.

Sun Dolphin Journey 12 vs Perception Pescador 12

The market for comparable fishing kayaks to the Sun Dolphin Journey 12 is huge, and while shopping for a fishing kayak in this class it’s always a good idea to weigh your options. Another popular, well-reviewed fishing kayak worth checking out is the Perception Pescador 12.

Like the Journey 12, the Pescador 12 is a 12-foot sit-on-top fishing kayak. Compared to the Journey, the Pescador has a wider, flatter hull that feels reassuringly stable in both waves and on flatwater. Other features that make the Pescador a good choice are a rear tankwell large enough to fit a fishing crate and scupper holes that keep the Pescador cockpit dry and comfortable.

The Pescador 12 is modestly more expensive at $800 USD compared to $500 USD for the Journey 12. But with a proven track record, strong user reviews and more fishing-ready features, the Perception Pescador 12 is a great choice if you can afford the upgrade.

Where to buy

The popularity of Sun Dolphin kayaks is due in no small part to their widespread availability at most major North American retailers. You can check Sun Dolphin Journey 12 SS Walmart availability as well as Tractor Supply. Other retailers who carry Sun Dolphin products include Dick’s Sporting Goods, Canadian Tire and online at Amazon.

Pros and cons

Pros

Low cost
Lightweight
Adequate fishing features for casual anglers
Good speed for a recreational fishing kayak
Widely available
Large community of fellow users to share knowledge and mods

Cons

Lack of stability (may feel “tippy” for some users)
No scuppers for drainage
Bare-bones seat lacks support and comfort

Sun Dolphin kayak reviews

Budget kayak reviews

Education: Get Some!

Take a paddling safety course from the American Canoe Association (ACA), your local paddling shop or outfitter, or other reputable source.
Take a boating safety course from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons® or your own state’s boating agency.
Take on-the-water skills training.

Sit-on-top recreational kayak reviews

SEE ALL KAYAK REVIEWS

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The Ultimate Guide To Using A Compass For Paddlers

Identify the tools of navigation

Read maps and charts

Compass basics

Identify the parts of a compass

Baseplate

Rulers

Direction-of-travel arrow

Rotating bezel

Index line

Magnetized needle

Orienting arrow

Orienting lines

Adjust for declination

Orient your map

Lay map on a flat surface

Rotate the bezel

Spin the map

How to take a bearing

How to take a bearing from a map

How to follow a heading from a compass bearing

To follow a heading using an orienteering compass

How to take a bearing in the field

Where am I? How to triangulate position

6 tips for using a compass while paddling

1 Round to the nearest 5°

2 Write it down

3 Get a back bearing

4 The deviation is in the details

5 Compass uncertainty

6 Using backstops

Types of kayak compass

Orienteering compass

Marine compass

How to use a marine compass

More navigation methods for paddlers

Piloting

Aiming off

Ranges

Dead Reckoning

Practice how to use a compass

Hybrid Fishing SUP Review: Vibe Cubera 120

Vibe’s new Cubera is a potent mix

Vibe Cubera 120 Hybrid Specs

Length: 12’

Width: 33.5”

Weight: 72 lbs

Capacity: 475 lbs

MSRP: $1,099

www.vibekayaks.com

Reintroducing a Maverick

SUP shape, compact kayak weight

Pedal straight through the chop

Stand tall or sit in comfort

Catch the Cubera 120 Hybrid

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Survive anything on your next paddling trip

1 Your first skinny dip

1. Choose a secluded lake

2. Be safe

3. Enjoy

2 A forest fire

3 Lightning

4 The first scratch

5 Blood-sucking leeches

6 Broken tent pole

7 Locals

8 Icy water

9 River strainers

10 Losing your canoe

11 Being lost in the woods

12 Marshmallow burn

13 Living without Facebook

14 Capsized canoe

15 Avoid hypothermia

16 Survive a moose attack

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