Sit-on-tops stalk the salt. PHOTO: PAUL LEBOWITZ
ing equation. Those who crave long sea legs can still find a number of svelte and sexy 15- to 16-foot-long fishing rides. Two excellent examples are the Wilderness Systems Tarpon 160 and Ocean Kayak’s new Trident Ultra 4.7.
ROTOMOLDED PLASTIC ‘YAKS CONTINUE TO LEAD THE PACK
Tough as an old pair of deck boots, poly- ethylene plastic remains the material of choice for most fishing kayak manufactur- ers. Although relatively inexpensive, the construction method—molds are placed on spits and roasted in enormous ovens—re- sults in a heavier product. In contrast, ther- moformed plastic kayaks are molded from thinner sheets of plastic in separate upper and lower sections, then mated together. The lighter, stiffer hulls of these boats generally provide a performance boost, but sometimes come with higher costs due to the labor-intensive production method.
MORE DEALER OPTIONS Get up and go
Paddle power is the most common denominator. Some specialty craft add pedal options or electric motors for a hands-free ride.
Stock and angler models Pre-installed rod holders are now nearly
standard. Factory-prepped angler pack- ages add fun stuff such as accessory track systems, anchor trolleys and extra rod storage.
Single versus tandem Most fishing kayaks are solo models. Tan- dems have room for two and possibly also a pet or small child. Keep in mind most
tandems are short on elbow room. It takes real cooperation to fish two to a ‘yak.
Rudders These normally extra-cost items help you compensate for wind deflection and pro- vide drift control. They are more common and valuable on longer boats.
2011 TRENDS C A N YO U ST A N D IT?
Elevation continues to pace kayak fishing’s cutting edge. Company after company claims its newest craft is so stable, anglers can stand to make that cast. At long last, can catchy kayakers stretch their horizons? For truly purpose-built stand-up models from Diablo and Freedom Hawk and the new wave of fishing SUPs, the answer is a resounding yes. For the rest, maybe. Going from sitting to standing and vice versa is the wobbliest part. Calm water helps, as does a good sense of balance. Absent accessory outriggers, it isn’t reasonable to expect every kayak angler will be able to stand up without the risk of getting wet. In other words, individual results may vary. Grab a boat and try it.
Still more niche filling
Last year was notable for boats that fit underserved niches. Hobie, Native Watercraft and Ocean Kayak kicked out the first factory- equipped, electrically motorized fish ‘yaks, and Hobie launched an absolute battleship in the sizable Pro Angler. The niche filling continues, epitomized by Jackson’s nimble Coosa, the first truly purpose-built fishing river runner. Here’s another: The ‘yakanoe segment finally gets a bigger brother in the Commander 140 from Wilderness Systems.
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PHOTO: PAUL LEBOWITZ
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