Feelfree Moken 12.5 Version 2.0: Walkthrough and On Water Review

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Want a new Moken but don’t have a local shop? Click here to buy direct from Feelfree and in turn support our shop in a big way. www.feelfreeus.com/?ref=a_qil0o9xog

[@inalaska1709]

I would love one, but no dealer in Alaska and I’m sure the shipping would be a killer.

[@keen1121]

How does it do in a river that gets pretty shallow?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

It would do fine.

[@dr.froghopper6711]

Trying to buy a decent kayak in NM is like trying to fart a straight line in a hurricane.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Michael Honeycutt I’ve got a new dealer in New Mexico opening up. West Mountain outdoors. Their boats are coming in in the next two weeks. All feel free

[@kerilloyd4480]

Thank you so much for your reviews - I’m starting to think about my own kayak because I’m super tired of beat up rentals. I don’t fish at all, but I do kayak camp on rivers so this boat looks to be right up my alley!

[@johnhenson518]

I have two feel free lure 11.5’s that are really comfortable and stable but are barges in the water which are heavy and slow. I’ve been looking into getting a boat that has the comfort I’m used to but better paddling and will glide through the water better. The 2020 moken appears to be just what I’m looking for. Thanks for all the reviews on a wide variety of boat with honest feedback both good and bad.

[@georgep5212]

Greetings from Ohio! After watching your videos on the Feel Free kayaks, I purchased this kayak. I fish on it every weekend and i love it! Great videos!

[@earlypsd]

Your videos have been a great help to me in my intro to kayaks for fishing. I wish buying from you was an option. Keep up the good work and thanks.

[@triggerhappyreviews]

I love that you plug local shops in the end. So many people want to buy online and don't support their local dealers. Folks, if we want a sport to grow, we need to support our local dealers. That goes for any sport or activity.

[@MooMooOutdoors]

This is so awesome. Moken 12.5 is my favorite from Feelfree line up and they now made it a perfect paddling kayak. Rudder is a must for trolling with heavy weight, diver and downrigger.

[@cosmicninja6924]

Just got this kayak, even same color, with fish finder and rudder. Love it.

[@naciofan11]

Received kayak arrived early haven’t had a chance to register it yet or to take it out arrived in perfect shape very happy

[@tylerprovencher8274]

Had my moken for 3 years. Wore it down to the bones. Love the death out of it. Your vids provide lots of information.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Grape Snake that’s what I’m talking about. It’s the work horse of the sun $1000 fishing yak market.

[@RhinoVenturesOutdoors]

Great walk through and review. The Moken 12.5 1st gen was my first fishing kayak that I used for 3 years. I often miss that boat, but I'm happy to see FeelFree has made some upgrades to keep it relevant.

[@Mike_James]

Just picked this up. havent taken it out yet, but will this week or next week during the slightly warmer weather. Thanks for the vids!!

[@martincolley5371]

Just demo'd one of these today. Gonna test paddle a Vibe Sea Ghost 130 next weekend. The wife and I both liked the Moken 12.5 version 2.0. Now its time to see how we like the sea ghost.

[@JAMESlock1911]

Thanks for the review. I think the rudder is essential and worth the extra money. I will make my decision soon because my friends are planning a trip to the Black river in N.C. in a few weeks.

[@chris71600rr]

Thanks, I have been watching kayak videos for 3 days now trying to figure out which fishing kayak Would be best for me. Your video reviews are the best on KZbin. You leave nothing unexplained without over explaining.

[@michaelsmith7027]

love your channel. bewn a tournament bass fisherman for many years, but just getting into kayak fishing. i have learned a LOT watching your very down to earth, sraightforwad reviews. wish i was near you so i could buy from you, but I'm way across the country in Georgia. Your vids are the best i have seen. Awesome job!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Michael Smith thanks man. We’d love to have you rock a Headwaters shirt or hat in Georgia.

[@michaelsmith7027]

@@HeadwatersKayak I would love to. How much is a cap?

[@jerry-381]

Enjoyed the video! For me- Pros: Cost- that price point is awesome Sonar pod- love this! Seat- looks like maybe the best upgrade Cons: Rudder cable- too much exposed rudder cable to the foot pedals no center hatch (this is a must for me) cup holders behind the seat??? Feel Free's proprietary gear tracks I do like that they make a 14' version also.

[@Internetpilot]

"I wish each kayak manufacturer had their own special sized gear track..." said no kayak shopper ever! 😂 I noticed even 3 Waters now does even though when it was sold under the Cabela's brand it didn't (just like the Dick's Field & Stream Shadow Caster has normal gear track).

[@MrJayt0625]

A legend gets a well deserved facelift....

[@lucky2dope147]

I have the 2017 version of the 12.5 the 2020 has all the upgrades I've been wanting I'll be by the shop soon

[@HeadwatersKayak]

lucky 2dope 🙌

[@theyoungexplorer849]

I got the old 12.5 from you a year ago and having the seat on the new one would be such a game changer because my parents have the yellowfin 13 and the seats on that are sooo comfy. The tracking is also extremely good, imo because the yellowfin wants to drift to one side a few seconds after you stop paddling, but the moken stays straight. in rivers and lakes at least. Great vid as always!

[@kennethwatson3506]

Thanks for the review. A great one by all standards. My almost 50 years of paddle sport using as many boats in every water condition( touring boats in whitewater and steep creek boats in heavy surf ) tells me your review is legit. Your evalueation of this boat makes it one to paddle should I get the opportunity

[@juanzamora5218]

Looking to buy my first kayak, great review, and good information on you videos, thanks

[@Frank-lp8jx]

Thanks for another great video. I'd like to see a comparison between this kayak and the Crescent Lite Tackle.

[@jimh_vta]

I had the same thought

[@Journey_of_Abundance]

Yes this

[@samuraijak6605]

Great.......I thought I’d almost settled my sights on a Crescent Lite Tackle. I do like the storage options on this Moken. The wheel is also an added touch.

[@skyjackercracker3560]

The wheel is a gimmick. It's too narrow to actual use. I removed the one on my lure and made an axle to accommodate 2 wheels instead of one.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I disagree the wheel is awesome on flat ground and prevents wearing out the keel. To each is own.

[@samuraijak6605]

Headwaters Kayak how do you feel about this vs the lite tackle in skinny water? My application would be in small rivers and small lakes mostly. No open waters. Any thoughts on doing a recommended kayaks for small waters video? Love the channel. 👍

[@RhondaGeorgeFG]

yeah lite tackle vs moken! im interested

[@sandroramos6293]

@@RhondaGeorgeFG yeah we need that new moken 12.5 v2 vs light tackle

[@Ozzypup1]

Looks like a really nice kayak. I checked out Mokens but passed because of the seats. Now that its been upgraded it may be worth checking out now.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Jason S I think so, especially at $799 😳

[@paularthur9930]

Diolch yn fawr big man! Just bought a Moken 12.5 V2 on your review. Going to use off the Llyn Peninsula is North Wales👍🏻 Take care pal👍🏻

[@scottholweger5773]

Dan can you do an on the water review of the moken 10 v2. Great video

[@Ravenskill_DT]

I was planning on getting the 13' Seaghost, but now a new contender has entered the marketplace... This yak looks perfect for fishing on the river

[@decrease04]

I went into my local store to look at the seaghost and was steered toward this by the employee. I'm waiting for them to get one in so I can see it in person but definitely planning on getting one.

[@BravoBassin]

Great review as always Dan and ya I think you are right will give vibe a run for there money for sure hell I like it might have to test one out myself!

[@mre4875]

I hadn't noticed...GRATS on 30K! I still think that is much lower than it should be for the information you put out. As for the Feelfree Moken, I wouldn't buy it. No head stand, no kayak. 😂 KIDDING!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

HAHA That's so funny. I realized after that I didn't do a headstand. I'm sure you'll be the only one who catches that.

[@ronmckibben6599]

Dan does that little extra that I would never try.

[@clutch3shot]

I always see big fish on that log but i can never get them to bite. Sweet kayak. Wish i had space at my apartment for 1.

[@vandall0160]

Kick out the couch and replace it with the Yak. That seat is more comfortable than most couches!

[@Internetpilot]

Why is it that every time I watch one of your videos, I wish I lived in N Ca? 😂 Another great video. I've always looked past the Moken purely because of the seat and other amenities we're lacking (aging) compared to the competition. Now it's definitely a contender again.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Chris Pilot agreed 💯

[@Trevlee74]

Just found my next Kayak! Thanks for the information.

[@jessecopeland1831]

I’m stuck between the Moken 12.5 v2 and Crescent Light Tackle. Don’t really plan on going offshore much. Mostly river/lakes.

[@lonniecorbit3369]

I want one of these so bad. Would be a great addition!!!!!

[@bdodson87]

I have been on the fence between the sea ghost and the moken. I think feel free has sealed the deal on this one. I need a kayak for skinny water, but need the versatility for bigger streams and lakes.

[@Heelcannon]

my mom just got one of these and seems to be happy with it. i ended up getting an aventura 125 as i have no interest in fishing.

[@ajw007white4]

Very nice kayak thank you for sharing it with us cheers🍻

[@YesterdayMeetsToday]

Great review! Thanks Dan!

[@giovannim5101]

I can't wait, Thank you.

[@mrfergieferg1474]

How does it compare to the big fish 120?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Mr FergieFerg not as stable but much faster. Better handling in bigger chop and waves as well.

[@ax5017]

Is this better in the saltwater fishing than the bigfish 20?

[@brianzinszer9365]

Nobody shows the hull anymore for some reason.

[@chrisstewart1961]

How does this do on river rapids?

[@goonch7956]

Please do the moken 10v2 Its got more beef to it, I can't find too many reviews, especially stand up vids.

[@nickgass3228]

This or the 3waters bigfish120? Which one would you go with?

[@cristianocucumo4361]

In your honest opinion, I already own one, would you trust this in the ocean

[@JMGeranimo]

Just bought two today, the rudder is plus 200 over the 879 from feelfree right now. Plus shipping and tax.

[@brentbenson7445]

Would like to see a comparison of 2020 is the Perception Outlaw 11.5 with the Moken

[@qwerty67667]

In the Midwest it is often harder to find many of the kayaks you have reviewed. I would be interested in a review of some that are readily available in our area. (Academy sports and Dicks) Maybe a Pelican Catch 100 or 120. Maybe something from field and stream.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Anthony Nosbush I have a catch in my storage that I will review. We don’t have Academy our West.

[@HunterPlays11]

Have you tried the perception outlaw I like it as a all around boat

[@lanyouree8532]

I just bought a Moken 12.5 and can’t wait to try it out. I am use to an Old Town sit inside Dirigo so I expect some getting used to the Moken. I did opt for the Beaver Tail. Mostly use on small rivers and large lakes so we will see how it goes. It is quite a bit heavier to load on my FJ Cruiser roof rack but have just ordered a Rhino Rack side loader assist to make that easier. Do you have any other recommendations for loading on a roof rack? Mine sits about 6’8” from the ground. I’m 72 years old and in pretty good shape but it’s a task for one man.

[@richardopdyke2094]

Super informative! Thanks!

[@DWillerup]

Most ‘ducer cables are way too long for kayak rigging. Do you know either how to shorten them or how to source them?

[@Mr.JonaVelazquez]

Can i put a Overdrive in the moken 12.5 v2?

[@FrankLadd]

I've tried a lot of fishing kayaks and I think the best are still the Wilderness Systems Freedom for inshore and the Cobra Expedition for beyond the surf. Most of the fishing boats now are tanks, are there still any fishing yaks made where a 20 mile day is still fun?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Frank Ladd very few. Wilderness tarpon 140 is ok. The new Trident 15 kinda sucks for following seas. Stealth kayaks are pretty awesome but pricey.

[@nicholasdwolfwood8152]

Since this new version of the Moken has Feelfree's sonar pod, does that mean it will also be compatible with their Overdrive system?

[@decrease04]

I asked FeelFree this on their facebook page and was told that it would not be compatible. However I was talking to my local dealer about it and he told me that no it was not officially compatible and he couldn't say it would work, but since it is the same sonar pod it should fit in the hole. I think the main problem is the seat on the new Moken is not as adjustable as the gravity seat on the lure- so basically if you fit and can use the overdrive from the seat position it would technically work, but you cannot adjust the seat up as high or have as much forward and backward adjustment. tldr: No, but it should fit in the hole, so if you happen to be the perfect height/leg length and don't mind peddling from a less-than-ideal position then maybe.

[@Da93teg87]

Happen to know when this model will be on the market? I almost bought the moken a couple years ago but went with the lure 11.5. The updates sealed the deal for me to justify getting a moken now!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Shredder RL it’s out. I’ve got a dozen in stock here in Lodi and a few in our Redding Location.

[@YankeeTankerOutdoors]

Well done FeelFree

[@baldassassin8364]

You should try to get your hands on the lightening kayaks Strike! It's another new and affordable pedal drive kayak, there isn't a lot of videos out about it.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Dakota Stivers I’ve been trying for a year. They don’t seem very eager to get me a boat. Last time I checked they said they were back ordered and would get back to me. That was over a month ago.

[@baldassassin8364]

@@HeadwatersKayak I'm hoping to demo one next month, I'm wanting to upgrade from my eagle talon 120. I'm 6'2 and 245 so I'm really unsure about which boats would be a good fit for me. I've been watching a lot of your videos to try and narrow it down, I love how informative they are

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Dakota Stivers the new Vibe Pedal Drive looks really good for the $$ too. Can’t wait to see that one. Seems like a more legit company behind the brand. Also the perception Pilot works pretty good to for the price. Also Hobie Compass.

[@baldassassin8364]

@@HeadwatersKayak I was actually looking into both of those, more so the pilot for the instant reverse. I also car top so the weight of the pilot seems easily manageable. Thanks for the suggestions!

[@dbroadster]

How would you compare this to the Native Manta Ray 12XT you did a review on previously? They seem like comparable kayaks.

[@Journey_of_Abundance]

JB2109 Three way comparison Moken 12.5 vs Manta Ray 12XT vs Crescent Lite Tackle would be a great video

[@Journey_of_Abundance]

How does this compare to the Crescent Lite Tackle? I'm between these two.

[@jameshindy5654]

Can someone that is 6’4” be in this comfortably? If not, what kayaks similar to this can fit a taller person?

[@nathanmapes1441]

Hoping for some guidance... looking for a 12' or longer fishing kayak.. will mainly be fishing lakes.. I'm 6'1", 285Lb. No real preference of sit-in or on top. Just trying to stay around 800. Would go more if it was justified. There is just soooo many out there, I'm overwhelmed. guess this one could be the one for me????

[@dalt1020]

Would you do a video comparing this and the big fish and lure?

[@touaevang]

Can you remove the sonar pod to put in the pedal drive?

[@Jespersen93]

You should do a video just about paddles!!!

[@christopherpeek2647]

That might be the next kayak I get

[@zanejoplin124]

The new Moken 2.0, or the Lite Tackle, and why?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Zane Joplin for me Lite tackle and for one reason, Performace in dynamic water. No doubt the features of the Moken make it a better value and for a fisherman they will appreciate all the features, but for me paddling Performace is everything. But my favorite will not be your favorite. Got to try em.

[@zanejoplin124]

I appreciate your help! I want a kayak that’s versatile for skinny, fast moving waters, but also easily fishable. The LiteTackle is enticing for sure.

[@slamontster]

I'm leaning towards the Lite Tackle. I'd rather have the most fun paddling and then use the open layout to adapt my fishing and gear style.

[@dannyburke973]

Thank you - was wondering same thing. Thank you Dan - think I'm about to purchase a couple lite tackles

[@Journey_of_Abundance]

Headwaters Kayak The only thing holding me back from the lite tackle is no tail rudder!

[@mikeahlf8098]

I have learned a great deal from your posts and videos. I currently have a Pescador pro 10 and want to upgrade. I am leaning towards either the Feelfree Moken 12.5 v2 or the old town sportsman 120 (paddle version). I have not seen any posts or videos from you all for the old town. I am around 220-225lbs and primarily fish lakes and large ponds. Do you have a preference between the two? I like them both and obviously cannot afford both. Your recommendations are greatly appreciated.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

I'd much rather go for the Moken as a paddle craft.

[@matthewhill4295]

If you had to choose between a Native Falcon 11 or this whats better? I wanna do lake and bay fishing and after the best hull design

[@HeadwatersKayak]

You know I’ve never actually paddled the falcon. I was just in talks with Native today about having them send one out. We had one on the way right before the pandemic and obviously that screwed everything up. With that sad the Moken is tried and true and tough to beat for the $$.

[@BobbyLunsford83]

How does this stack up against the sea ghost 130?

[@placeone8six899]

Do you have the beaver tail that installs on the lure and original moken. Feel free website states that this rudder is not compatible with the v2 moken. I'm curious because I just bought the v2 and I want to put the beavertail on it that's on my lure (that now leaks under the standing platform).

[@coolminer1231]

Would you say this or the big fish 105 is the better value for fishing in small to medium bodies of water?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

ZGX I say Moken for the versatility. Plus I like a kayak with good glide.

[@haroldjennings5771]

Recommend a good graph for my Hobie Quest brother. Mostly mountain lake fishing. scupper hole transducer? Leaning towards Lowrance Hook2 4x?

[@sportsmobile8328]

I love my old Moken 10 but that would be a Great upgrade!!!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Sportsmobile 83 Moken 10 will be updated as well!

[@ryanscube4091]

Hi Dan! Is this kayak can attach hydryve too?

[@mikeg.2240]

Would the this kayak be stable enough in colder water on small lakes? Does the link still work to purchase it?

[@ghostofthepines084]

Hello I know this is a old video but hopefully u can still answer questions I have a vibe 120 and I’m looking at this kayak one cause of the wheel other is it looks Way better I am 6’3 310 on the vibe I feel top heavy will I feel that with this yak

[@HeadwatersKayak]

This kayak will not have long enough leg position for you. You should look at a Crescent Lite Tackle.

[@ghostofthepines084]

Thank you for getting back to me I will check it out

[@CormierTC]

Thoughts on this boat vs the sea ghost 130? Basically the same price with the rudder on the moken. Pros or cons for either?

[@bradwadefishtx]

I've finally decided on this kayak. It will be my first yak but still unsure what length paddle to get. I'm 6' 180 lbs. I am going with a lighter fiberglass probably a Werner Skagit just don't know what size. Recommendations?

[@RTIIadventures]

You think I could put a trolling Motor on it

[@thereelaccountant9246]

Where is the control for the rudder?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Dominik Wilson you steer with your feet.

[@thereelaccountant9246]

@@HeadwatersKayak oh I see the cables now going down to the feet, cool! Thanks.

[@dmhawv]

Made it 30k. Congrats!!!

[@tonyesposito8453]

Great video, I am looking at this and the Big Fish 120. Does the seat in the Moken fold up/back to give you more deck room to stand and fish?

[@dmhawv]

The more I watch reviews the more I can’t decide - Dan help! Wish I could buy from you but I’m on Lake Norman in NC. 2020 Moken or Vibe Seaghost? I’ve had many neck and low back fusions so seat is the biggie. I want it to fish and for exercise. 98% on the lake and hope for ocean one day. Appreciate any advice. I have analysis paralysis.

[@keith606]

New to kayaking. Not sure I’ll ever fish but would like that option. Would this be suitable as a purely recreational kayak? Is all the fishing mods on this kayak make it less desirable to be used as a recreational kayak?

[@ronhendrick55]

I purchased my first kayak, a 2019 Hobie Outback 6 months ago. Now I need a less expensive kayak for shallow river fishing and shallow river recreational paddling. I am looking at the Feelfree Moken 12.5 v2, Lure 10 v2 and the lure 11.5 because I want the sonar pod and rudder option. Which one do you recommend?

[@ColinRogers23]

How does the moken work for a bigger guy. 6'2" 290 lbs. I have a vibe seaghost 130 and love it but this one intrigues me and I'm thinking of trading it in.

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Man they both are so close on performance and features. I think it would be a pretty even trade, but sit in it first to make sure you fit.

[@ColinRogers23]

I plan to. I know they are very close but before I bought the sg130 I said if the moken had a frame seat and a sonar pod it would be my perfect fishing platform. A year later and here it is. Lol

[@kevincrookshanks2896]

do you have these in stock? only seeing last years models for sale

[@jordanmcclellan9315]

Dan Jordan here from Indiana, I’m 5’9 205# and can’t find much info as to what size kayak would be best for me. The moken 10 or the 12.5? What length would be best ?

[@bobseaver7807]

Both would be fine. The 12.5 will paddle better

[@keithjohnson3969]

Will there be a 14 foot model ?

[@Chris-zm7wh]

Im 5'9 250 looking for my first fishing kayak im torn between a lure big fish 120 or a shadow caster now seeing this i really like it but am looking for input on my experience level and size wouod this be a good starter kayak thank you

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Chris Greenfield would be perfect starter yak. Still plenty stable but way better paddling.

[@Chris-zm7wh]

@@HeadwatersKayak sweet thanks man

[@boston2662]

I asked you why I couldn’t see it on Feel Free’s website. (Still not their) And of course you got right back to me with you received it early and that it’s release date was Sept 1. So I do have a second question about the 12.5 Moken you have a beaver tail rudder on it. Is that also an early release version? Because Feel Free site has a disclaimer that the Beaver Tail will release a new one to fit it in Oct.

[@trippingonfaith7094]

I’m in the market for a new yak in 2020 this boat just made the top 5, are you doing a review on the bixby adaptor for the pod?

[@LamannaMarco]

Dan, is there much difference between moken 12.5 v2 and lure 11.5 v2 in standing fishing? I think heavy people feel more of a difference.. i weight 145 pounds. I save a lot of money with the moken.. what do you think?

[@HeadwatersKayak]

If you’re smaller, you will like the moken 12 five much better

[@Millsgaming03]

Would a shorter moken be a good starter boat for a teenager? Or is there a better kayak to get started in?? Thank you

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Longer is always better. Short boats appeal to those worried about transport and storage. People who care about paddling get a 12-14' IMO. 10' kayaks just push so much water. Although if your in a river they do turn quickly, but I cant think of a situation where I would paddle a Moken 10 over a 12.5. Even in class 1-2 moving water.

[@edwardcampos9448]

I almost bought this last year. Glad I didn’t now that i see the upgrades.

[@dereksimmer5708]

Can you compare this Moken to the Crescent Lite Tackle? I saw your video of it vs. the Jackson Bite. I’m torn between all three of these boats. I’m mostly a big lake fisherman, Guntersville to be exact. Thanks for any input!

[@HeadwatersKayak]

Derek Simmer yes for sure. That would be a good one.

[@dereksimmer5708]

Headwaters Kayak I guess if I had read thru the comments, I would have seen this had already been requested. Lol. love the videos. They have helped me really narrow down my search for my next kayak.

[@robertahlholm6412]

thanks for the review, just ordered this boat but its a v1 the only one I could find in stock at Austin kayak, would you know if this new chair will fit in the v1? or the chair that is used in the lures? if so I can modify to make work

[@asarendars]

Is the Moken V1 for 599 still worth picking up as a first Kayak?