Sun Dolphin Boss 12 SS & Ozark Trail Pro Angler Kayak: FULL REVIEW

[@TheFishingMommy]

Thanks so much for this great video! It really helped me make up my mind to get this kayak! I’m upgrading from a Lifetime Tamarack Angler primarily for the much higher weight capacity and ability to stand. I guess if I keep doubling my kayak values every year I’ll have a Hobie soon 😀

[@TheFishingMommy]

Well here’s an update two weeks later....I did buy the Ozark Trail. It was...well, I did my own review of it. 😕

[@tinkertanner165]

@@TheFishingMommy link?

[@TheFishingMommy]

Tinker Tanner FULL REVIEW Ozark Trail Pro Angler 12 Fishing Kayak / Sundolphin Boss 12 SS kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6rMoqJ4hZ52g80

[@blubberboy1897]

Honeeey! The neighbor is trying to drown himself again.

[@KayakDIY]

😂 yeah my neighbors have seen me do a ton of weird crap.

[@blubberboy1897]

@@KayakDIY very good video. Deffinetly solidified my choice for this kayak

[@rpiston]

I picked one of these up a few months ago. After taking a bit of water without even rolling it, I removed the hatches and sealed them with marine caulking. Most of the water was coming from the hatches. The launch and unlaunch after the application of the seal on the hatches, nose went into the water coming off of and back onto my truck. No water got through the hatches after that and very little water was in the hull after that trip, maybe a few cups. It did sit in my yard in the rain after this. Some water got through the edge of the hatch door, but the hatch housing was water tight after the bit of work I did.

[@KayakDIY]

Rob Campbell yeah I suspected they hadn’t sealed the hatches well before mounting.

[@jonathanyang812]

Can we just appreciate how he was willingly to get tipped over just for our sake.

[@KayakDIY]

Love my subs. 😎🤙

[@uncleshabadoo3140]

Best review I ever saw on anything ever. Because of this review I did purchase this kayak and regret nothing. you are the review king

[@KayakDIY]

*Best Comment I Have Seen Anywhere!* Thanks! ☺️👍

[@FERNANDOOLIVERAS]

Thats right!!! You are the man!!! Thanks a lot!!!

[@TheFordtrucknut]

I've been looking for a quality kayak for a few months, this is the best, and most informative video I have watched, and it basically sold me on the model too. Subscribed.

[@73gmc454]

My wife bought me one of these for Christmas , after reading all the negative comments by most people who never even owned one i was worried but after reading your reviews i feel much better about it , Thanks for being straight up !

[@KayakDIY]

No problem. Thanks for stopping by the channel.

[@elirocha8548]

My first time Kayaking and this Kayak held strong. kzbin.infoUgkx4k5UrhC3v_Y4hIEaXLGvHcN5a5aBmZNB The water got pretty rough as a speed boat zipped by me, and the Kayak withstood it (I expected to be capsized). The Ores are very easy to put together, the pump worked beautifully. the seats are a bit hard to sit in after a while (I recommend sitting on the floor). after reading the reviews I was very scared it'd get a hole in it, the material is very strong and durable. The Air valve may need a small Phillips head screwdriver to adjust, other than that, it's well worth the money!(update)I've gone Kayaking in 3 Lakes and 2 rivers totaling about 40 miles. the kayak had two holes and they patched easily and no other problems can't wait for kayaking season this year!

[@tankermanjake]

Man, thank you for actually showing the kayak in action.

[@TheSkeeter02]

Omg I’m 58 and this is one I’m buying for flats at coast and lakes thank you so much for info

[@la7era1u54]

Full review is right! I'm trying to get into the sport and I have been watching tons of reviews on youtube and you are by far the most thorough and go through much much more than all the others. Most of the other reviews walk around the boat and go over what the kayak comes with, a good portion don't even review how they handle in the water. You go through all of that and much more. You even purposefully capsize the kayak. The stability check while in different positions is very important to me when I'm considering which kayak to purchase because I plan on sitting as well as standing. I'm looking for a fishing kayak, but also one I can take photos of the bayou from, which sometimes means standing for the right picture. Thank you so much!!!

[@docv73]

Mine is almost two years old now, and I still love it. The only difference is, thanks to Uncle Sam's Misguided Children, I have really bad knees, so I haven't had the balls to try to stand up in it. This video gives me a bit more confidence in that though. I might try it. The only con I would add is the noise. It gurgles when paddling, especially on choppy water. Not sure if it's from the hull/keel design, or the scupper holes, but sometimes it sounds like someone is blowing milk bubbles under the keel. I did tip mine once, when I was drifting under low trees, and a rod was grabbed by a branch and lifted out of the rear flush mount rod holder. When it hit the water, I "panicked" and reached QUICKLY behind me, and then down into the water to get it before it sank. That put my head and shoulders outside the frame of the boat AND a quick shift of all of my body weight to that side, and over I went. Otherwise, I've used it A LOT without any issues. THE SEAT IS A GODSEND!!!! I have spent as many as 8 hours at a time in this boat, fishing lakes in Iowa, and not once had any complaints about comfort from sitting, or my knees being at a bad angle. VERY COMFORTABLE!!!

[@gabec2494]

I feel ya, Army left me with worn to the bone hips and a jacked up back. no way in hell will I stand on mine! but you are right about that seat! love it!

[@garyboyd9704]

They use the same plastic rod holder on the lifetime tamarack 100. I know there are better rod holders out there, but for a budget yak that rod holder works really well. The multi-way adjustability of it makes it really good for trolling.

[@kevadams1964]

Thanks for the review. You did a great job showing the stability of this kayak. Most video reviewers do not go to such links. Also, just so you will know, fresh water actually weighs 8.33 pounds per gallon.

[@KayakDIY]

Kevin Adams I knew the weight of water was around 8lbs/gallon. This is brackish water. Regardless would take a lot of water to meet capacity. Thanks for the feedback and kind words. 😀

[@MOTOVATOR101]

My local Walmart just received both camo & gray in stock. I'm getting my gray model tomorrow. Great vid man...

[@KayakDIY]

Congrats. For the money it is a great buy. Walmart sells out so quick.

[@knightsky69]

How much was it?

[@francisbilla1921]

I got the Ozark Trail at Wal-Mart, I absolutely love it, the seat is what sold me on it

[@TicklishWhisker]

Stayed up all night and now it’s 6:30 in the morning and watching kayak videos. Do i own a kayak? No i do not. Do i plan on purchasing one? Nopee. Why am i here..?

[@KayakDIY]

casey tacker LoL...I sometimes find myself doing things like that. Thanks for stopping by the channel...NOW GO BUY A KAYAK! 😂

[@TicklishWhisker]

KayakDIY might as well i have too much free time on my hands if I’m staying up until 6:30😂 new sub right here👍🏻

[@fredrodgers1953]

I've had mine a year and absolutely love it...kids have a blast to when I'm not fishing....

[@barking.dog.productions1777]

Thanks for the excellent video. Very thorough, and it answered most of my questions. This is probably one of the best kayak review channels on You-Tube, not that I am an expert, but since I am looking at buying my first kayak I have been watching several videos from different channels. The main difference is that you don't sell kayaks. I always feel like someone who sells kayaks is going to be biased, gloss over faults on the brand that they sell, etc. I also enjoy the DYI vids, so I went ahead and liked and subbed. Here is my issue with this kayak, and I don't feel that it was covered thoroughly enough. The two cons that you mentioned are non-issues for me. I can buy a decent rod holder if that one breaks, and I can easily fix the scupper holes with PVC pipe, fittings, silicone, and a drill. The one issue which has been consistently mentioned in most negative reviews was the softness of the plastic, and that can't be easily fixed. I understand that you didn't have a problem, but I would have liked to see this issue specifically tested. For example: Put the kayak under spot/heat/work type lights (or out in the sun on a hot day), and bring it up to a temperature that it might see in the heat of summer in the sun for 3-4 hours, say 120+ F... then test the structural rigidity, softness, deformity, or whatever you want to call it. One of those cheap laser infrared thermometers from Harbor Freight would tell you what temp the shell is at, and make it easy to make multiple tests at different temperatures. I can't justify the purchase until I know that it will hold up in the sun... better quality used kayaks in the same price range come up for sale often enough to wait if the plastic really is an issue. Thanks again for the great channel and material that you present here. :)

[@KayakDIY]

barking.dog.productions1776 I’ve owned the kayak during the intense summer heats. It sits out on a concrete dock in the SW Florida heat. My 200lbs of weight didn’t cause any significant performance issues or seat issues. Few people said they had issues with seat popping out of its mount during hot days. I didn’t have the same issue. Might be possible that they increased thickness of sheets used in the twin sheet thermoforming process. I didn’t specifically test it with heat lamp or anything, because it sits in Florida heat 24/7 and had already seen our wicked hot summers. I greatly appreciate the excellent feedback and sub! 😬👍

[@barking.dog.productions1777]

@@KayakDIY Thanks for the quick reply. I lived in central Florida for over 10 years, (Orlando, Cocoa, Vero) so I am pretty aware of what the weather is like. I didn't realize that you had it for so long before the video. It looked like an overcast fall day when you were filming. (75-85 F) It is good to know that you haven't had any major problems with the deck getting soft. I will keep it in mind. Thank you. Currently looking at used in my area for around the same price or less. An old town loon 12', and a ND Kestrel 14'... just comparing right now and looking for my best deal with no buyer's remorse... I already have a canoe, and too many boats if I just want to get out on the water. :) Looking forward to more great videos. Like I said, I really enjoy the DYI aspect of the channel as much or more than the reviews. Have a great day.

[@KayakDIY]

barking.dog.productions1776 I have some more small craft DIY and fabrication videos coming in upcoming weeks. 🙂

[@barking.dog.productions1777]

@@KayakDIY I made a deal on the 14' Kestrel. I'm not into making You-Tube videos myself, but maybe I will video making a sail for it if you are interested in showing it.

[@seasic_official]

Wow I’m impressed with this yak. I didn’t know Sun dolphin made this level of boat. 👍👍

[@KayakDIY]

It is definitely a huge step up.

[@gkott78]

Bought mine just before 4th of July weekend. First day out I kept the seat in the low position, it was 90 degrees out, no issues. My first kayak so had to just get used to it and the water was calm. It was perfect landed a few nice fish. 2nd time out 85 degrees and put the seat in the upper position. Collapsed on one side and scared the hell out of me. The boat has a bit of flex and in the heat it is more pronounced. I dropped it back to the lower position, no issues. The rear mounts need better support but that is my only gripe. For 500 dollars I would not complain. Just going to make a bracket, same as the front to reinforce the rear. I am 215 pounds for reference.

[@glenndaugherity6187]

This definitely has more features than my Tamarack 100 from Walmart and is a couple inches wider maybe. We’ll see how my Tamarack performs this spring. And I paid 195.00 for my Tamarack but this kayak right now is listed at Walmart for 495.00. Great video !!

[@vagabond-yj8pn]

Glen Daugherity That’s a little over $100.00 cheaper than amazon.

[@flwtourdriven5107]

Wow, seems to be a win for 500 bucks. Just spotted this at Walmart the other day, think this could be my first Yak. Thanks for the great review.

[@FERNANDOOLIVERAS]

I recomend this kayak too it has a lot of pro vs cons!!! And it's made here in U.S.A

[@danr3469]

So the "seat issue" is not an issue with the seat but the actual plastic of the haul where the seat mounts are. I watched my friend have this issue on DAY 1 of fishing (6'3" 250lbs ish) the plastic actually buckled and de-formed. To me it seem to be un-repairable but apparently the manufacturer knows very well about this problem as they have a repair kit they will send to you to patch the issue. The yak is never the same again but returns the seat to the same position.

[@callmecamo2]

Thank you for this info!

[@rogerportillo8904]

This is the best review I've seen for this particular kayak and there are many, great review men, thank you

[@KayakDIY]

Thanks! 🙂👍

[@larrymongue]

If any of you are having an issue with the seat falling due to flex of the rear mount where the seat goes the manufacture knows there is a problem and has a fix they will mail you free of charge the items to fix it. Personally I ended up putting A metal bracket like the front mount for the seat has and made one for the rear I think that is a much better fix. But there’s does work. Just call hemisphere and they will mail it to you.

[@FERNANDOOLIVERAS]

Damn i don't even know till now i just have some isuses with my seat

[@tntlife73]

Best pro is the price and where it's made

[@tinkertanner165]

You would think scupper holes would be placed along the bottm sides facing out above the waterline but below the floor deck ultimately. That would drain well. If properly channeled and the floor molded that way it would be perfect.

[@KayakDIY]

Definitely would be an interesting design concept. Reminds me of the drains in my Columbia PFG shoes.

[@ronhart4166]

BEST review I have seen in a long time !! Love the walk around in the water.

[@KayakDIY]

Thanks. I greatly appreciate the feedback. Gives me a nice moral boost to create more videos. 😊

[@gabec2494]

I've had mine almost a year and love it! the seat did slam down when in high position, but I just leave it in the low position and it's just fine. there is a lot of room for gear or even a 2nd rider ( my daughter rides up front) it is heavy, but it's also 12ft. I suggest buying a out 8 pool noodles and feeding them into the body via storage compartments. should it ever breach, you'll be able to still float and save your rig. best kayak for day trips or hauling gear.

[@KayakDIY]

Glad you enjoy it. Still a great buy if you can find one at their $400 price point. I just don’t see them anymore at $400 or less. They sell out quick and people are price gouging and reselling online in FB and other sites. Next best kayak for the money is Moken 10 V2 at $599. I might buy some tomorrow for our rental business. Thanks for stopping by Gabe! BTW I use the pool noodle hack too. Especially on the rental kayaks. Cheap insurance policy.

[@demetriusmelvin2773]

That kayak gives new meaning to the word stability!!

[@mrsir2378]

Thanks so much for this detailed review. This will be my next purchase. We just moved to Santa Rosa county and I would like to get on the black water and start fishing. I'm 260 so was naturally hesitant about stability. What a great deal!

[@hypnotik174]

Good review, I love mine too. I've upgraded mine with fish finder, extra rod holders for storage and trolling, anchor system, dry boxes, fishing rod leashes etc etc etc. I've also wanted mine mostly water tight so I sealed the entire deck. I wonder if anyone wants to see me make a video?...

[@KayakDIY]

Sure. Doesn’t hurt to make a video. Likely will help someone.

[@sjn99]

Would def like to see a video. Especially of how you sealed the hull

[@Ozzypup1]

Great video. I really like that you and your wife do things with kayaks that just about anybody can afford. And not just the ones that cost 2-3 thousand dollars.

[@KayakDIY]

Jason S I just went snook fishing from a $179 kayak. Fish don’t care about how much your kayak costs. 😂 Some of the pricier kayaks definitely have a lot to offer, but my happiness on the water isn’t dictated by the price of my kayak. I just love being on the water PERIOD!

[@garyricard6899]

Was wondering about the stability for a "big" guy. I am 6'3" and 245lbs. Thanks for the video, it answered my questions plus a few others. Great job!!

[@KayakDIY]

Thanks! 🙂👍👍

[@gabec2494]

I'm 6'3 275 and feel extremely comfortable in it. This kayak is well worth the money if you can still find them.

[@mussskyrat3096]

@@gabec2494 been looking for years always seem to be out of stock

[@brakuda66]

6’4 350 here I want a kayak but just worried about my weight

[@drumavenger83]

Thanks for the first in depth review that I could find. I have the Boss. Bought it for $400 a couple months ago. Due to weather and work, I haven't had it out yet. Still need a cart and pfd lol

[@KayakDIY]

drumavenger83 I have my favorite cart and PFD linked in the video description. I love my PFD because of the high back float clearing the high back seats on kayaks like the Boss. I also like my particular PFD for the pockets to hold fishing gear, radio, knife, pliers, etc. The C-TUG is the cart I wish I had bought 3-4 carts prior. It is built well, corrosion proof, and can come apart to stow inside most kayaks. Both aren’t cheap, but they are the best in my opinion.

[@hytorcjoe]

Wow actually changed my whole prospective i had just seen one of these at my local walmart now i might actually purchase it

[@gulfgecko]

Thanks for the great review, and for helping me make up my mind! On a side note, you helped my girlfriend in the hospital today, with her IV, thank you for doing a great job there, too!

[@KayakDIY]

Daryl Healey happy to help. 😉👍

[@boomer8393]

I'm 6' 2" and 181 lbs. I purchased the Ozark Trail Angler and tried it out and found it uncomfortable and a bit shakey in tight situations. Bought a Lifetime Teton and paddle for hours with zero discomfort.

[@mmiadragonz]

Great price and stability. I need a strong cheap 'yak. Not a racer. This one is amazing.

[@Couldbeazombie]

Man this was a timely review for me. I just bought one of the clones a Kingsport 12 from Dunhams. The issue I've heard about with the seat is the rear bracket sagging when weights put on it though keeping it in the low position seems to help. I've got about 70 pounds on you but I'm similar in height so glad to see you can stand on it, that't the major reason I upgraded to mine.

[@KayakDIY]

Chris Tenbraak I just saw you on Facebook...I’m stalking you. Haha 🤣😂

[@yakkensteinfishing]

Great walk thru video! Very in depth and informative. I have seen these at a few of my local stores and was wondering what they might be like. Pretty good price for the deck and features. Seemed like a pretty big jump for SunDolphin from the Bali and Journey. Thanks for a great video!

[@KayakDIY]

Thanks for the feedback on the video. I really did my best to answer people's primary questions. I feel I gave the kayak a fair and honest review. I try to be non-bias and honest in all my reviews. I am not a prostaff of any one brand. I will show any brand and product if the opportunity arises.

[@AtomicPunx]

Best video review for a Kayak I've ever seen! Thanks!

[@KayakDIY]

Thank you. I work pretty hard to create honest thorough reviews. I’m a one man operation.

[@NiteWolfeFishing]

fyi i think i found where the water may had come from. The scotty mount is open ended. So even with the rod holder in it its not sealed and with it flipped you have a direct path for water to enter the hull. I personally found this out when i was silicone all my hull pens. I glued a end cap on mine so no change of water seaping in between the rod holder and the mount.

[@mattforsyth4411]

I ordered one of these boss 12. I can't wait to try it out. Great review.

[@KayakDIY]

Thanks, I think you will certainly feel like you got your money's worth. It is a great value. I enjoy mine.

[@mattforsyth4411]

I hope so. It will be our 6th kayak. Really love kayak fishing. It will be our 2nd fishing kayak. Got to move my fish finder to it and add a few touches. Then will be ready to go.

[@mattforsyth4411]

I love it. Easy to stand up on. The seat is awesome.

[@markthomas2166]

Great review. As far as your 2 cons? Remember, it's a fishing kayak for under 500 bucks! You forgot to mention the optional rudder. This will be my next kayak.

[@zipzip8239]

what optional rudder?

[@gabec2494]

I haven't seen the rudder. link?

[@nickgibbs4692]

I used to have a sun dolphin Journey 12 ss but i just didn't like the way it handled so i ended up selling it and the very same day i found the ozark trail angler 12 on marketplace practically brand new, didn't even have any scuffs on the bottom. The guy only used it once and then lost interest. I ended up getting it for a steal, i only paid $275 for it. I got it last week and took it out this past weekend and found all the issues people say about them are true. However, last night i took out everything with a screw, sealed it all with silicone and put everything back. I also have a piece of aluminum flat stock that i plan on cutting to size and screwing into the back of the seat braces to keep seat from falling. Overall I'm very happy with the kayak and think it was well worth the $275 i paid for it.

[@CrazyCouchSurfer]

Ya you got a subscribe for this video, you did what it took to show your not Dolphing around you are straight not bassing around. But you were Floundering. Haha

[@MikeB-jz5mh]

Great review, very thorough and relevant information.

[@KayakDIY]

Mike B wow I’m overwhelmed by the comments. Thanks guys for the feedback. I’m certainly trying to bring thorough honest reviews. 😊

[@whourdadie]

Assuming that one rod mount you are complaining about is Scotty compatible, you can always buy other options (such as cup holder) and put there instead. Good thorough video. I may look into one of these when I'm ready to get my next one.

[@KayakDIY]

Great idea. Definitely an option. The rod holder surprised me, but I still find that one to be kinda worthless. A cup holder or fish finder mount would maybe work for it.

[@GuardianGrove]

How does this compare to the Ascend 12T and the Pelican The Catch 120? Those are what I'm looking at right now. I'm 240 lbs, and looking for something to get out on smaller lakes often, bigger lakes occasionally and low current rivers even less frequently. Thanks for the review!

[@topgunne12]

AdvOutdoors you’re better off getting the ascend. I do like that this kayak is cheap. Makes it more customizable. I do have some videos on the Sundolphin on my channel.

[@pauldixon2305]

real bad bought one took it out today first time, sunk like a stone lost about $1000 in gear

[@TheFishingMommy]

paul dixon how did it “sink like a stone”?

[@sportytaco2153]

My first kayak was a Sun Dolphin Bali 10. Super unstable my second was an FS12T. Much more stable, but always came back to shore with water inside the hull. Also had a lot of issues with the deck warping severely.

[@pauldixon2305]

@@TheFishingMommy nothing factory on that thing is sealed, and one of the skupper holes de laminated

[@tfrthomasfamilyracing3662]

Great review, I'm considering an ozark right now. Thank you. If I may though, that's not how the rod holder works. The reel sits in the groove in the front of the rod holder and the slider locks it in. Where you had it is where a baitcaster would sit.

[@KayakDIY]

TFR Thomas Family Racing true....I didn’t really pay much attention when putting it in. I honestly expected immediate failure of the rod holder. I still don’t like the rod holder and wish they wouldn’t have added it. It has too much play at the base. I would have rather had nothing and added my own. I prefer less holes drilled in the boat...especially if the fill the holes with cheap mount accessories. Aside from that great kayak.

[@cup_and_cone]

It's looks decent quality in person, especially for being twin sheet molded. The one negative I will say is top gunwales are somewhat low in the water just due to the shallow hull design, so choppy coastal conditions are probably not ideal unless you love being bashed with waves and having a flooded deck, especially with the slow draining scuppers.

[@KayakDIY]

The new Hobie Outback has low freeboard just like this kayak. It helps prevent wind from affecting performance. However, with slow scupper drainage you wouldn’t want to use the Boss in big waves. The Hobie Outback has larger drains.

[@randynickels7363]

Thanks for the thorough review, it helped me better understand the features of a fishing kayak. Looks like Gulf Harbors, FL.

[@TONOCLAY]

maybe get some kinda of wire mesh for the scupper holes so you can simply remove the mess and dump then reinstall

[@MrJayt0625]

Good luck finding them. I heard the new Ozark Trail model has been spotted at Wal-Marts but they are sold out online...

[@jimb6683]

Nice review! I purchased the same kayak last year and used it in the colder months in VA... first 70 degree day the rear of the seat fell out of the mounts. TCould see the kayak bulged out in that area. When I got home I used a 1" nylon tie down strap threaded through the slots on each side near the top so the kayak can't bow outward. Seems to be working fine now. Saw other guys who built metal brackets like the ones o

[@KayakDIY]

Hmmm? I knew some folks had that issue, but I didn’t have it with mine. I couldn’t even see how it would happen. I’m guessing they resolved the issue on the newer models.

[@jimb6683]

@@KayakDIY The plastic deformed allowing one of the rear seat brackets to angle out at the top. No issues since I put the strap on it, and the plastic has returned to normal. Other than that I really like the boat... made a little seat for my grandson and we fish often and have a blast.

[@tinkmarshino]

I have been thinking of getting one of these but most "review" are just video of it in the store and some fellas opinions and scuttlebutt . I have found maybe two other reviews that told me about the plastic sliver yours was by far what I wanted to know.. thanks for your time and effort making this.. carry on!

[@timothymnemonic79]

I'm very grateful for your words of wisdom and actions.

[@KayakDIY]

No problem. I do my best to answer all viewers questions. Love what I do and am grateful to viewers who make it possible.

[@yosuecaridad944]

Im dying for knowing what your neighbors think as soon you enter the water: “well there he goes again. Why he keeps trying to flip?” Great video Justin. What size is that pdf. Im kind of same body type. Thanks

[@KayakDIY]

Yosue Caridad neighbors thought I was really strange when I was diving and trying to pole spear fish via Bixpy Boosted Swimjet. 😂 I’m the first to admit I can get a little crazy. That is this NRS Chinook size large. I’m 6ft 2” and relatively slim build. They have a newer style NRS Chinook, but I kinda like mine better. www.amazon.com/dp/B01K9DVUVA/?tag=ytk-20

[@murphragous]

I just left a similar comment, should've scrolled down a bit and i would have seen yours.

[@BlueCollarFishing]

Since I last watched this I had the chance to use the Ozark trail model. A day of fishing seat fell out of track 4 times and it wasnt hot out. Hull filled with about 12 gallons of water and the scupper holes aren't drilled out for some reason. At 399 dollars on sale you can afford to modify it but you are gonna need to modify it. The water take on concerns me. The hatches are so out or reach I'd probably just fill them with pool noodles for reserve bouancy as the plastic is thin thier is fear of puncture as well.

[@jplewis9446]

Very good video. A lot of talking but 98% was straight to point. Great review

[@KayakDIY]

Jp Lewis thanks. I try to take notes on what viewers like.

[@deoodolecki1539]

Great video. Answered every question I had. And I already bought the fuckin thing! Lol did research prior but no other goes so in depth with testing stability, combined with the features testing. Very thorough. Good job.

[@KayakDIY]

Deo Odolecki thanks for the feedback on the video. Tried hard to be thorough and yet hopefully not boring. 😂

[@deoodolecki1539]

@@KayakDIY no sweat. Covered it. I'm gonna look into the keel tape too

[@grizzzly6055]

I'm thinking of getting one to replace my old 12 foot sink, this makes me feel better about it

[@wavygravy9690]

Ha, I do that too sometimes. Buy something and then read the reviews. Not so smart I know, but this video I think has convinced me to purchase this kayak. I will be fishing local rivers and small Lakes here in northern lower Michigan.

[@NeilsClemenson]

Thanks for the thorough review. The color scheme on yours is nicer IMHO than the solids...

[@KayakDIY]

Neils Clemenson I do like the camo color pattern. It is kind of an olive and tan mix.

[@dianabennett8775]

The majority of the water came in through the rod holder. We removed it and capped the hole at the end and it stopped that.

[@gatorlifeoutdoors1040]

Thanks for the referral link on KBN ! Pretty sure I’m still gonna go with the pro angler over my other options unless a better deal pops up . Thanks for the review

[@KayakDIY]

Gator life Outdoors no problem. Happy to help in any way I can.

[@BricksofHappiness]

Thank you! I saw other reviews that weren’t as informative

[@KayakDIY]

Thanks! I put a lot of time and heart into my videos. Appreciate the comment. 😊

[@BricksofHappiness]

I know how you feel. We do as well! Take care!

[@bigcountryoutdoors1870]

Been looking at these I'm going to pull the trigger on it now thanks bro tight lines

[@KayakDIY]

Happy to help.

[@johnathonjohnson6638]

I own one myself. I'm very happy with the kayak especially for the price. My seat did fall out of the bracket as he stated others had the same problem. I have seen a couple of videos describing how to fix/stabilize it. I also recommend taking all the screws out and sealing the boat with silicone. Also, the extra rod holder port has a hole in the bottom, so it is direct access to the inside for water.

[@KayakDIY]

Johnathon Johnson I wonder if the newer kayaks have a slightly thicker seat bracket to prevent that. I was not able to duplicate the problem that others had with the seat. I weigh 200lbs and live in a very hot climate. My seat never failed. 🤔

[@tw6230]

Awesome video. Was watching thinking that looked like Cape Coral and looked at your channel info and your in the Cape. Lmao. Lived here 36 years but in Matlacha now.

[@inannashu689]

I Just bought one,love it.My only issue was that I was used to whitewater kayaks and didn't buy a paddle sufficient for the width of a fishing kayak.Kayak itself is great.

[@KayakDIY]

True...definitely need a longer paddle with it being a wide kayak with high seat. I’m 6ft 2in and use a 240cm paddle on it which just barely works. I could almost due a 250cm. Whitewater is the one area of kayaking I haven’t had many opportunities to try. I was trying to help get a whitewater park started in Sioux Falls, SD before I moved to Florida.

[@inannashu689]

I'm originally from FL,living in SC where we have some great White water Yakking and at least one major competition every year.I'm right at the confluence of three major rivers,so I started out with white water,just recently purchased the fishing yak and love it.It's relaxing.

[@Edge1775]

I agree the sun dolphin is one hell off a starter kayak, in fact, I own a very expensive Jackson Coosa fd and my son owns the Dolphin from Walmart I've got to be honest for the price point the sun dolphin is amazing anyone just starting out may not ever want to upgrade

[@FERNANDOOLIVERAS]

That rigth i am so happy whit this kayak

[@adventureswithken1983]

This is one of those kayaks that are great entry level or to keep for a spare for when someone wants to occasionally go out fishing with you cuz their boat is in the shop getting some work done. My biggest concern is the durability of the plastic its made from. I'm not knocking this yak at all, it looks great for the price point. But just not for me as my main yak.

[@KayakDIY]

It definitely feels more durable than other Sun Dolphin kayaks. I think the newer Sun Dolphin kayaks in general feel stronger than previous years. When I stand on the Boss 12 deck it flexes less than my several thousand dollar Hobie kayaks. What stands out to me is not the plastic but rather the hardware like hatches and mounts...that is what differentiates it from kayaks 2-3x the price. I understand folks skepticism and concern though. Just would need to see or try one. Thanks for stopping by...I appreciate your feedback.

[@docv73]

Mine is two years old, with lots of use. Including several methods of hauling it around. It's been floated and dragged over rocks in the water and shore, and has been overly tightened down with ratchet straps. It has scratches along the keel, only one of which is deep enough to see color change, and that's still less than 1/10 the depth of the plastic - though it does sell me on the idea of keel guards. Dents that I put in it by over tightening ratchet straps popped out on their own by putting it in the sunlight for a couple hours. After 2 years of HEAVY USE, it has no leaks, no cracks, no delamination of the seam, and no structurally deep scratches. Even all of my straps and bungies are intact.

[@badbassfishing9974]

The seat on mine does pop out of the high position when it gets warm. The front bracket has a steel reinforcement. I'm not sure why they skipped putting the same steel bar on the rear bracket.

[@gabec2494]

mine buckled on the first day. I just keep mine in the low position and it's just fine.

[@sportytaco2153]

Looks like a huge improvement over the Bali/Journey models.

[@KayakDIY]

Definitely is!

[@1Deejay7]

Just picked this up for 200 bux! Excited to take it out and relieved the reviews are good

[@KayakDIY]

89 Alpha you stole it at $200! 😮

[@BM205]

Very good review! Looks like this is the one for me. I'm about your size and have a comparable sense of balance. I want to see if kayak fishing is for me without breaking the bank. When I saw this was made in the USA it sealed the deal. That matters to me! Thanks for the knowledge. Stay blessed and safe buddy!

[@kevincasey9875]

I just got my Boss in yesterday. Free shipping from Walmart. I did a review on the journey. Can’t wait to try out this new kayak. Wonder if the scupper holes can be drilled larger?

[@adventureswithken1983]

Not unless you want it to sink. The scupper holes are molded closed so you would have to be an awesome plastic welder and I mean damn good at it.

[@showmeoutdoors3220]

Great review, I appreciate how you incoporate comments and online concerns that owners have had. Seems like a decent fishing kayak for the money. If you ever had the need to upgrade, I believe you could sell it fairly easy. I spent a year on a less than kayak and have chosen to upgrade. I will keep it as a loaner to share with others.

[@KayakDIY]

SHOW ME OUTDOORS I always try to incorporate comments and concerns...but did it bit different in this video. I want to connect with my viewers and those on other platforms. I’m trying. 😊👍

[@showmeoutdoors3220]

@@KayakDIY It shows, I enjoy your content 😉

[@Revelation22v13]

Great thorough review! Water is actually 8.33 lbs per gallon.

[@KayakDIY]

Thanks. I know that now. At time of filming couldn’t remember exactly. I knew it was around 8lbs. Did a quick search on phone and it came up with that. Oh well, hopefully folks get the point. It takes A LOT of water to enter the hull before the kayak would even remotely show issues with performance or sink.

[@gregmenniges5963]

LOVE MINE!!!! My seat failed on mine the third time I took it out and it was not a very hot day there's only 65 degrees out

[@KayakDIY]

Greg Menniges thanks for your feedback...it reinforces my perception and review of the kayak. Planning future videos. Might do a full skiff build. Found a gutted 14’ Skiff shell I might buy and rebuild. Want to make a skiff that is lightweight and capable of going in back of truck like a kayak.

[@gregmenniges5963]

I may not have all of the features of a $1,500 kayak but I'm very happy with what I have and I can add to it and it only cost me $500

[@gregmenniges5963]

I fixed the seat issue on mine and then I went out and bought a Wilderness Systems ATAK 120 and I'm a lot happier with it

[@mikerotch6733]

I hear people always talking about longevity, what could you possible do to it to render a kayak useless?

[@dankguy_3230]

This will be the one I buy. Thank you.

[@KayakDIY]

Jake Blair no problem. Happy to help you make a decision. 👍

[@kennythao2282]

You could go from the front or back too to get back onto the kayak if you know the technique

[@KayakDIY]

True that also works. Key either way is to lay parallel to water surface and kick while pulling yourself onto the kayak.

[@Wait543]

W review really needed this thank you 👍

[@MrCard031584]

Not sure yet but i heard on another review you can drill out the holes with 1/2"... Be something to look into more.

[@ericgraalfs1064]

I wanted to buy this when it was $399 @ WalMart but didnt have the funds. They sold the 2 they had & the next shipment they were $699. Ended up buying a Vibe since this one was almost the same cost.

[@KayakDIY]

Every once and a while I still find them at that price. It is hit and miss. They go really quick at that price.

[@ratherbfishing455]

It bothers me when Walmart does that. I've call to complain about it on a bicycle.

[@ww3869]

I'm really interested in these kayaks but I'm a little concerned with the durability of the plastic it's made of. It seems to be made of thinner more flexible plastic compared to the more expensive brands. I used to have a feelfree lure but had to sell it and now want something cheap. How do you think the plastic will hold up to going over roots or limbs under the water that are all over the place in these small south Georgia creeks & rivers?

[@mdub1230]

Great review thanks !! I'ma pick one of these up.👍🏾

[@KayakDIY]

No problem. Happy to help.

[@HubertKirchgaessner]

Excellent review - you put a lot of work into this!

[@KayakDIY]

Thanks so much. Greatly appreciate the comment. 🙂

[@alexjavitz9140]

Where did you get yours? I have been looking for a new kayak for awhile and I really like this one but can't find one to buy anywhere.

[@Waynelauro]

How much do you weigh again?

[@KayakDIY]

Wayne lauro around 200lbs during time of filming. I fluctuate between 195 and 200. I’m 6ft 2in tall.

[@harveysimp]

What if you drilled out the scupper holes a little more? would it leak into the yak?

[@a.santos634]

Awesome video I’m gonna have to pick this Yak up. Btw u aren’t afraid of using ur kayak in the lake with all the alligator in Florida I just moved here and I’m afraid but I’m gonna try it out

[@KayakDIY]

Not afraid of kayaking with gators. I just don’t take any small kids or dogs on the kayak. Also, I avoid gator mating seasons in well know gator infested waters.

[@a.santos634]

KayakDIY Thanks for the info

[@cjgarner7250]

Dang good review

[@lowlifeangler]

Looks like Florida, test it out during a hurricane

[@LazariusAuditore]

Have you thought of making the scupper holes a little bigger with a drill or is it not possible?

[@devinfleming3975]

Just ordered 2 of these. Sundolphin running a one day sale $99 plus free shipping!!!!!!!

[@KayakDIY]

*That sounds like a scam. Be very careful.* No kayak company can afford to ship a kayak for that. They would literally be losing money.

[@devinfleming3975]

@@KayakDIY turns out it was 🙄🙄🙄

[@danacline5754]

Good review..thanks

[@zipzip8239]

i wish i had good balance, i can stand in mine but i fall out pretty quickly lol. I've done my own tests and i think its pretty much impossible to flip unless you are trying. i have done seated reach tests and i have to reach ridiculously far over the water in order to flip it. way further than i actually would in real use.

[@christopherbrown3352]

could you drill holes into the drains to make it drain quicker?