The BEST and WORST Fishing Kayak Companies - RANKED

[@wendellfishing]

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[@mesa620]

The vibe shearwater fuckin kills it. So glad I god rid of my titan native slayer for the shear water.

[@jessevargas9915]

Sorry, don't know how this ended, Chad's hijack of the conversation was more than I could handle. Fast forwarded to see if Randy spoke; don't think it ever happened. From the time stamp, this video was probably about 25 minutes too long.

[@surfandstreamfisher5749]

i can't stand Chad Hoover. if Bonafide was the best kayak one the market, (it isn't) i wouldn't buy it because of his affiliation with it!

[@southwestindianaoutdooradv4714]

I have a Vibe Sea Ghost 110 and it’s been great for me almost 3 years now! My goal for next year is to add a Native Slayer.

[@SquirrelsLiveMusic]

I rock a Sea Ghost 110 and it is pretty wonderful for the money.

[@southwestindianaoutdooradv4714]

@@SquirrelsLiveMusic for sure it’s gotten me through multiple tournaments this year! Definitely hoping to add a pedal drive though. I’ll keep the Sea Ghost also for small lakes and streams!

[@wendellfishing]

Nice!

[@jessiejames4906]

Yep I got a 2018 sea ghost 110 it's been a great fishing kayak

[@southwestindianaoutdooradv4714]

@@jessiejames4906 yes they are great paddling and awesome kayaks to start fishing from! Mine will be with me for a long time even when I add a new kayak.

[@gunadoo]

I got a Hobie Passport 12r and got the 180 drive with turbo fins. I love it. Super stable, lots of room, dry seat, overall an awesome kayak

[@wendellfishing]

Niiice!

[@Mrtwich819]

Hearing Chad say old town is best in the market right now makes me feel really good about my recent purchase

[@wendellfishing]

Right on!

[@steveeichelberger806]

I love my Old Town Sportsman PDL 106. It’s not ‘sporty’, pushes a wake in front of it, but it is such a well rounded fishing machine. The five year warranty on pedal drive was a big thing to me.

[@stanmanmedia]

Had to turn off the "Chad Hoover filibuster".. too much

[@kjbetz]

It is a little much at times.

[@jax9224]

I agree but it’s true passion for the sport for sure

[@techtiger38]

Chad Hoover is very bitter about his divorce. Wow!

[@darrellrobichaud364]

i this ..i that......me ....me....me

[@darrellrobichaud364]

totally took over the podcast.

[@CCpewpew]

Im a paddler. Best paddling fishing kayaks are Crescents. No peddle but lots of people use trolling motors on them.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother

[@dormie9]

Lots of people put motors on them because they paddle so well? Hmmm

[@ST-hs7vz]

Love my Cresent LT

[@steveeichelberger806]

Crescent Lite Tackle owner here. A great do it all boat. Old Town Sportsman PDL 106 for serious flat water fishing. Pungo 120 for just paddling around.

[@Paddle-N-Fish]

I agree! love them for my paddling, I am a smaller guy and the ultralite is perfect for me! I have also visited Crescent kayaks, great people there!

[@BucktailFishing]

I’m sitting in my favorite greasy spoon eating dinner. I can’t wait to get home and watch this one!

[@wendellfishing]

What did ya think?

[@BucktailFishing]

@@wendellfishing I thought it was really good. I’ve only ever been on 3 different brands of kayak so I’ll leave my opinion on who is good and bad out. What you guys did was highlight a really good series of points that applies to a lot of companies making consumer products in general. There have been a LOT of them that used to deliver good quality products and customer service that have flipped the switch and ran the other direction. You should see how bad it has gotten in the automotive industry. Pardon the language, but some of these companies need to hear that their customers are PISSED and looking elsewhere. They need take the example set by companies like Cast Cray to heart. We the people are reaching the end of our rope with some of them. Native/Bonafide and Nucanoe sound like they’re really on the ball, as well.

[@Finch08]

I really want a Bonafide SS127 but I couldnt pass up the deal I got off fb marketplace on a feelfree lure 13.5. I really like my Lure so idk if or when I'll upgrade. The Shoalie might just be my 2nd kayak for river fishing honestly. One day I'll have a Bonafide but not anytime soon.

[@wendellfishing]

Love me some FB Marketplace

[@Finch08]

@wendellfishing as do I. Hell I sucked it up and made a FB specificly for marketplace. I'm not a fan of social media but marketplace is to good to pass up. Don't tell my wife she will give me hell for it lol.

[@user-od2cd9qt4y]

I ve got 2 feelfree s 1 is 4yrs old no problems

[@jasonalmy1872]

The Lure 13.5 is such an underrated kayak.

[@lowlifeangler]

My cheap blow molded Lifetime Tamarack pro is OK for a paddle kayak. The Ascend kayaks are blow molded. more expensive and way thinner wall thickness which is bad. But the layout is better. As best quality, I think Bonafide, Jackson and Hobie. As for price not quality Pelican. Old Town was known for their canoes but really still stepped it up with their kayaks especially motor options. My next probably be Perception Crank 10 or Hobie Passport. The layout is better on the Perception due to molded in cup holders

[@jdock32778]

@lowlifeangler I did research. Don't skip Crescent kayaks! All USA made if it matters...

[@lowlifeangler]

@jdock32778 Sorry those Crescent kayaks are nice too , saw them at the Expo

[@jdock32778]

@lowlifeangler Ease of paddling due to the hull design is great. Stability is great too.

[@lowlifeangler]

@jdock32778 Yup, my cheap Lifetime is pretty stable, but it's super slow. I'm upgrading to a Native soon

[@locodragon28]

I purchased a feelfree moken pdl 10 and it is fantastic for the money!!!!

[@wendellfishing]

Heck yeah!

[@ridder4629]

I run a Crescent Lite Tackle II absolutely love this yak, quality built and great to paddle, will be adding a Crescent K Craft this spring for Fly fishing

[@gloppy101]

that same kayak is the top of my list!

[@ridder4629]

@@gloppy101 I picked up a K Craft and love it as well, it’s perfect for smaller lakes for fishing and rivers are a blast with it, my daughter loves jumping off the deck while we are paddling the river

[@NCFishingandOutdoors]

I bought the Jackson Bite FD, took it out twice and took it back to my dealer. He told me when I bought it if I didn't like it bring it back so I did. While I liked the FD drive mark 4, I hated the steering and it didn't maneuver for crap with a paddle. I think I'm gonna stay away from peddle drives for a while and just keep using my Crescent Shoalie. Best paddle only fishing kayak I've owned hands down.

[@wendellfishing]

Thinking about picking up a shoalie myself

[@TheRetarp]

On the low end - Pelican. Made in Canada. I own a few - one boat was my starter kayak but I still use it occasionally. I have couple for my young kids to use and they seem to be the best balance of well built but cheap and light. Anything else - Jackson Kayak. I have a 11'6'' Bite and the stability is ridiculous. You'll fall out of the boat before it flips. Open deck design with big aluminum tracks already built in. Want to use a trolling motor? Bolt it on. You want a pedal drive version? They make that. You want a ridiculous 13+ft barge for a week long fishing/camping trip - they have Big Rig!

[@Beyondthebreakers]

If you want to know what is the best all around kayak ever made, you have to look what offshore/inshore kayak charters use, such as Deep Blue, Pushing the Water, Los Buzos, etc. Those people catch the largest fish in the world from a kayak and what do they use? Jackson? Old Town? Bonafide? Native? You can check their pictures and videos and see that is the most popular kayak is Hobie Outback 2018 -2017 models. Do you know why? Because it is the best all around kayak. It has been my experience as well. I have tried multiple kayaks and each of them has pros and cons. However, if I have to pick up one that I trust in high wind, strong current, choppy water and big fish situation, outback is simply the best. If condition are good, I would pick up revolution 13, just because it is fast, light and stable.

[@bradreid6057]

I'd put a few Native models at the top of my list and I like some Old Towns as a close second which are the two kayak brands I own now, have the most history with. The Native pedal drive is just so smooth, fluid and easy to operate. Old Town is not far off in my mind. The worst kayak issues I've had are with Jackson. My Cuda Lt leaked and my 360's (I was in the Kickstarter program) drive was too slow and clunky to be of almost real value. And I just don't believe Jackson does much "on the water" testing and releases and often quickly terminates its models. I should add that a Jackson Bluesky rep called me and told me they'd give me a $100 discount if I drove to Arlington TX to pick up the 360 instead of their promise of a home delivery inclusive in the price. I bugged them for awhile with emails and phone calls, got sort of the "check is in the mail" routine. I'll let you know if the $$s ever show up. After 3 or 4 years, I'm not holding my breath. ***Heard the same thing about the venerable Hobie kayaks and I'd have to see more evidence that the firm, under new owners, isn't diluting the value. Once, for sure, among the greatest of all fishing kayaks.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on .. solid comment boss

[@account2292]

My Pelican 110 Hydryve 2 is all I could ask for in a $1400 pedal drive.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on !

[@charlesparson1331]

Shoot I put a good seat on a catch 100 almost 5 years ago still use it every week. Cought a lot of big fish in it so I can't complain at all.

[@Flippencz]

I love my Oldtown sportsman 106 Pdl w/nk180pro PPP- Paddle, peddle and Power motor for distance Fits great in the back of my Chevy Colorado. I made kayak kart for my garage kept kayak. The stability of Oldtown is awesome. During Covid I was forced to buy a Oldtown. At the time I was in Colorado and couldn’t find a Native so I went to BPS and pick up a 106 Pdl. I’ve had the kayak for 2 years now and love it. This year I have made it on the water 54 times and actually got my PB LMB 23” 9lb 10oz!!!! Thanks to my ability to position offshore towards the bank standing in my kayak. I thought I had a catfish or carp, bent my hook out (Almost lost it) whats funny, I thought I snagged some wood and boom. Back to the kayaks. I would like to try a Native or Bonafide kayaks in the future.😎🤙

[@gmanadventurer8892]

Good conversation. Chad is closer than anyone to the overall industry and his work with multiple companies should be respected. As for top three brands, since I haven't bought or shopped officially in a while, tought to comment. But based on products that jump out at me, I think Native for bigger kayaks, Crescent for old time basics stand out and the versatility of the Hobie mirage is still top in pedal drives. I have to agree with Chad, the cupholder is a negative on the ATAK (I own one and really wish Wilderness would freshen up that model, I may have to do a video just on my opinions on that). I was never a big fan of Jackson, always feel they were overpriced with all the little extras they threw in that didn't really add to the value of what I wanted. But theydefinitely got stale. As for the commenting on FB posts, I only comment on things I know and for those just starting to look, I always suggest to narrow it down to style and brand you like and fits your body and style of fishing, then test drive, test drive, test drive.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on.. solid comment brother! Thanks

[@senorbass8737]

Just purchased a Jackson Bite FD and it’ll be my first fishing kayak. It’s good to hear chad Hoover say it’s one of Jackson’s better fishing kayaks. I’ll be using it for ponds and small lakes. I’m under 160lbs so I hope it gets me around where I need to be comfortably without much hassle.

[@wendellfishing]

Congrats!

[@steveschlegel1293]

Appreciated the video, Chad had a lot of good and interesting points. My 2 cents, no such thing as the perfect kayak. Every angler requires/wants different accessories and yak design. Not to mention budget constraints. I’m 54, been yak fishing for 25 years, first 20 years had an OK Prowler 11’, then Trident 15’, next a Trident 13’ and a OK Malibu 2XL (for me and the wife). A few years ago, after much research, I opted for the Crescent Crew. For the type of fishing I like (pretty much anywhere but prefer saltwater bay and flats) the yak is perfect. I enjoy paddling, I love the easy transition from 1-2 people, the huge open and flat deck is convenient and I can still throw it on top my SUV. For me, yak fishing is, do more with less. The Crescent Crew checks all my blocks.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother!

[@quelchx]

I picked up a persuader pescador on sale and modded it a bit for fishing and it's been decent... was considering buying a old town that was similar sized but had a few more features but at the time of purchase up here in Canada the Old Town was double the price. I wish I had space (I pay for storage because I live in an apartment) and extra budget for a pedal drive -- one day...

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother.. some day

[@TheZX11]

I have two Perception Pescador 12's (I assume you meant that kayak). I also have a couple of Hobie pedal drive kayaks. I take the Pescador kayak as often as the Hobie's. It is simpler to take out and is a fast gliding kayak. Nothing to break or forget to bring on the Pescador. The bigger/heavier full featured kayaks add complexity and pain in the rear to getting out on the water that I didn't think of before I bought one.

[@quelchx]

@@TheZX11 yeah lol guess my keyboard has a mind of its own

[@LetsGetGoing317]

I have a wilderness recon 120. This is my 1st kayak & when researching i was looking for price, stability because of being totally new to the sport. I knew i wanted a paddle one because i wanted to learn how to paddle right before looking for peddle or motor one. I got lucky with my choice because I'm into my 2nd full year of kayak fishing & still love my kayak. I have upgraded stuff on it alot now. But i don't recommend someone do it like me i did not water test mine first. I always recommend the wilderness recon but i always tell people to go to a place that will let them test out different ones first. Because everyone is different & not one brand is best of everyone.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother!

[@ColsenTaylorFishing]

Native, Bonafide and Creasant, Nucanoe are really the only ones I trust

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother

[@jazwraps7178]

Got an atak 120 which is amazing then got My nucanoe pursuit is so incredible... its euphoric. I love a open clean deck with minimal equipment

[@markdavid1479]

I love my FeelFree Moken 10 pdl. The wheel in the keel, the customer service and it’s roto molded. Plus the pedal drive floats.

[@TheHemiphil81]

I have only ever used my old town 106 pdl and for 2 years I have loved it. I live right on the Tennessee River and I am in the water in 10 minutes. I would love to try fishing other kayaks.

[@piesquared1025]

IMO, For what I need, Crescent shoalie is the pinnacle for river fishing and camping and the one to beat. Thanx Drew. Bonafide is stuck on a 'good' hull design, but its not 'great'. My dream boat would be the shoalie with the Jackson peddle drive, with the new PWR 129 rudder. The rudder needs to be underneath so I can keep a motor on it. And when not using the drive, a flat floor, no pod. Also, put a 360 seat that is height adjustable. But thats just me.

[@ScottMacdonaldfishing]

I love my old town 106 powered by minn kota. I mean i literally am in love with this yak. Its that good. Thinking about buying a bonafide skff for some tough to get to snakehead fishing ponds.

[@daviddarlingauthor]

I have a Pelican Catch 120 NXT, and I love it! Not into pedal drives.

[@pepepepert]

Same here. I use it for duck hunting as well. I can stand and shoot my 12g in it at 250lbs.

[@kevinpitts3548]

I almost got a native, but I ended up with a Jackson Bite FD. This is my first kayak. I've really enjoyed the flex drive. In Texas we are experiencing a drought and i have hit a few things i never saw! But i got mine 30% off, because it was last season.

[@wendellfishing]

Nice Deal!

[@gregoriomedellin4197]

Yes on Jackson kayaks I still own a Cuda 12 and it's my river boat, and a 2018 old Town pdl my joy in life.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother!

[@glennrogers2711]

2011 bought a Jackson Cuda. Absolutely loved it, extraordinarily good in rough water. Now in a Hobbie PA14 180 which is better for fishing but I miss being down close to the water and paddling. Looking at the Nucanoe Pursuit to add in as a paddle boat.

[@huntermark1160]

I have a jackson cuda that like too. Unfortunately I just lost the use of my left arm and I can't paddle anymore. I have looked for peddle accessories, but to know avail. Looks like i have sell it now.

[@CarolinaBassHunter]

I love my Jackson Bite. I'll go up and down any river in that thing.

[@wendellfishing]

Ahh yeah!

[@trddak1]

@ WendellFishing I have a HooDoo 120p I love it! It does everything the more expensive kayaks out there I have a trolling motor on it a depth finder on it light's on it along with all kind's of goodies on it.

[@treverwagner]

I am an Old Town fan and have owned an older Predator PDL for the last 3 years. However, I think the TitanX is a sweet-looking kayak and would purchase it if I had the funds when it becomes available.

[@wendellfishing]

You and me both brother

[@BrodynSmith]

I paddle a jackson liska and absolutely love it on rivers and in lakes. It's so versatile and is definitely a shame they discontinued it

[@kevinclark485]

Best yak they have designed in a while. Paddles good and had just enough fishing features to make it useable with minimal rigging. Really the Liska was a nod to their good paddling fishing roots. Too bad they killed it.

[@basswhisperer4803]

I just purchased a 22 Vibe Shearwater 125 and love it. If I choose a different one, it would be a Bonafide.

[@wendellfishing]

that would be a solid choice boss

[@joshuamiller6395]

Just curious, why would you switch your Vibe? What complications have you had? I just bought the same one about 3 weeks ago.

[@Liz_Zervos]

I have a Kaku Zulu. It’s ok. There are a few changes I would make with it if I could. If I had my druthers, I think an SS127 or even a SS107 would fit the bill. Sans pedal drive, and install an Xi3. That being said, economic factors will keep me in the Zulu for awhile, so I’ll upgrade with accessories as necessary.

[@fishingismydrug1]

What would you change about it?

[@Liz_Zervos]

@@fishingismydrug1 I’d make an alternate seat available. The one that comes with it is uncomfortable. I’d add the option to add seat risers to current seat as I have long legs. Switch the handles to something a little more rigid. The pedal drive is “clunky.” Devise a better way to keep the drive secure. I paddle 90% of the time. That’s a start.

[@fishingismydrug1]

@@Liz_Zervos Thank you! Much appreciated!! That’s what I need to hear.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on

[@craigbarnard8721]

Kaku was very dishonest with the advertised weight

[@B.A.Bassangler]

Pedal: Old Town PDL, Titan/Slayer Add a motor: Nu Canoe or inflatable My ideal yak doesn't exist; I want a Titan or Slayer with a beavertail rudder. If I have to use a cart to move in the driveway=dealbreaker. I'll rock my Kilroy till then...besides I just spent my yak money on some new shop tools.

[@B.A.Bassangler]

Re: Forum posts...they suck! If you think kayak tribalism is bad, stay away from stereo/home theater. If you disagree with someone that has an Elec Eng degree, prepare to change your religion or be cyber-bullied as "less than cordial" when you call them out for not coherently reading your question before giving you a 3 paragraph answer why you should do X...sheesh!

[@wendellfishing]

Right on

[@wendellfishing]

lol...

[@johngoodwill9310]

I have a Bonafide RS117, and I have pre-ordered the Titan-X and can’t wait to get it and use it.

[@wendellfishing]

NIIIICe!

[@kevinpitts3548]

Yes! I agree! There was NO WHERE for me to demo a kayak in East Texas! No where! Every dealer was buy it, then return it if you don't like. As a short guy 5'6" with a 30" inseam, it was hard just to look at a boat and judge. With the Bite, I have to back the seat up to clear out the blades.

[@wendellfishing]

Desert fishing !

[@gloppy101]

join a fishing kayak group and visit their next outing. All of us always help a new paddler with letting them paddle our kayaks.

[@paules0099]

I am new to kayak fishing. I just about finished my 2nd year as a kayak owner. But I got interested in kayak fishing 3 years ago. For 1 year, I did research kayak companies. I did go to Riverbound Water Sports store in Tempe, AZ, to try out kayaks. I settled for the Feelfree Lure 11.5 v2. I really wanted the Old Town with the spotlock minkota motor, but it was out of my price range! I loved the fact that you had peddle and motor drive all in one spot, and their price. Their are only 2 things I don't like about my Feelfree, and they are their built-in rail systems and the wheel in the keel! But, the way things are going with our economy, I am not in the market to sell my kayak and get what I believe I want, and that is either a Native Slayer or the Titan! I really want the landing gear system! Well, my aching back wants one. 😊

[@mackflanagan7002]

The track system is so annoying. I use the wheel in the keel all the time though!

[@paules0099]

@mackflanagan7002 That wheel in the keel, to me, is useless once you add milk crate battery, 5 Rods, and dry bag with clothes, etc. Plus the steering system behind it rubs with barely a lift up! I had to get a kayak cart. So, to me, it's useless!

[@wendellfishing]

I hear ya... the back speaks loud!

[@justinmayer9973]

@@mackflanagan7002 careful with that wheel, very easy to blowout if you use with load in kayak.

[@gloppy101]

Some of us here in Nor Cal have gone from paddle power to pedal kayak and back to paddles, self included. The performance of an Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 or 15, a Trident, or even a Tarpon 12 is still the most popular (although Old Town stopped making the Prowler/Trident) and the used prices have zoomed up since excellent performers. I'm much happier than dealing with the heavy fin drive and able to get in the shallows and not bumping into debris in the water with the fin drive.

[@earlybirdadventures8677]

I am a huge oldtown Predator or Bigwater fan! I fish mine hard for salmon and trout on Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. I havn't had any maintenance trouble except a few minor things like a bolt or screw getting a little loose from bumpy dirt roads to river mouths. I feel like very few kayaks put there can handle a big 6ft4in tall guy on the Great Lakes like my yak.

[@Danxiong]

I have a Slayer Max now, got a Titan X preordered. Can’t wait!!

[@wendellfishing]

Ooohhh . nice!!

[@FrikinAnyone]

Like Randy, I've been in meetings where I'd waited for someone to finally stop talking so the rest of us can contribute and then the meeting comes to a close. Do you have another video where Randy gets to speak?

[@adammcmahen9901]

I like my Nucanoe a ton, but I use a trolling motor. My buddy’s old town is an awesome pedal drive.

[@wendellfishing]

Sounds like a nice setup

[@russeloneal3420]

I'm going with a feelfree dorado 12.5 v2 for myself and the lure 11.5 v2 for my girlfriend, the overdrive having the motorized option is a great thing, and the price and for everything anyone could look at for add ons I think they are hard to beat.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on Brother!

[@d-money5976]

Well being I'm kinda within my first 2yrs of kayak fishing, I started with a simple Predator Catch 10.... its light and plastic and has served me will for my level of kayak fishing.... and I did as the kids would say I pimped it out... Nav and spot lights...inner deck and outer rim lighting......and did the DIY milkcrate by Wendell ...but I'm now interested in upping my game and been leaning towards a Native Slayer 12' or the Titan X 12' but would like to have proper traveling vehicle for it or trailer.....not to sure I could handle popping a 12 footer on the top of my explorer....

[@wendellfishing]

I hear ya.. I had a utility trailer I modified into a double decker kayak trailer. You have some nice options for upgrades BTW. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3_KpaaZpbBnlbs

[@JPHET37]

Any kayaks with a pedal is a must have. I thought about getting the Old Town auto pilot changed my mind you never know when a battery goes bad or motor burned out you need that pedal as your last resort for safety.

[@wendellfishing]

100%

[@gloppy101]

"must have"? Lots of us in Nor Cal have gone back to paddles and away from the pedal drives.

[@kjfishman547]

I have a 2017 Old Town Loon 126 rigged for fishing but seriously considering getting an Old Town Sportsman 106 or 120 pedal drive.

[@truecrimson1]

My Wilderness Ride is 11 years old and still going strong. So are the old Pelicans sit insides. My wife's Feel Free Moken is still good after 6 or 8 years, but she needs one with a modern seat. The new kayaks are too expensive for good ones and the affordable ones are crappy. And there are too many of them out there now for me to even figure out what I would want if money were no object. I look at a lot of modern kayaks and think the center of gravity is too high for the moving water I prefer, but I haven't tried them so I can't say for sure.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on

[@kevinclark485]

Newer feelfree mokens have a modern seat that is pretty comfortable. A crescent litetackle 2 or a newer feelfree moken 12.5 could be an awesome fit for you.

[@paulbarrington7415]

I think there is alot of factors here. More than mentioned. I dont think I could even list them all. Let me see....paddle or peddle, shallow or deep water or both, fresh or salt or both. What is your level of physical fitness? Do you want a hand load or or you ok with a cart load or maybe a trailor? Do you want to have to register it with the state?(i.e. power motor ). How much you want to spend? Their is all that plus what these guys mentioned. It comes down to the individual. I don't think you can make a general statement on any of these.

[@madam497]

My best 3 : native, oldtown, and nucanoe. I own a native. I want an oldtown autopilot or a nucanoe with motrguide xi3. I can't say for worst. But my last purchase was a jon boat. lol

[@wendellfishing]

Right on!

[@Daviddear30]

Awe man. I have a hoodoo impulse 120 with fin drive. 😂 I love it though 🤷‍♂️💪

[@wendellfishing]

All that matters.. hope it lasts you a long time !

[@Macdonaldsification]

How do you like it brother?

[@joefish63]

I have a Pelican Catch 130 HYDRYVE. I swapped out the oem HYDRYVE for the Hobie MirageDrive 180 ONLY because of the reverse pedal feature of the MD180. I love this boat.

[@wendellfishing]

Freakin Awesome!

[@TheZX11]

The Pelican will take a Hobie drive? Or you swapped out the whole kayak? I'm fascinated by how Hobie patent expired so China is copying exactly Hobie's design. How close is the copies or did they improve and change the design to make it better.

[@wendellfishing]

That makes two of us @@TheZX11

[@watchluver]

I guess its good and bad when the brand kayak you have didn't make either list? 🤷‍♂

[@wendellfishing]

Means you are in the middle probably :)

[@dormie9]

Which brand is that?

[@watchluver]

@@dormie9 I went with the budget friendly HooDoo tempest 120p, it took quite awhile for shipping but it's been pretty nice! After doing my homework (post-purchase)there are a few others that i would have probably preferred but all in all I'm pretty happy with it. Coming from a Menards $150.00 special that i have been using for close to10 years this has been a game changer.

[@Danxiong]

@@watchluverwasn’t it mentioned along with Brooklyn kayaks?

[@watchluver]

@@Danxiong you are correct! not sure how I missed that...🤷‍♂

[@jbetz2964]

I'm new to the hobby, but I purchased a Vibe Sea Ghost 130 and it has been great so far. I've only been out a couple of times, but so far I have no complaints.

[@PhaizeFishing]

Love it. I’m in the market now for a hardshell kayak. I’m looking at Bonafide, and Feelfree

[@wendellfishing]

Heck Yeah!

[@NuFishin]

Crescent, Nucanoe

[@timharris7425]

I have had a 3 waters big fish 120 for 5 years and installed a pod mount bixpy j2 motor and absolutely love it however i hate the track mounts that feel free use on the 3 waters kayaks but other than that its fine, i do have alot of diy on my bf 120 to suit my needs and its just fine but im starting to shop for an upgrade and I'm leaning towards a sportsman autopilot 120 or a pdl sportsman 120 then install my bixpy on it

[@ethansaquatics7400]

I got my seastream angler 120 pd for $1600 now it’s only $1300! Not bad at all, this is my second season with it and haven’t had one problem.

[@wendellfishing]

Niiiice!

[@loganfinlayson1733]

My personal favourite would have to be kayak to fish pedal king 12. I highly recommend you try one

[@stogierun6978]

Kaku Zulu above all. The versatility and conversion ability, power options, configurability, storage space, comfortability, stability is the best out of all of them in my opinion. I have owned several kayaks, and this one has been the best all around fit.

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks for sharing

[@timdoll6718]

I’ll second the KAKU ZULU. ! I think it’s an awesome kayak with a great hands on owner. I love my AP120 and my 106 MK but I would buy the ZULU with the Xi3 in a heartbeat

[@KayakingBubblehead]

I love my Vibe Shearwater 125 but I can't recommend it at the price it is now. I got mine when they first came out and the price was just right. The SH 125 has a great layout and the electronics box is great for the dish finder but the rudder isn't very good, I have a after market rudder on it and it turns better but still turns too slow. I really wish Vibe would make all the parts in the USA instead of China. I don't have any plans on replacing my kayak for fishing but I'm getting a Eddyline Sandpiper 130 which you could fish out of. Great review of the different kayak companies and the kayaks themselves.

[@wendellfishing]

thanks Chris!~

[@roc_on_bassin3293]

I have an AP120 ( getting rid of ) but that Native X 🔥🔥 I’m looking to add

[@wendellfishing]

Good choice!

[@Bafa]

After watching this video, I have to wonder what Randy Newton's voice sounds like.

[@MegaBeast18]

It kinda blows because I had honestly never been in a Kayak before purcahsing my Brooklyn. There was a lot of misleading reviews that gave me the impression that this was a solid choice. I appreciate guys like you who bring a somewhat "smaller" hobby into the forefront because prior to y'all, there was not much in the way of REPUTABLE recommendations. Ill run this thing for a while longer, and then go look at something like the Native Titan next.

[@DixieNormus_007]

A Hobie Outback 12' pedal drive is the only kayak l have owned for about 12 years. l have no opinion on other brands because l haven't used them. And l couldn't tell you about the warranty because lve never had to use it... 💪

[@mksmith713]

I love my Native Propel but there are no decent center mounted trolling motor options. My Hobie is nice but scores points for motor options. I use the Native inshore because of stability. I strap a big yeti cooler into the back of my native and I can stand on top of the cooler and site fish for reds. I can’t do that on my Hobie. On the other hand, I could turn the trolling motor on the Hobie and take a nice relaxed ride offshore about 3 miles to catch some tuna or mahi. I don’t need the same stability that I have with the native while fishing offshore. An all-in-one option would be awesome.

[@ichabod13]

Had to stop where he talked about Feelfree being a good brand. They have many different brands With the Feelfree, 3 Waters, Johnny Boats, Seastream. They are all manufactured at the same plant and they are all absolute junk. I made the HUGE mistake of buying into the big fish brand thinking it was what I wanted. It took me 3 shipments to finally get one that was not broken in shipment. First one was smashed across the rudder control and the bolt holding the drive snap in was stripped and bent, 2nd one had paper thin plastic around where the drive sits in the seam, took on about 5 gallons of water in a 10 minute test float. 3rd one, who knows. I sold it for half what I paid as soon as it arrived. I chopped up the 2 kayaks I had laying around, my lifetime kayak from Walmart has deeper gouges on the bottom of that kayak than the Big Fish has in thickness of plastic all around the sides and inside of the piece. It is like a paper plate thickness in 80% of the kayak. There is no way I would ever support The Feelfree brand and recommend others to not do the same.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on boss. thanks for sharing your experience.. Sorry about your troubles.. that SUCCCCks!

[@gloppy101]

they are popular and pretty much bullet proof here in the Pacific N/W. Buy from a dealer and you won't have an issue with broken parts from shipping.

[@ichabod13]

@@gloppy101 There are no dealers where I live and the broken parts were only on the first kayak. The other kayak was manufacturer defects. I already went a different direction with kayaks and will never buy from the FeelFree branded kayaks again.

[@lnomolas3427]

Hobie all day long. The Old Town Sportsman with the spotlock motor looks intriguing. Never been in a Bonafide or Native. I started in a Ocean Kayak Prowler 13. Once I started pedaling, that was last time I paddled.

[@copperheadh1052]

Have the Prowler 13 and was fishing in it this evening. With the current in the river/wind, my upper body is wasted. Going to keep it as a torture boat for extreme workouts. It will make you work for those fish.

[@BobcatDPT]

Would love a comparison on fin drive kayaks that can handle fishing and running out lines in the surf with biggest swells being 2-4’ but also be a good kayak for saltwater bays???

[@JeremyMartin-xq7pb]

The Old Town EPDL is about the only thing that is going to get me out of my Blue Sky Boatworks Angler 360.

[@wendellfishing]

Oh man.. I want one of those

[@cjfishtales2238]

Wait and see how the range turns out. I'm interested, but with a 20ah battery and no passive charging. I'm concerned about range. I have a 48v ebike with a 15ah battery and I get 40 miles. I know the old town won't get anywhere near that. Just curious to see where it lands. A newport on a PA14 180 will get you 12 miles easily. That's 6k total, yak, motor and battery. If the epdl gets 20 miles, it's a game changer. 15 miles, it's just overpriced with a single point of failure. 12 and under is a hard failure imo.

[@JoseSilva-cv8zo]

Some of the cheaper ones do work ok for the money. I’ve had a Hoodoo Tempest pedal kayak for 3 years. Pedaling about 4 hours per week. No serious problems to date other than a rudder cable replacement.

[@donaldsivertsen-km7wv]

I have a 2001 Hobie Outback Mirage Drive wanted a second kayak cause me wife confiscated it went to buy a new Outback I loved it but was way out of my budget $3500 so I bought a Lightning Strike its a basic made in USA fin drive kayak $1900 I've been happy with it

[@wendellfishing]

Right on! All that matters

[@TheFantasticG]

I just brought home a Hammerhead Baby Whale. It was within my budget and should do everything I need it to. I was able to get it out the door under $1450.

[@maycontainoutdoors]

I own 2 hammerhead kayaks myself. A baby and a whale shark

[@jzahirniak]

Everyone likes to crap on them because they are made in China but few have ever laid hands on them...and some are so married to their opinions they would still crap on them because to not would mean saying they were wrong. They are a great value and I think priced below what they are actually worth.

[@robbiejohnson3698]

Oh yeah when the P127 came out it was the kayak to buy the turning ratios sucks I sold it 3 months later sold I bought a old town 120 pdl and the Bonafide ss127 it paddles like a barge I put a trolling motor on it Motor guide torquedo is the one to buy SS127 is great with that motor $6000 later I would rather buy old town big water 136 plus battery still under $6000

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother

[@88mikemoody]

I've been kayak fishing for about 20 years. I've owned Jacksons, Wavewalks, Old Towns, and Crescents and others. I would put Crescent up there for peddle only kayaks and Old Town for all their models. Crescent is a wonderful company with great customer service and they all seem to use their kayaks. The paddling experience on lakes is a dream. Very simple and effective way to get on the water. Old Town is just such a stable and well made kayak (compared to most of the competition) and they seem to innovate better than most. To be fair, when I owned Jacksons, their customer service was top notch as well. I just haven't liked their offerings lately. It seems they have lost some of their direction. Just my take on it all.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on.. thanks for sharing

[@AddictedAngler]

i was so hopping that native titan x would fix the drain hole issue . this was the only big draw when I was buying a kayak

[@crashdsnowman1]

Everyone has different priorities, for me and river fishing it's having a yak stable enough to stand while not being a total barge. Standing allows me to see the structure and fish better. The Cresent yaks aren't stable enough for me and the Big Fish are a barge. Bonafide is a happy medium but the Perception Pescador Pilot 12(pedal yak)is also plenty stable enough to stand after I get where I am going with the pedals.

[@Frewsfishn]

I run a Feelfree lure 11.5 and for two years now it has outperformed everything it’s made to do plus some, winning me angler of the year . If I had my choice of price overall. Titan X hands down

[@wendellfishing]

Right on!

[@shanebright1405]

This Chad guy should get his own show. He loves to share lots of opinions. Also, Bonafide should make a pedal kayak under 12 feet.

[@wendellfishing]

Yeah.. I need bonafide to come out with another PDL for sure!

[@cjfishtales2238]

Your comments regarding Hobie warranty is misleading. I've been a Hobie customer for years. Hobie has never offered a lifetime warranty on hulls. Even then, the Warranty has always stated that the decision to replace or repair sits with Hobie. You also hinted as to where you got your info from. Mr Flipper has an obvious axe to grind with Hobie. Old Town does offer a lifetime warranty on hulls. Even then, like Hobie, Old Town makes the decision on replace or repair. Finally, in the scenario Mr. Flipper describes. Hobie offered to repair the kayak. The customer wanted a replacement. There was no warranty refusal on the part of Hobie.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother.. thanks for chiming in

[@TheZX11]

Yep. Flipper just found the secret code to lots of views. Say dumb things about the hugely popular Pro Angler and Outbacks. Contrary to every user with one, he claims the Hobie's are unstable and easily flippable. He comes across as dishonest and ethically challenged in the pursuit of profits. Wants a new hull when the damage looks like it came from user abuse (dropped on concrete?).

[@SGM97B]

I have a Vibe Kilroy that is great for angling but is really heavy and I do river camping trips so it isn't ideal. I bought a Bonafide EX127, which they market as an excursion kayak; I hate it. I'm going to try the Old Town Loon 126 Angler next and maybe their hybrid canoe 119.

[@jessiheidrick1184]

Il put my 2 cents in, I found a kayak called the lost creek lunker 10+, it was on sale for 650$ at sportsman's warehouse. Never heard of the brand then I see it's like sportsman's inhouse brand and they make everything, I'm assuming this thing is a clone of something. It had everything I was looking for at the time as far as features. It's a hell of an upgrade from the sun dolphin, but you can tell the quality of the plastic is not great. I have no warranty. It came with wired foot pedals to a rudder which I have since replaced with a trolling motor and so for about 1000$ I have a motorized fishing kayak with loads of space internal storage and it's really stable. the worst thing that happens is I'm out 650.

[@wendellfishing]

Not a bad gamble for $650

[@winddance123]

Plastic is so thin on those. They warp from strapping brand new

[@fishingvibestv]

What’s your opinion on the feelfree dorado v2 I been looking at one for a while I’m so close to pulling the trigger . Just love the setup battery box , all pre wired ready to go and has the ability to upgrade with a overdrive motor system . All in all would be 3500 ish with the overdrive system included . I’ve heard good things about feelfree In groups and reviews but there’s some bad stuff out there too just wanted your opinion

[@wendellfishing]

I wish I could give an opinion but i have never laid eyes on one before

[@russeloneal3420]

I'm getting one and getting the lure 11.5 v2 for my girlfriend

[@Adventures101.]

Old Town number 1 Native number 2 Bonafide 3rd 4th could be Feelfree Dorados & lures. The make a great hull . but after that there fit and finish / pedal/motor lacks alot .

[@jdock32778]

As mentioned earlier, the Best Paddle kayaks are Crescent kayaks. They make the best hull design and ease of paddling compared to other brands. Take paddle in one and you will notice a big difference.

[@crashdsnowman1]

I have a friend who has a Sholie and his wife has an Ultralight, I didn't think they paddled any better than a Bonafide RS117 and weren't near as stable. The Cresents turn well but the forward motion is no better IMO.

[@jdock32778]

@@crashdsnowman1 I haven't tried the Shoalie. Heard it's great in rivers with current.

[@theoutdoordad7395]

Jackson should have never cut the Liska, Kilroy and OG Coosa. Coosa X is too damn heavy for creative access points. Coosa HD was amazing they should have just updated that hull.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on

[@willgriggers-ex5zq]

I think you guys hit it with the top 3 and bottom 3. I’m a Native guy for many reasons but Old Town has been a quality company for longer than most of us have been alive. They know what they are doing. Don’t get me started on Hobie. They are like the frat boy, all flash and nothing to back it up. Chad has a ton of knowledge but he sure does like to hear himself talk and talk and talk and talk, zzzzzzzzzzzz. I would hate to be stuck in a meeting with this guy. It would be worse than a power point presentation.

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss! Appreciate you!

[@yeahman1756]

I've test a couple, So Far Hobie Pro Angler 14 and BKC Pk14 Tanderm has the same plastic thickness. Native Slayer and bonafide would be another good choices. Everything is in medium range or low range of Lifetime plastic. lmfao

[@bcp5296d]

The plastic on the bonefides I've seen wears down if you look at it wrong. Like really soft and not good for river use or even a tiny bit of dragging.

[@trentfranks4507]

Just because something isn’t American made doesn’t inherently make it bad. The same thing happened to musical instruments, now Chinese and Japanese companies make better quality products than Fender and Gibson for less money.

[@mxrat4326]

I myself watched vids & read many, many, many forums. I did some water testing on the brands that interested me & if they wouldn’t allow a water test I marked it off my list. Final purchase was a 2022 Hobie Outback. Very, very happy & don’t regret anything…………although very, very bummed it’s not a true USA made product

[@wendellfishing]

I depends on when you bought it I believe!

[@stevesafety6743]

Need more throw and go recreational/fishing kayaks

[@wendellfishing]

Collect them all!

[@stevesafety6743]

@@wendellfishing unfortunately barely have wife’s approval for one

[@steveeichelberger806]

@@wendellfishingthat’s what I say!

[@Gator-xi2jq]

Yes, chad is right. He used too talk them up, but they have changed. He used to use wilderness ATAK kayak for a lot of his videos.

[@Noneya-z8j]

I’ve owned over 50 different kayaks. The best are Crescent, Crescent, Crescent.

[@wendellfishing]

That is a lot of kayaks

[@Noneya-z8j]

@@wendellfishing it’s a problem. Been kayak fishing since 2013. Nothing like new plastic.

[@wendellfishing]

100% @@Noneya-z8j

[@aldojer5053]

I own a Native. My first. Absolutely love it!!

[@wendellfishing]

Good choice!

[@michaell1665]

I'm still loving my 7 yr old 2016 Native Slayer Propel 13. In fact, I'm 70 yrs old and plan to motorize the SP13, likely with the NK300! One thing I think is a plus for my SP13 that is almost unobtainable with newer kayaks is more limited hull access that ensure that you are less likely to take on water due to hatches leaking, etc. I was disappointed when the Native replaced the SP13 with the 12 foot model, and proceeded to open the hull access through the hatches. I think that Hobie PAs are the most overrated and are easier to turtle and take on water than many kayaks. I enjoyed my used 2012 Outback for several yrs with a homemade chair attached, but I'm not high on the recent Outbacks!

[@wendellfishing]

Love it.. run a 2018 Native Slayer myself sometimes