[ThomasW]

I am currently in the market for a plastic Kayak. I plan to use it for fishing, diving and touring.

One of my main priorities would be a fast boat which is easy to paddle. So the faster the better while fulfilling my requirements. I have been canoe and kayaking for most of my life so stability is of limited importance (Although I understand it would be required to fight large fish). I am 193 cm tall (75kg) so would require decent leg room.

I would also like the ability to mount a sail, and to have suitable space to hold to fishing rods. I would also like the ability to troll a lure behind while paddling.

Any suggestions on a suitable boat would be greatly appreciated.

 

[hairymick]

Heya Thomas, Welcome aboard mate.

I haven't padled any of these boats but have heard glowing reports about them.

Check out the Hobie Adventure, or the Viking Predator, or if you are prepared to import, have a look at either the Kaskazi Dorado or Skua. These last two would be arguably the best & fastest fishing kayaks available - anywhere IMHO

 

[Guest]

Hey Thomas

A quick list of yaks (plastic) which would be in the 'fast' class would be :

Ocean Kayak Prowler 15/Elite 4.5
Wilderness Systems Tarpon T160i
Hobie Adventure (Sail Option Available, Mirage Drive)
Viking Predator (Aussie Made)

Of all the above kayaks the only one I think that has a factory sail option is the Hobie Adventure, but is also the most expensive yak listed above due to having a Mirage Drive. The other kayaks would need a sail fitted aftermarket I guess, which could be a hassle and require some modification.

Based on what your looking for, and if the budget allows, I'd have a good look at the Hobie Adventure

 

[hairymick]

Based on what your looking for, and if the budget allows, I'd have a good look at the Hobie Adventure

Yeah, me too.

 

[JB]

if on a budget - a second hand scupper pro will give you 90% of what you are after. Sits low in the water so you get a wet ass but appart from that is on the money
regards

 

[The Mariner]

The Scupper Pro is a good recommendation. Another is the Cobra Expedition.

Both kayaks are fast & capable rough-water boats but need some extra thought when it comes to mounting rod holders etc. as they weren't designed with fishing in mind.

Both will accept a sail such as a Pacific Action or a PaddleMate.

 

[ThomasW]

Thanks for all of the advice. I would check them out.

 

[JB]

money no issue and wanting a plastic then prowler elite would be mine )and is)

 

[Magicrik]

The Viking Predator is the yak i got not to long ago.....im still working on my paddling tech but even so i can crank up some speed.
I was racing a kid on one of those metal scooter last saturday.
He didnt know we was racing but i did and i smashed the little punk.
The fact he was about 5 mean nothing I WON :lol: :lol:

 

[hoit]

Hi Gatesy,

was speed the main reason you were keen on the Hobie?

I don't really need another kayak but I reckon having your hands free to fish is a definite advantage. I am a little concerned that if I ask PhilipL for a test peddle on his hobie adventure then I will become another Hobie convert. :wink:

Regards
Grant

 

[YakAtak]

The Viking Predator is the yak i got not to long ago.....im still working on my paddling tech but even so i can crank up some speed.
I was racing a kid on one of those metal scooter last saturday.
He didnt know we was racing but i did and i smashed the little punk.
The fact he was about 5 mean nothing I WON :lol: :lol:

:lol: nice one Rik.
Hey JB and Phil, glad to hear you guys recommend the Scupper, I can't get mine soon enough.

 

[Desertkayaker]

Hi Thomas,

like you I was looking for a fast "jack of all trades" sit on top. I ended up getting a Perception Napali. So far I have really enjoyed this boat. Its not quite as fast as some of the sit-inside sea kayaks, but not far off. I have fitted a sail (see Pic) which takes some load off the arms on long trips.

Its only disadvantage is there is no tank well if you want to use it for fishing. However, this makes it great for touring which is what I mainly use it for. Just got back from a 5 day trip at Shark Bay, WA. It swallowed all my gear including food, water, tent etc no worries.

hope you find this helpful

Tim