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Wednesday, 16 July 2014 08:31 |
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This kayak is designed for some of the most challenging paddling environments in the world and meant to be for the offshore and big lake kayak angler.
This kayak marks the first collaborative design between legendary kayak angler, Jim Sammons and Jackson Kayak's design team led by Tony Lee. The end result is a boat shaped and built to accommodate those hitting the open water, those looking for speed, comfort, perfect trim and big water management. It's a paddlers fishing kayak! It's designed for punching surf, handling rough off shore currents, swells, beach landings and those wanting ultimate performance when putting in long distances to get on fish. The Kraken is also about landing big fish and will handle the weight, the gear, positioning equipment and managing the process. It accommodates live bait challenges, rod storage, fish finders and will come equipped with gear boxes (Plano Ammo-style box and custom JKrate) and, like all Jackson fishing kayaks, be ready to fish.
"I have been waiting for a "Paddlers" fishing kayak that has all the features I need, can carry me and all my gear and is a joy to paddle for miles and miles and the Kraken is that boat." – Jim Sammons
"The Kraken was a fun one to design, mostly because the core mandate was to build a great paddling boat for fishing, instead of a fishing boat we can paddle. The end result was pretty much all our design experience pulled together into one VERY awesome paddling kayak!" – Tony Lee.
With all the challenges of the open water and big game, the Kraken will come with a truly unique set of features:
- A hull designed for paddlers; for people that want a kayak for offshore and multi day trips. A kayak that is comfortable in big water and flat water. The speed to cover miles and the volume to carry you, your gear and the big fish home.
- A never before seen bait pump scupper combined with the included JKrate makes for a simple bait tank solution
- NEW and Improved Elite seat with adjustable trim. Adjust your seat forward or back to compensate for your load. Always have the perfect trim on your kayak for the ultimate paddle ability.
- NEW Elite Seat 'Retention System' for security in rough water
- New hinged center hatch with tracks and accessories; easier access to the hull of the kayak for rod storage or getting your fish into a game bag.
- Seven different areas of Yakattack tracks for the ultimate for unlimited RAM/Yakattack accessory placement and rigging options
- Four rod holders included behind the seat
- An innovative JKrate retention system. If you do roll you can be confidant your Jkrate is staying put.
- Specially designed Jkrate, or KKrate (Kraken Krate) that includes multiple rod holders and is designed for easy rigging as a bait tank.
- An in hull battery storage solution
- NEW neoprene sealed, dual leveled front hatch
- NEW mid hatch, bait tank gear and fish storage system
- NEW angle-adjustable foot pegs
- NEW bilge pump scupper
- Transducer scupper for fish finders
- Plano ammo-style tackle box included
- NEW, custom sized, JKrate included, with innovative hose mounting and secured with NEW track system
- 2 RAM Rocket Launcher rod holders
- 2 Flush Mount rod holders
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Category (WW, Rec, Touring, Fish, Youth)
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Fish
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Style (SOT, Sit-In, etc)
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SOT
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Length (ft, in)
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15' 3"
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Width (in)
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30"
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Height (in)
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TBD
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Volume (Gallons)
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NA
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Weight (Pounds)
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75
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# Seats
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one
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Seat Type (WW, Elite, Mold)
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Elite 3.0
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Hi-Lo Seating (Yes/No)
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No (trimmable seating)
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Front Hatch (Y/N), Dimensions (in)
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Y (size TBD) large enough for wheel cart
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Day Hatch (Y/N), Dimensions (in)
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Long center hatch.
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Rear Hatch (Y/N), Dimensions (in)
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Yes, round
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Deck Rigging (Y/N, Bow, Stern, Both)
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Yes, Both
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Rudder (Yes/No, Optional, Skeg)
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Yes, Optional
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Rudder Type (Smart, Peg, Skeg)
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Peg, Sea-Lect
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Footrest Type (Peg, Foam, WW, Mold, etc)
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Peg (new JK)
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Capacity (lbs)
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550 lbs
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Material
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Linear Poly
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MSRP Price US $
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$1800 - 2000
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Wednesday, 26 February 2014 00:00 |
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The Wilderness Systems design team sat down with Pro Staffer CJ Siebler after testing the new offshore fishing kayak prototype to discuss his first impressions.
How did you get involved with the Wilderness Systems offshore prototype testing?
Earlier in the month I was asked, along with my fellow Wildy Pro Staffer Dave Easton and local expert and writer Paul Lebowitz, to participate in the testing of 2 new models form Wilderness Systems set to be launched this fall. These new models are aimed at exactly the type of fishing that we do in the coastal waters of SoCal, so naturally we were all very excited to be part of the development of such a product!
What were your expectations going into the testing?
Our expectations were high and the Wilderness Systems design team did not disappoint. From a West Coast waters perspective, we had asked that Wildy create a hull featuring more bow rocker and volume than their other models in order to better handle surf. We also asked that these boats have storage for rods and other gear while in the surf. Needless to say, the initial design drawings and the prototypes produced definitely delivered.
The new big water boat will feature two sizes – approximately 14’ and 15.5’. What are your thoughts on the different sizes?
While both models are similar in design and set to meet the needs of both inshore and offshore anglers with long paddler-friendly hulls, they are very different from each other. The 14-foot model has a more traditional width and is similar to other boats in its class such as the Tarpon 140; the 15.5-foot model comes in at a slightly larger, yet reasonable width.
For me this posed a question as to which I might prefer; traditionally I am a fan of kayaks in the 15-foot and greater length but in a narrower width range. Neither of these boats exactly met what I am used to, and I felt the smaller of the two would likely feel more “at home” to me. However, after testing them both it was a very hard to pick a favorite as each had their advantages and will offer much-needed variety to anglers.
What are some of the specific advantages unique to each model?
The 14-foot version offers plenty of stability for most paddlers – especially those with some experience – and is definitely above average for its class. The tracking of this boat was also above average for its size. Although some speed and glide are sacrificed to provide the higher stability, the boat is still very efficient and above average compared to other popular models. In the surf the boat excelled, easily lifting over waves and whitewash. Even while paddling parallel to the shoreline inside the surf zone this boat easily rode over everything the sea threw at it.
The 15.5-foot model in which I thought would be too wide for my preference really won me over. This boat is one of the most stable kayaks I have ever paddled! Primary stability was above average and secondary [stability] was unbelievable. Given the immense stability the boat did lose some efficiency, especially “out of the hole.” However, once up to speed the boat had a very comfortable cruising speed and great glide. The designers assured me that the production model will increase the takeoff speed, making this one of the best paddling and most stable kayaks in its market. In the surf, the boat performed even better than the 14’ offering plenty of lift in the bow and also handling waves from the side with ease. The cockpit drained beautifully and everything worked just as well as I could have hoped. Tracking was solid and this boat held true on flat water and when presented with swell and wind, and though equipped with a rudder I rarely felt as if I needed to deploy it as with other big water models.
Can you describe some features shared by both models?
Both models feature familiar deck rigging in the SlideTrax™ system, making installation of many accessories a breeze. The ample storage in these boats will accommodate all the tackle and rods any angler would carry, and is sure to please. Your rods will easily stow from a seated position, giving anglers an easy option to stow gear in the surf or to have extras with them. The hatches all seal beautifully and have solid latches that were exceptionally easy to use.
Storage pockets on the deck – a familiar feature on other Wildy models – have been reworked and improved with great drainage and placement. Of course what would a new model be without an innovative and super clean way to mount electronics? Yep, your fishfinder installation is covered too, and very well If I do say so myself. Top all of this off with some very cool new deck fittings that are sure to make lashing gear in big surf much easier and secure.
What are your overall first impressions of these prototypes?
To say I am pleased with beginning designs of these new models is an understatement. Wilderness Systems has really listened to anglers’ wants and desires in the design concept. Execution of the designs was spot-on and the small changes we asked for have already been sent back to the drawing board. For a first round prototype, Wilderness Systems has knocked this out of the park. I am very excited to see the next round of tweaking to the designs and even more excited to have the boats in production – they are sure to be a winning model!
CJ has over 13 years of kayak fishing experience with 7 years as an industry professional as the GM of KayakFishingSupplies.com. He has proudly been a member of the Wilderness Systems Fishing Team for over 5 years and is the Chapter Coordinator for Heroes on the Water (HOW) at the SoCal chapter.
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Written by Matt Whisenhunt
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Monday, 10 February 2014 00:00 |
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I received my Stealth Pro Fisha 525 to kick off 2014, and after getting a few miles under the belt I thought I would give a first impressions.
After paddling an X-Factor for the last 6 years, I wanted something a little faster, lighter and easier to paddle. The X is a very good fish and dive platform, but it is big, slow and tiring to paddle. And at the end of the day truck topping "the barge" (as I’ve come to lovingly refer to it) is a chore. So, I searched for a while and finally settled on the Pro Fisha. It looked liked a high-performance boat with a good compromise of speed and stability. Moving from plastic to fiberglass was also high on my list of priorities as I had experience from surf kayaking of how much faster glass can be. My expectations were pretty high, and I can say the Pro Fisha delivers.
First, the nuts and bolts. The 525 is 17.2 feet long, 24 inches wide, and weighs in at 54 pounds, although it feels much lighter. (The X-Factor tipped the scales at 78lbs). It has a generous fish hatch with enough room for multiple rods, fish and gear, as well as a nice sized dry hatch behind the seat, which gives the ability to carry more gear than would appear at first glance. Foam stringers in the bow and stern along with a bulkhead separating the fish hatch from the main hull provides good buoyancy. There are also 4 flush mount rod holders behind the seat.
The Pro Fisha promotes an uncluttered deck because there simply isn't that much of it. This is a good thing in my opinion. This yak has plenty of space for gear below deck, more than I would need, and I tend to travel light. There is room for a fish finder and some forward mount rod holders as well. I haven't had a chance to really test out the fishing aspect of the kayak yet, but I did manage to cast a few flies and it is a nice stable platform. The fish hatch, rod storage and deck are well laid out and should function well, but only time will tell.
The footwells are pretty narrow, so those that wear Boggs or other boots will have to get used to wearing slimmer neoprene socks or booties. The seat is very comfortable but I'm not a huge fan of the fabric loop attachments. The seat also holds water, but after sitting in it for a while it actually ends up feeling like warm insulation. I am 6'2 and the rudder pedals are not maxed out, so a tall guy can fit in this boat. The rudder function is excellent. It is fixed in the hull about a foot from the stern, which makes the boat very responsive. I am not too concerned about hitting rocks as the only time I have run into rocks in the X-Factor was in the river and it left a nice hole in a Scupper Pro.
What this kayak is really about is performance. This boat is light, sleek and fast. The fiberglass construction makes it effortless to paddle and allows it to glide on the water. This, by far, is the best feature in my opinion. It takes a small amount of energy to get to a good cruising speed and very little to stay there. It really is a pleasure to paddle.
And if you stop paddling for a moment, the kayak doesn't come to a halt. It continues to glide and loses speed very slowly, which in turn requires even less effort to return to a comfortable cruising speed. And speaking of speed, this kayak has it in spades. Over three outings and 20 miles I have consistently averaged between 4.7 and 5 mph with a max of 6.3 for a half-mile, and one of those outings was 10 miles! For reference I took the X-Factor out and over 2.2 miles averaged 3.2 mph with a similar pace and a max of 5 for a quarter mile. The biggest difference was the feeling of pushing the plastic through the water as opposed to the fiberglass gliding.
This is really the biggest advantage of the Pro Fisha- the amount of energy needed to carry a much faster speed for miles is significantly less. The farthest I've paddled the X-Factor was 8 miles and I could barely lift the boat onto the truck afterwards. Whereas, 2 laps around Big Lagoon (10 miles) in the Pro Fisha and lifting what feels like a big surfboard is not a problem. The above speeds were at what I would call a comfortable workout pace, so a very mellow pace with minimal effort still yields over 4 miles an hour. All day paddling covering some serious water is very much a reality with this boat. Overall, the kayak tracks well and has less hull slap in the chop than I was expecting with such a long boat without much rocker. Even with a little slap the energy loss is minimal with the long water line and fiberglass hull.
So, does this performance come athe cost of stability? I suppose that depends on your experience and comfort level. I think anyone with a sea/whitewater background will find it has good initial and very good secondary stability for such a narrow beam. I took the boat in five-foot swells to the front side of Pilot Rock in order to get some good chop and mixed swell, and found the Pro Fisha comfortably stable, especially when danglin'. The seat is low, and with most of the gear stored below deck, the center of gravity is low and the seat cockpit really locks you in.
That’s a big plus for me, coming from a whitewater/surf kayak background. Being able to control the boat with my hips is essential to my comfort level. If your only reference for kayaking is a big stable sit on top, this boat will feel a little tippy. However, after a few outings and armed with good paddling technique and the knowledge that the kayak will move under you but won't tip over because of good secondary stability, I think any experienced paddler would be comfortable in the Pro Fisha. Hopefully the ocean will sit down enough at some point so I can get out in the surf.
This review is obviously focusing on the paddling aspect of the Pro Fisha, but for me enjoying the paddling aspect of kayak fishing is crucial to the enjoyment of our sport, and the Pro Fisha is a true joy to paddle. There is very little to not like about this boat (maybe a little wider footwells and hard mounts for seat straps). But, all those wash away once you’re gliding across the water. This is the kind of kayak you look at with its lightweight, easy-loading, speedy characteristics that make you want to load up and get out there. The ocean fishing season can't get here soon enough. Covering miles while chasing Salmon and Pacific Halibut are very much in reach with the Stealth Pro Fisha.
See ya on the water.
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Tuesday, 04 February 2014 23:52 |
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A revolutionary new kayak is expected to hit the markets this spring, bringing with it a whole new range of capabilities and features for those in the kayak fishing arena. The TriKayak XS-1, with its unique outrigger design, offers the stability, performance, and storage that many kayak anglers are looking for.
The very capable TriKayak XS-1 was designed to meet the needs of recreational kayakers and kayak anglers alike. Its adjustable outrigger deployment system provides a stable platform, allowing anglers to comfortably stand while casting. The outriggers also take the hassle out of launching, whether it'd be from a shoreline or a dock – getting in and out of the cockpit is a breeze.
Its v-shaped hull is 12.3 feet long – made of high quality plastics with additives that increase the boat's hardness and fade resistance. The outrigger's lightweight aluminum arms are attached to high-strength stainless steel brackets that are built to last and will never rust.
The company's founder, Jim Reynolds, teamed up with a group of industrial designers at Laut Design to build a kayak that is both fast and stable. Started in June 2012, over a year-and-a-half of design and testing has led to the creation of the TriKayak XS-1.
The TriKayak XS-1 will be available for pre-order Kickstarter for 35 days from February 3-March 10. Pre-orders placed on Kickstarter will ship in spring 2014. Visit http://kck.st/1gGdZWX .
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