Old Town Sportsman BigWater ePDL+ 132
“Most of my fishing is done in the Piscataqua River, which is one of the fastest navigable rivers in the world. With the ePDL+ I can fish in current I have never been able to with any other kayak. It’s a beast when chasing schools of breaking fish in heavy current or covering new water. This kayak is an excellent platform to stand and sight fish from. When striper fishing, I can use the motor to travel farther and faster than I normally would. Then, I lift the motor and push pole myself around as I fish. Lifting the drive for obstacles or shallow water is simple.” —Guide Tim Moore, Tim Moore Outdoors, New Hampshire
Price: $5,999
Native Watercraft TitanX Propel 12.5
“Several features of the TitanX make it optimal for backwater fishing: Propel Pedal Drive (instant, hands-free reverse for fighting fish), rock solid stability (easily stand up to sight fish), Springblade Rudder system (get in and out of cuts and currents in the marsh with responsive turning), and under-seat tackle drawer storage (super quick access to gear to change out baits). Plus, anglers can easily add dual Power-Pole Micro Anchors to the stern and a bow-mounted saltwater trolling motor. These additions are life savers when you want to hold position on windy days or in strong currents.” —Tyler Brown, Chief Operating Officer, BIG Adventures (parent company of Native Watercraft)
Price: $3,599
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Hobie Mirage Lynx
“Many of today’s kayaks are rigged to the max with batteries, electronics, anchors and trolling motors, so it’s fair to ask what’s the difference between a loaded yak and a one-man skiff? Still, these rigs are wildly popular for a reason. On the opposite end, models are still available for that kayak angler minimalist. Hobie’s Mirage Lynx weighs just 47 pounds, but still uses a MirageDrive 180 with Kick-Up Fins. Almost like a paddleboard, there’s not much built-in storage with this yak, but plenty of ability to add-on accessories if that’s the direction you go. The Lynx’s flat-bottom design provides stability and maneuverability — imagine having to make a lengthy pedal to the fishing grounds, sometimes across extremely shallow bars that most yaks can’t dodge. There’s no better kayak to quickly unload and launch from the side of the road.” —Sam Hudson, Senior Editor, Salt Water Sportsman
Price: $3,299
