Check out new kayaks and paddlecraft accessories from the 2017 ICAST international tackle trade show in Orlando. Some of the products are out now; others will be available later this year or early next.
Bonafide Kayaks SS127
The very first model from new kayak company Bonafide is the SS127.
Specifications include:
- Length: 12.7 feet
- Width: 33.5 inches
- Weight: 75 pounds
- Capacity: 475 pounds
- Deck: 11.5 inches
MSRP: $1,599
Available in December 2017, the kayak has a number of key features:
- Hybrid cat hull design
- HiRise seating for higher vantage point fishing
- PerchPads for additional standing position on gunwhales
- Doubleheader hinges integrated with bow hatch and DryPod
- Yak Attack gear tracks
BOTE Board Rover
The new Rover paddlebard from BOTE incorporates a small outboard engine.
A unique modular Rac Receiver System allows anglers to configure the Rover by simply sliding the “rac” (moto rac, grab rac, tackle rac, bucket rac) of your choosing into the receiver in a matter of seconds. Connect accessories like cameras, straps, coolers, GPS, fish finders, smart phones, and PFDs with ConnexSUP plugs.
Base price is $3,499.
It’s a standup paddleboard. It’s also a micro-skiff. The Moto Rac is the core feature of the Rover — the single accessory that makes the leap from paddle to power. The Moto Rac is engineered with 2 rod holders and two 1 gallon Rotopax mounts.
Hobie Update
In its booth, Hobie unveiled this Hobie Fishing Worlds 7 kayak to represent the next annual championship — the seventh — which will be held at massive lake in Sweden in May 2018. (All participants have won a Hobie-sponsored tournament somewhere in the world.)
Gerber teamed up with Hobie to display new products for the kayak angler. The Gerber FreeHander Line Management Tool offers one-hand engagement when cutting and securing line. Optimized for use with mono and fluorocarbon line. Available spring of 2018.
Ocean Kayaks Malibu Pedal
Ocean Kayak’s Malibu Pedal ‘yak features the PDL drive system with a 10.3:1 gear ratio for speeds up to 5.5 mph. Length is 12 feet, weight is 100 pounds and price is $2,199.99.
Key features include:
- PDL Drive System with dry storage
- Slide track adjustable seating
- Element Beach Seat with mesh storage pocket underneath
- Pet-friendly bow tankwell with removable bungees
- Stern tankwell jumpseat
Torqeedo Ultralight 403
Key features include:
- Ultralight weight (about 20 pounds, including battery)
- 1-hp equivalent
- Integrated 320 Wh high-performance lithium battery
- Comes with charger, remote throttle, on-board computer, GPS-based range calculation and emergency magnetic stop key
- Universal mounting ball for easy attachment to the kayak
- Up to 24-mile range
MSRP: $ 1,799
An integrated on-board computer provides a GPS-based calculation of the remaining range.
Wilderness Systems Accessories
The new lithium battery from Wilderness Systems powers most fishfinder units for a whole fishing trip, plus it can charge with a portable solar panel. The recommended limit for the battery is 12v, 1.0 Amp. This limit accommodates most popular fish finders but there are some exceptions.
Price is $124.99.
Engineered to integrate with most sit-on-top kayaks, the Thrive Baitwell features a unique flexible hose system to draw water from any scupper in the rear tankwell, while a pump simplifies the input/output cycle. The baitwell boasts a compact lithium battery that is chargeable by USB. Rubber latches secure the spring-loaded lid, plus the unit itself easily transports with carrying handles. Three rod holders come standard.
Price is $300.
