Wtb A Kayak For Current River What To Get?

[ness]

Those Jackson kayaks sure look sweet. The portability is a question mark for me though since I'll be car-topping. Also, a boat that is specifically setup for one activity, with all the decisions (storage, seating, etc.) already made for you, means you're giving up some flexibility. But I'd sure love to give one a try sometime. I think Justin at Sunburst has a few in the stable...

New Royalex canoes have gotten pretty expensive the last few years with the supply of Royalex drying up. Then there's used...

[ScottK]

If you're ever down in this area ness (Joplin/Carthage), you'd be more than welcome to take my Cuda 12 for a test paddle.

[David Unnerstall]

Trying to stay under 700 for sure. Just like the independence of a solo yak. I found a pescador on clearance for 399. Think I may pick it up after work. Don't think I would loose much if any of it. Anything to look for on a paddle? I'm 5'9"

That is exactly what I spent on materials for my cedar strip solo.

[Gene K]

Then there's used...

Not that it's a common thing to find them, but there are factory blems that pop-up on the market from time to time. The Synergy 12 that I have was a factory blem. Was looking for a yak on eBay and saw it. It just happened to be ~35 miles from my place at the Current so I popped down there and bought it for $135. Still kicking myself for not buying the other one they offered me.

[ness]

If you're ever down in this area ness (Joplin/Carthage), you'd be more than welcome to take my Cuda 12 for a test paddle.

Thanks for the offer!

[Plastic_worm]

I can't speak to what would be best on the current but I have a 17 foot canoe and a cuda 12. I had a native ult14.5 for 3 yrs before getting the cuda. The cuda has been everywhere with me...Reds in LA marsh, trout on the white/lrr, SMB on ozark creeks/rivers and too many lakes/ponds for LMB/bream, catfish to name. I have no problem car topping it on my wife's honda odyssey...but I carry it most of the time on my titan via roof rack. It's $$$ for sure but the comfort is top notch. I float for hours and never have back or leg pain. I always get sore in my canoe and loading it is a pia. I would expect to feel worse sitting low or even on the kayak. Any kayak that has an elevated seat and around 12ft would be my suggestion. If you can demo that's best. The 1 negative for the cuda is fly fishing...too many hang-ups. The Cruise would be a better option if you fly fish and it's cheaper. But you trade storage for an open deck. I can camp 2-3 nights in my cuda and need the storage so I deal with the hang-ups. I have no other complaints really...it tracks well, not too slow, can place a cooler in tank well behind seat and is very stable (if you like to stand...not for everyone). JMHO.

[Gavin]

I'm sure the Cuda is a great ride, but looks like an asymmetrical hull with quite a bit of weight. Will take some practice to car top. Think I'd look for a lighter 12' model. 12' Sot kayaks usually weigh around 70lbs. My 17' canoe weighs that much. My 14'8" solo canoe is around 45lbs. Would probably go with a Coosa for the Current, Cuda for bigger water.

[ozark flyflinger]

NuCanoe for me.

Very practical and stealthy.