mhtranger

Not sure what people’s take on the Feelfree line is but I have a Lure 11.5 and reason I bought it was for the ability to add a pedal drive when money was available. It also accepts a motor unit in the pedal drive. One of the things slowing me down is the stories I hear about their steering setup. Other than that it’s a great kayak, stable and plenty of deck space for standing and gear.

First I would find a dealer that will let you demo a few brands and models. If you are dead set on the Old Town ( great kayak btw) remember you need a paddle and a pfd. All I will tell you is don’t skimp on a cheap paddle. The right size is also important. I know of a few people that bought a cheap paddle and then ended up buying another one so the money spent on two paddles ended up being more than the better one. I have an adjustable because my seat is adjustable. Also the pfd needs to be comfortable so you wear it. Good luck with whatever you decide. Might also want to check out YouTube for videos. Dan at headwaters does some very informative videos.

I have the Lure 11.5 and I can tell you the wheel on the Feelfree only works on hard surfaces. With the Beavertail rudder it becomes almost useless. A good cart or doing the wheel replacement is best for getting it around.

Mike Hill from Keel Armor makes some nice stuff.

Have you seen the diy two wheel that someone did on YouTube? It replaces the single wheel in the keel.

I have the 11.5 and did the rudder. It makes the kayak so much better. I also agree it is wicked heavy but I’m loading it in a truck and don’t have to car load it. I did not have anything to compare it to as this is my first kayak. I also only use it on small waters. The one time I took it to the river it was a little more work to paddle to keep it straight. I agree that adding a rudder is expensive and should be included but all the other features were worth it to me. Now my kayak is complete and all I have to do is fish! Check out the Lure Facebook site (if you haven’t already)as a lot of people have great ideas there.

Check out YouTube and search for kayaks under $500. I know it’s over budget but they show some in your range. Headwaters kayak does a great video where he goes and buys the box store units and demos them for his review. Remember that you still need a paddle if they don’t already come with one.

Just bought my first fishing kayak and was wondering who else fishes from a kayak and are there any groups that get together to fish? I’ve fished the Nashua river behind Stellos and Horseshoe pond. Looking to fish other small ponds that my boat won’t get to. I live in Manchester and will go just about anywhere to fish!

I was in the same position just last weekend. I was looking at the Vibe, 3waters Big Fish 120 and the Lure 11.5. I tested all but the vibe as there were none available in my area. The Big Fish was the most stable of the bunch. The lack of storage and the hard plastic floor was also a factor. In the end I chose the Lure11.5 because of the front storage compartment, the rubberized flooring and the availability to put the drive system in it. I gave up a little stability but I’m guessing not much.

Hey thanks for the info. I ventured out there this afternoon since it was so nice. As you said the launch is tough. Managed to get a few today. Lots of pickerel but a real nice 2.5-3 lber. Everything came on a dropshot for me. Never made it around the bend since I was short of time. Definitely will go back since it’s so close. But will bring someone with to help load the boat.

Just moved up to Manchester this year and reading this recent post about horseshoe pond. Only about ten minutes from me. Any parking issues? Can I put my bass boat in there or is it kayak only?

Hope you either ate or killed those friggn rock bass! Otherwise nice other catches.

Welcome from another NH guy.

I as a bigger rounded man bought an aliengear shape shifter holster and love it. Gives you several different configurations to chose from. Plus it offers a way to mount in the car if you buy a separate clamshell. Also you can buy different clamshells for each model gun you carry and works with the shape shifter mounts. Aliengearholsters.com

That's where I bought mine and would highly recommend them. Check them out and order a few free samples of carpet colors and weight. Fast shipping and all the supplies needed to complete the job.