Hybrid Kayak/canoe Help

[jsc4324]

I need help. I am looking to purchase a hybrid in the spring and really can't decide what I want. I have searched this site high and dry and change my mind everyday.

Basically I am looking for a boat that I can rig for fishing such as rod holders fish finder etc as time goes on. Also want to be able to stand up with some practice. 90% of my fishing will be solo but I like the idea of taking my child with me as she gets older wife, or someone else if the occasion arises. This in mind I am not against getting a solo rig and tackling the extra rider issue later down the road. Weight is not a huge issue, but will have to be roof topped.

Models I'm leaning toward are the native ultimate 12 as a solo and the nucanoe frontier as a solo/tandem.

Also price range would be around 1200. Anyone with either have any advice or other recommendations? Pros cons etc.

Tanks in advance.

[flyfisher]

It is tough to use a single person boat with another adult.  With a kid you should be fine.

 

I would also look at the commander series from wilderness systems.  They have the slidetrax system which makes rigging a breeze for everything you mentioned.  I was standing in my commander with the first 5 minutes and have never once been scared of tipping.

 

All the boats you mentioned are great boats for your intended use so i would say if at all possible get out and demo them and see what you think.  Native does make a 14' tandem boat that can be used solo or tandem that may be work looking into and then there is also the big tuna from jackson which isn't a hybrid but offers a lot of the features you are looking for.

[jsc4324]

ill look at the commander online. I don't intend to put two adults into a solo boat. I would have to eventually purchase another canoe, jon boat etc for two people. 

 

I would love to get seat time in them first, but from my online searches, there are no dealers in my area that stocks the ones I mentioned. At least not from the dealer sites and few phone calls I have made. This kind of sucks given the amount for one of these boats. 

 

Also forgot to originally mention, by outings will be once maybe twice a week, and obviously no longer than a day trip on small lakes, ponds, etc.

[flyfisher]

Well since you can't paddle them i would say any will make a good choice.

The seat in the native is great while the commander offers a higher captain's perch (where i spend probably 99% of my time) and a lower seat position.

 

Tons of room in both boats and rigging options are great on both boats.  I don't think you will be unhappy with any of the boats you mentioned.

[Darren.]

I wouldn't consider the Ultimate 12 for two... I have taken my youngest son with me before, it worked, but wasn't ideal, and I'm only around 5'7"... I wouldn't consider taking my wife in it. Just isn't big enough for 2 people unless you're both under 150 lbs and short. Even then it becomes a question of balance. (My opinion).

 

However, I do recommend the U12 big-time for solo. I did get in-seat time in the Commander but preferred the hull design of the Ultimate--better for standing, etc. For ME! Others like the hull of the Commander. It is personal preference all the way.

 

As well, I did not like the seat of the Commander. The Ultimate "First Class" seat is far more comfortable to me. The perch is nice on the commander, but I built a simple, under $10 seat riser for my U12 that is perfect and light. A breeze to paddle from elevated position, and simple to stand from.

 

Advantage of the Commander is that it is ready for a trolling motor due to the flat back. I had to make a mount for my Native, but love how it works. I use a motor pretty much to get me places faster, and also because I suffer from fisherman's elbow (both elbows) and paddling can be painful.

 

It is a personal preference. Wilderness Systems is a big dog in the industry, Native Watercraft is a small dog... not that it matters, but each has excellent hybrid systems and after-purchase support. Both have great communities where you can get tips and such.

 

Now if you want to go solo, and occasionally take someone, consider upping to the 14' model. Will give you a little more room for an extra body. Will add a few extra pounds, but still car-toppable.

[jsc4324]

I like the stability of the nucanoe or what I have read about it. How comfortable are the seats. They look like the swivel seats are a must add.

Regarding the swivel seats how comfortable are they I'm terms of positioning such as legs cramping casting room etc? I just got quotes for both and they are within $50 of each other stock but the nucnoe seems like everything is an add on.

[jsc4324]

Hmmmm just watched some

Videos on the frontier and now I'm very intrigued. Going to have to check it out in person. Thanks frog turds.

[Jig Meister]

Diablo makes some awesome models, might be more than you are looking to spend however.

 

The jackson line has some nice yaks and they are all easy to stand up in. The COOSA is my fav.

[flyfisher]

The frontier is super stable. The coosa, which I also own, is very stable for the boat style but my commander is way more stable overall. The key to me is the high seat. In my coosa I rarely stand because I do not feel the need but I stand very often in my commander. Mostly because the flatwater I fish from the commander standing helps out more where the coosa I do not see as much an advantage.

[jsc4324]

Alright I think I have made my mind up and nucanoe is the best option for me. That said I have yet to see either in person but I really like the options with the frontier. Thanks for all the suggestions. If any of thenucanoe users out there suggest any must have add on for this boat I am interested.

[Jim Mac]

I know this is an old thread, BUT if fishing alone, is there any reason why I'd need the 12' Frontier over the 10' Frontier? I weigh 215 lbs. I bring very little gear with me.

 

The 12' model is 41" wide

 

10' model is 39" wide