Introduction

Innovative and packed with features, the Feelfree Lure 11.5 fishing kayak has something for everyone. With superior stability, an affordable price point and impeccable storage, this Feelfree Lure 11.5 review will cover everything you need to know about one of the best angler’s kayaks on the market.

Versatile and Easy to Move

When it comes to unloading and maneuverability, Feelfree has thought of everything. From its patented “Wheel in the Keel” feature, which allows a single person to easily roll the kayak to the water, to four easy-grab handles at the bow, stern and both sides, the Lure’s 11.5-foot length and 74-pound weight are very manageable considering its size. As far as maneuverability on the water, the Lure 11.5 holds its own in ponds, lakes, open saltwater and even rivers with mild rapids, making it incredibly versatile for fishermen of all types.

Check out buyer reviews for the Feelfree Lure 11.5 on Amazon

So Sturdy You’ll Feel Right at Home

Stability is king with the Lure 11.5 kayak. With a three-fold, pontoon-like underbelly, a well-designed hull is the biggest reason this kayak is so hard to tip. In addition, the Lure’s reinforced platform with high-grade foam is incredibly comfortable for those who like to stand and fish, allowing the kayak to take the waves from boats or jet skis with ease. The draining system is also ideal, with sunken edges throughout, so the water stays to the side without collecting on the top of the deck. The drain plug is located on the back so it can be tipped up using the conveniently placed handles and drained quickly.

Innovative ‘Gravity Seat’ for a Comfortable Ride

The Lure’s beautifully made, patent-pending Gravity Seat with pockets is incredibly comfortable while being easily adjustable to a higher position for better viewing. The lowest setting can be perfect for riding out to find a good spot, then can be adjusted to the highest setting for sight fishing. This multi-level, multi-positioned, extra-wide seat is an angler’s dream. The seat can also be removed, which is perfect if you are camping and don’t want to add any more gear to your kayak during transport.

Check out American Paddler’s kayak gear reviews

Storage to Fit Every Kayaker’s Needs

There is a vast amount of storage throughout the Feelfree Lure 11.5, which is one of the biggest differences between it and its smaller cousin, the Feelfree Lure 10 kayak. The valve hatch in the front of the kayak has three points of contact, making it watertight, and it extends deep inside the kayak and all the way back, making it useful for storing fishing rods.

There is also a sonar pod center console, which can be used for a fishfinder or transducer or taken out entirely if a pedal drive system is used in its place. It really is ideal for managing all of your electrical needs in a compact, watertight compartment. There are also built-in straps with a molded-in crate recess in the back for all your tackle needs.

The Feelfree Lure 13.5 kayak, which is slightly larger than the Lure 11.5, does have one more built-in cooler in the front, which could be an added perk for those longer trips.

Packed With Features You Always Knew You Needed

The Feelfree Lure 11.5 has a GoPro mount, which is convenient, saving you the hassle of drilling holes to create one yourself. Speaking of mounts, the kayak also features a lip to hold a paddle and two flush-mounted rod holders behind the seat, meaning you can be as hands-free as you want.

The Lure 11.5, along with the Lure 10 and 13.5, also comes with a Uni-Track gear mounting system for attaching just about any fishing accessory. The dual tracks on either side are great for adding additional rod holders, depth finders and many other electronics. That’s a plus, because once you install the adapter, you don’t need any tools to attach your gear, meaning it’s one less thing to carry. The only downside is, you have to get the adapter to make the UniTrack worth it.

The Feelfree Lure 11.5 might not be the biggest of the Lure kayaks, but at 11.5 feet and about 3 feet wide, it’s still a large kayak, which means at higher speeds the tracking system isn’t the best. Fortunately, depending on the type of kayaking you are doing, you can get a rudder, which easily attaches to the back and runs through the front to the foot pedals. With a rudder added, tracking is significantly better and makes for a much smoother ride. The foot pedals can also be adjusted easily for any rider’s height.

The Feelfree Lure Family

Like mentioned above, the Feelfree Lure 11.5 is part of a family of kayaks, with the Feelfree Lure 10 and Feelfree Lure 13.5. The Lure 10 has an appealing price, often selling for less than $1,000. It has fewer features, but is still a very stable and comfortable kayak with a smaller amount of storage. The Lure 13.5 is the big daddy of the group, weighing in at a whopping 95 pounds. It does have more storage space and is great for open water. In the end, it’s a Goldilocks effect as to which would work best for each person. But for the best of both worlds, in our Feelfree Lure 11.5 review, this middle sibling has it all without overdoing it or skimping on the things that make a difference to the average kayak angler.

Colors

The Feelfree Lure 11.5 comes in seven different camouflage colors: blue, desert, lime, orange, pink, red and winter.

Price

For an 11.5-foot fishing kayak with top-of-the-line features, the Feelfree Lure 11.5 kayak is affordably priced compared to its competitors in the market. For a cheaper option, the Lure 10 offers many of the same features at a lower price. Check the latest price on Amazon.

Tl;dr (Too Long, Didn’t Read)

No Feelfree Lure 11.5 review would be complete if we didn’t affirm that this is a solid fisherman’s kayak. With its masterful stability and well-placed features, such as the sonar pod center console, the surplus of storage and the Uni-Track system for easy transport, it’s a fine day on the water waiting to happen. If you want it all without breaking the bank, this kayak is the way to go.

Founded in 2013, Vibe has burst onto the scene as a formidable player in the competitive fishing kayak market, and with well-reviewed kayaks like the Vibe Skipjack 90, it’s not difficult to see why.

Vibe excels in making solid and accessible fishing kayaks for any budget, which is why the Skipjack 90 is such a marvel. Lightweight and extremely portable, the Skipjack doesn’t lose the features kayak anglers rely on — stability, storage, maneuverability and gear compatibility — while keeping at a very reasonable price point.

In fact, the Vibe Skipjack 90 could easily be the best fishing kayak of its class — with some resellers listing it higher and others lower. For our purposes, we’re confident in calling it the best fishing kayak under $600, but you get the point: this is a very good, cheap fishing kayak.

Check out buyer reviews of the Vibe Skipjack 90 on Amazon.com

Video: Live Review of the Vibe Skipjack 90

The most portable fishing kayak you’ll find

The 9-foot-long sit-on-top Skipjack 90 weighs just 46 pounds, which is almost unheard of for a fishing kayak. At such a light weight, it’s easily handled by even a single paddler, with easy-to-grab hanging grips on all four sides of the boat.

This is a useful feature for fishing tournaments in tree-lined riverways or creeks with obstacles, rocks or waterfalls that require quick portage. Can’t get through a dam? Simply pick up your Skipjack — gear and all — and carry it. Don’t get me wrong: portaging any kayak by yourself isn’t easy, but with the Skipjack, it’s not necessarily a feat of strength.

Another advantage to the Skipjack’s manageable size is its ability to fit in the back of most trucks and large SUVs. This means no fumbling with awkward J-hooks or rooftop kayak racks. It’s also perfect for those who don’t have a garage or basement in which to store it — the Skipjack can even fit on your apartment balcony!

Though really big guys might feel a little cramped, the Skipjack can hold up to 300 lbs, and its wide-open deck offers enough space and multiple foot wells for taller paddlers to feel comfortable. If the Skipjack is a little too small, though, we recommend checking out the slightly larger Yellowfin 100 (check out price on Amazon).

Superior performance and stability

On the water, the Skipjack 90 handles like a dream, with maneuverability and stability other fishing kayaks would be hard-pressed to match.

Besides its 32-inch wide beam (which is quite wide for a 9-foot kayak), the Skipjack’s pronounced hull edges make for a rock-solid ride that won’t tip or sway while you’re reeling in that giant catfish — even while standing. And its durable rotomolded single-piece polyethylene construction isn’t about to sustain damage from the next rocky riverbed you encounter, either.

Though it won’t be as fast a 12- or 13-footer, the Vibe Skipjack 90 is remarkably nimble and quick for a shorter boat. Its razor-thin performance keel is perfect for anglers who don’t want to waste time chasing that school of fish or getting to that perfect fishing hole before dawn. It’s even suitable for lighter waves and surf conditions or lower-class moving rivers, thanks to its flexible design and multi-use capacity.

When you’re not fishing, the Skipjack is a great family-use sit-on-top kayak, too, with plenty of onboard storage and great tracking for a relaxing evening paddle with the kids.

Video: Vibe Skipjack 90 review of features and storage

A budget fishing kayak with plenty of amenities

If you’re thinking the Skipjack skipped out — pardon the pun — on its fishing features to make way for a better budget, you’d be wrong. The Skipjack features four flush-mounted rod holders — two in front of the cockpit, two behind it — and an optional fifth mounting location in front of the seat so you’ll never miss an opportunity. Anglers are also able to easily add a GPS, fish finder or GoPro.

Gear storage, then, right? That’s where they compromised? Nope. The Skipjack has two lockable, sealed dry-storage hatches (with insertable dry bags) in the middle of the boat and in the bow, plus a bungee-covered stern tankwell for all the dry bags, drink coolers, tackle boxes and extra clothes you need. Bringing a brewski? There’s a built-in cupholder, too.

For fishing those rushing rivers, the Vibe Skipjack 90 is also equipped with six plug-optional scupper holes to quickly drain excess water, so you’ll never worry about the boat filling while you’re reeling in the catch.

Paddle and high-back seat included

Adding to the budget-friendly nature of the Skipjack 90 is the fact that it comes with a two-piece paddle (which fits nicely in the kayak’s “paddle park” while not in use, by the way) and deluxe high-back seat.

Though the seat back is adjustable and padded and features a rear storage pouch, which is nice, we’d still recommend a seat upgrade if it’s in your budget, because it can get a little cramped after a long afternoon of fishing. Still, even if it’s not, the included seat is serviceable and well-built for a budget kayak.

Color options

If you’re color-conscious, the Vibe Skipjack 90 comes in three different options: blue camo, hunter green camo and green/blue sea breeze.

Tl;dr (Too long, didn’t read)

In our opinion, the Vibe Skipjack 90 is the best fishing kayak for the money on the market. It’s cheap, but that doesn’t make it cheaply made (see the latest price on Amazon). A lightweight, maneuverable and stable fishing platform with several well thought-out amenities designed specifically for kayak anglers, the Vibe Skipjack 90 is perfect for rivers, lakes, tight corners and wide open spaces. Toss in the fact that it’s extremely portable and able to be stored almost anywhere, and you’ve got yourself the best fishing kayak under $600 that we can find.

Introduction: Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 SS Review

If you’re new to the sport of kayaking and aren’t sure which recreational boats fit your budget and paddling style, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 SS is built with you in mind.

A good cheap kayak with a lot of bells and whistles for its price range, the Aruba 10 SS is the beefed-up older brother of the popular Aruba 10 recreational kayak. Both kayaks are made for the budget-conscious beginner, but the SS model offers a little more in the way of amenities and comfort.

See American Paddler’s side-by-side comparison of the Aruba 10 vs Aruba 10 SS

There are lots of reviews out there of the Aruba 10, but we couldn’t find many of the Aruba 10 SS, even on more established sites, so we decided to make one. We hope American Paddler’s Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 SS review helps you make a more informed choice.

Here’s what we liked and what we didn’t:

Storage and amenities

The biggest noticeable difference between the Aruba 10 and the Aruba 10 SS is in the generous amount of storage options aboard the SS. While both models offer a stern tankwell, the SS’s is noticeably larger (about twice the size, actually) — which offers more than enough storage space for extra clothes, drinks, snacks or rain gear.

Check out buyer reviews of the Aruba 10 SS on Amazon.com

In addition to the larger tankwell, the SS also offers a smaller electronics dry console conveniently located between the paddler’s legs — meaning there’s no fumbling through a dry bag when your phone suddenly rings out on the water. It can also be equipped with Sun Dolphin’s waterproof mini-Bluetooth speaker — a really cool accessory if you ask us.

Dollar for dollar, the Aruba 10 SS simply offers a heck of a lot more in terms of storage and convenience (than the Aruba 10).

Perhaps the coolest part, though, is Sun Dolphin’s innovative “Portable Accessory Carrier” system that allows the tankwell on the SS to actually detach and be carried independently of the kayak. This is immensely helpful for loading up before you hit the water, and it also means you can effectively double your storage space by towing the carrier behind your kayak while on the water.

If that wasn’t enough, there’s one other unique feature to the SS over the Aruba 10: dual cupholders on the kayak’s “dashboard” mounting system — again conveniently located within arm’s reach. Both models also come with a bungeed-down water bottle holder on the bow and side paddle holders.

Video: Sun Dolphin Aruba 12 SS (the Aruba 10 SS’s larger cousin)

Comfort

For a budget recreational kayak, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 SS doesn’t disappoint with its comfort options.

Big and tall paddlers will appreciate the Aruba 10 SS’s wider, more inviting cockpit compared to the Aruba 10, and the adjustable padded seat is a step above what you’ll find on most budget rec kayaks. The foot pegs are also adjustable, an added bonus for tall guys looking to stretch their lanky legs.

Though some have complained about sharp edges on the inside lip of the cockpit, the Aruba 10 SS’s protective thigh pads help alleviate this issue.

The protruded outside lip of the cockpit does accommodate a spray skirt if you’ll be paddling in cold or windy conditions — or simply don’t like being splashed.

Performance

Though budget kayaks aren’t usually known for their superior performance, the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 SS isn’t bad for a fun, cheap kayak.

The first thing you’ll notice is that the Aruba 10 SS is incredibly stable and tip-resistant, making it a great starter kayak for lakes, rivers and calm bays. Thanks to its sleek, lightweight hull design, it’s also exceptionally maneuverable and turns easily, even for inexperienced paddlers.

The Aruba 10 SS does suffer a little bit when it comes to tracking (it doesn’t feature a skeg, unfortunately), but then again, it really isn’t designed for marathon day trips. As long as you stick to paddling calmer, recreational waters, it more than gets the job done.

Portability

For all the added storage aboard the Aruba 10 SS, it doesn’t lose its trademark lightweight portability. In fact, the Aruba 10 SS weighs just 44 lbs (only 4 pounds heavier than the Aruba 10) — meaning it’s easily handled by a single person.

As the name suggests, the Aruba 10 SS is 10 feet long, which is long enough for good performance yet short enough to fit easily atop most vehicles. Thanks to its shorter size, it can also be stored in places other kayaks can’t: apartment balconies, basements — or even in the back of some SUVs or pickups.

The Aruba 10 SS has front and rear carrying handles, which helps when carrying it to and from the beach.

Construction

The Aruba 10 SS is made of durable, UV-stabilized Fortiflex high-density polyethylene, which means three things for paddlers:

• It’s customizable for fishing rods, extra handles or equipment rigging,
• It’s not going to easily sustain damage from rocks and underwater hazards, and,
• You don’t have to worry about leaving it outside, since the UV-resistance protects against chipping, peeling or fading due to the sun’s damaging rays.

The Aruba 10 SS can hold up to 280 lbs, with passengers and cargo combined.

Drawbacks

If there’s one thing we wished this kayak had, it’s a drain plug. Since it doesn’t, we recommend a good spray skirt or bilge pump to keep the water out. It’s probably also worth investing in a better seat.

Color options

The Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 SS comes in a colorful array of blue, green, red and orange. Personally, we think the red looks sharp.

Price

Considering its notable features and upgrades, we’d consider the Aruba 10 SS one of the best recreational kayaks for the money. Check the latest price for yourself on Amazon.

Tl;dr (Too long, didn’t read)

If you don’t have time to read our Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 SS review, know this: if you’re looking for a budget rec kayak that offers a little more bang for the buck, this is your boat. In fact, the Aruba 10 SS probably offers more amenities and storage options than any other budget kayak in its class — its sister Aruba 10 included. For a significant upgrade in comfort and convenience, as well as a still-cheap price point, we recommend the Aruba 10 SS as the best kayak for the money for beginners.

If you’re looking for something a little longer or shorter, try the Aruba 8 SS or the Aruba 12 SS.

Aruba 10 vs Aruba 10 SS (Side by Side Comparison)

FEATURES	ARUBA 10	ARUBA 10 SS
Short, lightweight construction
Affordable price
Stern tankwell
Bungee deck rigging
Water bottle holder
Adjustable foot pegs
Padded thigh braces
Extra-wide cockpit
Detachable “Portable Accessory Carrier”
Electronics dry console (w/ optional Bluetooth speaker)
Dashboard with dual cupholders
Extra leg room

Introduction: Old Town Predator MX Kayak Review

The most stable fishing kayak you’ll find almost anywhere, the Old Town Predator MX is an all-water beauty that offers comfort, a rock-solid platform and plenty of alluring fishing features at a competitive price.

As any experienced kayak fisherman will tell you, stability is among the most important features when choosing a fishing kayak — for obvious reasons. Sitting in the middle of a chilly lake for hours on end, the last thing you want to worry about when you hook that prized bass is your kayak tipping over.

The Predator MX is designed first and foremost to alleviate this worry. With its slightly rounded hull and wide, 34” beam, the MX (which stands for “mixed water”) stands up to the rigors of the toughest wrestling match and lends itself very well to fly fishing, standing while casting and reeling in the toughest of muskies.

Here’s American Paddler’s in-depth Old Town Predator MX review, an extraordinary kayak built with serious anglers in mind.

Check out buyer reviews of the Old Town Predator MX on Amazon.com

A great river fishing kayak

For kayak anglers who like to do a little of everything, the Predator MX is one the most versatile fishing kayaks on the market. A lot of fishing kayaks advertise stability, but this often comes at a price of compromised maneuverability and tracking — it feels like you’re paddling a barge, in other words.

With the Predator MX, you don’t have to make this tradeoff. Its performance tri-hull is designed to track perfectly straight for efficient and quick paddling, while maintaining a high level of maneuverability for those tight river bends and tree-felled backwaters. This makes the MX a great kayak for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, because it can handle both waves and the numerous obstacles of a moving river with ease.

Constructed with high-strength LT900 polyethylene, the Predator MX offers an incredible mix of lightweight performance and rugged durability for a fishing kayak, though at 82 pounds, it’s still a bit of a beast.

Stand and cast with confidence

If you’re someone who likes to fly fish, or simply stand for extra leverage while locked in a battle of wills, the Predator MX has your back. Besides an extra-wide beam, the slip-resistant Exo-Ridge deck and stand-up fishing straps mean you don’t have to worry about losing your footing.

With any fishing expedition — especially in moving rivers or surf-laden bays — water is bound to splash in. Thanks to the MX’s eight patented one-way scupper holes and textured standing platform, however, water drains quickly and won’t collect on the deck while you’re trying to stand. Ask any angler: slipping while reeling in a catch is not fun.

Besides keeping you dry, the MX’s shorter length and wider deck is perfect for throwing lines at heavier fish you wouldn’t otherwise have the confidence to go after.

Responsive, comfortable seating

The Old Town Predator MX’s versatile, “Element” seating system is an ingenious add-on for a fishing kayak. Second to stability, in my opinion, a comfortable and adaptable seat is the MOST important feature of a fishing kayak if you plan on angling for any length of time.

Not only is the Predator MX’s seat comfortable; it’s highly functional, with three different positions depending on what you need at the moment:

• Travel: Low to the water, perfect for extra stability while paddling or moving
• Attack: Raised, upright position for scouting, casting or reeling
• Stand-up: For those moments when a seat really just gets in the way, simply fold it up and get it out of the way

The Predator MX can hold up to 400 lbs, and its durable, metal-framed wide-back seat means it’s a great fishing kayak for big guys, too. Taller paddlers will also appreciate the sliding, lockable adjustable foot braces.

If you’re planning any marathon, 10-hour fishing expeditions, in other words, your legs and backside will thank you.

Fishing features

The Predator MX is almost just as versatile when it comes to hauling your gear. With six removable, high-strength mounting plates on the bow, stern and middle of the boat, you never have to worry about drilling into the kayak’s hull to make adjustments for extra rod holders, fish finders, GPS or GoPro customizations.

That’s not to mention the Predator MX’s built-in rod tip holders and conveniently placed side-mounted tackle retainers and paddle storage, which make grabbing your rod and extra lures a snap when you need to.

Bringing a cold one, but worried about space for a cooler? Don’t be. With a wide-open, bungee-strapped tank well and click-to-seal dry storage hatch in the bow, the MX is well-suited to handle your storage needs — from trolling motor batteries to tackle boxes and everything in between.

With such a wide-open deck space, the Predator MX lends itself to catch-and-release fishing, too, allowing the angler to easily unhook fish without worry about gear getting in the way.

Not ready to let the fish go? Neither is the kayak, with high gunwales that prevent that slippery trout from jumping ship.

Storage and portability

Although the Predator MX — like most fishing kayaks — is a bit on the heavy side (82 lbs), it’s actually lighter compared to most models. This is due in part to the construction materials, but also to the kayak’s shorter length. At just 12 feet long and with four easy-grab handles, just throw it in the back of your truck and make your quick, no-hassle getaway.

Color options

Fish will never see you coming, with four camouflage colors to choose from: brown, red, green and gray.

Tl;dr (Too long, didn’t read)

If you didn’t feel like reading all that, know this: the Predator MX is a fantastically versatile fishing kayak. Super stable, yet highly responsive and maneuverable, this is a fishing kayak for all different conditions at a very affordable price point (see latest price on Amazon). It’s got an incredibly comfortable seat and myriad storage and gear options while maintaining a wide-open deck for standing, casting or moving about.

In other words, it gets American Paddler’s vote, and we think it should get yours, too. If you have more to add to this Old Town Predator MX review, let us know in the comments below.

Introduction: Perception Tribe 9.5 Review

It’s about noon on a Saturday. You’re miles from civilization, a cool drink in one hand, your dog on your lap, a stockpile of refreshments behind you and serene waters as far as the eye can see. You were made for this moment, and so was your kayak.

If that’s your idea of heaven, you might have been paddling the Perception Tribe 9.5, a do-it-all sit-on-top kayak that’s perfect for lazy afternoons and worry-free weekends.

If you’ve ever considered purchasing a sit-on-top kayak, you know they are built for comfort and ease-of-use. The Tribe 9.5 is at the top of that list and allows paddlers all the freedom they need, with easy maneuverability and good tracking at a lightweight budget. Perception has been making quality kayaks for generations, and the Tribe is proof that they still know a thing or two about paddling.

There are lots of reasons we love this kayak, but below you’ll find American Paddler’s in-depth Perception Tribe 9.5 review.

Check out buyer reviews of the Perception Tribe 9.5 on Amazon.com

An easy-to-use kayak for beginners and experts alike

The Tribe 9.5 is the smallest of Perception’s Tribe family of kayaks, with its cousins the Tribe 11.5 and Tribe 13.5 offering more speed (and weight) and better tracking. Still, the Tribe 9.5 more than holds its own here.

The biggest advantage to the Tribe 9.5’s small size is its accessibility for smaller paddlers and beginners. If your plan is to go ocean fishing, the bigger boats might be your better bet, but for lakes and slow rivers, the 9.5 offers more than enough stability and maneuverability. It’s also versatile enough to handle light surf — a bonus for those who aren’t sure where their paddling adventures will take them.

Even if your paddling adventure takes you nowhere but the middle of a calm lake, the Tribe 9.5 is stable enough to enter from the water, making this a great option for swimming or diving — not to mention fishing or other flatwater activities.

A breath of fresh air: Easy carrying and storage

If there’s one area where the Perception Tribe 9.5 really shines, it’s portability. Honestly, the folks over at Perception ought to win an award for this. Consider:

• The Tribe 9.5 weighs just 46 pounds — more than lightweight enough for a single person to handle
• Molded-in side handles that are actually part of the kayak rather than cheaply made dangling ropes. Not only does this help with portability, but it also means you can run ropes or bike locks through it as an anti-theft feature. (Why this isn’t standard practice, I have no idea.)
• If you own multiple Tribe kayaks — including the Tribe 11.5 or 13.5 — they’re stackable. No more garage takeovers!
• Because it’s both stackable and has molded-in handles, the Tribe is a breeze to tie to your car. And that’s assuming you need to tie it up at all, as the small Tribe 9.5 can easily fit in the back of most pickups.
• A replaceable skid plate means you won’t hurt the kayak dragging it to the water

Bring your dog, bring a cooler, bring a book

The Perception Tribe 9.5 is wide open and super-stable, a reassuring fact for those not used to sit-on-top kayaking. Lots of paddlers rate this kayak as one of the best kayaks for dogs or children, thanks to a wide, well-balanced deck for Fido or Junior to rest comfortably while Mom or Dad paddles. In fact, while the Tribe 9.5 is rated as just a solo-paddler kayak, there is space (and attachment points) for a second seat should you want to bring a child along.

Speaking of the aforementioned “cold drink,” the Tribe 9.5 offers plenty of room to bring a cooler — or anything else you want in tow — thanks to its generously deep stern tankwell and high-quality bungee strapping that keeps your gear secure. And it’s got a well-placed cupholder, should you need to put down the beverage for a moment to ward off “Jaws Junior” who’s intent on flipping Dad’s kayak.

In any case, we’d love to see him try. If ocean swells can’t flip the Tribe, an 8-year-old probably won’t have much luck, either.

Carefree comfort and flexibility

An uncomfortable seat can ruin an otherwise great kayaking experience for a first-time paddler, which is why the Tribe 9.5’s padded seat stands out among sit-on-top kayaks.

Unlike many flimsy sit-on-top kayak seats, the Tribe’s foldable high-back seat is actually attached to the kayak itself, providing better back support for longer paddling trips. When in use, the seat is folded up and supported by pressure-strength bungee cables, which offers a rigid feel similar to higher-quality metal frame seats. When not in use, the seat can be folded down for easy transport.

The seat back itself is also adjustable, which helps a lot depending on the size PFD you’re wearing.

Adding to the comfort for larger or shorter paddlers is the Tribe’s multi-channel molded-in foot wells, which allow for comfort in almost any seating position — knees up, knees down or legs straight ahead.

Keep your things (and yourself) dry

As any sit-on-top kayak owner will tell you, it’s impossible to keep all the water out. But with the Tribe 9.5’s multiple self-bailing scupper holes, you’ll at least keep most of it out. In fact, that’s one of the advantages of a sit-on-top kayak as opposed to a sit-inside version: the kayak does the work of bailing for you.

When water does get in, it doesn’t have to ruin your wallet or cellphone, thanks to the Tribe 9.5’s lockable 6” center hatch. Though the hatch itself is not watertight, it’s better than nothing when it comes to keeping your valuables splash-free, and it’s more than most sit-on-tops offer. We’d recommend investing in a dry bag, anyway.

Colors

The Perception Tribe 9.5 comes in several colors for guys and girls, from green/blue to pink, red, yellow and camo.

Price

Despite its remarkable features, the Perception Tribe 9.5 is priced very well for a solid, versatile sit-on-top kayak. Check the most recent price yourself on Amazon.

Tl;dr (Too long, didn’t read)

The Perception Tribe 9.5 is a well-built, ingeniously designed sit-on-top kayak that’s perfect for beginners and smaller paddlers who want performance and stability at a budget price. Easily maneuvered in both surf and calm flatwater, the Tribe 9.5 is perfect for fishing, diving, swimming or just an afternoon on the lake with a cooler and a dog. Perception’s brilliant staff has made this one of the most portable kayaks on the market, with molded-in handles (an anti-theft feature), stackable design and lightweight (46 lb) construction easy enough for a single person to handle.

Overall, a very solid, lightweight kayak that deserves a serious look.

Introduction: Lifetime Payette 116 Kayak Review

This kayak will always have a special place in my heart. The first “real” kayak I ever owned, the Lifetime Payette 116 is an accessible, beginner-friendly starter boat that paddles well and offers a lot for the price.

When we purchased this kayak, my wife and I got it as a two-for-one deal, which made it even sweeter. I remember vividly the first time I pushed out from shore, I was surprised at how easily it handled for a big orange boat.

Truth be told, it’s really not that big. At just 9’6” and 44 pounds, the Payette 116 is a very manageable size for a recreational kayak. My wife was able to very easily maneuver it, and even I was surprised at how quick and lightweight the kayak felt compared to the bulky canoes and kayaks I remembered as a child.

Now that we run a website dedicated to reviewing the best beginner kayaks on the market, I thought American Paddler readers could benefit from our Lifetime Payette 116 kayak review.

Check out buyer reviews of the Payette 116 on Amazon.com

Reassuringly comfortable and stable for beginners

Like many first-time kayakers, I wanted a sit-inside kayak for all the usual reasons: I liked the feeling of being “in” the kayak, as opposed to being exposed to the elements. Being from Michigan, a lot of our paddling is done in colder weather, so I wanted something that wouldn’t take on a lot of water.

The Payette’s very wide, flat bottom does wonders for its stability and safety, and there’s no way this boat is going to flip. That said, it does sacrifice a bit of speed and tracking as a result — which was fine with me, and it’s not enough to really notice. Maneuverability is pretty darn good, to be honest, as even for a newbie paddler, I was able to easily turn this thing on a dime.

The Payette 116 is a basic, out-of-the-box kayak, but it paddles surprisingly well for a budget boat. Part of this is due to the Payette’s streamlined design that widens as it gets closer to the cockpit, allowing the kayak to cut through waves at the bow while still allowing enough seating room for a bigger guy to feel comfortable.

Roomy and plenty of storage space

The first thing you’ll notice when you climb inside the Payette 116 is that the cockpit is forgivingly large. This makes it a great kayak not only for bigger people, but also those whose physical limitations might present difficulties getting in and out of a kayak.

The Payette 116 also offers a lot in terms of storage. Its rear dry storage hatch ties down with bungees to protect your keys, wallet or cellphone while out on the lake, as well as any medication you might need to bring, such as an asthma inhaler. It’s not watertight if the kayak capsizes (but really, it’s not going to), but it does prevent splashes from getting inside.

At first glance, the Payette doesn’t appear to offer much in the way of “wet storage,” with just a simple bungee on the bow deck. But actually, this kayak does have plenty of space for extra lifejackets, paddle leashes, bilge pumps and other gear under the deck in the bow and behind the seat. You can even bring an extra paddle if you need to.

Video: Customizing a Payette 116 for more dry storage

Durable and customizable hardshell construction

The Payette 116 is made of lightweight, durable high-density polyethylene. While it doesn’t offer a lot in the way of extras, this does mean this kayak is highly customizable, and you could easily drill into the shell to create holes for rod holders or other fishing gear.

The other nice thing about the Payette 116 is that it’s UV-resistant, which means it won’t break down if left outside in the elements. Trust me, as someone who doesn’t have a lot of storage space for a kayak, this is a very good thing.

Seat and comfort

If there’s one negative to the Payette, it’s that the seat isn’t the greatest, but unless you plan on paddling for hours on end, it’ll do just fine. The high-back seat could be a little higher, and there’s no padding on the thigh portions, but unless you’ve got exceptionally long legs, you’re probably not going to notice. The footrest positions are adjustable, but the cockpit leg channel still offers plenty of room to stretch out.

The Payette features carrying handles at both the bow and stern, as well as drain plugs for quick emptying when you’re done on the water (although a bilge pump makes this much easier).

Budget price

Honestly, what most paddlers will love about the Payette is the price. That’s what drew me. And given the two-for-one deal we got, it was honestly the perfect kayak for my wife and I to start with. Check the latest price for yourself on Amazon.

Lightweight and portable

Both my wife and I are on the shorter side, but I was able to easily hoist the Payettes onto the roof of our Pontiac Vibe by myself. Since they weigh just 44 pounds, it’s definitely manageable for two people, and one person can do it if need be.

And just for the record, Pontiac Vibes aren’t exactly known for their kayak-hauling capacity, yet our smaller vehicle was able to fit two Payettes on the roof rack with ease.

Tl;dr (Too long, didn’t read)

One of the best starter kayaks on the market, and an incredibly stable one at that, the Lifetime Payette 116 is the perfect way to get your feet wet with kayaking. Lightweight and easily manageable, this kayak is a great sit-in boat with a wide, forgiving cockpit and great maneuverability for first-timers. If you’re a couple looking to purchase your first set together, check for deals on Amazon.

Happy paddling, and please let us know if we can make this Lifetime Payette 116 kayak review better!