Hello all,
First time poster but long time reader. I’m looking at purchasing a fishing kayak around the mid-late August time frame(currently deployed). I’ve been doing my research for about 3 months and haven’t demo’d any kayaks at this time. My list of requirements for right now has me at a Native Watercraft Slayer 14.5 for the requirements I’ve listed below:
Areas to be fished: Ponds, lakes, inshore, and flats
capabilities wanted: Comfortable seat, standing & fishing, pre-installed track gear system, large storage space, sit on top profile
Empty Weight: No more than 75lbs for maneuvering pre and post fishing
Seasons to be fished: Spring, summer, early fall
Transportation: full size truck with hitch extender to secure the tail end of the kayak
I do plan to get out of the kayak and wade when the opportunity presents itself and I prefer to paddle distance compared maneuverability.
I’m really considering the Native Slayer 14.5 because it already has pre-installed track system for rod holders, gps/fish finder, etc. The slayer seat looks really comfortable and has a high/low function. The slayer also includes side seat storage for tackle boxes, and a well thought out console area. It’s 33 in wide and purports to be really stable while standing and fishing. Empty, it weighs in at 70 lbs. Lots of storage area and innovation such as the after market under seat tool organizer are also available.
The only other option I really considered would be the Malibu stealth in the 14 ft model but the seat option is less than desirable and I feel I get more with the Slayer even though I’m paying more(buy once, cry once). I like the pre-installed track system because I know when I get the kayak I want to quickly be able to configure the kayak to my needs as quickly as possible.
My only concern with the slayer is that at 14.5 ft it might be kind of hard to maneuver in some of the flat, and skinny marsh transit areas. So if there are any Slayer owners or kayak anglers fishing
