any opinions from people that paddled the ultimate 12 at the kayak festival would be appreciated.im really leaning towards the 12 or 14.5.thanks
gots to get out for some trout
I paddled the Ultimate 12. I thought it a bit sluggish. I suggest trying it, the Magic, and a couple of competitors. The Ultimate has a lot of space, but added weight would make it even more sluggish. The 14 was not as bad as the 12. My wife and I even did the 16 tandem. That was somehat tougher, more because she didn’t paddle thant the yak. 
Dolphin D has a Wilderness Systems and Ulimate at Time Out. You might rent one of each and spend a day with them. I think he even has them set up for fishing. I think that the $39 to let you know it is a good decision would be money well spent. That is why I spent the $30 for my wife and I to go to the festival.
BC
Mt P, SC
Wag more. Bark less.
i have paddled it.i have a friend that has one.i have not paddled the 14.5 or 16 yet.i couldnt make the festival because of work.i dont find the the 12 sluggish at all,but im wondering if the 14.5 is that much better?also was just looking for other opinions.i had 2 other sit-in yaks,and that and my canoe is all i have had to compare it to.i think i might just get both.my wife wants to get into it anyway.
gots to get out for some trout
I picked up a 12 at festival. Paddled down Folly River last night and took “family” kayak trip down Folly Creek today. I don’t believe it’s designed to be the fastest boat on water but I wouldn’t describe it as sluggish. Nicely elevated, comfortable sitting position and deep relaive to a conventional yak.
Willy, if you need more time in it before deciding, you can use mine. Send me an e-mail. I live near Folly Beach Piggly Wiggly; launch from backyard.
stickman
thanks stickman.my friend has one i have paddled,just havent been able to paddle the 14.5 yet.i think im gonna get both,my wife wants to get into it anyway.we will go fishin one day.just waitin on a contract on my house right now.will be movin into new house soon.
i will have the money soon i hope.
gots to get out for some trout
I felt that the 14.5 was a big improvement over the 12. I don’t remember the money difference being that big. If I was to choose between the two, and storage was not a factor, I would pick the 14.5.
BC
Mt P, SC
Wag more. Bark less.