Reviews written by EmaG

From Backwater Paddle Company comes the Assault Hand Paddle, a device created to allow for simultaneous fishing and propulsion of watercraft. I spent the summer with the Assault, and have come to value and rely upon what I can only describe as the paddle’s elaborate simplicity. Created by former US Navy survival instructor, Ed Halm, the Assault is the mechanical incarnation of the motto, “adapt and overcome.”

In my time with the paddle, I truly found nothing to complain about.  I did, however, discover numerous situations in which the Assault truly shines:

- My local reservoir develops a strong wind in the evening, and the phenomenon makes it quite hard for an angler to hold a position over marked structure.  Jigging over a small rocky reef normally involves an elaborate juggling of double bladed paddle and rod.  With possession of the Assault, however, the process is streamlined, and one can easily maintain position while experiencing uninterrupted jigging.

- The same reservoir features numerous shallow coves and creek mouths; entering into these areas – with intent to fish – is a task best performed with utmost stealth. The Assault allows an angler to silently approach noise and vibration-sensitive areas with minimal disturbance. Albeit a slower approach than a double bladed paddle, the technique is quite effective when sneaking up on skittish bass.

- On swift river descents, it can often be hard to simultaneously carve a line into an eddy and fish a tail out. A recent trip down Montana’s Kootenai River had me praising the stiffness and blade size of the Assault. Digging into a current seam and casting a lure was a natural dance that resulted in many tail out-derived rainbow trout.

- The Assault’s blade features a deep notch, and it is this characteristic that allows the paddle to become quite useful in debris and vegetation-choked creeks and sloughs. The notch easily grabs overhanging or path-obscuring branches, and can even let one hold position – via these branches - in mellow versions of this water.

The small size of the Assault makes storage a snap. Though I often started my trips with the paddle stowed in the center hatch, the Assault nearly always ended each journey stashed under my legs. In both locations, the Assault was barely noticeable.  This fact, when combined with the quite reasonable MSRP of $29.95, makes the paddle a truly versatile tool that is accessible to most every kayak angler. The Assault’s uses are nearly countless; as such, it is, in my opinion, one of the best values to be found in the current marketplace.

Adventure Technology, a company well known for innovative and luxuriously built touring and whitewater-centric paddles, also caters to the kayak angling demographic. Their kayak fishing focused offering is dubbed Fishstix, and is, by and large, a sportsman-themed spin on their standard Elite-level Exodus paddle. AT's touring paddles are offered in three tiers of increasing price points and build complexity; the Elite level is the uppermost tier, and is comprised of two models: the Exodus and Xeption. The Fishstix is, therefore, a high-end touring paddle clothed in a camouflage motif. At the time of press, there exists no difference in price between the standard Exodus and the Fishstix; both units feature an MSRP of $355.

When compared to other $300+ models, the paddle in question, like its product of origin, is positioned as a middle of the road performer with regard to weight, stiffness, and paddling angle. Indeed, there exists lighter paddles, looser paddles (less stiff), and angle-specific paddles, but with specificity comes sacrifice. The Fishstix does not make a martyr out any aforementioned categories, and test paddles certainly revealed a well balanced harmony of the three domains. In this regard, the mission statement is met.

Weighing in at 32oz, the Fishstix is certainly devoid of excess poundage. The price point brings about numerous offerings hovering around 30oz, though few have the angler in mind. Anglers, like myself, stepping up from traditional 35-36oz paddles will certainly notice a difference. It seems odd that, for a fit 180 pound man, a mere three ounces can translate to a well perceived reduction in overall work. Alas, that is indeed the case. Intense test paddle exceeding two hours (at a cadence averaging 70-80 strokes per minute) were met with a surprisingly refreshing end. Using the above figures, one can extrapolate that over the stated time, the three lost ounces would result in a reduction of over a thousand pounds of total moved weight. For anglers frequently engaging upon multi-hour or multi-day forays, the weight of the Fishstix is well worth the price of admission.

Aside from an easily detectable flutter or muscle-jarring rigidity, paddle stiffness can be a hard barometer to read. Generally speaking, distance-oriented paddlers tend to prefer a paddle that offers more flex than those required by kayak anglers seeking to travel short distances over a highly compressed time requirement. As mentioned above, the Fishstix caters to neither group, and therefore offers enough flex to prevent overuse injuries and enough rigidity to minimize a loss in power.

With regard to the paddling angle to which the Fishstix caters, I can only comment on those allowed by the 220cm model, which was the size provided. Though a bit shorter than my usual choice of 230cm, I had no trouble paddling across a variety of styles and vessels, and could take my pick of comfortable and effective angles in even the chubbiest of fishing kayaks.

With an affirmation that the product’s main mission statement has been met, we can now focus on some of the details and features that make this paddle unique. It seems as though AT chose the Exodus as the base model for a variety of reasons, including the ergonomic bent shaft and the relatively large blade, the later an attribute touted to provide increased stability and quicker acceleration. Like many of the company’s offerings, the paddle features an infinite array of feathering and a small adjustment in overall length.

The ergonomic shaft is both novel and well executed, and will provide to the uninitiated a paddling experience like no other. For those transferring from traditional straight shaft paddles, a learning curve will be encountered. A slight difficulty can be had when trying to find the sweet spot onto which the hands are placed, and an alteration or refinement of technique will inevitably occur. Both, however, will likely only take place during the initial outing.

The Fishstix retains its parent paddle’s 633 sq cm blade, a size that is typically considered large for touring-specific paddles. Adventure Technology has stated that said size is intended to aide in acceleration, but I did not find this to be the case. Perhaps due to the elongated blade shaped, or simply to my past preferences for truly oversized paddles, the Fishstix did not come across as a product designed for assisting one in the attaining of short bursts of increasing speed. In times when acceleration was paramount, such as those offered by approaching container ships or downstream obstacles, the Fishstix felt a little slow out of the gate. Again, this isn’t attributable to flex-based issues, but it is a noticeable phenomenon. One particular instance had me digging in to quickly avoid a tidal eddy. While the whirlpool was skirted, I felt that, when compared to larger bladed paddles, extra effort was needed to do so.

Typical of the AT lineup, the Fishstix ships complete with an innovative ferrule that gives to the user an infinite amount of feathering, the ability to add a few cm of length, and a closure mechanism that is incredibly smooth and easy to use. With regard to the adjustment of length, I was able to turn my 220cm paddle into one that approached 224cm. Though the middle of the shaft was recessed and illusory of a weakened joint, no compromise in stiffness or slippage was detected. It is truly a fine design and one that allows users to quasi-customize their paddle to fit unique needs and situations.

Though I am still wondering if a camouflage facade constitutes a change in designation from touring paddle to one of angling specificity, I must say that, regardless of targeted demographic, this is one product that excels in propelling wide sit on top kayaks from point A to point B. It may fall short on promises of increased acceleration, (and, to be fair, it could very well be the most sprint-worthy of the company’s offerings), the Fishstix makes up for its shortcomings in terms of lightness, comfort, and looks. It is a luxury paddle that does most everything in ways that will suit 99% of anglers, and does so at a price point comparable to other high end units. In short, buy it for the weight reduction and the looks. If the later is less important, equal or better deals may be found in the traditional touring paddle market.

To simply describe, and subsequently categorically rate, Wilderness System's updated Ride 115 is to ignore the omnipresent notion of niche-specific kayak design, itself an emerging and overdue trend in the paddlesports industry. This review shall, therefore, focus mainly upon the manufacturer's stated goals, and attempt to eschew misguided comparisons to the global network of fishing-specific kayaks and small boats. The company touts the Ride 115 as possessing a combination of "stability, capacity, versatility and rigability," and it is upon these virtues that this review shall first touch.

STABILITY

The kayak in question is a wide vessel - that much is certain, and with width comes an inherent amount of stable real estate. Sitting upon the newly released Phase 3 Air Pro seating system (more on that later, and yet more expounded upon in a separate, seat-specific review), one is unfazed by waves, boat wakes, or sudden movements. The true test of stability, however, comes by unlatching the sliding seat, sending it aft, and taking to one's feet for a round of sight casting. To borrow from the aeronautical vernacular of axial-based movement, specifically pitch, yaw, and roll, the Ride 115 gives no quarter with regard to the later. With the stability of the largest of rental fleet-derived SUPs, the wee Ride holds strong under the most unbalanced of feet. Easy is the walking motion required to access the front hatch, and even simpler is the shifting of weight necessary to effortlessly direct the boat's yaw during a swift down-current drift of a tidal river. I never once felt as though my placement or dryness were compromised, and somewhat preferred the standing position over the seated counterpart.

CAPACITY

As a paddler of 180 pounds, and one with an eye for minimalistic gear, the generous weight rating was never an issue. The heaviest paddlers, and even those packing heavily or for overnight forays, will have no encounters with weight-based limitations. Add a cooler of food and drink, a chocolate Labrador, and the heaviest tackle box; you'll sit well above the designated waterline. Of course, to truly maximize a boat's capacity, one must be presented with places in which to store the bulkiest of gear. Hatch space is more than ample, and the flattened rear well is large enough to accommodate a weekend's worth of supplies. For a boat nearing a mere twelve feet in length, the Ride 115 lacks not in storage space. It can be reasonably stated that, with the proper use of dry bags and boxes, the vessel is comparable, with regard to storage capacity, most mid-sized touring kayaks.

VERSATILITY/RIGABILITY

Of the four aforementioned variables, versatility and rigability are the two that ring most true of the builder's claims. To best describe the traits in question, it may, in fact, be necessary to turn thoughts toward analogous representatives from vehicular genres more versed in concepts exuding all things versatile. The Ride 115 is, at once, a steel touring bicycle, a mid-80s German van with 4x4 capability, and what surfers have charmingly dubbed, a fun board. With numerous flat surfaces glowing with expansiveness, the boat begs for accessories, yet remains functional and sleek right out of the box. The options, with regard to customization, are infinite; one could literally put the vessel through all phases of creative development as they pertain to rigging. Shipped in its stock format, the Ride comes equipped with what many will view as more than ample. SlideTrax gear mounts line the front rails, and deep ports sit just aft of the seat - ports more than capable of handling the beefiest of rods or other linear pieces of gear. Given the average kayak angler's propensity for endless rigging, the Ride 115 is a mural-sized canvas begging for creative expression. If an angler were to choose hardware that exemplifies the modern movements of portability and ease-of-removal, the boat could easily serve many duties ranging from pond fisher, overnight tourer, crab catcher, big game hunter, or home base for summer. Switching amongst the roles would take but mere minutes, and, given the price point, anglers would shop long and hard before arriving at a similarly aimed boat.

FURTHER THOUGHTS

It is clear that Wilderness Systems has followed through on their stated goals. Like any quality investment, however, there exists within the Ride a subset of traits that extend beyond the commercialism and slowly develop over repeated usage. What follows next are my own further notes and observations stemming from the test paddles.

In a nod to the previously discussed versatility, the boat is rife with flat surfaces, so many, in fact, that my first foray was met with constant distraction. This is not a bad thing, however, as my mind was simply drifting to places where the deepest rigging-themed desires dwell. Square footage is the measurement of choice here; the Ride features real estate ample enough for a catalog-emptying shopping spree. Paddlers of all sizes will be able to place upon the boat after-market attachment points (Yak Attack's Mighty Mount comes to mind) in configurations unique to their own body type and angling style. If there was ever a place deemed necessary as a repository for gear/rod/tackle/camera storage, the Ride offers a solution. From the sides of the Air Pro seat to the acreage immediately fore of the cockpit, there is simply no shortage of available mounting surfaces. It should again be noted, as well, that the Ride 115 ships in a fashion that is already above par in terms of mounting and storage ability. A particularly useful feature is the tackle tray built into the bottom of the seating system. Big enough (and seemingly designed with this specific purpose in mind) for a Plano box, this cavernous slot is accessible, perfectly positioned, and unobtrusive in all regards.

The Phase 3 Air Pro seating system is more than a tackle receptacle. Though the item in question is reviewed - in detail - elsewhere, it is worth noting that the throne is indeed a game changer with regard to comfort and ease of use. Though the later portion of that statement alludes to a simple design, nothing could be further from reality. The seating system is complex, yet rife with simple pull tabs that move the seat in all possible directions.

Ruggedness seems to be part of Wilderness System's mission statement, and the Ride boasts many thoughtful details that play testament to this notion. The handles - fore, aft, and mid-ship, are stout and firmly affixed to the hull. The stern terminus of the keel features a hearty skid plate, an item sometimes necessary in cart-less, single person transport scenarios. Provided that parts are available when it eventually tires, replacement should be quite easy.

No ship is built to utter perfection, and my test paddles did bring about a few minor gripes. It should be stated that all perceived flaws have their work-arounds, and that most stemmed from me straying from the idea that this is a niche-specific boat designed not to compete with seventeen foot performance kayaks. First, there is a weight issue, but one that is simply a byproduct of the boat's ruggedness. Tipping the scales in the neighborhood of seventy-some pounds, the seat-equipped Ride is a brute in the genre of portable short boats. For those lacking arm length, upper body strength, and a cart, the vessel's heft will likely be an issue. The boat is easily lifted by the mid-ship handles, though the lengthy appendages of a 6'2" reviewer were necessary in order to compensate for the involved width. Again, there are work-arounds; get a cheap cart or devise a way - it's worth the extra effort. Second, and this is a problem associated with all vessels belonging to the newly-christened high seat class, is the need for modified paddling technique and gear. The user's feet are well below the point in which they would be most useful to the traditional foot and leg driven paddle stroke. The flow of energy from toe to torso feels stifled, and it is likely that folks will need to adjust previously honed techniques. Taller kayakers will also find it necessary to purchase a longer paddle. My height and boat preference normally dictate the use of a 230 cm model, and I will soon be upgrading to a 240. Whilst testing the boat, I often felt as though my current paddle was situated at too high an angle, albeit one necessary for proper purchase of the water. Third, when employing the rail-mounted SlideTrax system, anglers should use caution when affixing taller pieces of gear such as pole mounted cameras or high angled rod holders. A far reaching, and dare I say proper, paddle stroke can utilize the very airspace in which the mounted gear stands, and collision would be likely. There really is no shortage of places on which to mount one's gear, so simply place the taller pieces out of harm's way.

In summation, the cons are minimal and easily negated with a small expenditure of time and money. Wilderness Systems has offered to the kayak angling world a vessel that is truly unique and fulfilling of its purpose. The ratio of potential usage to expended dollars is easily tilted toward the former, and the Ride should be considered a true and lasting value.

There has recently erupted, within the kayak angling industry, a new found devotion to the central point of contact between paddler and vessel. Gone are the days of choosing between molded plastic, flimsy webbing, and aftermarket add-ons. Wilderness Systems is one such industry staple dedicated to the refining of the humble kayak saddle. The company recently sent for review the new Phase 3 Air Pro seat. Though said product was attached to the recently updated Ride 115, and was, therefore, outfitted beyond the average scope, the following discussion shall focus on the throne, proper.

With regard to comfort and ease of use, the manufacturer touts the Air Pro as an industry leading design. Granted, the paddling industry is rife with superfluous hyperbole, and PR materials are often regurgitations of focus group wish lists. However, in the case of the product at hand, Wilderness Systems has made good on their promise.

Comfort is at the forefront of the Air Pro's agenda, and anglers will be hard pressed to find a seat that is more catered to their interests. The egg crate-esque foam matrix offers the perfect blend of flex and support, and, in the case of this reviewer, provides a welcomed cradle to minimally padded bones and joints. While no test paddle lingered beyond two hours, it is not inconceivable to imagine comfortable forays lasting three or four times as long. It seems as though Wilderness Systems struck gold with the concept of differing sized foam-based holes, as such an unsurpassed level of contentment has long eluded this reviewer. In a world where my once broken and therefore permanently misaligned coccyx has consistently met lightly padded rotomold, comfort whilst paddling has been but a journey fraught with the trials of garage-based tinkering and constant aftermarket swap-outs. It is both refreshing and due that a company has formally addressed these sorts of needs.

The genre of kayak seat reviews often focuses on PFD compatibility. Many are the complaints that the life saving units simply do not fit, in any conceivable and comfortable fashion, with the seat backs. Simply stated, the Air Pro brings forth no related issue. Three standard PFDs were tested (a basic Stohlquist, a women's-specific Patagonia, and, for the sake of extremity, a hip-worn inflatable), and all melded well with the curve and flexibility of the seat back in question.

While ventilation is another key advertised characteristic of the Air Pro, testing season in the Pacific Northwest did not align with a period of heat and humidity. However, with air flow comes drying, and it is with this mindset that I put forth my assessment of the seat's ventilation. After completely soaking the chair with frigid river water, I boarded the vessel and set out upon a brisk 4 mile paddle. The wind was blowing at ten to fifteen knots, and within a quarter of my journey, the seat was nearly dry to the touch. The foam absorbs minimal moisture, and the mesh coating exudes a wicking effect that is quite noticeable. The angles of the seat, while affixed in a typical upright arrangement, coupled with the available material to eliminate all possibilities of pooling, makes for an entire set up that was devoid of liquid at the trip's halfway mark.

As mentioned above, the manufacturer set about to create a rather complex unit that is easy to employ. All pull straps feature icons that are simple to interpret; a basic human figure is coupled with directional arrows, and a simple pull thereof moves the seat into the indicated direction. The straps terminate in front of the paddler, and no time or stability is compromised in the adjusting of the system. In short, if a paddler wishes to maneuver the seat upon any directional axis, there exists a simple and well thought out way in which to do so.

This reviewer's kayak transport system invokes the use of a truck bed and upright boat. This arrangement often leads to seat backs being blown forcibly and sporadically upright in the winds of velocity, only to be reprimanded downward by ratchet straps, or worse, duct tape. Wilderness Systems has thoughtfully provided stretchable cords with which to secure the seat back into a downward position; this is but one of several indices pointing to the notion that the Air Pro was more than a thrown-together, impromptu marketing gimmick.

It must be stated, however, that the entire system is comprised of foam, mesh, and cordage. Although it is impossible for a short term review to address the concept of durability, one must wonder as to whether the setup will stand the test of time. All materials, however, appear durable and stout, and the system feels strong to the touch. It is not inconceivable to view aspects of the seat, should failure occur, as replaceable, and a basic scan of the design leads one to believe that part-swapping would be easy and hassle-free. Basic and common sense-based maintenance is a given; rinse after saltwater exposure, keep away from sharp objects and flame, and enjoy many seasons of continued use.

It is my belief that Wilderness Systems has offered their ante to the table that is the kayak angling industry. At a moderate price, the Air Pro brings great reward - a combination most powerful, and one that will surely decide the fate of kayak seats to come.

There should exist in every kayaker's toy box a small grouping of items that collectively exemplifies all that is simple, practical, rugged, and devoid of long-term attention. Said assemblage should tirelessly perform under a varied year's worth of conditions, and should do so in a way that is consistent and trust-invoking. The Sea Sucker mount (in the 4.5" diameter size) has now earned a place among my own personal collective, and the brand has solidified itself as one that will be called upon for many future needs.

In the interest of full disclaimer, I was presented, at no cost of my own, with two different outfits - a mount with attached dry box and a mount with affixed aluminum handle. Both were used in excess of three months, and were placed upon a variety of vessels in numerous aquatic conditions. The above descriptor paints a most useful illustration of the nature of the pump mechanism, so I will omit the technical and simply expound upon my own impressions.

For kayak anglers unwilling or unable to permanently alter their boats, these products offer an unparalleled sense of freedom. One can affix them to any flat surface (including the roughly textured facades of some popular models), and move them about at will. For owners of multiple boats or paddleboards, the range of said freedom is exponential. The cost of entry isn't cheap, however (the retail price for the dry box - at the time of press - is around 75 dollars), but the portability aspect drives home a notion that you will only need one set of your chosen outfit.

Of the two items, I found the dry box-donning mount to be the most useful. Similar in build and size to models offered by monikers recalling pouched birds or playful sea mammals, the box-proper is solidly build and devoid of cheap parts or other compromising bits. Big enough for a smart phone, wallet, keys, fishing license, and snacks, the unit comes in what is likely to be a size welcomed by most anglers. The mounted box, like any Sea Sucker product, can affix to any flat surface, which, on most fishing kayaks, means the rear crate-well. On the Wilderness Systems Ride 115, said space was ample enough for a milkcrate and the Sea Sucker, with much room to spare. For highly occupied boats lacking much in the way of flat surfaces, finding space may be a problem. Many test paddles involved large and swamping wind waves or swells, and the dry box was never breached with water or elements. I even stuck it to the nose of a prone paddle board and proceeded to surf 3-4 foot waves. The box was often submerged beneath the sea's meniscus, but the contained phone stayed dry. It must also be said that the mount never dislodged from the board's surface.

The second model, complete with what Sea Sucker calls the aluminum handle, comes in handy when employed as an auxiliary D-ring. I found no shortage of uses for this product, and put it into service as a tertiary bungee mount, rod-leash tie off point, and fish stringer terminus. It must be stated that I did not fully test the limits of the item, but it is not inconceivable to envision the D-ring acting in a greater capacity, perhaps as a point onto which a kelp leash or small anchor is attached. The ring's radius is large enough to accommodate a full sized locking carabiner, and anglers will be hard pressed to maximize its mounting capacity. I fully trust the manufacturer's published breaking point, and often used the ring when lifting a vessel into the bed of a truck.

Sea Sucker offers a variety of pre-made options, many of which offer temptation to the kayak angler. Personally, my next purchase will involve a plain, flat topped mount. I will affix to this surface a GoPro mount, and thus expand - without the excessive and unsightly use of the stock 3M coated plastic chunks, a wide variety of photographic and video angle options.

In short, Sea Sucker has created a useful mounting system rife with potential and growth. I look forward to future innovations, both those stemming from the company and those coming from my own garage.

Given the internet-derived fanfare and anticipation associated with the launch of the vessel in question, I was a bit taken aback with the understated tones surrounding the lonely, yet well-tried and therefore muddy facade of the demo day Jackson Cuda 12. No banners of celebration surrounded said craft, and, given the workhorse nature of the boat, pomp and circumstance would be ill-fitting. There it sat, tucked in amongst other Jackson offerings ranging from white water to an as-yet-to-be-released vessel that you may or may not stand upon whilst rooting through a cooler of bait or beverage.

After getting the initial specs and rundown from Jackson pro-staffer, Drew Gregory, (12'4" long, 31" wide, 65 pounds sans seat, possessing a mission statement related to filling the void between the river boat, Coosa and the longer flat/salt water, Cuda 14), I drug the Cuda 12 into the stained water of Jordanelle State Park, and set about on a short but varied tour.

It was immediately apparent that the boat is extremely well thought out in terms of layout and design. An integrated GoPro mount flows seamlessly into numerous and ample storage compartments, and the high seat offers both comfort and impressive range of motion. When sitting sideways, with legs dangling over the port side, I was easily able to reach toward the stern, fetch Plano boxes, and mimic an erratic battle with a feisty fish. The high backed seat was never an issue. In terms of stability, the boat is quite forgiving; many paddlers treated it as a glorified stand up paddle board. I gave try to such action, but found that the center of gravity was too far forward to offer utmost confidence. Lifting the seat easily solves the problem, and Jackson thoughtfully provided a grab line to aide such a maneuver. Turning maneuvers are handled easily; one swift stroke yields a 180 degree change in direction.

The Cuda 12 is, however, not without its faults, as minor as they may be. With size 13 Chacos, I found the foot pegs to be small and demanding of heel pressure. I personally choose to employ the ball of my foot to my paddle stroke, and that does not seem to be a viable option. At 31" wide, the Cuda 12 remains a swift craft, due in no part to thoughtful hull design. However, the shorter length does lend itself to some lateral play with regard to the bow. A fast and deep paddling cadence, while capable of moving the boat at truly impressive speeds, yielded tracking issues. Granted, they were typical of shorter boats, and will not likely be an issue for most anglers.

In short, it can be said that the anticipation is well warranted. Jackson has truly fulfilled the target niche, and nary will be the disappointed buyer. The color options are varied, and will suit most consumers. The demo model was adorned with a tri-color camo motif, which was reported by booth staff to be the current favorite amongst shoppers. For anglers pondering the larger Cuda, but wary of the length, this will be the vessel of choice.