Elie Gulf 120XE Angler

Elie's new Gulf 120 XE Angler

Elie has stepped up its kayak fishing kayaks and this model is definitely one to consider if you are in the market! It’s fast, it’s stable, it tracks well, and the new “Ergoflex Seating System” is quite comfortable!

The Quick Lock Hatches Rock!

The Gulf Angler Hatches Rock!I’m thrilled to see that Elie has upgraded their hatches. Larger, gear accommodating hatches have been incorporated into the new Gulf 120 XE Angler and I was able to stow my gear and hook up my electronics with ease. The locking system on these hatches is far superior to many others that I have tested. The hatches open and close easily and seem to keep the hull high and dry. I would have liked to have seen the bow hatch rotated 90 degrees for rod storage during surf launches, but this is a minor issue when considering the giant leap forward Elie has achieved.

  This Seat will Lull You to Sleep!

Elie Ergoflex Seat

Elie's Ergoflex Seat in the Reclined Position Elie's Ergoflex Seat Slide Mechanism

Elie’s new “Ergoflex Seating System” should come with a warning that reads; “May induce Narcolepsy, always paddle with a friend!” The bottom of the seat is on a slide mechanism which allows the seat to be reclined or in the poker straight upright position depending on your needs. Elie claims that this reduces thigh fatigue and I’m going to have to agree. During a recent fishing trip I reclined this seat while waiting for a bite and quickly found out that this seat will put you to sleep. The adjustable seatback provides adequate support where it counts and is quite comfortable to paddle.

The Cockpit and Tankwell

Elie Gulf 120 xe Angler Bow Stern view of the Elie Gulf AnglerThe cockpit is laid out well and follows most traditional lines. A Scotty rod holder comes standard in the center. I have installed a YakAttack Mighty Mount forward of the Scotty Flush Mount to accommodate my fishfinder/GPS and Panfish Portrait. The Tankwell is large enough for the heaviest of gear hoarders. Indents have been created during the mold process for a 5 gallon bucket as well as the standard milk crate. Elie has also incorporated two flush mount rod holders behind the seatback.

Steering, Rudder and Keel?

Elie has added what appears to be a keel Elie Gulf 120 XE Angler Keel Extensionextension. I assume that this has to do with tracking and if so, it works. The Gulf Angler tracks really well. The “Fluid Steering” rudder system has been brought over from the Elie Horizon Angler model and works just as well on the Gulf. I found the rudder system to be clutch during numerous Tautog outings in the fast current here in the nor’east. I was able to feather the efficient kayak in the currents and hold position while waiting for the bait thieves to strike. This “Keel Extension” appears to be modular and as Mullet Miller pointed out. It can most likely be replaced after years of launches and beach drags. Win/win!

The Hull

Elie uses a “Poly XRTM” material on their 3 part thermoformed hulls. Elie claims this process is much lighter and stronger than some other rotomolded models in this class. To back this claim, Elie has placed a 5 year warranty on its hull!

Overall, the Gulf Angler is a fishing kayak to be taken seriously. I have been hearing a lot of positive feedback while testing this model from fellow kayak anglers. Both looks and performance have received high marks as this kayak has become a “go to” for me on many of my recent outings.

Length     12 feet        A great day of Togging with the Elie

Weight     60 pounds

Width       30 inches

Max        350 pounds

Color      Yellow over White

MSRP       $999.00