Jackson Kayak Cuda 12 Jackson Kayak Cuda 12

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.