I'm getting a Slayer Propel 10

[J.A. Veil]

Would this make a good multi-purpose boat? I do a lot of paddling in the susky where it's shallow and rocky, so I wouldn't use the drive system, but I also fish the flats/reservoirs where peddling would be nice.

How is this boat with paddling?
Is the length sufficient if I would fish the bay/ocean city?

I like my SP 10 so much that I decided to sell my long-time favorite kayak, a Manta Ray 14. The SP 10 is stable, comfortable, and has a roomy cockpit area. The only negatives I have found are: a) because it is wide (for stability) it is not a fast kayak. My paddle kayaks and SP 13 are slightly faster. But it pedals smoothly and easily -- perfect for trolling. If you have to travel long distances to get to your fishing spots, the slower speed could be a negative. b) because it is so light and has a short water line, it can be pushed around in larger seas (>1.5 ft bay chop), especially following seas. For most other applications it performs very well, and the hull weighs only 57 lbs.

Regarding paddling it, I have not done long distance paddling in my SP 10, but it did well for short stretches. If you plan to fish in shallow water, you have two options. You can leave the Propel drive at home and use the SP 10 as a paddle kayak. Or you can use the Propel to get from the launch to your fishing area, tilt up the Propel, and move by paddle until you are ready to return.

[kitkatyaker]

John,
I really appreciate your input on this topic. Like I said, I'm thinking of getting the SP 13. I was wondering if there are any changes for the 2015 model and where/who is the local dealer? Green commander I hope you don't mind me piggybacking on your question.

Kaye

[J.A. Veil]

John,
I really appreciate your input on this topic. Like I said, I'm thinking of getting the SP 13. I was wondering if there are any changes for the 2015 model and where/who is the local dealer? Green commander I hope you don't mind me piggybacking on your question.

Kaye

I am not aware of any changes on the SP 13 other than using an improved type of seal for the pedal crank shaft on the Propel unit. There could be some minor cosmetic changes like the pattern of the rubber material on the cockpit floor or the color of the fabric used for the seats. The SP 10 was just introduced during the fall of 2014, so l do not expect any changes for 2015.

I will be displaying my SP 10 at the kayak fishing flea market on Jan 31. Please stop by and check it out.

I am not affiliated with any particular Native dealer. I prefer to be impartial about which dealer you buy from. Native's website provides a list of dealers by state (http://www.nativewatercraft.com/dealers.cfm). Most dealers will charge the same price (unless you can find a special sale), but you may be able to get a deal on accessories. Also, if you want a specific color that is not in dealer stock, they can order it but it may take several months to get the exact boat you want.

For anyone contemplating buying a Native kayak, it would be useful to visit the Native owners group website (not hosted directly by Native) http://nativeownersgroup.com/forum.php. You can see comments, customizations, etc by native owners around the country. You are always welcome to contact me by pmail for specific questions.

[green commander]

Kaye
I don't mind you piggy backing at all this is community forum. The 13 model should be easy to find at most dealers it's one of their more popular boats and has been out for several years. Best of luck with the new boat.

[kitkatyaker]

Thank you John for the abundantly useful information; as usual. Green commander, thanks for bringing this topic up.

[green commander]

20150130_211537.jpg
20150130_211458.jpg
got the cam lock paddle holders and figured this is going to be the best way to store my paddle on such a short boat

[BeyondTheBounds]

I bought my SP13 at HTO in Annapolis, there is also that Rommels ace in Cambridge, and Delaware paddle sports.....go in and ask for a deal or sale. Just by becoming a member at HTO, (on a specific day) I received a 20% discount on my SP13.

Also as far as trolling, I tuck a track mounted rod holder under my leg against the front of the seat. This way it sticks out from the yak, I can adjust the angle, easily very easily reach the pole, and it never interferes with peddling.


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