Choosing the Right Fishing Kayak
Kayak | Ascend FS12T (blue) | Jackson Coosa (green) |
Style | Sit on top | Sit on top |
Length | 12’ | 11’2 |
Width | 31 | 32 |
Total Capacity | 350 lbs | 375 lbs |
Weight | 77 lbs | 70 lbs |
MSRP (US $) | $549.00 | $1249.00 |
Manufactured | USA | USA |
Choosing the right fishing kayak can be a daunting task. We spent hours researching, comparing and reading reviews before we made our purchase. Ultimately, when it comes right down to it, to each his own. But we’ve put together a little table to illustrate the top two kayaks we narrowed our search down to, and why we chose the one we did.
If you’re in the market for kayaks or you know anything about them at all, you know that Jackson Kayak is an extremely reputable brand with top-notch quality products, all made right here in the good ol’ USA. Now, those are three good reasons right there to throw in the towel on your search and go buy one. But, those of us who live on a budget know, that with a great reputation comes an even greater price tag. Which brings us to the Ascend FS12T from Bass Pro Shops. Made in the USA, 4.4 out of 5 stars on Bassproshops.com and for almost half the cost, you gain 10 more inches of storage space and stability. Not only does the Ascend come with ample storage and a center console, which we were looking for, but it is also designed with a flat casting deck to enable the clumsiest of kayakers to feel comfortable standing. While we have to give it to the Jackson on carrying capacity and weight, we’re transporting ours on a trailer and weren’t too concerned with the 25 lbs we would lose on the Ascend. A kayak dolly can aid in transporting to and from the water if needed (which in most cases, we’ll be right next to a ramp or drop off point, so a dolly won’t be necessary)
Another important decision-making factor to note, is the availability of locations to purchase each kayak. You can order online and pay shipping from Bass Pro or buy one in-store if you have one nearby. In order to purchase a Jackson, you must find a dealer and you cannot order directly from the website. Luckily, we had both a Jackson dealer and a Bass Pro right down the road.
So, what did we ultimately decide? We chose the Ascend from Bass Pro. It cost less for the same functionality, stability, and better storage. It came with a Lowrance Elite 3x fish finder, professionally installed with through-hull Skimmer transducer, and deluxe removable seating system, and it was in the bright blue color scheme that we wanted. All in, we were at $939.00 and the service at Bass Pro was excellent. We are extremely happy with our decision. Additional items that were not included, but we need to purchase to get on the water: Paddle, Anchor trolley system, and a PFD. Academy Sports & Outdoors is a great place to find all of these additional accessories. Once we get our kayak customized, we’ll show you how we set ‘er up!
Keep on Rippin’,
Texas Bass Angler