Two of the best minds in fishing kayak design worked for a year to create the best stand-up fishing kayak. Required fields are marked *. Many anglers describe the kayaks ability to protect them from flipping as a surprise, given the long and narrow body of this watercraft. Stern Access Plate for hull access I've narrowed it down to an RS117 (Id love a 127) and the Bigwater 132. Its crazy stable. What happens when a renowned kayak accessory designer builds his ultimate sit-on-top kayak for fishing? Return Policy | While the paddle kayak doesnt have the legs of a pedal kayak, it can take an angler to the skinniest backwaters that fish love and pedal kayakers hate. Most important, check the high and low seat is functioning properly and undamaged. Its having your gear out of the way but within reach. I tested a Jackson and Old Town as well, but it came down to little details that I just didnt want or were lacking. Create a website or blog at WordPress.com, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window). DryPod with transducer through-hull scupper To complement the hull, the topside of the Bonafide SS127 is designed for stand-up fishing. If you're not planning on paddling, I feel the RS117 has a better topside features. This kayak is easily among the top choices for serious anglers looking for a great ride in the sub-$1,000 category. Very Poor. Thats because the Bonafide SS127 is the brainchild of a kayak fisherman. Its made so that big guys can stand and cast without feeling unstable, even if you weigh 300 lb. Weighing in at just 94 lbs (42.6 kg), the SS127 is surprisingly lightweight for its size. If you want supreme comfort with amazing stability to stand and cast With huge storage space in the hull One of the most talked about features of the SS127 is the HiRise seat compared to other makes and models. Bonafide kayak mods. So far, the Bonafide ss107 is magic in the weeds. Even though the tunnel hull improves tracking, the Bonafide SS127 takes some work to keep on course. The OT seems like a more substantial boat but I'm leaning towards the Bonafide, especially if the seat sits as high as the SS127 in the high position. Bonafide designed unique foot pegs on aluminum tracks to last a lifetime. Not only would they slide up in the hull and make it hard to reach, but they would apparently bounce around during travel and the spinning reels would start to wind putting a lot of tension on the line and rods which was also helping them to get all tangled together. The icing on the cake is that in spite of all of this, the SS127 turns really well. Contact us to see if we can arrange delivery to your location: Register to receive offers and promotions. The seat alone is worth about $400. Actually I'd go with it even if there were $300 or so separating them, all other things being equal. You cannot paste images directly. Bonafide SS127 Kayak - Woodsman Special Edition [Newcastle] Sold Out . Bonafide is one of the newest. Almost two decades ago, Luther Cifers started out as a dedicated kayak angler. In 2009, Luther Cifers was an avid kayak angler looking for a better way to add a navigation light to his kayak. I took a look at kayaks from Jackson, Vibe, FeelFree, Old Town, Hobie, Wilderness Systems, Bonafide, Pelican, and a few more. I simply grabbed 2 Berkeley rod holders (~$24) and zip tied them to a milk crate (free). Both boats are basic fishing kayaks that cost less than $1,000. Its a little strange to me that its designed as a fishing kayak but doesnt have any standard rod holders like competitors do. The SS127 "Sit/Stand" is Designed for Ultimate Fishability and maximum stability without sacrificing paddling performance and angler-friendly features where you need them. To excel in these categories, the SS127 combines a super-stable and sporty hull with an uber functional cockpit. After using this boat for the past few weeks, I must say I am very impressed. Even with the seat in the lowest position, with a paddle, its a fairly slow boat. Bonafide Limited Edition SS127 Sit-On-Top Fishing Kayak, Best Fishing Kayak. The high position on the Topwater's seat is roughly the low position on the Bonafide's seat. Problem is, the only color they have is the pink camoI ain't scared! Besides hull design, the main aspect that makes a fishing kayak a fishing kayak is storage and organization for rods, tackle, and assorted gear. It has a hull design that ensures that it will weather vane pretty badly in any wind if not equipped with a rudder, but it has high flotation throughout. Doesn't seem like those deals exist in this current market though. Since Bonafide kayaks come rigged with rod holders, gear tracks, a paddle holder and other accessories, anglers can go fishing right out . When he couldnt find the accessories he needed, the engineer decided to make them himself. Its feeling confident enough to move around, sit or even standing up to fish. With all the added trinkets and capability its a no brainer. To paddle long distances through open water, a traditional hull is best. Dens228 Members 2.1k 1 Designed for maximum stability without sacrificing paddling performance and angler-friendly features where you need them, you really have to paddle this craft to fully appreciate it. But, the disadvantage of a pedal kayak shows in shallow water, where stand-up fishing is most effective. SeatRack positioning system This leaves the Bonafide Kayak alone in the Bonafide lineup as one of the best stand-up fishing kayaks that will probably never be repeated or redesigned. I guess you cant improve on perfection. Enjoy! For example, on the SS127 and SS107, check out the landing pads. This is critical. Clear editor. And turning the boats stable hull can become a chore. So, Cifers worked with long-time kayak designer Hanz Nutz to build the Bonafide SS127, and the rest is history. The one drawback is that plastic is noticeably heavier than competing (albeit more expensive) materials like fiberglass. As you can see in the photos, this adjustable seat on the Bonafide ss107 sits extremely high. The gear tracks and pad eyes are recessed to avoid snagging my fishing line. Kayak Angler is the world's leading kayak fishing magazine and the number one source for fishing kayak reviews, rigging and tactics for saltwater and freshwater species, plus industry news and fishing reports on what's biting near you. The only downside is its almost always out of stock.]. The SS127 also has extra pads on the rear sides in case you want to pivot and have a look behind you without having to reposition your kayak. Visit your local Bonafide dealer, schedule a demo, and try it for yourself. The SS127 Sit/Stand fishing kayak is the result of months of R&D and has been carefully designed for Ultimate Fishability. My travels led me to learn about the benefit of open top kayaks with trolling motor capability, rudder systems, pedal drives, fish finder mounts, and more. I noted that when a wind hits the boat with you and all your gear, you slings your backwards. And, the new Bonafide P127 pedal kayak is similar to the Predator PDL from Old Town. The 2018 I have done extensive rigging to. Stand-up fishing kayaks are stable and functional for hours of comfortable backwater fishing. Hybrid Cat Hull design A wide sit-on-top kayak is stable, but it paddles like crap. @CountryboyinDCWOW, that was a very informative reply. The closest comparison would be between the Vibe Sea Ghost with the Bonafide RS117 for a grab-and-go kayak with essential features at a great price. They're $300 new from Walmart and $400 used on CL. Since then, Bonafide has added a less expensive RS117 and hybrid sit-inside EX123. Since Bonafide kayaks are designed by serious kayak anglers, they have tons of cool details and little features that make a big difference. Rear gear tracks would be a nice standard touch for the boat. Below the water, Bonafide kayaks use a modified V-hull for stability. The other 2020 version has had nothing done to it. Lights, yak power switch, anchor wizard fish finder etc. I tend to stick to smaller bodies of water that are calm and have a lot of weeds and cover. A Complete SUP Sizing Guide, How to Set Up and Fish the Drop Shot Rig: Tips for 2023, How to Setup and Fish the Wacky Rig: Tips for 2023, Paddle Boarding for Beginners: Useful Tips and Things to Avoid, How to Choose a Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP): A Beginners Guide, Types of Paddle Boards: A Complete Guide to SUPs of All Shapes and Sizes. All that was left was a need for the perfect paddle fishing kayak to carry his gadgets. Its every piece, every part, and every function being carefully designed for versatility and with the kayak angler in mind. I have two sea ghost 130s. *Above video(s) for demonstration purposes only, please take necessary precautions while on the water, Youll notice right away that the SS127 sit-on-top fishing kayak is one of the most stable kayaks youve ever been in, which is surprising considering its 33.5 width. The SS127 Sit/Stand fishing kayak is the result of months of R&D and has been carefully designed for Ultimate Fishability. Youll notice right away that the SS127 sit-on-top fishing kayak is one of the most stable kayaks youve ever been in, which is surprising considering its 33.5 width. At almost 13-feet long and nearing 100 pounds, the Bonafide SS127 is on the heavy side for a fishing kayak. Bonafides line of kayaks is focused on stability and rigging for standup fishing. Here the Bonafide SS127 shines above the competition. Really awesome and through review! Lean to one side, stand backwards, move from bow to stern and the RS117 stays planted. The experience starts with the incredibly comfortable HiRise kayak seating system. Have you ever wanted to have a personalized kayak, making it even cooler than it already is? Youll get used to the wobbly feeling any boat will be the same. All prices are in USD. NuCanoe hulls are flatter and wider to maintain stability and increase speed andhandling. Consider investing in a small kayak trailer to get it from the parking lot to the waters edge. The Wilderness Systems ATAK 140 was also on the top of my list, but when I saw the 14 foot boat in person, I knew there was no way I could maneuver it out of the water without a trailer or truck bed. Old Town has more than a dozen kayak models compared to five boats from Bonafide. But for long distances, I definitely prefer the Sea Ghost 130 or a pedal kayak like the Sportsman 120. For 13 years, it did the job. Good Ecommerce Solution by BigCommerce, Delaware Paddlesports Financing Information, Lowrance HDS-12 LIVE No Transducer w/C-MAP Pro Chart [000-14427-001], Furuno Side Scan Paired Thru-Hull Transducers f/TZT3 [225T-PR904], Furuno Side Scan Transom Mount f/TZT3 [225T-TM904]. I was torn, because Ive been fishing for almost 30 years. Be the first to review this product! My guess is that they wanted to leave that up to the angler because everyone has their own preferred setup. These boats are utilitarian fishing machines focused on stability and functionality over speed and open-water performance. Length:12' 7" / 3.84m This kayak was designed to be extremely stable . If you plan to spend long hours fishing hard, Bonafide makes one of the most stable boats with the most comfortable seat. Bonafide kayaks feature a long list of cool fishing accessories while Crescent leaves installing accessories mostly up to the owner. For more tips on what to look for when selecting a used fishing kayak, read our article How To Buy A Used Fishing Kayak. Bonafides EX123 sit-inside is very similar to the Old Town Loon 120 Angler with a frame seat and large cockpit on a stable hull. When Luther Cifers, owner of YakAttack fishing accessories, set out to create the ultimate fishing kayak, he had long days of casting topwater lures or working jigs in his mind. It requires something we call Fishability. Kayaks with a high-low seat perform best with a paddle with an adjustable shaft. That tough hybrid catamaran hull design does make the Bonafide SS127 a little heavy. May be an indicator that the factory personnel were rushing / dont care about details. Always carry your kayak empty. Featuring YakAttack GearTrac it gives you the ability to have your gear out of the way but always within reach. I discovered a new-ish kayak company called Bonafide. This steering kit utilizes the stock Double Acting Foot Braces featured on the Bonafide SS Series and offers hands free steering capabilities. If you want to really dig in and cover some distance, the SeatRack, and foldable seat frame allow quick and quiet conversion to a lower position. So it's ideal to take it for a fewminutes on the water, and if it isn't take a good light and inspect the hull very carefully. Anodized aluminum foot brace track is strong and ultra-ridged I have a Bonafide SS127. If their production backlog continues (I'm not sure if it's better now), it will continue to be the same. A frame seat is wider and sits higher off the deck to be as comfortable as a lawn chair. The ultra-high back seat allows you to sit with your knees bent, taking pressure off of your lower back. Then, you also have extra horizontal rod storage on the sides thats really amazing for rivers where you could easily lose your rods due to tree branches if theyre in a vertical position. (518) 533-5454. Just like Bonafide, Native is famous for innovation and features that have changed the course of fishing kayak designs. Stop paddling, and the next surprise is the smooth and sustained glide. They have several models at different price-points. The icing on the cake is that in spite of all of this, the SS127 turns really well. I'm part of the Bonafide Facebook groups, and shortly after the supply ran out entirely. Even though I dont have a motor or pedal system, I was able to whip around the bay pretty quickly. Bonafide uses a hybrid tunnel hull for rock-solid stability. This material may not be posted on another website. The SS stands for Sit-Stand and anglers will feel quite comfortable doing both on this kayak, even while having it loaded almost to the max and packed down with lots of gear. Thanks again for the reply. Update: July 14, 2020. The Bonafide SS127 probably wont fit in the bed of smaller trucks. To see available stock levels please choose your nearest store location. And gives you two options on how to mount your motor. Not as fast of my in-hull field and stream, but its not supposed to be. A lot of anglers don't really do much of that; if they need to cover any distance, they slap on a trolling motor. Arguably the most comfortable seat on the water, the HighRise is just as good on land. ", "It's such an amazing fishing platform that when I'm fishing I forget that I am in a kayak". I was worried about taking my Bonafide ss107 out into Buzzards Bay initially. Of course, adding a pedal system into the equation negates the negatives of a wide, stable kayak. Or is it indeed sturdy and I just need to get used to the wobbly feeling? Whereas other kayaks might have a seat that gets its structure from semi-rigid foam, a frame seat has a metal frame and soft, breathable mesh cover for all-day comfort. The HybridCat hull is fast and stable with better than expected maneuverability. If you want to really dig in and cover some distance, the SeatRack, and foldable seat frame allow quick and quiet conversion to a lower position. We had come here because the fishing was good. I think you'll have a good market for at the very least non Bonafide models this year, certainly this fall if not earlier. You're going to love the SS127, it's an awesome fishing platform and there's lots of different ways you can customize it. Sliding under seat Junk Drawer Please note that due to lighting, studio photography, room conditions, different screens on various devices, some minor colour variation can occur. I love mine.I have it so decked out now I can't envision changing anytime soon. From the bow hatch to the seat and stern well, every detail is designed to meet a serious anglers needs while remaining user-friendly. | Rear gear tracks (standard on ss127, not ss107), Tie down components (to keep pliers and fish grips attached on paracord, Stake-out stick (6 foot rod to act as an anchor), C-tug cart to wheel my boat around easier when Im solo (not easy. If you live in a cold or rainy environment, make sure that youre outfitted with waterproof clothing and be prepared to get a little wet. Which was a huge concern for me. It delivers much of the same great features that are found in the Bonafide SS127 model in a smaller, more manageable size. The experience starts with the incredibly comfortable HiRise kayak seating system. If youre looking for where to buy Bonafide kayaks, check out their Find A Dealer page. So, yes, Bonafide kayaks are good. They don't have any perceptible glide, they're about like my Jackson Coosa HD. To balance stability and performance, Bonafide kayaks use a modified tunnel hull with pontoons pushing the volume to the sides of the kayak. For anyone seeking a great fishing kayak that won't break the bank, the SS127 is tough to beat. Its crazy stable. I needed a boat that I could easily lift up and slide onto my roof rack, as Ive done with my older kayak for centuries. Its longer brother, the Bonafide SS127, is one of the best kayaks for big guys, and I must say the Bonafide SS107 is the second-best. Its every piece, every part, and every function being carefully designed for versatility and with the kayak angler in mind. Same thing with the Lifetime Tamarack 10. Tracking is important, Calculate what gear or mods youll need for your boat and compare it to your budget. I just bought my 107 and love it overall, but when I stand up it seems wobbly. This is very important to avoid spooking the fish. Our testing includes miles of paddling and hours of fishing in a variety of conditions and locations. Designed for maximum stability without sacrificing paddling performance and angler-friendly features where you need them, you really have to paddle this craft to fully appreciate it. We think youll agree. This kayak has a deck height of 15.5 (39.3 cm) which already puts the user well above the sitting position of other kayaks. Join F&S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite writers. How did we get all of this performance into one hull? Youll notice right away that the SS127 sit-on-top fishing kayak is one of the most stable kayaks youve ever been in, which is surprising considering its 33.5 width. Learn more . Theres no better way to choose a kayak than kicking the tires and taking a test drive. Like the majority of fishing boats, the Bonafide SS127 is a sit-on-top kayak. Im sorry, but youll have to wait until next year to get yours. Hobie kayaks focus on their MirageDrive pedal system. Bonafide kayaks are designed to be comfortable and functional for years of hard fishing. Almost got a BK-52 bomber, but just missed it so since they didn't have it, theyoffered me the Tiki at the regular price. Warranty on Kayak parts: 1 Year Standing is easy and tracking is true, but a tunnel hull reduces speed and maneuverability compared to a longer, narrower, rockered kayak hull. I have no experience with either of those models directly, but I have a SS127 and my youngest son has an Old Town Topwater 120. HiRise seating with ultra-high bass boat like position Bonafide makes more traditional sit-on-top kayaks with a bow hatch seat platform and stern well. With the same or similar foot braces being SS Series Rudder Kit Featuring the YakAttack SwingBlade, Dual Action Foot Brace Set with Grey / Black Traction Pads. For a value option, compare the Bonafide RS117 to the Old Town Topwater 120 for a great kayak under $1,000. When I discovered some kayaks on the market had standing platforms similar to that of a bass boat, I rejoiced. Since the Bonafide SS127 is a paddle kayak, it is especially deadly in shallow, weed-choked, and rock-strewn water. If you cant visit the paddle shop or get to a demo day, gain from the experience of others through our review of the best Bonafide kayaks. The NuCanoe F10 would be similar to the Bonafide RS117 with fewer options at a greatprice. WE ARE OPEN AND FULLY OPERATIONAL DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS. Another favorite feature is the removable electronics pod in the center of the wide, flat cockpit. The SS127 features $ 1,439.10 Buy for best price austinkayak.com $1,439.10 Your email address will not be published. When I pack my boat up, I remove the crate with all the gear and stow it in my 4runner. The SS127 "Sit/Stand" fishing kayak is the result of months of R&D and has been carefully designed for Ultimate Fishability. For me, adding a trolling motor or rudder would just complicate the experience. Since a frame seat is elevated off the kayak deck, it makes standing and fishing easier. And I want to upgrade this year.. see if that happens, cause I ain't paying inflated pricing. The Bonafide ss107 is a small boat when it comes to fishing kayaks. The hardest thing about designing a stand-up-friendly paddle kayak is combining performance with stability. Working in his garage, he put together a brighter, stronger light that quickly caught on with his friends. The SS127 "Sit/Stand" fishing kayak is the result of months of R&D and has been carefully designed for Ultimate Fishability. RELATED: Best Fishing Kayak. Since then, Bonafide has added a less expensive RS117 and hybrid sit-inside EX123. The hatch is easy to open and remove, even while Im standing in the cockpit. It comes in at just under 11 feet long and weights 84 pounds without the seat. The Bonafide ss107 is a small boat when it comes to fishing kayaks. 2022 PaddlingSpace.com. Stop paddling, and the next surprise is the smooth and sustained glide. haha. Delivery. It has definitely spoiled me and set the bar high! Be easily transported on the roof of my 4runner. In addition to the wide, flat, padded deck, the boat has two Perch Pads on the gunnels to allow the angler to stand higher for a better view into the water. Designed for maximum stability without sacrificing paddling performance and angler-friendly features where you need them, you really have to paddle this craft to fully appreciate it. This product hasn't received any reviews yet. If you want to really dig in and cover some distance, the SeatRack, and foldable seat frame allow quick and quiet conversion to a lower position. Simple instalment plans available instantly at checkout. If youre looking to pick up a used Bonafide, here are some things you should look for. At the low-end, I could buy a similar kayak that I would quickly out grow, or I could spend my entire life savings on a $3,500 Hobie kayak and trailer to carry it. As opposed to Bonafides line of fishing-dedicated kayaks, Crescent has three models focused on fishing. Eight built-in rod holders and an intricate fishing gear track system allow for a ton of customization options. Please edit your content to remove the highlighted words below. Join F&S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite writers. The two boats that caught my attention were the Bonafide ss127 and Bonafide ss107. Designed for maximum stability without sacrificing paddling performance and angler-friendly features where you need them, you really have to paddle this craft to fully appreciate it. Your Complete SUP Pricing Guide, Best Kayaking Accessories in 2023: The Ultimate Guide, What Size Paddle Board Do I Need? I was able to use it as a paddle board moving down the river, with ease. A few paddle strokes later will leave you wondering how a fishing kayak this stable and only 12 feet-7 inches long paddles and tracks so well. Like any catamaran, the pontoons push the boats volume to the outside for improved stability. When paddling for any distance you won't regret it. MADE IN USA Happiness Without is reader-supported. Get it wrong, and water bubbles through the scuppers and boils off the stern, causing drag and slowing the kayak. Learn how your comment data is processed. The Bonafide SS127s namesake is a testament to its capability as a fishing kayak. 1) An Australian Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card; 2) To be over 18 years of age; 3) To live in Australia, To see Afterpay's complete terms, visit https://www.afterpay.com.au/terms. Sold Out Notify Me. It is easy to add an electric outboard or trolling motor to increase the kayaks range and improve performance. Fat Grip retractable stern handle w/comfort insert And they have a good layout on the top deck. The sticking point was the boats catamaran hull. It honestly came down to availability and a few small designs on the Bonafide ss107 that sold me. Its crazy stable. this performance into one hull? The icing on the cake is that in spite of all of this, the SS127 turns really well. People would sell them in the group at a near new price and they'd sell like hotcakes. Even the Perch Pads, flat areas on the gunwales, add a few inches of improved visibility. Just easier than carrying it!). Perfect As an example, side handles on a boat like this are crucial for me. Fortunately, the Bonafide SS127 has pretty good maneuverability for open water. Manufactured In: USA As such, the paddling experience is not all that great. While all the custom features are great, its the boats fantastic stability that makes it stand out. Nor may it be copied, published, rewritten, or redistributed. You also get a convenient paddle strap in the front to secure your paddle while fishing while still having it at hand if you need to avoid an obstacle all of a sudden. Like the majority of fishing kayaks, the Bonafide SS127 is made of tough and rigid plastic known as polyethylene. If youve found yourself feeling unstable when standing in other kayaks, then the SS127 is a great solution. After releasing three boats, Cifers sold Bonafide to another manufacturer.