Jackson Kayak Unveils the new Flex Drive @ Outdoor Retailer

Jackson Kayak has unveiled its brand new fishing pedal boat prototype which will add to the new line of kayaks unveiled at ICast 2016 last month. The new Coosa FD or “Flex Drive” integrates a propeller pedal driven propulsion system into the kayak. Like other competitors have in the past and present creating a more hands free approach to small platform human powered fishing. Jackson like wilderness has converted their paddling hull to accept the pedal drive thus maintaining the paddle ability of the kayak hull. This design allows the angler to pedal and still have the ability to paddle the kayak normally.

2017 Coosa FD – image from JacksonKayak.com

As always Jackson Kayak has gone all out with innovation designing the drive as a 2 piece system. The pedal upper portion which are removable for car topping and in the future will have an electric motor capabilities. The lower unit of the drive has the ability to trim up and down. This allows the angler ease of landing on beaches due to the ability to leave the drive in the kayak. No lifting heavy drives out of the hull. No worries of loosing your drive overboard. The ability to trim up and access the propeller from the cockpit of the kayak allows for removing weeds from the prop with ease. The design also allows for the lower unit to retract when it hits against an obstacle underwater to shield it from becoming damaged.

The FD also incorporates new design features to address common issues of pedal drive systems with more solutions such as articulating prop blades for speed control. A trim UP/DN lever locking design. A 12:1 Ratio on a Tri bladed propeller. The future option to attach an electric motor drive that will replace the pedal drive for the ride home!

Check out the Flex Drive Teaser Video!

Whats New at Jackson Kayak ICast 2016

ICast 2016 Jackson Kayak revealed two new kayak designs. The Cuda HD and the May Fly.

The Jackson Kayak Cuda 14 was the companies second fishing specific kayak off the product line. An excellent addition for anglers whom fish larger bodys of water such as large lakes bays and even fishing the ocean by means of surf launching. It was the first functional sit on top kayak with high low seating positions in the lawn chair style seat. The kayak with its many innovative features made fishing for anglers easier from the small platform. With rod stagers and massive gear storage the Cuda was an all day long fishing machine. About 2 years later the Cuda 12 was born. This kayak lighter and more maneuverable but keeping excellent tracking quickly became the kayak anglers #1 choice for freshwater and back bay fishing.

Behold the Cuda 12 got a makeover. Announced at ICast the Cuda HD will be available for 2017. The kayaks dimensions are 32″ wide and 12′-10″ long for more stability without sacrificing tracking. New features will include a newly redesigned hinged front hatch with paddle holder. New molded in tubular rod tip protectors. Long awaited the addition of gear tracks on the gunnels. A brand new elite seat system. Gear tracks for tying down the new Orion Cooler seat. The addition of Flush mount rod holders in the rear along with the RAM 2008 rod holders. And last but not least the kayak is Micro Power Pole ready and also has a molded in transducer scupper. Jackson Kayak also announced the Sealine seat back system will come paired with the platypus hydration system.

Check out Drew Gregory’s walk through of the Cuda HD

Jackson kayak also announced a second new model for 2017 the May Fly a fly fishing specific kayak. Designed from the base hull of the Coosa HD this new kayak was well thought out for the fly fishing anglers. A wide open deck and snag free compartments make the kayak a real fly fishing platform. The new single solid foot brace eliminates snagging line on traditional pad style foot braces. Fully adjustable and the hardware has neoprene covers to eliminate snag points. Like the Cuda HD the May Fly features the new hinged and locking hatches along with the adjustable Elite Seat system. Ther is also molded in pockets for stowing your fly rod with the reel to protect it. Power Pole Micro anchor ready and also has a tranducer scupper like the Coosa HD.

Check out Damon Bungard’s walk through of the Cuda HD

For availability on these new models contact your local Jackson Kayak Dealer.