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.

Fishing Journal 2015_07-12

The decision to stay at camp with Ricky and Becky was a no brainier. They have the most comfortable pull out couch in their camper!! I woke up around 6:30 and then went back to sleep. I didn’t get up until around 8:30 and once we ate breakfast Ricky and I went to go paddle in the river. It was a beautiful day at Chips Folly Campground! The river had to be the perfect place to test the Sealect Designs Tru Course rudder system I had installed a few weekends prior on the Kraken. After breakfast and cleaning shrimps meant for dinner we swapped kayaks off Ricks trailer. Rick Swapped his Native Propel to his Slayer and I swapped my Big Rig For the Kraken!

A short drive down to the boat ramp we dropped our kayaks in. The river is slightly brackish and is tidal water. It was a really low tide and everywhere I went my paddle bumped the bottom. The Kraken paddles really well. Turning was improved significantly with the addition of the Tru Course Rudder system! The kayak is truly a big water fast and stable boat.

Ricky brought his Canon Rebel T4i camera and he shot some video for me displaying the operation of the Sealect Designs Rudder System. Its great to have help with these sorts of things.

We were also able to get in a little fly casting lesson for about a half hour!

I am hoping to get back down to the camp this summer!