Plano V-Crate
Plano supercharged its version of the kayaker’s milk crate with the new V-Crate. Efficient kayak fishing demands organized, easily accessible storage. This universal crate comes with four large Plano tackle trays that are visible and secured with a rubber strap. The sides have a rail system to attach rod holders or other track-mount accessories. The V-Crate is an all-in-one storage system that can easily be mounted in most brand kayaks and has a convenient carry handle for easy transport. It features a large, open center compartment for bulky items, while the lower compartment provides waterproof storage for phones, wallets and other valuables. The unit is hinged for easy tilt-back access to the dry compartment. The V-Crate takes ‘yak-friendly waterproof tackle storage to the ultimate level and makes accessing essential tackle items from the cockpit easy — without having to be a contortionist. MSRP: $119.99 (Available late 2017/early 2018)
More info: www.planomolding.com/v-crate
Trapper Tackle Hooks
Trapper hooks feature a unique design never before seen in fishing hooks. They are made from hi-carbon steel, with a sticky-sharp piercing point that produces solid hook sets. Getting a fish on the hook is one thing — keeping it there is another. The magic is in the revolutionary Trapper Box that comes on each style hook. The box eliminates the pivot point inherent in regular J-style hooks that allows them to rotate out, and makes it extremely difficult for fish to escape. That same feature also helps keep your bait in place. In 2016, the Trapper Dropshot-Live Bait-Finesse hook won Best Of Show in the Terminal Tackle category at ICAST. In 2017, Trapper did it again with another Best of Show for their new Round Bend Treble hooks that work great as replacements for your favorite hard lures. The hooks come in several popular shapes and sizes. MSRP: starting at $4.19
More info: www.trappertackle.com
Wilderness Systems Radar 135
The Radar 135 features new “tri-power” capability. The standard kayak comes with a host of fisherman-friendly features and is ready to hit the water for traditional paddle power. The Radar 135 features S.M.A.R.T. hull technology which delivers Stability, Maneuverability, Acceleration, Responsiveness and Tracking throughout the platform. So what does that mean to kayak anglers? The boat stays straight when paddling, is stable for standing, turns easily on command and it’s fast. Kayak anglers will appreciate the built-in Slide Trax system down both sides of the hull to offer unlimited possibilities for custom mounting a wide variety of popular angling accessories. The large, flat cockpit makes standing effortless. Combine the large rear tankwell with middle and front hatches and there is ample room to stow virtually anything. The comfortable Air Pro Max seat adjusts to several positions and provides all day comfort on your rear. What about the other two power sources? The Radar 135 can be operated for hands free fishing with the optional Helix PD pedal drive system or the Helix MD,motor drive system. The center pods quickly remove to drop in either unit. The PD uses centrifugal pedaling to drive a large two-blade prop. The unit can be popped straight up at the push of a button to clear shallow water situations or stowed forward and out of the way. If you want a no-effort experience, the 12-volt battery-powered Motor Drive is the way to go. Whether you want paddle, pedal or power, the Radar 135 can handle it all.
Quick stats:
34” wide
13’6” long
Weight: 90 pounds
Capacity: 475 pounds
MSRP:
Radar 135 $1499.00
Helix PD $1100.00
Helix MD* $1999.00
*Includes motor, battery, remote throttle and charger
More info: www.wildernesssystems.com
