Penn Slammer III
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced spinning reel that’s built like a tank, the Penn Slammer III is it. Kayak fishing is tough on reels. Kayaks sit low to the water, and your reels will get wet and occasionally dunked. The Slammer III can take it with an IPX6 sealed system that keeps water out of the gear box and drag. What the tough full metal body, side plate and rotor slightly add in ounces is easily made up for in durability.
CNC gear technology and stainless steel ball bearings produce a reel that is smooth and ready for heavy duty fishing. The Slammer III has a high line capacity spool that comes with a braid-ready anti-slip gasket. With eight sizes ranging from 3500 up to the behemoth 10500, there is a model to tame any beast you want to catch in your ‘yak. It comes standard with an oversized metal ball knob, but a rubber knob is also included if you prefer. If you’re looking for a reel that will stand up to the rigors of kayak fishing for years to come, look no further than the Penn Slammer III. MSRP: $249.95 – $349.95
More information: www.pennfishing.com
StutterStep 4.0
Topwater fishing is exciting, but from a kayak it’s incredible. Louisiana’s own Rat-L-Trap introduced the revolutionary StutterStep in a 5-inch version last year, and the results have been phenomenal. The new 4.0 is a bit smaller, with a tighter tail-kick, but offers all the explosive fish-catching abilities of its larger sibling. Walking the dog is a time proven technique, and the StutterStep does that quite well.
However, what differentiates it from other topwater lures is its ability to also StutterStep, wag the tail, wobble wake and turn-around twitch, with 180-degree turns keeping the lure in a small area that tantalizes fish into striking. All of the actions are easy to learn and repeat. Fresh or salt, the StutterStep puts fish on your line — and the sharp, strong Mustad hooks keep them there. It comes in 14 different colors and guarantees to be the most action-packed topwater lure you have ever fished. Several videos are available on the company’s website to explain all the different techniques and to see the StutterStep in action. MSRP: $10.00
More information: www.rat-l-trap.com
Jackson Coosa FD
The Jackson Coosa FD kayak offers hands-free fishing with the addition of the new Flex Drive pedal system. The bicycle-style drive turns an adjustable pitch, three-blade propeller with forward/reverse options by changing the direction of pedaling. It offers all the features of the proven Coosa HD platform, including the Hi-Lo Elite seat with adjustable positions. Integrated gear track surrounding the seating area allows for endless positioning of accessories. Large front and rear hatches feature new easy open latches.
Several standard features like molded in rod tip protectors, a paddle blade keeper, two front transducer scuppers and molded-in screw points for an optional Micro Power Pole anchor make the Coosa FD fisherman friendly. The FD drive articulates along a heavy dagger to push up towards and into the hull, allowing for navigation over obstructions and shallow water. Grass and debris can be cleaned from the prop via the hinged cover just forward of the seat. When not pedaling, the straight tracking Coosa hull is easy to paddle and provides ample stability for standing. An electric motor drive option is expected to be available in 2018. MSRP: $2,999
Specs:
Length: 12’ 7”
Width: 35”
Weight: 115 pounds
(with drive and seat)
Weight Capacity: 450 pounds
More information: www.jacksonkayak.com
