So long story short I'm looking at getting another yak. My current rig is a Feel free Moken 12.5 PDL and while I love it. I have found that it definitely has its limitations for certain bodies of water I fish. For this reason I'm looking at getting another yak and potentially selling the Moken.
I primarily fish rivers and creeks with varying flow, current, and many shallow sections with rocks. For this reason a boat that is stable and easy to maneuver is important, BUT I also want something fast to ease those up current paddles. Through my research I've found that the Crescent Shoalie and the bonafide RVR119 are really my top choices for a river yak. I am HEAVILY leaning toward the Shoalie as I think the platform is extremely well thought out and I love the additional features. I'm not opposed to the Crescent Smallie either, BUT am still leaning toward the Shoalie due to its additional size, weight capacity, and better tracking. In the future I will entertain motorizing this yak, BUT I'm not set on this. So for this reason this boat needs to be able to handle rough water and as I said, paddle well up current.
HOWEVER, I have also looked at the Old Town Sportsman 120. a tried and true platform. Lacking some features that I really like on the Shoalie, BUT is considerably less expensive. Especially if I get the butt ugly "dicks exclusive" top water 120.
So specifically Shoalie owners. Is this the ultimate river yak? And worth saving that extra but of cash for? Or would I be better off with the Old Town? Just looking for differing opinions and owner experiences.
Thank you in advance!
Posted by salvalsnapbacks
1 Comment
So my buddy just went through TONS of research between the Shoalie and the RVR. From my understanding, shoalie is a bit better for small creeks with not a ton of current. RVR is more stable and handles heavier current and rivers better. He went with the RVR because we often kayak the Susquehanna which is massive, but also hit some smaller creeks from time to time. He loves it, zero regrets. Plenty of videos out there comparing the 2