You may have been on the hunt for many months or possibly years for the perfect fishing kayak. Of course, there may not even be such a thing as a perfect kayak but there will certainly be the ideal one for you. The Pelican Catch 120 may be just what you’re looking for.
What does this kayak have that others don’t possess, and is it going to be a comfortable option for a long day out on the water? We’ve has a look at this fishing kayak’s main features to see if it lives up to its high expectations.
- Length: 11 foot 8 inches
- Width: 34 inches
- Depth: 15 inches
- Weight: 69 pounds
- Weight capacity: 400 pounds
Before You Consider a Catch Kayak
Before you go ahead and purchase a fishing kayak, there are a couple of things you should ask yourself. For instance, are you going to be using it only to fish? Are you planning to go out onto the water by yourself or will you have a fishing partner with you? Have you considered how you intend to get the kayak onto the water or where you are going to store it?
If you are planning on fishing a lot with your kayak then it’s definitely worth investing in a fishing kayak, as they can come with a bunch of additional features that you may not get with a recreational kayak, so it may even save you a lot of money and time in the long term.
If you may only use it for fishing every once in a while then you may be better suited to a less expensive recreational kayak.
The Pelican Catch is made to be used by only one paddler, so if you are going to be using your kayak with another person then a tandem kayak could be more cost efficient for you then buying two separate kayaks.
In a hurry? This is our Winner!
Perception Pescador Pilot 12
- Pilot drive pedal system can be fully recessed into hull for zero draft
- Leak-proof one-piece construction with built-in buoyancy for added safety
- Large front and rear open storage for cooler, tackle, and other gear
Pelican Catch 120 Kayak – Comparison Table
| Image | Product | Technical Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Our Top Pick
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Perception Kayaks Perception Pescador Pilot 12 |
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Check Price On Amazon |
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Wilderness Systems 9750605054 TARPON 160 kayaks |
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Check Price On Amazon |
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Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90 9 Foot Angler and Recreational Sit |
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Check Price On Amazon |
Pelican Catch 120 Kayak – Reviews
1. Our Top Pick: Perception Pescador Pro 12
While this Yak doesn’t quite have the same amount of stability that the Catch 120 does, this 12 foot kayak could still be a good alternative option. It’s also in a roughly the same price range. This is a very stable craft that’s ideal for calm waters, and it will also offer speed too.
This kayak has better rigging designed for adding accessories, such as a fish finder console and gear trucks, and it can also hold rod holders. It does also provide a lot of storage but unlike the Catch it doesn’t have a secure bow hatch.
2. Wilderness Systems Tarpon 160
If you are on the hunt for a kayak with more fishing features and with a little more versatility then the Tarpon 160 may be a good choice for you. This kayak could be the perfect choice for a range of different conditions, such as ocean surf but you may not be able to stand up in it as it doesn’t quite have the same stability as the Catch does.
The Tarpon 160 also has an added benefit of having gear tracks built into either side, so you will be able to attach accessories and electronics without you needing to drill holes. The kayak also has a lot of storage space, including a sizeable cargo area with bungee cords and two sealed hatches.
3. Vibe Skipjack 90
If you are just in the market for a fishing yak with good value for money, that is also going to allow you to easily get out into the water then the Skipjack 90 could be a good choice for you. The kayak is only 9 feet long and weighs 46 pounds, so it’s pretty easy to store and transport. The kayak comes complete along with a paddle too, so you will be able to paddle in it right as it arrives.
The kayak has four rod holders and a mounting point that will allow you to attach a fish finder. It doesn’t have an awful lot of storage but it does have a small cargo area in the back and two sealed hatches. It also has a capacity of 300 pounds. This could be a fantastic option for beginners or someone who casually embarks on a fishing trip.
Pelican Catch 120 Kayak – Buyers Guide
The Pelican Catch Yak measures 11 foot 8 inches and it is made for fishing. It’s a sit on top that’s made with a lot of stability and storage functionality in mind, and it’s super comfortable to use during the slightly longer fishing trips.
It has a wide hull and a spacious deck so it really is perfect for anglers, so if you’re looking for a stable kayak that is going to allow you to spend many hours fishing out in the water then this could be a good option for you. If you are also looking for a boat that is going to let you speed across the water or one that can be used on long paddling trips then this may not be the ideal option for you.
Stability
The Pelican Catch 130 has a tunnel shaped hull that is somewhat similar to a pontoon boat, so it’s designed to offer secondary and primary stability. It means that it’s made to handle a whole range of water conditions, and it will give you a stable water craft that’s perfect for both rough and flat water.
The stability of this yak is increased by the 34 inch width of the hull, so it’s possible to stand up when you’re out on the water. It means that it can be easier to fish, as you will find it easier to see and cast further than you would be able to if you were seated.
In order to help you there is also an assist strap and a non-slip carpet.
Fishing Features
When using this kayak you should be able to take every piece of fishing gear you could possible need because it has so much space on board and has a whopping 400 pound capacity. Not only is there a large storage platform with bungee cords in the back, but there is also a sealed hatch in the bow so you will be able to take a cooler or a crate in addition to some smaller items. You may also find that there’s some space in front of the seat for bigger items like a backpack or overnight gear.
When you’re on board, you will notice that there are molded rod holders that have tie downs so that your rods don’t end up floating away. It’s also possible to use these to store your paddle when it’s not in use. It also has two flush mount rod holders and two accessory eyelets so that you can attach more gear. In addition to this, it also has an angler ruler to you will be able to measure your catch right where they are.
With that being said, this kayak does not have the rigging for you to be able to attach fish finders or electronics without you needing to do some extra work first. If you want to it is possible to rig it to kit it out for even more intense fishing.
Comfort
When you’re looking to get a kayak that you’re going to be in for many hours at a time, comfort is one of the most important things you are going to need to consider. The Pelican Catch 120 is made to be very comfortable. It has a spacious seating area, and a wide, comfortable seat. This seat is also ergonomically designed so you are able to adjust it to be lower of higher on the deck. This means that you will be able to choose the proper height for your own fishing style.
When your seat is raised you will get even more space underneath for the extra gear, such as a small cooler. The seat is breathable and is able to fold down easily, while the back can be adjusted to recline. The kayak also has adjustable foot rests that are able to easily slide back and forth to the position that is best suited to you.
For even more convenience when you are on the water, there is also a bottle holder positioned in front of the seat so that you are able to easily grab a drink as and when you need it.
Conclusion
While the Catch 120 isn’t going to suit every single person’s style of fishing or paddling, it could still be a great choice if you are aiming to get a very stable kayak that you will be able to stand up in.
Pros
- A stable hull
- Allows you to be able to stand up inside of it for easy fishing
- Spacious
- Comfortable seat
Cons
- The size isn’t easy to transport
- Not the most speedy vessel on the market
The design of the hull and the width can make it a great option both for more serious anglers and for those who are just starting out. For a larger paddler the spacious deck can be particularly useful.
If you do think that the Catch is the best choice for you then it’s definitely worth buying it and taking it for a spin yourself.
Perception Pescador Pilot 12
- Pilot drive pedal system can be fully recessed into hull for zero draft
- Leak-proof one-piece construction with built-in buoyancy for added safety
- Large front and rear open storage for cooler, tackle, and other gear