iCOM M23 VHF Floating Handheld RadioiCOM launched their latest handheld VHF radio at the January Boat Show, we have been lucky to get our hands on a loan unit to try out and review. 
First thing you notice is how light the M23 is, secondly they have done away with the old battery charging cradle, charging is done via a sealed plug at the top of the unit opposite the aerial. Not only does the iCOM M23 Float, it also emits a red light from its base, when dropped into water making it easy to locate should you become parted from it. We'll be doing a review proper once we have lived with the unit for a few weeks. In the meantime more information can be found at : icom.co.uk The Importance of a Marine VHF Radio when KayakingIf you don't have a VHF Radio and think your OK with your mobile phone, you might like to read iCOM's recent article about the Importance of a Marine VHF when kayaking, check out the handsome chap in the photograph, then go buy yourself a VHF. Wilderness Systems Ride 115We don't have a whole lot of information on the new Wilderness Systems Ride 115 other than a couple of photographs and that its been designed for lure and fly fishing, stability is superb allowing flats style stand up and cast fishing and paddling, the seat can be slid fore and aft to allow the weight distribution to be moved for different conditions. The hatch in front of the seat is a new cam lock design with a hinge at the front. The Ride 115 is due for release in the USA in September so I would expect it to hit our shores by November.   Hot of the press. Necky have just launched the new Vector 14The Vector 14 has been designed for touring and distance paddling, pushing the envelope of sit-on-top performance.
The Vector 14 blends the comfort of a sit-on-top kayak with the efficiency and performance of a traditional touring kayak. The Vector 14 boasts a long waterline resulting in an easy glide and superior tracking. When propelled forward the boats’ bow enters into the water quickly and smoothly, while a slightly flattened stern results in a shallow draft to help eliminate drag.
We have had a paddle and she is very nice, we hope to be able to give her a proper trial in something more testing than Oulton Broad later in 2012.  Length: 14’ 1”
Width: 25”
Weight: 63 lbs. AT Kayak Fishing Safety CourseIt was great to hear the official launching of the Angling Trust's Kayak Fishing Safety Course. The first of the new one day courses will be held on Rudyard Lake on the 9th July, the courses are run by fully qualified Kayak Fishing Instructors who will take you through, rigging a kayak, launching, rescue techniques, how to use a drogue and anchor a kayak, how to plan and log your trip, navigation basics, fish identification and safe handing plus much more that will stand you in good stead for a lifetime of safe kayak fishing. The courses are available to both Angling Trust members and non members. To book a one day course call us during office hours on 0844 77 00 616. To find out more about what the Angling Trust are doing for kayak fishermen click here. |
|
New to Kayak FishingWhy not have a read of our getting started guide here. Ocean Kayak Demo FleetWe are often asked, "Where can I test a few kayaks before I buy". Whilst most kayak stores offer a few demo kayaks to demo, Second Wind Watersports, Dorset has now opened the UK's first official Ocean Kayak Demo Centre where you can try any kayak from the Ocean Kayak range, yes they have them all. For a small cost you can demo any three kayaks for an hour accompanied by an experienced kayaker. The fee can be deducted from any kayak purchased. For more details contact Second Wind on
01305 835301 Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 gets an upgrade
One of the finest fishing kayaks to come out of the Ocean Kayak stable has had a makeover, the Prowler 13 becomes the Prowler Elite 4.1, the revisions include two forward facing flush mount rod holders fitted to the gunwales and moulded in rigid carry handles, no more trapped hands when loading on to the roof rack. We paddled the Prowler Elite 4.1 at the recent OK Classic Kayak Fishing Tournament, it paddles every bit as well as its predecessor and is just as comfortable, the new flush mounts are a real bonus, making tackling and baiting up that much easier with the rod held securely. Two new Hobie's Hobie have just announced two new editions to their Quest and Mirage ranges, both kayaks are 11 footers. The HOBIE MIRAGE REVOLUTION 11 uses Hobie’s patented MirageDrive. Steering is controlled via oversized fingertip steering handle on the left side, making it easy to cast, hook, and land fish while maneuvering to that secret spot.  Other features are: Oversized forward hatch. Two eight-inch Twist and Seal hatches. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. On-deck receptacle with cap for optional accessories post or sail mast, dive flag, or nav-anchor light. Deluxe padded seatback with lumbar support. Two molded-in mid-boat carrying grips. Gear bucket.
Length: 11’ 6”
Width: 29”
Hull Weight: 47 lbs.
MirageDrive Weight: 6.6 lbs.
Capacity: 300 lbs.
The HOBIE QUEST 11, for those kayak fishermen that prefer to paddle not peddle their kayak.  Standard Features: “Easy Open” hinged hatch with access to large forward storage area. One eight-inch Twist and Seal hatch conveniently located in front of the seat. Aft room for second eight-inch optional hatch for additional storage. Adjustable foot braces for paddling leverage. Two mesh-covered stowage pockets. Two molded-in mid-boat carrying grips. Gear bucket.
Length: 11.1’
Width: 29”
Hull Weight: 47 lbs.
Capacity: 300 lbs.
Rod Holder, Mounts and Leash GuideAt last a list of the most popular rod holders, mounts and rod leashes, we know that there are a few others to add to the list such as Fladens offering, but as yet we have not been able to get a photo or specific details, we will update as those details become available. Click here for more details. |
