Today we take a look at the VISICarbon Pro safety light from YakAttack. I've been using the VCP for a little over a year now. It's been with me on pretty much every single outing I've taken. I couldn't say that about the light it replaced.
Showing posts with label yakattack. Show all posts
Showing posts with label yakattack. Show all posts
Review: YakAttack Cell Blok
Review: Wilderness Systems Commander 140
The Rigging
My Commander, nicknamed "Winter Soldier" by my son, is the 14 foot version with a front bow skirt and a rudder system. I've added a Lowrance Elite 5 fish finder, a Super Nova Fishing Lights LED light kit, several RAM and YakAttack accessories, a Bullwinkle mount, an anchor trolley and switches for the electronics. I move it from place to place with a C-Tug cart and transport it either via trailer or in the bed of my truck with a bed extender. It is the camo color offered by Wilderness Systems.
The Good
In front of the main area is a cross bar for mounting items or carrying or resting items. This separates another front area that when you add the bow skirt with the mesh pocket can become additional storage that is not on the floor of the kayak.
As for tracking, the Commander 140 stays pretty straight when paddling and doesn't deviate course. For long paddles with wind, this helps your paddle stroke be more efficient.
So it is pretty easy to stand in, tracks well, has good seating options and ample storage space. There is one more thing that shines about this kayak: The Weight. Listed at only 68 pounds, this 14 foot kayak can be carried on your shoulder and has padding provided to do so. Going from Point A to Point B is easier than with most.
The Needs Improvement
As with most hybrid sit in/sit on kayaks, there are no scupper holes. You need to keep a sponge or pump handy if you are fishing in heavy chop or rain. With a bow skirt you'll eliminate most of the water that could potentially get in on normal paddling days. I also don't recommend this kayak for anything surf side but bay side adventures will be a great fit.
Another thing that is difficult is inside the side track you have these bungee connectors that can move back and forth to be tightened. The tightening happens with a hex key. The hex key is a size that isn't included in a normal $10 set at the hardware store so hang on to the key. I don't have mine and it's been a bear trying to find a size to match it. If Wildy could make a place, possibly under the Perch that had a couple of clips and a couple of the hex keys it would help. At least for me.
Bow and stern skirts currently need to be purchased separately but in the future it would be cool to see a retractable skirt integrated into the front and rear hatches. If you need it you extend it and if you don't it rolls back into its self on the hull. Think of it like those retractable window shades for cars.
It could also be a nice addition to include rod tubes for the main area. I currently store rods in my BlackPak and two on a Bullwinkle mount up front. Rod tubes would store a few of the rods out of the way of limbs etc and also not have them in the way of a sweeping hookset.
The final thing is maneuverability. Because the Commander 140 tracks so well and is long, it needs some extra effort to turn. It takes some extra strokes (as does any 14 foot kayak) to turn but the added rudder can greatly ease that burden. I don't see this as much of an area of needed improvement as a "just be aware of it" item if you don't get a rudder.
Final Thoughts
If you are in the market for a kayak you can stand in, camp in, store tons of gear in, and just all around enjoy, this is a kayak you should look at. With 450-475 pounds of capacity it will accommodate most paddlers and sometimes an additional guest. The Commander is stable and can make a long day of paddling seem short. I'd highly recommend a demo of one.
Got The Kayak! Now What?
Often times these gifted kayaks are not the $2,000 super decked out angler editions. They are sit-in or sit-on kayaks purchased at major chain stores. You know what? And hear me say this: THAT IS JUST FINE!
You don't need to have a BMW 7 Series car to drive on the highway and you don't need the Hobie Pro Angler 14 to get on the water. Would it be nice? Dang skippy. Is it necessary? Not even close.
I fished my first six, almost seven years out of a $200 sit in kayak from Academy Sports and Outdoors. And it was great. I fished differently then than I do now but every kayak owner fishes a little differently and some of that comes from the type of kayak they fish from. The important things to remember are safety, time on the water and customization to fit your needs.
These throngs of people often find their way to kayak forums and ask the same questions. That is when they get a good taste of what our sport is about. Sharing. More specifically, sharing information.
The questions typically revolve around accessories, where to try, and what is all this I hear about tipping over?
Today, I want to give you some of what I have learned both from the school of hard knocks and by others in the sport who have mentored me.
So I got a new kayak:
What accessories do I need?
 |
| BB Angler Pro |
Paddle- This is your motor. Use this paddle guide and find the right one for you. If you only have two upgrade things you can buy, they need to be a good PFD and a paddle. That seems like a no-brainer but lots of people skimp on the first and sell their kayak shortly after from non-use. My favorite I just ordered is the Bending Branches Angler Pro in Sea Green (240cm).
Anchor Trolley- It seems strange to buy this before an anchor but believe me when I say you will be much happier if you do. An anchor trolley allows you to use a drift sock, stake out stick and anchor while positioning yourself to take advantage of the wind, not be a victim of it. This also will allow for a quick release if you get into trouble. This is the one I use. Inexpensive and easy to install.
Anchor- This is the most widely underpurchased item under $50. Anchors exist in all shapes and sizes. The most popular one is the collapsible anchor. If you are going to be in water eight feet deep or less, I suggest a YakAttack Park-N_Pole. It can double as a push pole, GoPro camera pole and many other things. Very versatile and it floats. It comes in three different lengths to fit exactly what your needs are.
Anchor Rope (and accessories)- Most anchors don't come with rope. If you are going to be fishing in any current or wind at all most people will recommend 2X the length of rope for the depth you are fishing. So if your fish are in 20 feet of water, you need at least 40 feet of rope. If you are fishing on the coast it is recommended 3X the depth. I like 3/16" rope but choose what you like. Just don't buy 1/16" rope and expect to raise a big anchor easily. While you are there in the rope section, pick up a carabiner and rope float to attach to these as well.
 |
| Super Nova Fishing Lights on my kayak |
LED Lights- This may not be first on your list but this is more than a night fishing accessory. If you buy good 5050 LED lights like SuperNova Fishing Lights, you are safer in low light to no light conditions. Folks will see you and you can see more too.
Everything Else-These things will get you going pretty well. After you have the above mentioned items, you should look at, in no particular order: a fish finder, stabilizers (depending on the kayak), drift sock, stake out stick, VHF handheld radio, scupper plugs (for sit on tops), waders, paddle gloves, really the list goes on and on.
Your fishing adventure is just that. Add things as you can and see what others are doing. Go to get togethers. Visit kayak shops like HOOK1 if you are in Oklahoma or Tennessee and Mariner-Sails if you are in Texas. Talk to guys who have years or even decades on the water. Talk to the new guys. See what's new, what's a need, what's a want and go for it. And if you buy something that doesn't work out, there is always the buy-sell-trade forums. Most of all, have fun and catch some fish!
Got A Kayak. What Else Do I Need?
Often times these gift kayaks are not the $2,000 super decked out angler editions. They are sit-in or sit-on kayaks purchased at major chain stores. You know what? And hear me say this: THAT IS JUST FINE!
You don't need to have a BMW 7 Series car to drive on the highway and you don't need the Hobie Pro Angler 14 to get on the water. Would it be nice? Dang skippy. Is it necessary? Not even close.
I fished my first six, almost seven years out of a $200 sit in kayak from Academy Sports and Outdoors. And it was great. I fished differently then than I do now but every kayak owner fishes a little differently and some of that comes from the type of kayak they fish from. The important things to remember are safety, time on the water and customization to fit your needs.
These throngs of people often find their way to kayak forums and ask the same questions. That is when they get a good taste of what our sport is about. Sharing. More specifically, sharing information.
The questions typically revolve around accessories, where to try, and what is all this I hear about tipping over?
Today, I want to give you some of what I have learned both from the school of hard knocks and by others in the sport who have mentored me.
So I got a new kayak:
What accessories do I need?
| MTI Dio F-Spec |
PFD (Life Jacket)- Most people go straight for the paddle. The only reason I recommend a PFD first is safety. If you blow all of your money on a fancy paddle and end up paddling in an $8 PFD that fits like an albatross, you won't be paddling for long. Choose a good PFD and always wear it. Check out the NRS, MTI and Stohlquist PFDs. I also recommend a knife and a whistle to attach to the PFD so you can call for help or cut your way out of a tangle or hung anchor. If you are going to paddle at night, get a 360 degree light. The YakAttack Visicarbon Pro with Flag is a popular choice amongst kayakers everywhere.The PFD and whistle are legal requirements in Texas. The light is also if you are out at night.
Paddle- This is your motor. Use this paddle guide and find the right one for you. If you only have two upgrade things you can buy, they need to be a good PFD and a paddle. That seems like a no-brainer but lots of people skimp on the first and sell their kayak shortly after from non-use.
| Park-N-Pole in a Trolley |
Anchor- This is the most widely underpurchased item under $50. Anchors exist in all shapes and sizes. The most popular one is the collapsible anchor. If you are going to be in water eight feet deep or less, I suggest a YakAttack Park-N_Pole. It can double as a push pole, GoPro camera pole and many other things. Very versatile and it floats. It comes in three different lengths to fit exactly what your needs are.
Anchor Rope (and accessories)- Most anchors don't come with rope. If you are going to be fishing in any current or wind at all most people will recommend 2X the length of rope for the depth you are fishing. So if your fish are in 20 feet of water, you need at least 40 feet of rope. If you are fishing on the coast it is recommended 3X the depth. I like 3/16" rope but choose what you like. Just don't buy 1/16" rope and expect to raise a big anchor easily. While you are there in the rope section, pick up a carabiner and rope float to attach to these as well.
Rod Holders- These come in different varieties. You can get flush mount, rocket launchers, trolling rod holders for baitcasters and spinning, rail mount, and the list goes on and on. Look at some rigging pictures, sit in your boat, see where you can reach and then go buy one.
| YakAttack BlackPak |
Everything Else-These things will get you going pretty well. After you have the above mentioned items, you should look at, in no particular order: a fish finder, stabilizers (depending on the kayak), drift sock, stake out stick, VHF handheld radio, scupper plugs (for sit on tops), waders, paddle gloves, really the list goes on and on.
Your fishing adventure is just that. Add things as you can and see what others are doing. Go to get togethers. Visit kayak shops like HOOK1 if you are in Tennessee or Mariner-Sails if you are in Texas. Talk to guys who have years or even decades on the water. Talk to the new guys. See what's new, what's a need, what's a want and go for it. And if you buy something that doesn't work out, there is always the buy-sell-trade forums. Most of all, have fun and catch some fish!
Gift Ideas for the Kayak Fisherman
I have given into that thought and started to formulate what to get my family members. I have scoured Black Friday ads (most of which are crap this year) and decided to make my own list. The women folk in my family have a hard time knowing what to get me so this is a little help in that direction. Some of these gifts I already have but could always use another or twelve. I've tried to come up with stuff in several price ranges so if it's a company party or your significant other's BIG gift, you might find something on here. And if you wanted to get me something off this list, it's a guaranteed sure thing I'll like it. (It is my list after all.)
Under $25
Measurement numbers are raised.The Hawg Trough is made of durable plastic and is injection molded.
Over center locking - grip to lock, flip to open.
Unique jaw design - holds the lip of the fish.
Durable materials - plastic and stainless steel.
High viz color - easy to see, day or night.
Weight scale slot - attach a scale, deduct 5 oz.
Wrist lanyard - in case it slips.
IT FLOATS
Flat surface on jaws of the Fish Grip helps to prevent the puncture of thin tissue of the mouth of the fish. Lip bone of the fish rolls to either side of the point of the jawx of the Fish Grip securing your catch.
Less injury to the fish too!
C'mon, you know you want to splash some flair on your fishing rig. Includes mounting hardware.
When rigged on a Texas rig, the worm will stand completely vertical. When rigged on a Carolina rig, the worm will float up off of the bottom. This will be deadly when fishing those deep grass beds or trees. Put the Hag's Tornado on a shakey head and watch out!
The Hag's Tornado uses a special formulated plastic that not only allows the worm to stand straight up and down or even float off of the bottom, but also makes it tough enough to hold up to numerous fish. A lot of competitor's products tear up with only one fish, costing the fishermen a lot of money. The Hag's Tornado are tough and you will love not having to put a new worm on each time you catch a fish.
Under $50
Although it was designed for holding mobile devices and such, this thing can actually grab onto tools and other items you might want handily mounted on a Geartrac. Clever!
Double socket arm and universal spring loaded X-Grip™ holder for cell phones. The included X-Grip™ cradle has a clean and clever four leg design that sports great holding power without hiding your phone behind foam pads and plastic. The spring loaded X-Grip™ holder expands and contracts, allowing for a perfect custom fit of your cell phone. The perfect compliment to the modern sleek interior of today's vehicles, the RAM X-Grip™ is the cell phone holder evolved.
Under $100
Moisture management paneling in key areas wicks moisture away from the body, increases insulation, repels moisture and dries quickly. The Polartec Power Dry material with flat-seam, Performance Cut construction allows 4-way stretch for easy, unrestricted mobility and comfort – even under dry wear. The Halo 5.0 includes a reflective screen printed logo, SPF 40 protection, and is anti-microbial treated. 5.0 oz. per square yard.
The PanFish™ was designed for over-the-shoulder video with lightweight cameras. We recommend a maximum payload of 1 lb, including camera and housing (if applicable). This covers most lightweight and point-and-click style cameras.
Big Spender
The BlackPak has stations for up to 10 rod holders, each of which can be installed vertically or angled. When 4 or more rod holders are used, they can be installed in the “high and dry” position, preventing unwanted seepage from a wet tank well. The top rails are configured to accept all GearTrac or Mighty Mount compatible accessories. The lid is hinged and latched with elastic cord, and is designed for easy removal, allowing it to double as a bait board. (Sold Unassembled)
When you look at your new KLX rod you will immediately notice very little fanfare in the way of fancy colored wraps, or paid endorsements signed on the shaft. Instead, the American Flag, and the very best rod we could possibly build for the money.
Pride in building the very best for our customers. It’s the foundation of the Kistler values. So you can say…..’Fishing NEVER Felt SO Good!’
DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS:
VIO POV HD Camera- No matter whether you are casting for muskies, flippin’ for
bass, fly fishing for trout, or poling the flats for tarpon and bonefish, make
sure you do all you can to preserve your outings to more than just your memory
or a still photo. Oh sure, it’s easy enough to get a digital camcorder, but
finding a willing cameraman is a different story. With the VIO POV HD as your
boat partner, every fish from the strike to the release will be recorded. Oh,
did we mention that the camera head is waterproof? This means getting one-of-a
-kind underwater shots is now easily accomplished. And you’ll never have to
say, “Did you get that?” One of the best features of the system is the “Loop
Record Mode” which enables you to save recordings after they happen! This means
that at the end of the day, no more going through hours of video to get the
nuggets of excitement--clips of the action are all you will have, and they are
easily downloaded and shared via PC. The camera can be mounted on your hat or
shoulder for great “Point-of View” shots, or on your boat’s console for
all-encompassing action shots.
The SuperNova Kayak Kit includes 8 strips of lights for the front, rear and cabin of your kayak, which ensures ample visability of all structures at casting distance and the cabin lights give adequate worklight, and can be switched off and on as needed.
See what's out there and most important, be seen by others on the water.
What's Included:
- 2- 28LED Light Strips, 20"
- 2- 13LED Light Strips, 10"
- 4- 4LED Light Strips, 4"
- 3M Adhesion Promoter
- 2 Switches and Waterproofing Boots
- 8 Pieces Heat Shrink
- 6 Wire Management Pads
- 10 Tie Wraps
- 5amp Fuse
- 6' Extra 22AWG Wire
- 1 In-line Fuse Holder
Smith Optics Tenet- The Tenet is feature packed, centered around the exceptional optical clarity and performance that our proprietary Techlite Polarized Glass lenses deliver. Additional goodies like smooth action spring hinges and rubber- like Megol details make this style fit like a dream and stay put on your head when you have the throttle pinned.
Large Fit / Medium Coverage
Techlite Polarized Glass TLT Lenses
Evolve Frame Material
Anti-Reflective and Hydrophobic Lens Coatings
Hydrophilic Megol Nose and Temple Pads
Stainless Steel Spring Hinges
8 Base Lens Curvature
Frame Measurements 61-18-135
Happy Shopping!!!!
Zooka Tube Thoughts
Past the obvious use, many folks, myself included are using the Zooka as a holder for a Park-N-Pole. An anchor trolley gives a lot of flex and using the scupper holes in your kayak can do damage over time when trying to stay put in wind and waves. The Zooka allows a very rigid mounting point to your kayak with easy in and out access for quick moves on and off anchor.
The Zooka also allows lots of flexible positions because of the RAM ball. The spherical head provides myriad angles to make sure you can choose what you need for best ease of use specific for your application.
Inside the Zooka are interlocking teeth, tightened by a wing style nut and fitted with an interior spring. This is my only gripe about the rod holder. The interlocking teeth offer too few angles and deep teeth that require a lot of unscrewing, separation and re-tightening to set the angle of the tube. While on the water, this is tough and a bit scary.
Utilizing an existing product I have had success modifying the Zooka slightly to make those slight adjustments quicker and less difficult. I have added a Scotty Slip Disc to the interior gear set. By placing this Slip Disc inside, I only need a quarter turn to loosen the tube find the exact angle I need and then re-tighten. This slight modification is low cost ($4) and gives further refinement to an already well designed rod holder.
The Zooka Tube is definitely worth a look. I have already replaced my RAM 2007 rod holder with the Zooka and have plans for an additional one in the near future. For about $30 you can add one to your arsenal and stop limiting the rods you can take with you. This newest offering from YakAttack will fit almost all of them.
Outdoor Retailer: 3 Gadgets Under $25 You Should Know About
Outdoor Retailer is underway in Salt Lake City this week and
new gear abounds. While I’d love to have the new solar powered tent from Eddie
Bauer or the Vibram LED shoes, the price point is going to place that out of
the realm of possibility for, well…most of us.
Three useful new items are rolling out this week however,
(though some have had 30-60 days of market presence), that I felt were
definitely worth mentioning. The best part is, you can get all three for less
than $25! Skip the movie with the significant other, cuddle on the couch with a
Redbox or Netflix and BOOM!, $25 for a new gadget.
This emergency “knife” is safe to carry on your hip, lightweight
and has a blunt end with protected blades. Great for cutting fishing line,
rope, trot lines, and other tangled messes, this could be the new safety knife
that becomes a kayaking favorite. Right at $25, it is significantly cheaper
than other safety knives on the market and may be safer and more user friendly.
If I had the Trilobite a few years ago my hands would have a lot fewer scars.
Zippo Firestarter
Kayak camping demands planning but the weather can often
make it difficult. When everything is soaked, it’s good to have a back up plan.
The Firestarter is that plan. At $10, it has a small lightweight package but
includes all the things you will need in a damp (or dry) environment to get a
fire going and your gear to drying. Small and easy to pack, this should be a
consideration for all your overnight trips.
YakAttack GTSL Gear Tracs
This newest addition to the Gear Trac family from YakAttack
has changed rigging options once again for kayaks. This high performance polymer trac comes
in a variety of colors, can curve easier than its anodized aluminum brothers,
and has a lower price tag than any previous trac offering. From as low as $8 and available very soon,
you can get trac and show off your personality at the same time. Rigging just
got easier, more affordable and has a new personalized look.
Gearing Up in Phases
As I talk to folks both new and experienced in the kayak fishing world, gear and rigging bubbles up as a subject constantly. Having been in the kayak for more than 10 years now, I have rigged quite a few boats. I have done the "all in, all at once rigging" and then the "little bit at a time because it's all I can afford" rigging.
I don't really have a preference. It's more of a money thing. If I have the extra cash, more toys is more fun I guess.
What I wanted to do is give a break down of what, in my opinion, are the three phases of rigging. Not everyone does it this way but time and again, it's what I see and what people share they are doing. You can skip phases, do them all at once, or whatever suits your fancy but if you are looking for a starting point, try Phase I. Progress as you see fit.
Phase I
Tracks- $10-$50- Some kayaks come with it already, some don't. These are or at least can be the base for all attachments. These also allow you to strip off attachments before transport. I use the YakAttack GT175 heavy duty tracks. Tracks come in all shapes and sizes so finding one that fits your needs is fairly easy.
Adjustable Rod Holder- $20-$40- Flush mounted, molded in rod holders are great but typically mean you need leashes and there is only one angle to choose from. I just upgraded to the Zooka Tube as it handles multiple reel types and lengths.
360 Degree Light- $40-$85- A must in many states from dusk until dawn, a 360 light lets other boaters know you are there, makes you legally compliant and gives you some light to see by should you need it. The VisiCarbon Pro is my light. I've had the others and this is far superior in every way if you can spare the coin.
Net- $8-$125- Net styles vary as much as fishing pole choices now. The cream of the crop nets have yet to win my pocket book. I use my $10 Frabill net from Academy and sometimes regret it. I'm thinking my next purchase may well be a better net.
Anchor- $0-$60- Depending on where you are going to be fishing, anchors have a variety of styles and weights. This is usually one of the first things people purchase who are going to be fishing in saltwater or big freshwater lakes. Some folks even make their own from an old barbell. Whether you are a bruce claw guy or not, an anchor is a quick way to stay on a spot.
Hawg Trough- $15-$25- Quickly becoming the go to measuring device for Catch Photograph and Release anglers and tourneys, a Hawg Trough should be up there on your list. Need some pointers on how to get it setup? Go here.
Phase II
12 Volt Battery- $20-$30- Lots of ways to do this one but the easiest and most common is a deer feeder battery. 7.5A and rechargeable. Why do you need this? To power the next thing on the list!
Fish Finder- $60-$1500+- Dozens of options for this one. Get the best you can afford and upgrade as you want/need. I use a Lowrance Mark 5X-DSI. It isn't tip top of the line. It's not even color but I'm color blind anyway so yay for saving a few bucks!
Push Pole/Anchor Stick- $50-$100- These can be different or the same. If you fish frequently in water less than eight feet deep, this is a good way to go. I use the Park-N-Pole. I have the 6ft version and wish I had bought the 8.
Anchor Trolley- $20-$40- So why is this in Phase II and not with the anchor in Phase I? Lots of people simply clip or tie the anchor wherever they can. Not until later do folks discover the advantages of this device. You don't need one to run an anchor but once you use it you will love it. I have the Hobie anchor trolley but several companies make a good one. With a couple of pulleys and some paracord, crafty folks can make one for a few bucks.
Transducer Mount- Not everyone can or wants to do a through hull mount.Even fewer have a transducer ready boat. For those who like to hang the 'ducer off the side and remove when off the water, the options are few. I use the Mad Frog Liberator and it works well for my needs.
Gear Box/Milk Crate- $0-$125- If you like to pack lots of baits, you'll need somewhere to put all of those boxes while still staying organized. For the DIYer, a milk crate is often used. I prefer a more rugged, UV protected, solid state box with a lid and attachable hardware with rod holders. For my money, The Black Pak is one of the best accessories I've ever purchased. Think it's a milk crate? Read more here.
Phase III
GPS- $100-$300- If not included in your fish finder, these devices can be helpful to mark those magic hotspots. If you don't mind using your cell phone, you can download the Navionics app and do this for $15.
Video Camera- $100-$400- GoPro, Contour, Playsports and more are ready to capture your every single move. With a variety of mounts available the sky is the limit. I use a GoPro Hero2 currently.
Camera Pole- $30-$80- So you got a camera but need a unique way to get those cool angles. I use the PanFish mount from YakAttack and a couple of Dog Bones as well to mix up those shooting angles.
LED Lights- $30-$250- Whether it's visibility or baitfish attraction, LED lights can be the ticket at night. You'll want to do a little research and comparisons to make sure you get a durable product. Need some help? Check here. I prefer 5050 LEDs from SuperNova lights.
VHF Radio- $65-$300- Depending on your destination, a VHF radio could be on your needs list. If you plan on going beyond the breakers, this should be in Phase I.
Cooler- $20-$500- Again, this is all about taste. How rugged does your cooler need to be? Do you like the popular brands? Yeti, K2, Polar Bear and others offer a wide variety to choose from.
EPIRB/GPS Locator- $100-$700- Another BTB Phase I item, this can also be useful to help family know exactly where you are at.
Upgrades- Do you need a rudder? Want to try out some Turbo Fins? How about a better seat? Usually these are some of the last things added though usually intended to do up front. Are they necessary? No. Do they make life on the water easier? Yes.
Keep in mind every person will prioritize differently but these would be the starting points I would recommend. Think it over, make a list, check your budget and then get after it!
As always, if you have any questions or comments, let me know!
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