jackson cruise 12 weight limit

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What Size Kayak Do I Need For My Weight?

A kayak’s weight limit is one of the most important things to consider when purchasing the right size kayak for you. It’s normal for beginning kayakers to see all the available kayak length and width options and get confused, so they end up choosing a kayak that’s not properly sized for their weight. Hopefully, we’re going to help you avoid that mistake with this article.

What size kayak do I need for my weight? The right size kayak for your weight is one with a maximum capacity rating that’s about 125 pounds more than your body weight. Another rule of thumb is to find out the manufacturer’s maximum capacity rating and reduce it by about 30-35%.

If the weight of you and all your gear fall below that reduced weight limit calculation, then that kayak would be right for your weight.

And that’s because your kayak’s performance or usable weight limit is at least 30% below the manufacturer’s maximum capacity rating. That maximum capacity weight limit is how much weight a kayak will hold when fully loaded. But at a max capacity, your kayak will ride very low in the water.

So, here are the details on how to find out what size kayak you need for your specific weight.

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What’s a Kayak’s Weight Limit?

Maximum Capacity is really just the most weight you can put in a kayak and still keep it afloat. It’s a kayak’s literal weight limit, beyond which it almost sinks or gets unstable and capsizes easily.

The maximum capacity of a kayak is determined by three things:

• Displacement (volume)

Kayak manufacturer’s use those three measurements and engineering formulas to determine what any given kayak’s maximum capacity is.

But here’s the rub—there isn’t really an agreed upon standard amongst kayak manufacturers for how to measure maximum capacity. Each manufacturer does things just a little bit differently.

NOTE : Maximum capacity load includes not only your weight, but all of your gear, your paddle, and the weight of anything you’re bringing with you on the kayak.

What Happens if I’m Over my Kayak’s Weight Limit?

A kayak that’s fully loaded to its maximum weight capacity will:

• Be difficult to paddle
• Lose stability
• Lose maneuverability
• Be in danger of capsizing

This is a great video illustrating all of the above points:

Establishing a Performance Kayak Weight Limit

So, instead of a maximum capacity kayak weight limit we need to figure out what the practical or “performance” kayak weight limit is for any given kayak’s maximum weight capacity.

Performance kayak weight limit, in practical terms, is about 30-35% less than the manufacturer’s stated maximum capacity kayak weight limit.

And for that, we’ll need a formula…

Kayak Weight Limit Example:

If you weigh 175 pounds and all your gear weighs 25 pounds, you’ll want to search for a kayak with a performance or practical weight limit of 200 pounds, not a maximum capacity of 200 pounds.

So if we want to find out a kayak’s performance weight limit, we would take its maximum capacity x .7 (for 30% reduction) = 200

To go about it from the perspective of already knowing how much weight your kayak has to carry, you would take your 200 pounds of weight you need to put in your kayak and divide it by .7 to get a desired maximum capacity rating of at least 285 pounds.

Max Capacity = Total Load Requirement/.7 (in our example that equals 285 lbs)

So in that scenario, you’d look for a boat with a 300 lb kayak weight limit.

But no one likes to state kayak weight limit this way, because it feels like you’re losing 30% of your boat! I mean why would the manufacturer put a max capacity on a kayak if you can’t use all of it?

It goes deeper…

Wait, I Can Only Use 65% of My Kayak’s Weight Limit?

Now, giving up 30% of a kayak’s maximum capacity might seem crazy to you, but 30% will only put you in a range to safely operate your kayak. That means you won’t sink and it won’t be too hard to paddle.

If you want to have some breathing room, be able to add a little extra weight if you have to, or you’re in a fishing kayak that’s taking water up through the scuppers when you get in it, you may have to cut the maximum capacity even more. More, as in the performance weight limit is closer to 65% of a kayak’s maximum capacity.

At that point, determining a performance kayak weight limit that will allow you to comfortably, safely and efficiently paddle your kayak will be much easier. Look on the kayak weight limit rating for the kayak you’re interested in and multiply it times .65.

UPDATE : I just tested this theory out again on a recent kayaking trip with my family. With just me (250 lbs), a life vest, and a paddle, I borrowed one of my daughters’ Perception Swifty 9.5 DLX kayaks. They have a max capacity of 325 lbs. At 325*.7 the performance weight limit of that kayak’s around 227 lbs. Though I was able to paddle the kayak safely, it was harder, less responsive, and less stable. On the other hand, my daughters at about 120 lbs and wife at around 140 lbs can all paddle those kayaks very well.

Downgrading your kayak’s weight limit by 30-35% gives you plenty of room to add some gear you forget or gain a little weight at a backyard BBQ. (Or for your chubby dad to borrow your kayak!)

What are Common Kayak Weight Limits?

300 lb weight limit kayaks.

Using our formulas and rules from our example above, a manufacturer’s stated kayak weight limit of 300 lbs gives us about 180 pounds of usable performance kayak weight capacity. Remember, we have to account for person and gear weight. So you’re talking about a roughly 155 pound person plus their 25 pounds of gear..

Examples of 300 lb weight capacity kayaks:

• 300 lb (136 kg) – Hobie Kayaks Quest 11 Kayak Weight Limit
• 300 lb (136 kg) – Perception Kayaks Carolina 14.0 Kayak Weight Limit
• 300 lb (136 kg) – Perception Kayaks Expression 14.5 Kayak Weight Limit
• 300 lb (136 kg) – Jackson Kayaks Riviera Kayak Weight Limit
• 300 lb (136 kg) – Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 90 Kayak Weight Limit
• 325 lb (147 kg) – Wilderness Systems Kayaks Tsunami 140 Kayak Weight Limit

400 lb Weight Limit Kayaks

A manufacturer’s stated kayak weight limit (capacity) of 400 lbs gives us 240 pounds of performance kayak weight capacity. That’s a 215 pound person plus their 25 lbs of gear..

Examples of kayaks with a weight limit of 400 lb:

• 400 lb (181 kg) – Jackson Kayaks Cruise FD Weight Limit
• 400 lb (181 kg) – Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 120 Weight Limit
• 400 lb (181 kg) – Wilderness Systems Kayaks Tsunami 175 Weight Limit
• 425 lb (192 kg) – Wilderness Systems Kayaks Pungo 125 Weight Limit
• 440 lb (200 kg) – FeelFree Kayaks Moken 10 Weight Limit

500 lb Weight Limit Kayaks

Sticking with our assumptions, a kayak with a weight limit of 500 lbs gives us up to 300 pounds of performance weight we can use. That’s a 275 pound person plus gear.

Examples of 500 lb weight limit kayaks:

• 550 lb (250 kg) – Vibe Kayaks Sea Ghost 130 Kayak Weight Limit
• 550 lb (250 kg) – Wilderness Systems Ride 135 Kayak Weight Limit

Tandem Kayak Weight Limit

Obviously tandem kayaks will weigh more than solo kayaks. After all, they’re meant to transport two people. Just remember, you need to use the weight of both passengers, both of their gear, and any shared gear they’re bringing onboard as a basis to figure out a kayak weight limit that’s right for you.

Examples of tandem weight limit kayaks:

• 450 lb (204 kg) – Jackson Kayaks Riviera T (Tandem) Weight Limit
• 500 lb (227 kg) – Jackson Kayaks Big Tuna Tandem Weight Limit
• 500 lb (227 kg) – Vibe Kayaks Skipjack 120T Tandem Weight Limit
• 550 lb (250 kg) – Perception Kayaks Cove Tandem Weight Limit
• 650 lb (295 kg) – Old Town Canoe LOOKSHA T Weight Limit

High Weight Capacity Kayaks

“How much weight can a kayak hold?” Recreation, ocean, and touring kayaks have weight limits between 200 and 450 pounds. Fishing kayaks that carry more gear have kayak weight capacities from 400 to 550 and up. And tandem kayaks have weight capacity ratings ranging from 450 to 700 and more.

As you’ve probably guessed, there are so many different kayak brands , models, and weight options that the answer to how much weight kayaks hold is specific to each kayak and different between manufacturers.

Examples of High Weight Capacity Fishing Kayaks:

• 475 lb (215 kg) – Perception Kayaks Pescador Pilot 12.0 Kayak Weight Limit
• 500 lb (227 kg) – Perception Kayaks Pescador 13.0 Kayak Weight Limit
• 550 lb (250 kg) – Jackson Kayaks Big Red Fishing Kayak Weight Limit
• 600 lb (272 kg) – Hobie Kayaks Mirage pro Angler 14 kayak Weight Limit
• 770 lb (349 kg) – Brooklyn Kayak Company TK122 Tandem Fishing Kayak Weight Capacity

If you’re a larger person, we wrote an entire article on kayaks for big guys and 300 pound people in general.

Pelican Kayak Weight Limit Examples

What are Pelican Kayak Weight Limits? The kayak weight limit on any given Pelican recreation, touring, or fishing kayaks can range from 200 lb maximum capacity on the low end to over 425 lbs on the high end.

Pelican Kayaks are some of the most popular recreational and touring kayaks on the market. They have kayaks to fit pretty much any weight requirement.

Here are some common Pelican kayak weight limits as a reference for what’s available on the market:

Here are some representative Pelican kayak weight limits:

• 200 lb (91 kg) – Pelican Argo 80 X Weight Capacity
• 220 lb (100 kg) – Pelican Athena 100 XP Weight Capacity
• 275 lb (125 kg) – Pelican Sprint 120 DT Weight Capacity
• 300 lb (136 kg) – Pelican Mustang 100 X Weight Capacity
• 325 lb (147 kg) – Pelican Sandbank 100 XP Weight Capacity
• 375 lb (170 kg) – Pelican Argo 120 XP Weight Capacity
• 400 lb (181 kg) – Pelican The Catch 120 Weight Capacity
• 425 lb (193 kg) – Pelican The Catch 130 Hydrive (pedal) Weight Capacity

I'm Steve, the research and technology workhorse behind Paddle Camp. I do tons of research on all our family's paddling gear before I buy or recommend anything. I grew up canoeing with my dad and brother. A few years ago I bought paddle boards for my daughters, myself, and my wife. Ever since then, we plan most of our vacations around kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding.

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Out of stock, cruise 12 sit-on-top kayak.

When your angling lifestyle takes you everywhere from ponds to saltwater lagoons, the Jackson Kayak Cruise 12 Sit-On-Top Kayak is your ticket to seared salmon at your next meal. The twelve foot length provides enough speed for large lakes and rivers, without sacrificing maneuverability and simple storage solutions when the fishing season ends. The wide hull is user friendly, offering the stability to reach for rods or tackle, handle small rapids, or even stand up. 

Hull storage provides room for warmer clothing and a lunch, while the day hatch is an easy-to-reach home for your phone or keys. If you're feeling ambitious, two flush mount rod holders can be used for trolling, and an in included rod mount can be attached at your convenience. With breathable mesh fabric and improved lumbar support on the Ergo seat, you can get after it all day, and there's no need to worry about space for your catch—bungee straps across the tank well offer a secure spot for your cooler full of fish, eager for the fry. 

• Flat water kayak for lake, river, and inshore angling
• Medium size can handle wide range of fishing environments
• Breathable mesh and lumbar support on seat offer cruising comfort
• Adjustable foot pegs deliver custom fit and steering support
• Plenty of storage for your lunch, spare rods, cooler, and tackle
• Three secure spots to place your fishing rods while you troll
• Stand-assist strap makes it simple to get in and out of the kayak
• Central beverage holder is easy to reach when you get thirsty
• Item #JAK004Q

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Click and collect, price match, need advice, jackson cruise 12 angler, £1099.00.

The Jackson Kayak Cruise Angler kayak fills a variety of niches. It is a great price point kayak for someone looking to get into kayak fishing without all the bells and whistles, but enough features to make your time on the water enjoyable. It is also a great platform for an avid angler who is looking for a small versatile kayak with a minimalistic approach. The Cruise Angler 12 is also great for fishing smaller rivers and creeks, or even your neighborhood pond. It is also a great choice for college kayak anglers, who have to try and store a kayak in a dorm room or apartment. The Cruise Angler versions are offered in the same eye catching colors as the rest of the fishing line.

• Length: 12’3″
• Width: 31.5″
• Height: 13.5″
• Weight: 68 w/ Seat, 63 w/0 Seat
• Capacity: 350

PLEASE NOTE: This Kayak is a custom order boat, which we will have to get into the UK for you. This may take a few weeks depending on the arrival of the next container(s)

A full payment will be taken upfront and no cancellations.

Please call for more information

01732 886688 [email protected] Mill Farm Pells Lane West Kingsdown Sevenoaks TN15 6AU

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JACKSON CRUISE 12

• Description

  This versatile, general purpose recreational sit-on-top features Jackson Kayak signature Hi-Lo Seating for ease of entry and exiting as well as an incredibly stable hull. The Cruise includes basic deck features like cup holders and bungees. It is also easily accessorized for all your kayak fishing needs.

CRUISE 12 \: •Length: 12’3″, •Width: 31.5′, •Height: 13.5′, •Weight: 68 w/ Seat, 63 w/0 Seat, •Capacity: 350lbs

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Jackson Cruise 12 Angler

• Thread starter mrowland96
• Start date Jan 23, 2015
• Jan 23, 2015

Senior Member

Has anyone paddled one of the boats... I'm just getting started into Yak fishing (Bass mostly), I've read a few reviews on it, but would like some more reviews on it. My biggest Pro is the Price for this Yak. I do like the Open Floor vs the Cude 12...I like to shuffle my feet every once in a while. Also, I like the idea that they made this boat very upgradable.  

Upgradable? There is hardly any deck to upgrade on?  

So what do suggest that matches the price...I really don't wanna by someone elses hand-me-down.  

Shutter Mushin' Mod

have no clue what randy is talking about but i know what his recommendation will be.... i really prefer the Cruise 12 over the Cuda 12. i think it is more stable and i love the open floor and massive tank well. i have never been a fan of the small hatches and like the large hatch on the front of the Cruise. it is a light and very easy paddling boat for me ( a big ol boy) and for my bride. i don't think i would spring for the angler unless it was just to get a camo color. there are ram mounts on the back but i would either do that myself on a standard cruise or install flushmounts if i needed them. i use a Jkrate that has 3 rod holders on it so i do not need behind the seat ones very much. i am a Jackson "staffer" so understand that ahead of time. if i can be of any more assistance just holler. the Cruise is an outstanding value and very much underestimated kayak.  

Now thats the info I was looking for... the Cruises fit my budget. I am definitely looking for stability and sea worthiness. I do like the camo angler version but it's not a deal breaker. I will be hitting you up on customizing this yak when it's purchased. Thx again Feral One.  

yes sir. if you are ever down around phenix city or columbus holler at me and i will put ours in the water for you. not sure how close you are to the outside world locations but they may have a demo you can paddle to try out as well.  

Thx Chris...I really wish I was closer but I'm way up here in Yuppieville USA...aka Raleigh, NC. I relocated from Grayson, GA when the Wifey hit the jackpot of jobs working for Cisco. N/E way if you know of any deals out there for 2 Jackson Cruises, please let me know. I gotta buddy in Warner Robins that's wanti one as well.  

• Jan 24, 2015

sweatequity

I have the cruise and cuda I think its a great boat and there are plenty of things you can do to upgrade. I was told that the cuda and cruise were basically the same thing, as far as the hull is considered and they paddle identically. That's my opinion.(mine are 2013 models) Having said that, standing takes practice. I bought mine for 800 and my wife and daughter have put many miles on it and we all like it.  

sweatequity said: I think its a great boat and there are plenty of things you can do to upgrade. I was told that the cuda and cruise were basically the same thing, as far as the hull is considered and they paddle identically. That's my opinion.(mine are 2013 models) Having said that, standing takes practice. I bought mine for 800 and my wife and daughter have put many miles on it and we all like it. Click to expand...

You said it was upgradable? I was just wondering what you meant by upgradable. There is. Rey little romm to mount stuff. Not much deck spaces to mount things to. So I was not sure what kind of upgrading you intended to do. I made no suggestions because there is not enough information to make an educated suggestion. But deck space to mount things is important to fishermen and this kayak has very little deck space. For someone "just getting in to kayak fishing" they may not understand the need for deck space. That's why I asked the question  

Maybe a GoPro camera eventually, possible depth/fish finder when fishing a pond/lake. I guess I meant a Platform for standing and fishing. I know there are a ton of yaks that are just as stable if not more than this boat....but for the price, I think this is a good starting yak for my budget. Maybe I'll like this boat enough to start a fleet.  

That's the most important thing. That you get something that allows you to enjoy the sport. I expect if you do you will be like me and Cheis and have a fleet at some point.  

• Jan 26, 2015

The Cruise is a great all around boat with plenty of room to 'upgrade' the boat with accessories mounted directly to the boat or through the use of rail systems. However, right out the box there's plenty of room to mount a GoPro camera and fish finder without any problems or lack of room. Although the Cruise is very upgradable, my favorite thing is its clean slate since I like to keep things simple when kayak fishing. Good luck with your search and try before you buy if possible.  

• Jan 28, 2015

Thx Bruiser.  

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Jackson Kayaks Cruise Angler 12

$ 1,099.00

More Information

Specifications.

The Jackson Kayak Cruise 12 Angler, similar to it’s little brother the Cruise 10 Angler, fills a variety of niches. The 12 is better suited for anglers that want/need more speed and better tracking than the 10 ft version can offer. It is also better suited for anglers that need a higher weight capacity than the 10. The Cruise 12 Angler is simply a great price point kayak for someone looking to get into kayak fishing without all the bells and whistles, but still wants enough features to make your time on the water enjoyable. It is also a great platform for an avid angler who is looking for a small versatile kayak with a minimalistic approach. The Cruise Angler 12 is perfect for fishing small to large rivers with small rapids but also tracks plenty well and carries enough speed for a jaunt on a bigger lake or inshore saltwater. With it’s stable platform, most also find it fairly easy to stand and fish in for those times when standing is necessary.

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Jackson Kayaks in 2023: Model Lineup and Reviews

EVER SINCE it was found in 2003, Jackson Kayaks has been known for innovation and attention to detail. In this guide, we’ll look at Jackson Kayak’s 2023 model range and briefly discuss the features of each boat.

DISCLAIMER: I don’t touch Jackson’s whitewater models here. I know very little about whitewater kayaking, so I decided to avoid them altogether for the time being. Just being honest here.

As an affiliate of Amazon and other retailers, we may earn a small commission when you buy via our links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

Comparison table: Jackson Kayaks in 2023

Jackson riviera.

Length: 11′4″ (347.5 cm) Width: 29″ (73.66 cm) Weight: 58 lbs (26.3 kg) Capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)

If you want a kayak that’s simple, stable, and easy to use, take a look at the Riviera. It is Jackson’s lowest-priced sit-on-top kayak.

Jackson Riviera was designed with simplicity and fun in mind. It has a minimalistic set of features and is great for occasional paddlers. It is also very popular as a rental boat.

The Riviera features a small day hatch on the bow and a decent-size tank well on the stern. The seat is molded but has a high back. There are four carry handles and molded footrests.

Jackson Riviera combines great stability with good speed, agility, and tracking. It is easy to paddle, even for beginners. The kayak is also easy to transport and store as there’s almost nothing to break.

Jackson Bite

Length: 11’6″ (353.56 cm) Width: 36″ (91.44 cm) Weight: 69 lbs (31.29 kg) Capacity: 400 lbs (181.43 kg)

At US $799.00 MSRP, the Bite is Jackson Kayak’s most affordable fishing kayak and a strong player in the sub-$1,000 niche. It could be all you ever need from a fishing kayak or a great way to learn what you need and move on to more advanced models.

The kayak features an open-concept deck with no central consoles or hatches, so nothing gets in your way when you stand up to fish. Two huge open tank wells on the bow and on the stern will take any milk crates, coolers , dry bags or any other gear. Two gear racks let you install rod holders, camera mounts, etc. There are also four tackle box storage spots that fit 3600 Plano boxes .

Jackson Bite’s frame seat does not have high and low positions but you can move it fore and aft to trim the boat. You can even replace it with a cooler to get a SUP-like experience.

With the Bite, you get a ton of versatility and functionality at a great price point.

Jackson Bite FD

Length: 11’6″ (353.56 cm) Width: 35″ (88.9 cm) Weight: 91 lbs (41.27 kg) Capacity: 400 lbs (181.43 kg)

The Bite FD combines the simplicity and great tackle management of the Bite with Jackson’s excellent Flex Drive 3D pedal system. The result? You get a kayak that is quick and responsive, yet provides solid stability for standing casts.

Just like the paddle-driven Bite, the Bite FD fishing kayak offers two large open tank wells for gear storage and a frame seat that slides fore and aft on racks. There are only two tackle box slots and no bottle holders. The flush-mount rod holders have been moved to make space for rudder control cables.

We like the simplicity of the original Bite, but if you want the Flex Drive, the Bite FD is the most affordable way to get it.

Jackson Tupelo 12 / 12.5

Length: 11′10″ or 12’5″ (338 cm or 381 cm) Width: 27″ or 29″ (68.58 cm or 73.66 cm) Weight: 42 or 49 lbs (19 kg or 22.2 kg) Capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)

Jackson Tupelo is a feature-rich recreational kayak made for day cruises and longer trips.

The accent is on comfort and performance. The Tupelo features Jackson’s removable Ergo Seat with built-in lumbar support, a large cockpit opening that lets you get in and out easily, four gear tracks to mount any equipment you may want, and a stern bulkhead for dry storage and additional safety. With a shallow V hull and hard chines, Jackson Tupelo offers excellent primary stability that makes it beginner-friendly. However, it also provides good secondary stability and edging performance, so it will let you use more advanced paddling techniques as you progress. The pronounced keel extends bow to stern, helping the Tupelo track straight for stress-free, more efficient paddling.

Like some high-performance kayaks, Jackson Tupelo comes in two sizes. Tupelo 12, designed for smaller and medium paddlers, is 11’10” long and has a capacity for 250 lbs. Tupelo 12.5 is for larger people. It is 12’5″ long and supports up to 300 lbs.

Jackson Tripper 12

Length: 12’3″ (373 cm) Width: 30.5″ (77.5 cm) Weight: 63 lbs (28.6 kg) Capacity: 375 lbs (170 kg)

Jackson Tripper 12 is a recreational version of the popular Kilroy fishing kayak. It is very stable, it offers a lot of storage space, and it will even let you take a kid or a dog on a paddling trip.

Jackson Tripper does not have a ton of features, but it offers everything you need for a comfortable day trip or overnight camping adventure. On the bow, there’s a small storage platform secured with a bungee. On the stern, you get a waterproof bulkhead which offers dry storage and adds buoyancy in case the kayak gets swamped. The cockpit is huge, offering a kind of freedom normally associated with sit-on-top kayaks. It also lets you pack a ton of gear, including oversized items such as coolers .

The seat is not the same as on some higher-end models but still very comfortable, with high and low positions. It also slides fore and aft, so you can trim the kayak for optimal weight distribution. Better yet, you could install the second seat and take a kid with you.

Adjustable footrests and soft knee pads add to the overall comfort on the water.

Jackson Coosa

Length: 11′2″ (341.38 cm) Width: 32″ (81.28 cm) Weight: 65 lbs (29.48 kg) Capacity: 350 lbs (158.75 kg)

If you mostly fish small rivers and wild creeks, the Coosa is Jackson Kayak’s best answer for you. With a shorter, narrower, and rockered hull, it is the most nimble of their kayaks – just what you need in tight places and sharp turns.

The Coosa measures 11’2” and weighs just 65 pounds so you should not have any trouble loading and unloading it alone. It features a removable frame seat with high/low positions and Molle webbing on the back. You also get splash-proof hatches on the bow and stern, a rear tank well with bungee cords, a small day hatch, adjustable footrests, two RAM mount recess es (but sadly, no gear racks), and even a drag chain anchor chute. The replaceable skid plate makes it easy to drag the boat to and from the water.

Jackson Coosa HD

Length: 12’6″ (381 cm) Width: 34″ (86 cm) Weight: 78 lbs (35.4 kg) Capacity:  425 lbs (192.8 kg)

If you like the original Coosa but need the extra size and stability for big waters, you’re gonna love the Coosa HD (HD stands for “heavy-duty”). 16 inches longer and 2 inches wider than its predecessor, the Coosa HD is still great for rivers but tracks better and is more stable on big lakes and saltwater bays.

This kayak offers a lot of nice extras. You get rod tip protectors on both sides, hinged hatch covers, a Hypalon paddle park up front, gear tracks and much more. The central console pod is entirely removable with a few twists of a screwdriver, opening additional deck space.

The Coosa HD also comes with a better seat with Therm-a-Rest lumbar support (which makes a good camping pillow ) and a Molle pouch that attaches to the back of the seat.

Finally, the Coosa HD is compatible with a Power-Pole Micro anchor , which is a great feature for shallow waters.

Jackson Coosa FD

Length: 12’7″ (376 cm) Width: 35″ (89 cm) Weight: 102 lbs (46.3 kg) Capacity: 425 lbs (192.8 kg)

Make no mistake: the Coosa FD is not just a Coosa HD with pedals. It is an inch longer and wider and also 24 lbs heavier even without the drive and the seat.

Compared to Coosa HD, the FD model (FD stands for “Flex Drive”, which is Jackson’s pedal drive) has rod tip protectors that are molded in and go much further back, additional gear racks, a better seat that slides fore and aft on racks for optimal position and, of course, the rudder.

The Coosa FD is equipped with Jackson’s 3D Flex Drive. Its propeller is protected by a daggerboard and can move up if you run over a shallow-water obstacle to avoid damage. You can lift the prop all the way up to remove weeds, fishing line, etc. right from the seating position. Better yet, the pedal unit can be easily swapped for a Flex Drive E electric motor!

Jackson Big Tuna

Length: 14’2″ (432.8 cm) Width: 35″ (88.9 cm) Weight: 92 lbs (41.73 kg) Capacity: 500 lbs (226.79 kg)

Jackson’s tandem fishing kayak measures 14 ft 2 in, has a 35-inch beam, weighs 92 pounds without chairs and has a capacity of 500 lbs. Both frame chairs are removable and you can also flip the front chair backwards for a face-to-face position. A great way to spend time with a family member or a friend! There’s also a solo configuration option if you want to paddle it alone.

Another unique feature is a pod called the Tuna Tank. You can use it for storage, but drill some holes in it, and you get a small bait live well – no pumps needed!

Other features include a rod tip protector on the bow, tackle box storage, a transducer scupper, a large hatch on the stern (although we would prefer an open tank well), adjustable footrests, and rudder readiness.

Jackson Kilroy

Length: 12’10” (391 cm) Width: 36″ (91.4 cm) Weight: 93 lbs (42.2 kg) Capacity: 450 lbs (204 kg)

The original Kilroy sit-inside fishing kayak had quite a lot of fans. The new Kilroy is Jackson’s attempt to set a new standard in versatility for a sit-inside fishing kayak.

The Kilroy offers even more storage and customization options. The gear tracks run almost the whole length of the boat. Four rod stagers inside the cockpit keep your rods out of the way. The footrests are adjustable and removable. Open bow and stern platforms with a gear tie-down system will let you strap anything from tents to dry bags, decoy bags and almost anything else. You could even add a second seat!

Fish today, hunt tomorrow, take a dog or a kid for a day paddle – the Kilroy can do it all.

Jackson Liska

Length: 12’1″ (365.8 cm) Width: 34″ (86.4 cm) Weight: 84 lbs (38 kg) Capacity: 400 lbs (181.4 kg)

Jackson’s Liska, named after the late Jan Liska who led the European Jackson Kayak fishing team for years, is a new and improved generation of their popular Cuda model. The Liska is a little shorter (12’1″ vs. 12’7″) and wider (34″ vs. 31″) than the Cuda. It also offers a lot of features that the Cuda did not have.

The Liska was designed with inshore/lake fishing in mind. It is very stable yet maneuverable. The kayak also offers a lot of storage with its hinged front hatch and a huge rear tank well, both equipped with bungee cords. An interesting feature is its central hatch that holds your fish finder battery and cables and has a transducer scupper. You can really pack this boat without cluttering the standing area.

The Liska has a comfortable frame seat with Molle webbing on the back. It slides fore and aft on tracks, so you can trim the boat the way you like. The seat has high and low positions and is also removable for use as a camp chair or for transportation. As an option, you can replace the seat with Jackson’s Orion 25 cooler .

Other features include gear tracks on both sides, an Omega rod holder that comes standard with the kayak, padded standing area, paddle holders, and two flush-mount rod holders behind the seat. The Liska is also Power-Pole Micro compatible and chain anchor ready.

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Alex Buchnev

Alex loves kayaking, fishing, and all things outdoors. When he's not out there in the wild, he's probably typing away at his laptop or trying to be the world's best father for his two lovely daughters.

I am looking for a kayak to kayak to Missouri River with. Do you do custom builds? I like the look of your Jackson big rig FDHD I would need motor and pedal and paddle. I would like a set of wheel s put on both ends. And does your electric motor run off of battery If so is there any way I can get an auxiliary battery put in there too? I won’t be buying until next spring but I’m looking for someone who will build me what I want

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Cruise 10 Description

The Cruise 10 is ideal for those who aren’t paddling long distances or need a shorter, lighter boat to fit into smaller spaces. With outstanding comfort and ease of access thanks to the unique Hi-Lo elite seat, you’ll want to stay on the water all day! Deck storage space along with a round sealed front hatch and day hatch make it so you can take everything you might need for a picnic or all day outing. Interested in fishing? There are plenty of attachment points on the clean, uncluttered deck for adding rod holders and other gear, and it takes only minutes to customize your Cruise. Goes where other boats, even larger kayaks, can’t reach!

Cruise 10 Specs and Features

• Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
• Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
• Seating Configuration: Solo
• Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
• Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

Jackson Kayak Cruise 10 Reviews

Read reviews for the Cruise 10 by Jackson Kayak as submitted by your fellow paddlers. All of the reviews are created and written by paddlers like you, so be sure to submit your own review and be part of the community!

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One of the best 10 foot sit…

One of the best 10 foot sit on top paddling hull designs. Pretty stable, fast enough, and comfortable lawn chair type seat. Jackson is going bigger and heavier with their new boats so hopefully they won't get rid of this type. It is due for an update though.

I have been kayaking for…

I have been kayaking for many years and paddle skinny water locally and inshore/offshore on trips to the Gulf. My buddy has had a Cruise 10 for a few years and I got to try it out on an overnight kayak camping trip. What impressed me was the shallow draft the boat has. I was in a Tarpon 100 and a Pescador Pro 100 and this boat out-performed them in the skinny water. The Pescador has a transducer scupper that locks in on rocks. The Tarpon is a fantastic boat but (very) shallow rocks catch the skeg. I specifically boat the Cruise 10 for the river I fish often (The Cahaba). I am able to stand up using the assist strap pretty well and look forward to many years of paddling in this boat.

I've been paddling this boat…

My wife and i both bought…, similar kayaks for you:.

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Cruise FD | Rigging Walkthrough

by Eli Braud | Dec 4, 2017 | Fishing , Fishing Subjects , Reviews , Rigging , Video | 0 comments

At long last, the Jackson Kayak Flex-Drive kayaks have been unleashed on the world! And as far as I can tell the response has been very positive. I, too, have joined the pedal kayak family, but with my very own Cruise FD!

After receiving it a couple of weeks back, and fishing out of it a few times since, I’ve gotten a little bit of time in the boat and gotten to know it. I’ve also gotten most of my rigging done. The following video explains in detail the modifications that I’ve made to make the Cruise FD a little more fish-ready. Don’t worry – if you can’t watch the video now, I’ve got a brief write-up following the vid.

First off, I’m super stoked on the new boat. The Cruise FD is a bit less rigged up coming straight from the factory, but is everything I need it to be. Coming from a loyal owner of the Cuda 14, stepping into a pedal model is going to take a little adjusting, but I’m up for it.

Other than the factory rigging, the other obvious difference between the Coosa FD and Cruise FD is in their size. While the Coosa FD comes in just over 12 ft in length, the Cruise FD is a little shorter than 12′. It’s not quite as wide as the Coosa FD either, which means that the cockpit isn’t quite as roomy and the boat isn’t quite as stable. I’m a small guy though, and have had no problem standing in it (again, I’m use to the Cuda 14). It’s smaller size also means it’s lighter, and it can be loaded into the back of my short-bed truck. That fact makes me happy!

Let’s get on to the rigging. The first step I usually take when rigging a kayak is to put on an anchor system. Ironically, in this case, the anchor system was the last piece of rigging I did. This is mostly because I wasn’t sure which type of system I wanted to install. I ultimately went with a system that we call the “Choupique” system (pronounced shoo-pick). It was developed by a guy here in Louisiana who uses “Choupique” as his handle on the club forums. With this system, two anchors are attached to the kayak – one on the bow and one on the stern. They are held in place using pulleys and clam-cleats, and can be dropped simultaneously, or individually. This system allows you to anchor up quick when sight-fishing.

One note of caution – after drilling the hole for the flush-mount, I realized that I hadn’t considered the rudder line which runs through the same area of the boat. I ended up being able to work around it, but just remember that it’s there.

The cockpit is where I’ve done the most custom rigging. Everything from a cupholder mounted to the gear-track that the seat is attached to, to a full-on Raymarine Dragonfly Fishfinder set-up. Two easy installs that help me when fishing that I’ve included in this set-up are: A) adding a YakAttack Park-N-Pole clip which actually holds a set of fish grips (the likes of Boga Grips or Lucid Grips), and B) adding the Side Bro Gear Organizer made by Berley Pro. It offers spots for my pliers and scissors as well as a few small tackle boxes.

The last big install that was made on the kayak was the addition of the fishfinder. I have my transducer mounted through the front-right scupper, using the scupper mounting kit by Lowrance. The cables run from the transducer into the hull, where they’re coiled up. The plug end of the cables make it’s way out of the hull just forward of the cockpit area of the boat. The cables enter and exit the hull using a thru-hull wiring kit, made by another kayak company. This install has come out very clean, which I’m very happy with.

The Dragonfly transducer fits nicely in the scupper molds.

There’s a few other modifications and additions that I’ve made to the boat that are mentioned in the video, but I think I’ve tackled all the main rigging details for this section of the article. Please take a look at the video when possible and let me know what you think, or how you would do something different.

Writing this article on the Cruise has really made me want to go jump in it, so that’s where I’m headed. See you on the water!

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