I have become a fan of Elie/Pelican recently when I added their Elie Horizon 130 Angler to my fleet. If the Gulf performs half as well, I can see me myself begging my wife to purchase one in the very near future. I'm looking forward to testing and reporting on this kayak soon. For now, please see the following press release straight from Elie/Pelican.

Press Release from the Offices of Pelican/Elie

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pelican Sets New Comfort and Performance Standard in Sit-On-Top Kayaks

LAVAL, QUEBEC, July 25, 2011 –Consistently at the forefront of innovation and craftsmanship in non-motorized watercraft, Pelican International, the leading manufacturer of kayaks, canoes, pedal boats and other watercraft, has once again set a new industry standard in sit-on-top kayaks with the launch of its Elie brand Gulf 120XE and Gulf 120XE Angler.

Both the Gulf 120XE and the 120XE Angler are built for comfort and performance. Unique ergonomic features include the new Ergoflex Seating System™ with a tilt lock that allows paddlers to incline the seat to prevent thigh fatigue. The perforated foam panel on the backrest allows for air circulation, while its ergonomic form cradles the lumbar area and follows the natural curve of the spine.

In addition to offering unparalleled comfort for even the largest paddlers, the Gulf also offers ample dry and deck storage, keeping everything within reach from the cockpit. It includes an easy-access angled front hatch and a storage platform with a stretch cover and storage pouch, making it ideal for stowing hydration systems.

The Gulf 120XE comes equipped with high-end features such as bow and center Quick Lock hatch, day hatch with dry bag, keel extension and side carrying handles with paddle tie downs. The Gulf 120XE Angler ups the ante by adding the Fluid Steering System™ rudder and fishing specific features such as a Scotty™ swivel rod holder and two flush mount rod holders. Fishing rods can easily be stored by accessing either the front or center hatch.

Summer is the ideal season for open deck paddling in a sit on top kayak and Elie’s Gulf 120XE and 120XE Angler not only allow boaters to enjoy the warm weather as they paddle, but also offer unparalleled stability and capacity, making them ideal for fishing.

Like all C are built with lightweight, yet incredibly durable Poly-XR™ material. At 12 feet long, 30 inches wide and weighing just 60 pounds, they hold up to 350 pounds, yet remain easy enough to take along, even for a quick day trip to a favourite waterway.  The ultra-stable hull and generous features easily make the Gulf 120XE and 120XE Angler the best values on the water today.

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About Pelican International

Founded in 1968 and based in Laval, Quebec, Pelican International is a leader in kayaks, canoes, small fishing boats, pedal boats and outdoor winter toys. As a company that promotes enjoying the great outdoors, Pelican is committed to protecting our environment and recycles 99.5% of the excess material produced in their manufacturing process to make new products and has installed specially designed ducts that redirect heated air from their moulding ovens to heat their production facility in the winter. Pelican International also promotes safe boating, advising all passengers to wear a coast guard-approved personal flotation device at all times when aboard a boat. For more information, please visit Pelican’s website at www.pelicansport.com