Review Detail

I was introduced to kayaking in 2009. My husband had just purchased a Hobie so decided to try it out at friends on Lake Michigan. After using a loaner kayak from my friend (so we could all go out at once), I was hooked! The following spring (2010) my husband decided it was time for me to have my own SOT so we went shopping for an early Mother’s Day present. I went with the idea that I wanted an Ocean Kayak. After looking over 3 different ones (the Ocean Kayak and Manta Ray being two of them), I decided on the Manta Ray 12. I have absolutely no regrets in my choice. Pros – 1. deep, cushy, comfortable seat-you can sit in it all day! I have the deluxe DVC seat. 2. The rail system (aka “the groove”, “T channel”)-we made homemade plates w/toilet bowl bolts for holding rod holders, etc. I found inexpensive plastic cutting boards (same color as my yak) to cut for whatever plate size I want! So nice to be able to pull stuff off easily when transporting on top of the car. 3. Foot braces are comfortable and easy to adjust. I’m 5’6”, my hubby is 6’4” and he’s found that he can easily adjust the foot braces to fit his legs! I have to watch him ‘cuz I think he likes my yak better than his now!! 4. Stability – I live on a lake that often sports pontoons, bass boats and jet skis (yuck). I’ve had no problems with my yak staying stable in a motorized boat’s wake. 5. Other small but convenient things-the paddle clip is sturdy and located in a handy place for me. Easy to snap it into place when you have a fish on. I haven’t had any leaking problems. The yak is very easy for me to handle by myself (I’m 54 yrs. young and enjoy going out by myself in the early morning or at dusk). I like the bungees used across the top of the hatch covers-nice and snug and good for clipping caribiners to! Cons- can’t think of any!
I have added a trolley system and am in the process of mounting my fishfinder, (a portable Humminbird PirahnaMax that I set between my legs last summer but it covers my console area and hatch), triple Scotty rod holder with gear head mount extender, drink holder and a yak attack visicarbon pro light. Even though the area behind my seat is large enough for a crate I’ve decided that my tackle box alone can sit there for now. I have not used any of my hatch areas yet except to hold a sponge but I know those areas are there for future plans! When I see the Native Manta Rays in the stores sitting next to other brands, I still feel extremely satisfied that I chose the Native Manta Ray 12!