Wilderness vs. Native vs. Ocean- 12" Angler Models

[saasstar]

For the bayous between Baton Rouge and NOLA on I-10, BTR to Mandeville on -12, and the Basin.

Will mainly be used for bass fishing, some salt.

I had an old ocean SOT, that wasn't an angler model and liked it a lot.

Native seems to have some really good features. General thoughts?

I know this is like the Ford vs Chevy debate, but I am specially curious about what features are special and most importantly usable and effective that may different between the three.

[saasstar]

Wildeness commander! Thoughts?

[derrelt]

No scuppers. If you get into any rough water you may need a pump.

[theoldcaster]

when I was shopping it came down to a native ultimate 12 or a wilderness Commander 12, and I choose the commander mainly for the raised seating above the main seat, gets me up a little to see more area. I have fished in some strong winds and have paddled in whitecaps without getting water in the boat, by placing a skirt on front. Like cars and women, none are perfect, and everyone has a different opinion, but overall I have been happy with the commander.

[Speck Tackler]

I have a WS Tarpon 140 and a Native Ultimate 12.
I use the Ultimate when I am mother shipping out of my boat because I do not need to paddle as much and I am primarily in the marsh. I love the open area of the yak as well as that comfortable seat. The cons would be that I would be cautious in taking it in open water and it does not paddle nearly as easy as my Tarpon. It is 2 feet shorter which I know has something to do with the paddling.
The Tarpon 140 is the yak I use when I am not fishing out of my Carolina Skiff. It is heavier and longer so harder to pull in and out of my boat. However it handles much easier than the Ultimate. It is the yak I use when fishing the beach or when I leave my boat at home.

I bought the Ultimate 12 from Captain Danny Wray for a discounted price since it was used. Perhaps he has another for sale.

[jallen355]

I added a 4th kayak to our plastic flotilla. It is a Camo Commander 120. I like it alot. The "Slide Trax" system is very handy. Easy to add anchor trollys down both sides, as well as, paddle/pole clips. I do have a trolling motor on mine which is part of the reason I went with the Commander. It's very easy to remove the rudder, hang a motor, and vice-versa. The seat is comfortable and I can stand up in it with bad (read: wobbly) knees. My only problem with it is that it is not available in a longer 14+ foot version......yet.

http://www.roho.co.uk/acatalog/wilderness10_commanderangler.jpg

[Mung]

Based on your stated needs, I'd say a WS Commander or Native Ultimate 12 would do fine for you. They have lots of space for stuff, and are very stable, and you can even stand up. You're not likely to face heavy seas, nor travel distances. I fish mostly saltwater and paddle long distances, through wakes and waves sometimes, so I have to have the scuppers to allow water out, and more length for better tracking.

[backwaterboy]

this might be in the wrong section but im new to this what are scuppers?....im guessing there like drain plugs on a boat

[Branch_Office]

Yes, they are the molded in floor drain holes in some kayaks. Usually there are several ... In my Big Game Prowler there are 2 in the foot well, 2 in the seat area and 2 in the back tank well. Some people plug all of them and pull them as needed some (myself included) plug a few (I plug the ones under the seat and leave the other ones open) and some do not plug any. Best to just make a trip or two and see what you need. You can use ready made scupper plugs available or use pool noodles or practice golf balls.

Hope this helps.