Native Watercraft is one of the most respected fishing kayaks manufacturers in the USA. Its Slayer series has become the standard other fishing kayaks are measured against. VAKA Sport is the official Native Watercraft representative in the Baltic states, offering the full line from recreational models to flagship pedal kayaks. Native Watercraft kayaks cost from 1 999 to 5 699 EUR.

Read also: How to choose a kayak, Bonafide kayaks.

What makes Native Watercraft kayaks so special?

From the very start Native Watercraft built kayaks differently from other manufacturers. Their philosophy is simple: a kayak should be as stable as a boat but as nimble as a kayak. That is why Native models have wide platforms you can stand on comfortably, and the innovative Propel pedal drive that lets you pedal both forwards and backwards.

Another key difference is quality. Native Watercraft kayaks are made from thick, high quality polyethylene with a multi layer hull. The seats are among the best on the market. The accessory mounting system is built into the design, not added later. Every detail is well thought out.

Which Native Watercraft models are best for beginners?

Native Watercraft Falcon 11 is the most affordable model in the range, compact and light, ideal for those who want reliable quality without a pedal drive. 335 cm long, stable and easy to handle. Suits fishing on smaller lakes and rivers, as well as leisure paddling.

Native Watercraft Ultimate FX 12 is a more versatile option with a longer hull (366 cm). It has more room for gear and handles longer distances better. If you want one kayak for both fishing and family paddles, the Ultimate FX is a very good compromise.

For families and couples there is the Ultimate FX 15 PRO Tandem. It is a two seater kayak (457 cm) that can be paddled by one or two people. A great choice for parents with children or couples who want to paddle together.

What is the Slayer series and why is it so popular?

The Slayer is a Native Watercraft legend. It is a pedal fishing kayak with the Propel drive, which lets you move forwards and backwards with your feet, leaving your hands free for fishing. The Slayer series is perfect for serious anglers who spend many hours on the water.

Slayer Propel 10 LTE is a compact pedal option and the cheapest way into the Propel series. 305 cm long, lighter and simpler than the MAX versions. Suits smaller waters and anglers who value easy transport.

Slayer Propel 10 MAX and Slayer Propel MAX 12.5 are premium pedal kayaks with full equipment. The MAX versions have an upgraded Propel drive, wider platforms and more room for accessories. The 12.5 is longer (381 cm) and better suited to more open water and longer trips.

Who is the TitanX series for?

The TitanX is the newest and most advanced Native Watercraft kayak. It is the flagship model for those who want the best currently on the market.

TitanX Propel 10.5 and TitanX Propel 12.5 are the top models in the range. They have a new generation Propel drive, an extremely stable standing platform and a completely redesigned deck layout. These are kayaks for professional anglers and for anyone who simply wants the very best tool on the water.

If you compare the TitanX with the Bonafide XTR130, both are flagship fishing kayaks in a similar price range. The difference is in style and priorities: Native Watercraft focuses on the pedal drive and standing platform, while Bonafide puts more emphasis on overall fishing ergonomics and load capacity.

Frequently asked questions

Safety on the water

Always wear a life jacket. For fishing we recommend NRS Chinook Fishing PFD : it has pockets for tools and rod holder slots, so it does not get in the way when fishing. For more on safety gear, read our life jacket comparison.

Does the Native Watercraft Propel drive need maintenance?

The Propel drive is mechanically quite simple. After every use in salt water, rinse it with fresh water. Once a season it is worth checking the pedal mechanism and lubricating the moving parts if needed. Spare parts are available through VAKA Sport.

Which is better for a beginner: the Falcon 11 or the Ultimate FX 12?

The Falcon 11 is shorter, lighter and cheaper. If you will mostly paddle on small lakes and rivers and want to transport the kayak easily on your own, the Falcon will be more convenient. The Ultimate FX 12 is more versatile and stable, but heavier. If you are planning longer trips and have room to store a bigger kayak, the FX 12 will repay the investment over time.

Are Native Watercraft kayaks suitable for Lithuanian waters?

Perfectly suitable. Lithuanian lakes and rivers are ideal conditions for these kayaks. The stable hulls handle well even in the wind driven waves on bigger lakes. The Propel drive makes paddling against a river current easy. The only thing to bear in mind is the weight of the kayak and getting it to the water.

All Native Watercraft kayaks can be viewed in the VAKA Sport shop. If you are deciding between several models or want to compare them with other brands, write to us [email protected] and we will help you decide.

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