If you’re looking for a rugged and affordable
inflatable kayak, then Sea Eagle kayaks are a good option.
Sea Eagle manufactures a full line of inflatable kayaks, boats,
and they even make a stand-up paddlboard that you can sit down
and paddle as well.
Sea Eagle kayaks are suited to just about any application, from
whitewater kayaking in up to Class 4 rapids, to fishing in your
favorite lake or stream, to runabout inflatable boats that you
can even mount a motor on.
And if you’re worried about the ruggedness and durability of an
inflatable kayak or boat, don’t be. Sea Eagle uses a very tough
polyester-supported high-pressure fabric in their boats, which
is extra thick and even has electronic-welded seams that are
almost impossible to break.
The company claims that they’ve even gone as far as testing
their kayaks by hitting them with claw hammers and stabbing them
with screwdrivers, but were unable to puncture this very tough
hull material. So they can handle just about any sharp rock or
tree branch you’re likely to run into out on the water.
Another benefit of an inflatable boat of course is the
convenience. Most of the Sea Eagle kayaks fit into a storage bag
when not in use, and many of them weigh less than 30 pounds,
even with the foot pump and repair kit included.
And you won’t break your back or scrape your knuckles portaging
one of these boat from your vehicle to your put in point. The
storage bag is small enough to fit on a backpack, and you’ll
find that just about any lake or river within hiking distance is
now available for fishing, paddling, or just plain having fun!
These inflatables, or “Duckies” as they’re sometimes referred
to, can be floated almost anywhere. They only need a few inches
of water to operate, opening up fishing areas that are
inaccessible to standard canoes and kayaks. If you’re using a
motor you’ll need a little more water depth, probably a foot or
so if you’re an angler operating at slow speeds.
There are a variety of accessories available for these boats as
well, from inflatable seats, electric pumps, sails, motor
mounts, floorboards and more.
Sea Eagle kayak also offers a full 3 year bow to stern warranty
on all their boats. The company has been in business since 1968,
and has a reputation for good customer service, so you can be
assured that if something does happen to your new boat you’ll be
well taken care of.
The Pros
Sea Eagle boats are very rugged, and can take years of abuse in almost any conditions.
Like all inflatables, these boats are light and easy to transport.
Comfortable to paddle in, especially with the deluxe seat package available for most Sea Eagle kayaks.
The larger boats have a robust carrying capacity for all your gear.
Easy to use and operate for the entire family.
Affordable, and a good value for the money.
Company offers a solid 3 year warranty on their products.
The Cons
Some of the SE boats don't track so well, especially in heavy cross winds, even with the skeg deployed.
Some models lack ropes along the side in order to tie down gear and other items.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Some "purists" look down their noses at inflatable kayaks, but don't let that dissuade you. Many people don't have the money for a hard-shelled kayak, or the patience to learn the nuances of traditional kayaking, and an inflatable can be just the ticket to get you off the couch and out there on the water.
Shop For Paddling Gear On
Patagonia Torrentshell
GoPro HD Hero 960
Garmin Fishfinder 140
Merrell Moab Hiking
Boots
Jetboil Camping Stove
Kelty Cosmic Sleeping Bag
Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Knife
Columbia Bugaboo Pants
Camelbak hydration pack
Choosing a channel.
When whitewater kayaking, especially when later in the season when water levels drop, you may be faced with having to choose a route through shallow channels that can leave your boat scraped or even grounded.
When presented with a choice of channels around long gravel bars, try to choose the channel with the greater flow, even if the water level seems lower. The other channel may be higher due to fallen trees or other obstructions, or even shallows, which can leave the unfortunate paddler to get out and walk to higher water.
Coleman
Canoes
Current Designs
Dagger
Kayaks
Eddyline
Kayaks
Hobie Kayaks
Jackson
Kayaks
Necky Kayaks
Ocean Kayaks
Old Town
Kayaks
Pelican
Kayaks
Perception Kayaks
Pyranha Kayaks
Rogue
River Canoes
Sea Eagle Kayaks
Wilderness Systems