NuCanoe Review: Urban Assault
Just got my NuCanoe this past week and finally had time to add a seat, fly rod Ram mount and anchor system to it so that I could get it out on the water in proper fly fishing regalia. I purchased the Frontier 12 so that I could add a seat if I wanted to use the boat with my wife, or to use as a mini drifter for some stealthy dry fly rowing in smaller water (hopefully more to come on that).
Transporting the NuCanoe to the Water
I have a short bed half ton pickup so I was a little worried about transport without a trailer. However the boat hangs over my tailgate when it's down about 2-3 feet if I put the boat diagonally in the bed to maximize distance. Since I have the 360 seat the seat bracket, it works perfectly to strap to my truck bed. One ratchet strap keeps the boat very secure.
Need ratchet straps? We have them for sale online here.
I was also able to lift the boat in and out by myself. It would be much easier with help, and although I was able to do it myself, I have to say this is really a 2 person job.
You NEED This Accessory
I also got the convertible paddle. This is 100% recommended. Even on my first trip I switched my paddle from a stand up paddle, to a kayak paddle, and then switched it to the push pole on the flats looking for carp.
Side note: the NuCanoe for carp... it's almost like it was made for carp fishing. Read about it here.
The paddle is very easy to switch out and I'm really glad I got it. I do need to figure out a better way to harness my paddle when I need to drop it to make a cast.
NuCanoe Stability makes for Fly Fishing Excellence
As far as the actual boat goes, I really like it so far and one big thing stuck out to me verse all other paddle boards or kayaks I've fished out of in the past. This boat was made for anglers in mind first. The boat is ridiculously stable, never did I feel remotely unstable sitting or standing. The 360 seat allowed me to grab my net behind me quickly.
Interested in purchasing a two-person rig? Check out this episode of the AskNorth40 Show we did with Blake, NuCanoe's founder on what makes a great tandem kayak.
The open sit on top had plenty of room to store my boat bag, net, and fly rods. There is also a dry storage at the front of the boat for anything critical that you don't need quick access to. It's not the fastest paddling boat but I'm happy to trade speed for stability when fishing is my main goal with this boat. The tracks along both sides of the boats will allow me to accessorize as needed, and I'm glad to see minimal rigging to get fly line hooked on.
Can't wait to take this up higher on the river (I was on the town stretch in Great Falls today) and get a better test with using the anchor and working in currents with it. more to come on NuCanoe... which are now available at North 40 Outfitters.
If you want to buy a Nucanoe, call your local North 40 Outfitters, or drop us a line right here... we'll sort you out.