Paddling the Stealth 14

I took the Stealth 14 out for a few shakedown cruises before I got serious about fishing. There were no big surprises. The hull is nearly the same as that of the X-Factor, so performance is nearly the same. There is no doubt about it; it is a big kayak.

Handling ashore.
This is really where you notice the size of a kayak like the Stealth 14 or X-Factor. There is just no getting around the size and weight. If you are a little guy, have to carry the yak inside every day, load it on an SUV alone, or cart it a long way to the launch, this yak might be a little too much. If you don't mind a little effort to enjoy your sport then this is going to be right up your alley. The Stealth 14 is wide (33") and a little heavy (64lbs), but this is relative. Most fishing kayaks weigh between 58 and 64lbs, are between 29"-34" wide and 12-15 feet in length. There isn't actually much difference between most fishing kayaks. How easy a kayak is to move on land is often not as much a function of size and weight as it is......more on this later. Need to prepare for tomorrow's trip.