I received the Ranger 15 just last week, and it was with great anticipation. I was intrigued with the first glimpses of the kayak and wondered how it would handle. Coming in a single seat (15.1) and tandem models (15.2), the Ranger 15 is Malibu’s entry into the hybrid kayak market.

I use my Malibu X-Factor fishing kayak on many different bodies of water and to chase many species of fish. I paddle the cold water lakes of the Northeast looking for Smallmouth Bass and fish the salt water flats of South Florida targeting Redfish and Sea trout. I have tried to keep the rigging on my kayak very flexible so I can adapt it to the current conditions and fish I am chasing.

YakAngler got their first look at the new Malibu X-Factor fishing kayak at this year's ICAST. This kayak is sharp, the new features included on this model really look like Malibu has listened to the kayak fishing community, and I’m excited to get my hands on one.

The Malibu X-Factor is my second kayak and since I am in my second season with it I thought it was time to do a review. First some background information, unfortunately when I purchased my first kayak I didn't follow the golden rule of kayak purchasing that is posted on every website about the subject: “Get some seat time! Paddle the kayak not just for ten minutes but for hours and try several kayaks out to get a feel for them.

As a member of the Malibu Kayaks Pro Staff, I get the opportunity to travel all over our great state, fishing in numerous kayak fishing tournaments and taking part in demonstration days, and I have noticed one thing that most all kayakers have in common. We love to customize our rides towards the type of fishing we like to do. Whether you stalk the flats in search of tailing redfish or patrol the depths for grouper, you can rig you’re kayak to meet those needs.

There has always been a big debate among kayak anglers about which kayak is the best. Actually, there isn’t just one, perfect kayak that will perform well in EVERY situation that you might face. It all boils down to what’s important to the individual who will be paddling this floating piece of plastic. After owning my kayak for over a year and not submitting a review to Yakangler.com, The powers that be have been putting the pressure on me to get it done, so here it is…

OK so when I left you I was heading home from the lake after my first trip out in my new kayak, grinning from ear to ear, happy as a lark with my new Stealth 14 I had just dubbed the “Minnow”.  I had work to do before my next trip to the lake.  I needed a PFD, totally forgot to buy one, an anchor, and a trolley line. 

 

Well here I am after a year of research, longing, and begging; I have finally joined the ranks of Kayak fishing.

January 2010 I came across an article on kayak fishing and thought to myself “Now that sounds like fun; and no 20 foot, 200-horse power behemoth to pay for, insure, and feed.  Now that’s for me!” 

I thought it would be interesting if I chronicled a day in the life of a guy (me) who is totally consumed with kayak fishing.

Having a weekday off for me is a rare thing, so after a couple of text messages I was ready to do some fishing with my good friends Dave and Bill. Dinner with the family led to re-rigging the poles and loading the kayak in the truck for a 5:30 wakeup call.

With Christmas just around the corner, we wanted to share with you antoher Pro-Staff Christmas guide.  The items below are what I would recomend to any kayak angler on your fishing list.  Enjoy!