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Beyond the basic models out there available at most big box stores from brands like Sun Dolphin and Old Town, most of the modern fishing kayaks on the market are designed to be powered by pedal drives. There are still a lot of paddle powered kayaks out there, but they don’t get as much of the press.

We think they deserve their fair share, especially considering the relative virtues of paddle power. Sure, it’s not as convenient as pedal-power, and sometimes not as fast - and no, your hands won’t be free.

But here’s the truth. It’s simple. There’s no maintenance to a pedal drive you’ll have to do after every trip or season. If that weren’t enough, paddle power is the uncontested king of pocket water accessibility. If it’s shallow, hard to access, and choked with weeds, rocks, or logs, paddle power is the way to get there.

And, on top of that, paddle powered kayaks can still be crazy fast - just consider Viking Kayaks’ Profish Reload, one of the best on the market right now. Let’s take a much closer look at some of its virtues.

Speed and Handling

If there’s one aspect on which this Viking Kayak really delivers, it’s speed. Some have called it the best sit-on-top on the market, and considering the razor-sharp, knife-like profile of the prow, it’s easy to see why.

Reviewers have been quick to observe that the hype surrounding the speed is not just hype, it’s the real deal. At least one reviewer was able to push this thing to nearly 6 MPH, which is ripping fast under conventional paddle power. He also commented that it was quick to accelerate, too, in just a few strokes.

The Profish Reload slices through the water like a hot knife through, well, you know, and she tracks beautifully, too. This makes this kayak capable not only of taking on rivers, streams, lakes, and bays, but the big water, too - the Reload is offshore capable, and handles like a dream.

Plus, it’s equipped with improved side handles that deliver a surer, drier ride, even in a chop. Reviewers have also remarked on the stability - as streamlined as it is, most notice that they had no trouble standing (or reaching far over the side of) the Profish Reload.

Light, Yet Durable

The Profish Reload tips the scales at only 68 lbs, a veritable featherweight among modern sit-on-top fishing kayaks, especially considering the fact that the Reload is almost 15’ in length (14’8” to be precise).

Despite that, the Reload is built like iron, and is made from light, virgin linear medium-density polyethylene, which is both strong and flexible. Moreover, polyethylene (PE) is low-maintenance, performs well at both high and low temperatures, and is lighter than comparable plastics commonly used to make fishing kayaks.

As if that weren’t good enough, the PE that makes up the Reload’s hull is formulated with maximum UV inhibitors, a real bonus for any plastic that’s destined for use under the sun, and is colorfast, too, so your colorway will remain bright and vibrant for years to come.

Adding to the toughness is the fact that the accessories with which this Viking Kayak can be configured are nylon installed with stainless steel hardware, are extremely durable, and rated for use in both fresh and saltwater.

Configurable and Upgradeable

Another great thing about these Viking Kayaks is that, despite their appearance of minimal design, they are packed to the proverbial gills with features and can be variously upgraded to suit your sport.

For one, these Viking Kayaks are designed with three waterproof hatches, all of which are easily accessible from the cockpit, even with the pilot seated. One sits before the seat and two flank the cockpit, aft. They are conveniently located, easily accessible, and appropriately sized for valuables and other necessities.

These kayaks are also configurable with Viking’s Tackle Pods, which make storing your tackle and tools a cinch - and accessible right at the front of the cockpit.

The Reload is also pre-rigged with several rod holders to keep your outfits close at hand, and can be rigged with a rudder kit to improve handling and tracking, even in a slight chop.

On top of these, the Profish Reload can be configured with a variety of other upgrades, which notably include the “Kid Pod,” “Chill Pod,” and “Fish Bag.”

These optional upgrades make it easier to bring along refreshments while keeping them cool, or to store your catch.

Buy with Confidence

This brand stands behind their vessels, and the Profish Reload is covered with an industry-leading 6 year warranty, giving prospective buyers peace of mind. Most importantly, Viking Kayaks makes the warranty registration easy and hassle-free, and it can be accomplished right through their website.

Learn More About These Viking Kayaks Here

Thinking the Viking Kayaks’ Profish Reload might be for you? It might be, but if you have any questions before buying feel free to reach out to us. We would be more than happy to help - contact us at 512-229-0650 or at support@nobaddayskayak.com.