Why HOODOO Kayaks? (Compared to Other Brands)
Posted by Forrest on Oct 28th 2024
In the market for fishing kayaks, some of the biggest names are Hobie, Old Town, Jackson, NuCanoe and Native Watersports.
So where does a brand like HOODOO fit into the picture, and are HOODOO kayaks worth it?
We say yes, and here’s how they stack up to their competitors (with a focus on the HOODOO Impulse 105 as an example).
Power
The HOODOO Impulse 105 Dual Drive Kayak is configurable with a drive system that offers multiple propulsion options.
You can outfit it with a single-direction fin drive or a propeller drive that offers bi-directional power and controls.
The drive system is fast, efficient, powerful, silent, and easy to use. Just don’t forget your backup paddle - two is one and one is none.
Expandability
Like other major fishing kayaks, this HOODOO kayak is equipped with gear tracks that are ripe for adding fishing kayak accessories like GPS systems, fish finders, rod holders, and much more.
Stability
Also like other fishing kayaks, the HOODOO Impulse 105 is remarkably stable, a big deal when you’re carrying a lot of gear, as well as when you need to be able to cast and fight fish. Of course, being able to stand is also good just for the fact that it lets you stretch your legs.
Room for Gear
A quick look at the HOODOO Impulse 105 will show you at a glance that there are two large gear wells with tie downs, at the bow and astern. There is also some space behind the cockpit where you can store gear.
Dry Storage
In addition to the gear wells, there are multiple dry storage lockers on this HOODOO kayak - including one and the bow and one astern, although some models may have others as well.
Tackle Storage
The HOODOO Impulse 105 also offers adequate storage for fishing tackle, along with two strategically located rod holders to keep your rigged outfits within easy reach.
Comfort
One of the great things about this HOODOO kayak is that its adjustable seating offers so much support and comfort. It’ll keep you cushioned and well-supported even during long, hot days on the water.
What’s more, the comfortable, breathable cushioning will help keep you cool and dry even in the hottest, muggiest conditions.
Flexibility
The ability to swap between a propeller and fin pedal drive offers a degree of flexibility not seen in other fishing kayaks on the market.
General Durability
The HOODOO Impulse 105 is made from a single piece of rotomolded polyethylene, which is a soft and flexible yet highly durable, abrasion, resistant, strong grade of plastic. Polyethylene, also known as PE, also offers excellent resistance to weathering, corrosion, and moisture. This makes it ideal for fishing kayak hulls because it can withstand impacts, too.
The seating system is tough, too, and is made with a durable, lightweight aluminum frame. Aluminum is the choice here, since it is light, strong, and corrosion-resistant, unlike (generally) steel.
Ease of Transport
In addition to the fact that this HOODOO kayak’s drive system is removable, it only weighs 90 lbs, which makes it fairly light and easy enough for most users to carry and load. It’s the right size for truckbed transport although cartop is also a feasible option.
Easy to Launch and Land
The HOODOO Impulse 105 is configured with soft-grip handles at both sides of the vessel, as well as at the bow, making it easier to launch and land it.
Other Features
In addition to those mentioned here, this HOODOO kayak also has a drain plug and a paddle keeper (it also comes with a paddle) along with an upgraded tracking fin and rudder system.
Price
Now for the pivotal piece of information that makes the ultimate case for this HOODOO kayak. It’s far more affordable than other fishing kayaks in its class.
For a grand and change, you can get all of these features and more, in a stable, versatile fishing kayak that’s rigged for success. If you want to see what else is on this market in the same class, expect to pay at least double, if not triple, for a comparable yak.
That alone makes a strong case for the HOODOO Impulse 105 - but ultimately, the choice is yours.
Here for a HOODOO Kayak?
There’s a lot more to love about HOODOO kayaks that we had time and space for here in this short post, and it just scratches the surface of what the company offers.
But is a HOODOO kayak right for you? Well, maybe - that depends on what you’re looking for. This might be the one, or it might be another.
Get in touch with our customer service team at 512-229-0560 and let us know what you fish for, where, and when, and we’ll be ready with a personalized recommendation from our catalog that’s custom-chosen for your pursuits.