Inflatable kayaks offer easy transport and storage at the cost of poor performance and limited rigging. Advanced Elements has solved these problems with the Straitedge Angler Pro. This 10.5 foot, open-cockpit boat has two chambers along the gunnels, two inflatable bags in bow and stern and a drop-stitched floor that anyone can stand on. The boat features metal reinforcement at the stern and bow to improve tracking and handling. To solve the rigging limitations, the Straitedge Angler Pro comes with aluminum accessory bars in the bow and stern that accept accessories from all the major names. The boat we tested was rigged with Scotty bait board, cup holder, rod holders, even electronics. They even introduced a new color for the bold new boat. Best yet, the boat we tested at OR was outfitted with a Current Drive Electrafin motor. This power system runs off a compact battery. The propeller unit attaches to any standard finbox. So, we just pulled the stock fin out of the StraitEdge Angler Pro and inserted the Electrafin. The motor is controlled with a wireless remote. The unit is virtually silent and powerful enough to zoom along much faster (and easier) than I could paddle. After paddling the Straitedge on Pinewood Reservoir, I’d call it the best handling inflatable kayak. The boat is short enough to maneuver easily, while the metal frame at bow and stern keep it tracking straight. Add the solid power of the Electrafin motor and this is a serious fishing boat that you can pack into your car trunk or check on an airline to take it anywhere.
Watch this video of the StraitEdge Angler on the water at Outdoor Retailer Demo Day.
