New Kayak, Jackson Cuda 14 (2013)

      Well, I got my new kayak in last week. Its Jackson Kayaks Cuda 14. I loved my Trident 13 but I was tired of getting wet butt and wanted something more stable. By no means am I saying the Trident is bad I just wanted something new.

      I decided on the Cuda 14 for its stability, available space and the Rod stager. Its pretty sweet. I was able to add a couple different parts on it. A RAM ball on the center hatch, which by the way is similar to the rod pod on the trident but has a built in insert that can hold a ton of stuff. I put my anchor, pliers, camera, spools of leader, food....there is so much space!

      I added sets of gear tracs onto it as well so I can use my go pro and rod holders. The gear tracs are pretty nifty and allow for total customization and I don't really have to worry about what I want to put on it. Especially since you can interchange them between scotty mounts and RAM mounts. I also decided to add on a scotty mount to the back for my VISIPRO for the nighttime adventures. I added on the anchor trolley since it is a must when salt fishing.

       The seat is freakin amazing It has a ton of back support, comes with an extra storage bag attached to the back of it and a storage pocket underneath. It can switch from a high-low position base on what you prefer. Mind you, you may sacrifice a bit of stability in the high position but regardless love this feature. 

      I really like the rod stagers as you can see in the picture to the left. You are able to have the rods right at the side of your Yak and snap it into place with a bungee. The rod tip going under the cover and holds in place with the stagers. This is great for surf launching and anytime you need to grab one of your setups really quick.
     There is a hatch on the bow and stern of the Cuda as well as the center hatch, which makes accessibility to the inside very easy. One thing I do recommend if you are going to get a Cuda are the Jackson Kayak Plano holders. You can see the little gap in the seat above. Well I learned the hard way that you need these. I took a rogue wave over the side and turtled. Mind you if i saw the wave I would NOT have flipped but I had two rods in the stagers and everything else tied down except one combo and 2 tackle boxes. So while it does suck I did not lose everything.

Overall I like this Kayak very much and foresee it getting slimed up with big ole' slobs. I just wanted to share some of the features of this boat upon getting it and should let you all know this is not a review. Just what features are included and what modifications i've made to it. Ill write a review in a few months or next summer. If you want more information go to the Jackson Kayak website and view it. Again this is my opinion only!