AustinKayakFishing.com

[Bones]

I spent the last few days at the Outdoor Retailer expo in Utah and was able to get the latest on what you will see in 2008. The “OR Expo” is where most manufacturers launch new products and is also a great place for dealers to try out all the new stuff before they decide to make their purchase. I must have paddled over 30 boats!



Here is a summarized report of some of the things you will see in 2008. I’ll start with Native since they have the biggest changes…and I am a dealer. I’ll post the rest in the next couple of days.

As you probably know by now, they have done some product reorganization. Specifically, the Manta Ray is now part of the Native line up. The mold is exactly the same but they have added the Magic foot pegs and DVC seating (like the Redfish), introduced new colors and of course rebranded them with Native graphics. I will have these in stock real soon.



Native has also launched a new boat called the Marvel. It is the “first” SIK with removable seats. Not sure why you would want to remove the seat except for the tandem model which allows for you to turn it into a solo. Either way, it paddled great.



Another big change is the Ultimate. They now offer a rudder option (FishFry, you may have to upgrade next year). They are also launching a new Ultimate with a…doh, sorry…I have been sworn to secrecy but will keep you posted. All I can say is that it is going to be FAST!



The Magic 14 is here! This boat is great. The deck is amazing with so much space and can be configured as a tandem or solo. The Magic tracks well and moves fast. It is not as maneuverable as the 12 but still paddled well.

They are also launching a high performance sea kayak. It is a prototype and doesn’t have a name yet but it sure looks nice.



Native also introduced several new accessories such as dry bags (ice chest, tackle, etc.), a catamaran (yes, a catamaran) and a trolling motor mount for the Ultimate, dog beds, rigging platforms and much more. They are also manufacturing a few boats with the new Tegris material. This stuff is light! The Ultimate in Tegris is about 35lbs. This is just the tip of the iceberg so stay tuned.







One more thing…most boats, if not all, will have angler packages available.

Now for my shameless plug. If you are interested in learning more about these boats, accessories, availability, pricing, etc. please contact me at roland@lakelinewatersports.com. I am also planning a Fall demo day. I didn’t intend to do it but with so many new products I couldn’t resist. More info coming soon.

Cheers,
Roland “Bones” Jimenez
www.lakelinewatersports.com