Earlier this month at the Outdoor Retailer summer sporting goods show, North Sports, Inc. of White Salmon, Washington unveiled their new AquaGlide inflatable kayak lineup for 2015.
One of the models being introduced in early 2015 is the 12′ 8″ Blackfoot HB – a high-pressure inflatable, whitewater and fishing kayak that can be paddled by one to two people.
Designed with the angler in mind, the Blackfoot HB features 7 integrated Scotty mounts (three each side and one on the floor), which can be used to add anything from rod holders to GPS.
Included with the kayak is an integrated utility bag which works as a cooler or dry storage. The bag includes 4 rod holders, two side pockets, a clear map and license window, 4 side d-rings and a mesh pocket inside the lid. Velcro strips on the kayak floor allow one to reposition the utility bag nearly any place in the kayak.
Forward-mounted accessory straps and plentiful tie-downs provide easy stowage for dry bags or other gear.
A single “Whitewater” seat is mounted on a removable, raised platform for a higher seating perspective, providing more ergonomic comfort.
The seat back also includes mesh storage pocket and integrated fishing-rod holders. Four adjustable straps and the velcro strip system allow one to place the seat virtually anywhere in the cockpit.
The kayak is constructed from a smooth-skin Duratex, cutting down on drying time. Designed with extra width (39 inches) for added stability, the 6-12 PSI high pressure floor is extremely rigid and durable enough to stand-up and fly fish.
The BlackFoot HB also has a long waterline and tapered bow for quickly covering distance, and it turns easily. In whitewater settings, the front splash guard help keep paddlers dry, while seven cockpit drains allow pooled water to pass through quickly.
The Blackfoot HB is a highly versatile inflatable. While the kayak comes with one seat and the booster base, by removing the utility bag and adding a second seat (not included), the kayak can be used by two paddlers on slow and fast moving water through Class II.
Blackfoot HB.
12’8” x 39” length and width.
Weight 38 lbs.
600 lb carrying capacity.
What’s included: Utility bag, whitewater and booster seat, removable tracking fin, backpack, maintenance kit.
Price $999.
Available February 2015.
Watch a Video on the new Aquaglide BlackFoot HB.
For more details and availability, see the AquaGlide Blackfoot Inflatable Kayak Product Page at www. AirKayaks.com