jackson cruise 12 reviews

• Kayaks & Canoes

Jackson Cruise 12 Angler

• Thread starter mrowland96
• Start date Jan 23, 2015
• Jan 23, 2015

Senior Member

Has anyone paddled one of the boats... I'm just getting started into Yak fishing (Bass mostly), I've read a few reviews on it, but would like some more reviews on it. My biggest Pro is the Price for this Yak. I do like the Open Floor vs the Cude 12...I like to shuffle my feet every once in a while. Also, I like the idea that they made this boat very upgradable.  

Upgradable? There is hardly any deck to upgrade on?  

So what do suggest that matches the price...I really don't wanna by someone elses hand-me-down.  

Shutter Mushin' Mod

have no clue what randy is talking about but i know what his recommendation will be.... i really prefer the Cruise 12 over the Cuda 12. i think it is more stable and i love the open floor and massive tank well. i have never been a fan of the small hatches and like the large hatch on the front of the Cruise. it is a light and very easy paddling boat for me ( a big ol boy) and for my bride. i don't think i would spring for the angler unless it was just to get a camo color. there are ram mounts on the back but i would either do that myself on a standard cruise or install flushmounts if i needed them. i use a Jkrate that has 3 rod holders on it so i do not need behind the seat ones very much. i am a Jackson "staffer" so understand that ahead of time. if i can be of any more assistance just holler. the Cruise is an outstanding value and very much underestimated kayak.  

Now thats the info I was looking for... the Cruises fit my budget. I am definitely looking for stability and sea worthiness. I do like the camo angler version but it's not a deal breaker. I will be hitting you up on customizing this yak when it's purchased. Thx again Feral One.  

yes sir. if you are ever down around phenix city or columbus holler at me and i will put ours in the water for you. not sure how close you are to the outside world locations but they may have a demo you can paddle to try out as well.  

Thx Chris...I really wish I was closer but I'm way up here in Yuppieville USA...aka Raleigh, NC. I relocated from Grayson, GA when the Wifey hit the jackpot of jobs working for Cisco. N/E way if you know of any deals out there for 2 Jackson Cruises, please let me know. I gotta buddy in Warner Robins that's wanti one as well.  

• Jan 24, 2015

sweatequity

I have the cruise and cuda I think its a great boat and there are plenty of things you can do to upgrade. I was told that the cuda and cruise were basically the same thing, as far as the hull is considered and they paddle identically. That's my opinion.(mine are 2013 models) Having said that, standing takes practice. I bought mine for 800 and my wife and daughter have put many miles on it and we all like it.  

sweatequity said: I think its a great boat and there are plenty of things you can do to upgrade. I was told that the cuda and cruise were basically the same thing, as far as the hull is considered and they paddle identically. That's my opinion.(mine are 2013 models) Having said that, standing takes practice. I bought mine for 800 and my wife and daughter have put many miles on it and we all like it. Click to expand...

You said it was upgradable? I was just wondering what you meant by upgradable. There is. Rey little romm to mount stuff. Not much deck spaces to mount things to. So I was not sure what kind of upgrading you intended to do. I made no suggestions because there is not enough information to make an educated suggestion. But deck space to mount things is important to fishermen and this kayak has very little deck space. For someone "just getting in to kayak fishing" they may not understand the need for deck space. That's why I asked the question  

Maybe a GoPro camera eventually, possible depth/fish finder when fishing a pond/lake. I guess I meant a Platform for standing and fishing. I know there are a ton of yaks that are just as stable if not more than this boat....but for the price, I think this is a good starting yak for my budget. Maybe I'll like this boat enough to start a fleet.  

That's the most important thing. That you get something that allows you to enjoy the sport. I expect if you do you will be like me and Cheis and have a fleet at some point.  

• Jan 26, 2015

The Cruise is a great all around boat with plenty of room to 'upgrade' the boat with accessories mounted directly to the boat or through the use of rail systems. However, right out the box there's plenty of room to mount a GoPro camera and fish finder without any problems or lack of room. Although the Cruise is very upgradable, my favorite thing is its clean slate since I like to keep things simple when kayak fishing. Good luck with your search and try before you buy if possible.  

• Jan 28, 2015

Thx Bruiser.  

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.css-ryjapq{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;margin-bottom:var(--chakra-space-2);} .css-1g043sj{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:var(--chakra-colors-btn-brand);font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-base);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-sm);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-normal);}.css-1g043sj:hover,.css-1g043sj[data-hover]{color:var(--chakra-colors-btn-brand);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1g043sj:focus,.css-1g043sj[data-focus]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);} Jackson Kayak .css-1oyyk97{color:var(--chakra-colors-txt-primary);overflow-wrap:normal;font-family:var(--chakra-fonts-base);font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-xl);font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-bold);} Cruise 12 Angler Edition Sit-On-Top Kayak - 2018

Out of stock, calm water, fresh coffee, and the cruise..

Early morning, when the water's perfectly calm and the fish are rising, is the best time to get out with your Jackson Kayak Cruise 12 Angler Edition Sit-On-Top Kayak. This 'yak's extended length gives it some added speed over the Cruise 10 and increases its weight capacity to a whopping 375 pounds to accommodate anglers that have a hard time leaving gear behind. The hull tracks well across open water and provides a stable platform to cast, stand, and reel in fish from when you find that tucked-away bay where the fish are feeding. Jackson Kayak finished the Cruise off with some extra luxuries—adjustable seat with high/low seating, two hatches, and adjustable foot pegs—to keep you comfortable when what was going to be quick a morning fishing session turns into an all-day affair.

• Sit-on-top kayak for fishing mellow rivers and lakes
• Hull designed for enhanced stability on flat water
• Mesh seat allows for either high or low seating
• Small day hatch keeps small essentials secure and within reach
• Larger bow hatch stows a day's worth of gear
• Stern tankwell with bungee cords carries a dry box or cooler
• Flush-mounted rod mounts stow multiple fishing rods
• Item #JAK003U

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Short Facts

• Moving Water

Stats Please login to see full stats. Designed to be paddler friendly for multi-purpose use, the Cruise 12 is a great option for anyone simply looking to get out on the water. With outstanding comfort and ease of access thanks to the unique Hi-Lo Ergo Seat, you’ll want to stay on the water all day! Deck storage space along with a large sealed front hatch and day hatch make it so you can take everything you might need for a picnic, day outing, or even an overnighter. Interested in fishing…. ? With multiple RAM Mounts attachment points, adding rod holders takes only minutes. Whatever your paddling goals, this boat works as a great starting point that can grow to accommodate your needs. Product Features 1 - Hi-Lo Ergo Seat Enjoy your time on the water with our Hi-Lo Ergonomic Seat System! The high position allows better reach for paddling stokes if you are covering longer distances or see the aquatic life beneath you. The low seating provides better stability. The 3D breathable mesh fabric is stretched over an ergonomic frame shaped specifically to enhance lumbar support. 2 - Easy Access Day Hatch Easy Access Day Hatch Situated right in front of you seat, you don’t have to get up to reach your phone, binoculars, snacks or other on the go items. With a dry hatch lid, you can keep your camera in here too! 3 - Ready for Fishing Accessories/ RAM Mounts - RAM Mounts Not sure if you want to commit to a 100% fishing kayak yet, but don't want to take fishing out of the picture. This kayak can transform into a top notch fishing boat. With all the plug ins for Ram fishing accessories, this kayak can be upgraded easily. 4 - Easy to Adjust Foot Pegs Our adjustable foot pegs give you a custom fit to your own boat and ensure you have the foot support you need to maneuver your kayak but also be comfortable all day long. 5 - Deck Rigging Hold down your jacket, maps, or other items you want to have on hand but not loose in the kayak. 6 - Stable Fast Hull that Tracks Easily Stable Fast Hull that Tracks Easily The hull profile of this boat allows it to track easily and generate speed, but it also provides great stability for entering, exiting and if you find yourself in choppy waters. 7 - Bow Dry Storage Hatch Great storage space for towels, camping equipment, fishing rods or anything you may to take along with you. With an easy on and off lid, it will keep your stuff dry but still have easy access. 8 - Water Bottle Holder and Nalgene Bottle - Nalgene Need a place to keep your water? Our bungee system allows various shapes and sizes of water bottles to be held in place within reaching distance from your Elite Seat. Your kayak comes with a Made in the USA Nalgene bottle decked out with Jackson Kayak logos. 9 - Rear Deck Rigging with Well The well in the stern is great for coolers, umbrellas, extra life vests, and any other large items you would like to take with you. The bungee cords provided help keep the item strapped down. User reviews

Recreational Kayaks

Jackson cruise 12.

The Jackson Cruise 12 is a great option for anyone looking to get out on the water. It has a paddler friendly design for multi-purpose use. You’ll want to stay on the water all day with this kayak's outstanding comfort and ease of access as a result of the unique Hi-Lo Ergo Seat. Deck storage space along with a large sealed front hatch and day hatch make it so you can take everything you might need. With multiple RAM Mounts attachment points, adding rod holders takes only minutes. This boat works as a great starting point that can grow to accommodate your needs.

Jackson Cruise 12 Features

Hi-Lo Ergonomic Seat // The high position allows better reach for paddling stokes. Perfect for covering longer distances or just seeing the aquatic life beneath you. The low seating provides better stability. The 3D breathable mesh fabric, stretched over an ergonomic frame and shaped properly, enhances lumbar support.

Easy Access Day Hatch // Situated right in front of your seat, so you don’t have to get up to get your phone, binoculars, snacks, or other on-the-go items. With a dry hatch lid, you can keep your camera in here too!

Fishing Accessories & RAM Mounts // This kayak can transform into a top-notch fishing boat. With all the plug-ins for Ram fishing accessories, this kayak can easily be upgraded.

Easy to Adjust Foot Pegs // Jackson's adjustable footpegs give you a custom fit. While ensuring you not only have the foot support you need to maneuver your kayak but also be comfortable all day long.

Deck Rigging // Hold down your jacket, maps, or other items you want to have on hand but not loose in the kayak.

Stable Fast Hull that Tracks Easily // The hull profile of this boat allows it to track easily and generate speed. But it also provides great stability for entering and exiting if you find yourself in choppy waters.

Bow Dry Storage Hatch // Great storage space for towels, camping equipment, fishing rods, or anything you may need. With an easy on and off lid, it will keep your stuff dry but still have easy access.

Rear Deck Rigging with Well // The well in the stern is great for coolers, umbrellas, extra life vests, and any other large items you would like to take with you. The bungee cords help keep the items strapped down.

Cruise 12 Specs:

• Length: 147 inches
• Width: 31.5 inches
• Height: 13.5 inches
• Kayak Weight : 69 pounds
• Weight Range : 120 – 375 pounds

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Designed to be paddler friendly for multi-purpose use, with outstanding comfort and ease of access, in the Cruise 12 you’ll want to stay on the water all day!

• Description

Designed to be paddler friendly for multi-purpose use, with outstanding comfort and ease of access, in the Cruise 12 you’ll want to stay on the water all day! Deck storage space along with a large sealed front hatch and day hatch make it so you can take everything you might need for a picnic, day outing, or even an overnighter. Interested in fishing? With multiple RAM Mounts attachment points, adding rod holders takes only minutes. Whatever your paddling goals, this boat is a great starting point that can grow to accommodate your needs.

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JACKSON CRUISE 12

• Description

  This versatile, general purpose recreational sit-on-top features Jackson Kayak signature Hi-Lo Seating for ease of entry and exiting as well as an incredibly stable hull. The Cruise includes basic deck features like cup holders and bungees. It is also easily accessorized for all your kayak fishing needs.

CRUISE 12 \: •Length: 12’3″, •Width: 31.5′, •Height: 13.5′, •Weight: 68 w/ Seat, 63 w/0 Seat, •Capacity: 350lbs

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Jackson Tupelo 12 Recreational Kayak: Full Review and Features

Jackson Tupelo 12 is a 12-foot (11’10”) recreational kayak made for weekend trips and longer cruises. It provides both great primary stability and edging performance so it is easy to paddle for beginners but will allow you to grow into the sport without the need to upgrade too quickly.

As an affiliate of Amazon and other retailers, we may earn a small commission when you buy via our links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

RELATED: Jackson Kayaks in 2020: Full Model Lineup and Reviews

• Lightweight
• Easy to transport and store
• Dry storage in stern bulkhead
• Comfortable seat
• Tracks well
• No front bulkhead or hatch

About the Manufacturer

Jackson Kayaks was founded in 2003 by world champion and Olympic kayaker Eric Jackson, design partner David Knight and friend, Tony Lunt. Based near Rock Island, Tennessee, Jackson Kayak is well-known both in the kayak fishing world and among freestyle kayaking athletes. In fact, many of the world’s leading freestyle kayakers use Jackson kayaks.

Size and Weight

Jackson Tupelo 12 is 11’10” long and 27″ wide. Combined with a very light weight (only 42 lbs without the seat), this ensures excellent performance and easy transportation. An average adult can simply put the kayak on the shoulder and walk to or from the water. Throwing it on top of your car should not be a problem for most of us, either.

With a total weight capacity of just 250 pounds (less than many popular 10-ft recreational kayaks), the Tupelo 12 is definitely geared towards smaller paddlers and those who carry minimal gear.

Don’t forget that the total weight calculation should include not only your own weight but also your clothes, your PFD, and the gear you plan to take along.

Construction and Material

Like most Jackson’s kayaks, the Jackson Tupelo 12 is made from High-Density Polyethylene using the rotational molding technology. Beads of polyethylene are poured into the mold, the mold is heated up and slowly rotated so that the material fills up every nook and cranny. After the mold cools down you get a one-piece construction that is extremely rugged and durable.

Jackson Kayak is known for high-quality materials. Their kayaks last a very long time.

The downside of polyethylene is that it is a very non-stick material. If you manage to put a hole in the hull, you can’t just glue a patch to it. Repairing usually requires a piece of the same material and a blowtorch to melt it onto the hole.

Hull Design

Jackson Tupelo 12 has a V-shaped hull with a pronounced keel and two hard chines. The sharp bow pierces through the water instead of pushing it, which reduces resistance and helps you go faster and paddle longer. The keel goes all the way to the stern, ensuring a great tracking ability (the ability to go straight). The hull between the keel and the chines is a little flared (arched), creating some sort of tunnels. This design is known to provide good primary stability. The hard chines themselves, on the other hand, ensure excellent secondary stability and make it easy to edge the boat for more effective turns.

Overall, the hull design offers a great balance between performance and stability. This boat should be easy to handle for beginners but will also let you practise some more advanced paddling techniques as you progress.

Deck/Cockpit

The roomy open cockpit of the Tupelo 12 makes it an excellent choice for those just getting into the sport. You won’t feel trapped inside this kayak and it’s very easy to get in and out of the vessel.

To add even more comfort, there are really comfortable knee pads on the rim of the cockpit. This small feature adds a ton of comfort on longer trips and will make your kayaking experience much more enjoyable.

The cockpit opening has a rim, but don’t let that make you think you can fit a spray skirt over it. With such a huge cockpit opening and a high back seat, it is unlikely that you will find a suitable spray skirt. You could, however, get a cockpit cover that will keep most (but not all) of the water out for a much drier ride. Anyway, if you plan to go into white water or waves in your kayak, you should look at other models. The Tupelo is for calm water and good weather.

Another feature that is worth mentioning is a bottle holder between your legs. It is designed for a Nalgene bottle and each kayak actually comes with a Jackson-branded Nalgene bottle.

The seat is actually one of the Tupelo’s strongest points if you’re looking for comfort on relaxed, long trips. The kayak features Jackson’t Ergo removable frame seat that goes into the company’s high end fishing kayaks. It is made from a mesh material that provides excellent ventilation on hot days. The seat is held in place by four bungees, so you can easily remove it and use as a camp chair.

The seat back is adjustable. Bring it up for active paddling or recline it into a comfortable lounge position and relax as the river carries you. A Thermarest inflatable lumbar support pillow creates even more comfort, so you’ll want to stay on the water all day.

Jackson Tupelo 12 offers sufficient storage space for a several day trip.

First, you can slide small items under the front deck (there’s a structural block between your legs so anything large just won’t fit). Next, there’s a bungee cord on the front deck to secure dry bags or other gear.

Moving back, there’s some space right behind the seat, in front of the stern bulkhead.

Next, there’s another bungee cord on the rear deck. Put a rain jacket there or anything you need quick access to.

Finally, the boat’s main storage compartment is in its stern bulkhead. You access it via on oversized hinged hatch which is waterproof and secured with two quick-open latches. Great design. The bulkhead has enough room for a weekend or even a multiday trip if you don’t get too crazy with your gear.

To summarize, Jackson Tupelo 12 provides adequate storage for what it is designed for: day paddles or short multi-day trips. Having a front bulkhead with a separate hatch would be great though.

Gear Mounts

Unlike many other kayaks of this type, the Tupelo 12 actually has something to offer in terms of gear mounts. Jackson cleverly equipped this boat with four rear-loading gear tracks, taking its customizability to the next level. Want a couple of rod holders? A camera or GPS mount? No problem! That is an awesome feature.

There’s also a threaded insert for a GoPro mount on the front deck if you want to film yourself during the trip.

The Jackson Tupelo 12 comes with adjustable footrests that will help you find an optimal paddling position. Since the kayak is designed for smaller paddlers, the foot pegs can go quite close to the seat.

Paddle Holders

The Tupelo 12 offers standard paddle holders on both sides. The paddle is secured by a bungee cord. This is a simple and effective system that won’t give you any problems.

The Tupelo 12 is equipped with rigid plastic grab handles both on the bow and the stern. We tend to like them better than fabric handles because they are more reliable and easier to use.

Jackson Tupelo’s tri-chine hull design ensures excellent primary and secondary stability. The kayak does not feel tippy, which makes it beginner-friendly. At the same time, it allows you to use more advanced techniques as you progress. It edges very well, providing great secondary stability and clear feedback.

Maneuverability and Tracking

The Tupelo 12 has a pronounced keel that spans the length of the boat and helps it track really well. This is especially important on larger bodies of water and longer trips – not having to correct your course too often will save you effort and make the experience more enjoyable.

That said, the kayak still turns very easily, both with paddle strokes and by edging it.

Narrow, sharp bow of the Tupelo 12 helps it pierce through the water instead of pushing it. This creates minimal resistance and helps you go faster with less effort. At 12 ft, it is not a super-fast kayak (longer boats are usually faster) but has enough speed to cover large distances and keep up with friends.

Care and Maintenance

Rotomolded kayaks are extremely durable and require minimum maintenance. However, here are some useful kayak maintenance tips:

You need to do some maintenance when you take your kayak out of storage before the season. Check the hull for damage, inspect all hardware and rigging, replace anything that is worn out, check and refill the emergency gear. It is also a great time to get the new gear you were dreaming of last year.

During the season, it is a good idea to quickly spray down your kayak after each trip (especially in salt water). Store the kayak away from direct sunlight or use kayak covers. Avoid dragging the kayak on its hull if possible. A kayak cart is a great and inexpensive accessory that can prolong the life of your boat.

When it’s time to put the kayak away for storage, turn it upside down and wash it with mild soap and a sponge. Make sure you get any sand, dirt or dead bugs out. Dry the boat thoroughly. Check the rigging and see what needs replacement. Loosen any bungees or straps that can be loosened. Apply some corrosion protection (like WD-40) to metal joints, screws and bolts.

Jackson recommends to store your kayak indoors standing up on its end and secured by a strap so that it does not fall. If that’s not possible, store your kayak hull up on some flat surface. Worst case, just put it somewhere there’s no direct sunlight and use a cockpit cover to protect the kayak from dust or critters.

For kayaks bought in 2019 and earlier, Jackson offers a 3-year limited warranty. For kayaks bought in 2020, the warranty period has been increased to 5 years.

The warranty covers substantial defects in materials and workmanship in the hull and outfitting components made by Jackson Kayak.

The warranty applies from the original date of purchase from an authorized dealer. For demo boats and used boats, the warranty begins from the date the kayak was shipped from Jackson.

Unlike with some other manufacturers, Jackson’s warranty also applies to subsequent owners of the kayaks, not just the original owner.

Depending on the year of the warranty period, Jackson will repair or replace the hull and/or outfitting components, as follows:

Watercraft Purchased 2020 and After

First Year of Warranty: We’ll replace or repair the hull for free (or we’ll replace the complete boat for 10% of the current MSRP), Free Shipping Second Year of Warranty: We’ll replace or repair the hull for 10% of current boat MSRP (or we’ll replace the complete boat for 30% of the current boat MSRP), plus shipping. Third, Fourth and Fifth Year of Warranty: We’ll replace or repair the hull for 30% of the current boat MSRP (or we’ll replace the complete boat for 50% of the current boat MSRP), plus shipping.

Note that some components are manufactured by independent companies and are covered by separate warranties. You can learn more by contacting Jackson.

To submit a warranty claim, you will need proof of purchase. Jackson may require you to provide photos of the damage or to return the product at your own cost.

International warranty claims are handled via Jackson’s distributors. Warranty terms may be different in different countries. Please contact your local dealer to learn more.

For full Jackson’s warranty terms, click here: https://www.jacksonadventures.com/warranty/

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Alex Buchnev

Alex loves kayaking, fishing, and all things outdoors. When he's not out there in the wild, he's probably typing away at his laptop or trying to be the world's best father for his two lovely daughters.

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Jackson Kayaks Cruise Angler 12

$ 1,099.00

More Information

Specifications.

The Jackson Kayak Cruise 12 Angler, similar to it’s little brother the Cruise 10 Angler, fills a variety of niches. The 12 is better suited for anglers that want/need more speed and better tracking than the 10 ft version can offer. It is also better suited for anglers that need a higher weight capacity than the 10. The Cruise 12 Angler is simply a great price point kayak for someone looking to get into kayak fishing without all the bells and whistles, but still wants enough features to make your time on the water enjoyable. It is also a great platform for an avid angler who is looking for a small versatile kayak with a minimalistic approach. The Cruise Angler 12 is perfect for fishing small to large rivers with small rapids but also tracks plenty well and carries enough speed for a jaunt on a bigger lake or inshore saltwater. With it’s stable platform, most also find it fairly easy to stand and fish in for those times when standing is necessary.

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Used Price Range - $ - $925

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Specification: Jackson Kayaks Cruise Angler 12

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Cruise FD Description

Pedal or paddle with the Cruise FD! The unique prop system helps keep the system clear of obstacles and easy to clean and is protected by an articulating daggerboard. The daggerboard serves to help positioning in the wind and also acts as a keel in adding stability when standing on the deck. The Flex Drive is easily deployed with the flip of a lever and an interchangeable electric motor driven head unit will be released in 2018. The hull of the Cruise FD is sharp and cuts swiftly, silently and efficiently through whatever water it encounters. Combined with an industry-leading turning radius, the Cruise FD is positioned to be a standout on the water. The Cruise FD expands on the new Flex Drive family of Jackson Kayaks with a solid recreational platform that is quick, nimble and ready for casual tours or can be customized for fishing adventures. Miles roll by effortlessly - lets go for a Cruise!

Cruise FD Specs and Features

• Structure: Rigid / Hard Shell
• Cockpit Type: Sit on Top / Open Cockpit
• Seating Configuration: Solo
• Ideal Paddler Size: Average Adult, Larger Adult
• Skill Level: Intermediate

Additional Attributes

• Improved Front Hatch
• Hypalon Paddle Blade Keeper
• Patent-Pending Flex Drive System
• Three Propeller Propulsion
• Hinged Prop Cover
• Integrated Dual Rudder Control System
• Rear Tankwell
• Mesh Seatback Pouch
• Track-Mounted Seating System

Jackson Kayak Cruise FD Reviews

Read reviews for the Cruise FD by Jackson Kayak as submitted by your fellow paddlers. All of the reviews are created and written by paddlers like you, so be sure to submit your own review and be part of the community!

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Bought the Cruise FD because…

Bought the Cruise FD because it was faster and less expensive than the Coosa FD. I really the auto fold-up prop design since I paddle shallow water. Took a bit to get use to the lean back seating position for pedaling - very similar to a recumbent bike. If I paddle a lot, I have to re-adjust the back seat to be comfortable. Prop does protrude into cockpit when parked, the cover does not protect it. My only complaint is the steering - very sloppy - constantly have to adjust to track straight, rudder does not protrude very much, so I will be modifying it by inserting a plexi piece to give it more downward surface area. (U-tube hack). Easy to add flush mount rod holders in the back and extra mounts on gear tracks.

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Cruise FD | Rigging Walkthrough

by Eli Braud | Dec 4, 2017 | Fishing , Fishing Subjects , Reviews , Rigging , Video | 0 comments

At long last, the Jackson Kayak Flex-Drive kayaks have been unleashed on the world! And as far as I can tell the response has been very positive. I, too, have joined the pedal kayak family, but with my very own Cruise FD!

After receiving it a couple of weeks back, and fishing out of it a few times since, I’ve gotten a little bit of time in the boat and gotten to know it. I’ve also gotten most of my rigging done. The following video explains in detail the modifications that I’ve made to make the Cruise FD a little more fish-ready. Don’t worry – if you can’t watch the video now, I’ve got a brief write-up following the vid.

First off, I’m super stoked on the new boat. The Cruise FD is a bit less rigged up coming straight from the factory, but is everything I need it to be. Coming from a loyal owner of the Cuda 14, stepping into a pedal model is going to take a little adjusting, but I’m up for it.

Other than the factory rigging, the other obvious difference between the Coosa FD and Cruise FD is in their size. While the Coosa FD comes in just over 12 ft in length, the Cruise FD is a little shorter than 12′. It’s not quite as wide as the Coosa FD either, which means that the cockpit isn’t quite as roomy and the boat isn’t quite as stable. I’m a small guy though, and have had no problem standing in it (again, I’m use to the Cuda 14). It’s smaller size also means it’s lighter, and it can be loaded into the back of my short-bed truck. That fact makes me happy!

Let’s get on to the rigging. The first step I usually take when rigging a kayak is to put on an anchor system. Ironically, in this case, the anchor system was the last piece of rigging I did. This is mostly because I wasn’t sure which type of system I wanted to install. I ultimately went with a system that we call the “Choupique” system (pronounced shoo-pick). It was developed by a guy here in Louisiana who uses “Choupique” as his handle on the club forums. With this system, two anchors are attached to the kayak – one on the bow and one on the stern. They are held in place using pulleys and clam-cleats, and can be dropped simultaneously, or individually. This system allows you to anchor up quick when sight-fishing.

One note of caution – after drilling the hole for the flush-mount, I realized that I hadn’t considered the rudder line which runs through the same area of the boat. I ended up being able to work around it, but just remember that it’s there.

The cockpit is where I’ve done the most custom rigging. Everything from a cupholder mounted to the gear-track that the seat is attached to, to a full-on Raymarine Dragonfly Fishfinder set-up. Two easy installs that help me when fishing that I’ve included in this set-up are: A) adding a YakAttack Park-N-Pole clip which actually holds a set of fish grips (the likes of Boga Grips or Lucid Grips), and B) adding the Side Bro Gear Organizer made by Berley Pro. It offers spots for my pliers and scissors as well as a few small tackle boxes.

The last big install that was made on the kayak was the addition of the fishfinder. I have my transducer mounted through the front-right scupper, using the scupper mounting kit by Lowrance. The cables run from the transducer into the hull, where they’re coiled up. The plug end of the cables make it’s way out of the hull just forward of the cockpit area of the boat. The cables enter and exit the hull using a thru-hull wiring kit, made by another kayak company. This install has come out very clean, which I’m very happy with.

The Dragonfly transducer fits nicely in the scupper molds.

There’s a few other modifications and additions that I’ve made to the boat that are mentioned in the video, but I think I’ve tackled all the main rigging details for this section of the article. Please take a look at the video when possible and let me know what you think, or how you would do something different.

Writing this article on the Cruise has really made me want to go jump in it, so that’s where I’m headed. See you on the water!

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Every year, Mix contributors Rich Tozzoli, Mike Dwyer and Bruce MacPherson decamp to St. John, USVI , and temporarily turn a house into a studio where they record TV cues while also testing new equipment and software, resulting in a bevy of Mix Real-World Reviews written in a unique part of the real world.

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