I had been looking/researching for about a year (while saving up some coin) and Todd was very helpful. I would pay attention to what that guy has to say.

I will disagree with Todd on two parts: NRS is made in Mexico not USA and I very much question whether Skookum tubes are made in USA anymore. Other than that, he is spot on.

I settled on 12 foot tubes and a custom frame almost identical to Skookum. With the money I saved, I was able to purchase a trailer so it is ready to go at all times.


Unless you only will use it for tranporting yourself from point A to point B and plan on NEVER fishing out of or from it, a good quality 9 or 10 foot kickaboat (using oars or fins) will probably work fine for you.

Not wanting to speak for Cupo (he has been very helpful too) but he had the bigger one man style and reverted to a lighter weight model because the bigger one was too heavy for his needs. However, I think most guys wind up wanting something bigger, not smaller.

If you want to anchor and fish, (don't anchor in heavy water) make sure you get the higher end models complete with anchor system and floor This type will start at $1,000 and go up from there for a new boat.

The first thing you need to do is decide what you want to do with your boat. Be specific and truthful with yourself. Then decide how you will stow, carry, and transport it. Finally after determining your budget, match up what will fulfill your needs to see if your budget will allow the purchase you want. If not, save your money until you can afford what you need.

In addition to the production boats already mentioned (Skookum and Bad Cat) you may want to look at Great White Hunters, Water Ready, and Andy and Bax. Swiftwater Sports in Shoreline was also pretty helpful.