Sun Dolphin Journey 12′ Sit-On Fishing Kayak Review
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This Sun Dolphin Journey 12’ Sit-On Fishing Kayak is a slightly longer version of the Journey 10’ model while also losing half an inch of width. The weight as well only different 4 lbs. but the weight capacity increases about 145 lbs., which is a significant change. The design of this is slightly different than other types in the market. Instead of being a sit above kayaks, this one is a sit on top kayak. The sidewalls are high enough though that you will stay relatively dry, depending on the conditions and situations. If you’re looking for a kayak to take out onto slow-moving or calm waters, this is the one for you.
Quick Answers: Sun Dolphin Journey 12
Do not forget about transporting your kayak, make life easy using either roof rack for your kayak or if you have a few then maybe a trailer will be the best option. Check out a kayak trolley as well.
It is also great for use on rivers and lakes, as well as secluded fishing spots that are otherwise hard to reach. The Journey 12’ also comes in two colors, those being olive and sand. The olive one allows you to blend into the environment easily, while the sand helps with visibility. It’s not as bright as other brands have made some of their kayaks, but it is enough to stand out somewhat. This is great for taller and bigger individuals who have a hard time fitting in other kayaks. Though it might not be ideal for standing in, it will still do great on the water. You’re sure to spend hours out on the water without realizing it. The colors and stealth of the this also allow you to quietly creep your way towards all the preferred fishing spots without scaring the catch away.
Read on to find out more about the Sun Dolphin Journey 12’. We have included its specifications and features as well as consumer reviews to help you decide whether it is the right kayak for you. Sun Dolphin also make the Aruba 10 which is a highly reviewed recreational kayak.
Journey 12 Kayak Specifications
| Dimensions | |
| Overall Length | 12 feet (366 cm) |
| Overall Width | 29 ½ inches (75 cm) |
| Height | 14 inches (36 cm) |
| Weight | 48 lbs. (22 kg) |
| Capacity | |
| Passengers | 1 |
| Max Weight | 395 lbs. (179 kg) |
| Design | Hull Design |
| Colors | Olive and Sand |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty Association using ABYC standards. |
Features
- Retractable carrying handles
- Shock cord and storage deck rigging
- Adjustable foot braces
- Comfortable and large seating area
- Protective thigh pads
- Portable accessory carrier (additional storage)
- Paddle holder
- Swivel fishing rod holder
- Two flush mount holders
- Stabilized Fortiflex and rugged UV high-density Polyethylene.
- Paddles and tracks easily
- Maximum stability
- Easy to carry
- Lightweight
- Ideal for rivers, lakes, and secluded fishing spots
Usage
The Sun Dolphin 12’ Fishing canoe is perfect for rivers and lakes, especially those spots that are harder to reach without a kayak. The rugged UV high-density Polyethylene paddles and tracks with great stability and comfort. It is also easy to carry and lightweight which makes it easier to transport around.
Pros and Cons
Just like any product, the Sun Dolphin Journey 12’ has its advantages and disadvantages. Below, we have compiled a list of pros and cons to help inform your decision.
- A decent amount of maneuverability and speed.
- Sensibly steady fishing platform making it difficult to flip
- Lowered seating area which makes it effortless to get in and out
- Height adjustable, comfortable seating area
- Adaptable foot braces
- Stand support straps
- Top notch outfitting
- Adequate dry storage space
- Lightweight
- The longer length of 12 feet, makes it less manurable than the 10 feet version
- The width (29.5 inches) might be uncomfortable for some to get in and out.
- The speed is also affected due to its increased stability and width
Quality and Build
This has been tested from rocky rivers to sandy shallows to open lake water and has performed quite well just like the Aruba 10. It comes with two fishing rods that are mounted on either side of the it, as well as a third holder that can swivel. There is also a water bottle storage just beside the swiveling holder. Other equipment can easily be stored under the bungee cords. The large cockpit allows there to be no restriction while your reeling and casting. The paddle holder keeps the paddle secure while you cast your line.
Design
The way that this is designed makes it comparable to some of the top line kayaks. It includes all the necessary features that any fishermen need to get their fishing excursion started. This kayak is a SOT (sit on kayak), which means that it has an enclosed cockpit. The Sun Dolphin Journey 12’ especially has a great SIK that keeps the water out, especially while you paddle. The cockpit area has adjustable footrests and an adjustable backrest, which allows you with the highest level of comfort while offering you versatility.
Performance
The Sun Dolphin Journey 12’ Fishing Kayak offers you incredible stability through the SIK and well as the width of the kayak. It only weighs 48 lbs. and can hold up to 395 lbs., making it strong and lightweight. This is a great value for money. It is particularly good for beginner kayakers as it is simple to handle in and out of the water while also being very efficient. It does need too much effort to get it going and it’s easy to maintain steadiness at any rate.
Other Sun Dolphin Journey 12’ Sit-On Fishing Kayak Owner Reviews
Some also stated that the only real downsides that they felt should be addressed were the lack of handles on the side of the kayak and the instability while standing on top of the kayak. However, with everything else that it offers, the shortcomings can easily be ignored. If you’re a beginner, or just not willing to spend too much money on your kayak, then this is the model for you.
