BKC FK285

Size and Weight 

The Brooklyn Kayak Company’s FK285 measures  9 feet 2 inches / 280 cm in length, 32 inches / 81 cm in width, and 14.25 inches / 36 cm in height. 

It has a dry weight of 50 lbs / 22.7 kg, making it relatively easy for one person to handle, especially if unloaded. 

This is comparable to other kayaks of similar size like the Ascend 9R which weighs 52 lbs / 23.5 kg, and the other 9-foot-long BKC kayak, the FK184 which is a smidge lighter at 44 lbs / 20 kg.

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Capacity

The FK285 has a capacity of 350 lbs / 159 kg, similar to the FK184’s 330 lbs / 150 kg. However, it is significantly more than Ascend’s 9R which can only accommodate up to 275 lb / 124.73 kg.

This kayak would be perfect for the small or medium-sized angler with some gear. However, if it is a larger paddler with tons of gear, the kayak’s performance might suffer and it might start to track more sluggishly in the water. 

In addition, although the kayak is rated for 350 lbs, some paddlers say that when the weight is above 250 lbs, the scuppers fill with water which comes into the boat.

Features

The hull of this kayak is a rotomolded single piece made with high-density polyethylene (HDPE). 

The FK285 has a front t-handle on the bow, and a round storage hatch with an included dry bag just behind it. Lift the dry bag and you’ll have access to the inside of the kayak for more storage. 

It is challenging to reach this storage area from the seat, so you might want to store things that you don’t need easy access to. 

Moving down the kayak, you’ll find two adjustable, lockable footrests that are easily operated and slide effortlessly to accommodate paddlers of all heights. 

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On each gunnel is an accessory rail for you to mount your electronics like GoPros and fish finders. On the deck is an articulating rod holder that can swivel 360 degrees. Just behind it is a cupholder and two out of the six scupper plugs included in the FK285. 

Moving back, just in front of the seat is a rectangular, waterproof storage hatch with an included dry bag. Like the front hatch, lift the dry bag and you can access more storage room inside the kayak. 

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The seat is a BKC standard, aluminum upright seat with adjustable back support so you can control the tilt. The seat is secured to the kayak with attached straps to D-rings, and there are two scupper plugs under the seat. 

Like most BKC kayaks, there are two carry handles for you to carry the kayak left and right instead of front and back. There is also a bungee system for you to park your paddle when not in use. 

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On each side of the seat are two flush-mounted rod holders with lids to keep the water out. Just behind the rod holders towards the stern are two accessory mounting points that can be used for a trolling motor mount or pontoon.  

The back storage area is large enough to fit a cooler box, has two scupper holes, and comes with a removable bungee cord system for you to secure your belongings.

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On the stern, there is the second rear t-handle as well as the drain plug. With a mount at the stern and a compatible foot control system (sold separately), this kayak comes rudder-system-ready. 

The BKC FK 285 comes with a sturdy, non-flexing paddle that weighs about 4 lbs / 1.81 kg, with protective membranes for your hands.

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Performance

This kayak tracks well and as a lightweight kayak, handles and maneuvers effortlessly, even in tight spaces. It isn’t the fastest of all the 9-foot kayaks, but it’ll get you out and back without many problems. 

The FK285 has great stability and some people have been known to be able to stand up and fish on it. And at below $1000, it makes a great first-time kayak for beginner anglers or someone just starting on kayak fishing. 

However, when your package comes, be sure to check it thoroughly. Brooklyn Kayak Company has been known to have a few quality issues and some kayaks are known to come in with slight manufacturing defects. 

In addition, the kayak sits low in the waterline, and the two scupper holes underneath the seat can fill with water if the plugs are moved. Lastly, the cup holder is too small and you can’t fit a can into it, much less a bigger thermos or insulated cup. 

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It is also nice to have a kayak this size come rudder-ready as most that do are significantly bigger.