Native Slayer Propel 12 LT

Size and Weight

Native went to great lengths to produce a kayak that operated as a full-size fishing vessel, but still maintained excellent performance. The Slayer LT is a full 12’ (366 cm) long and 31” (78.7 cm) wide, which gives it the ideal body for optimal speed and tracking. Thanks to the thermoformed ABS construction, the Slayer LT has a hull weight of only 62 lbs (28 kg) and a fully-rigged weight of 82 lbs (37.2 kg). The lightweight hull design makes this kayak fairly easy for most users to maneuver outside of the water.

Capacity

One of the weak points the Slayer LT has is its limited capacity. The kayak is rated to be able to hold up to 350 lbs (158 kg), which is a bit less than other premium fishing kayak models available in 2020. Considering that it’s not recommended to load a kayak down with more than 80 percent of its full capacity, the Slayer LT is not ideal for long-range or overnight trips.

Features

The Slayer LT is designed with the seasoned angler in mind and offers an abundant number of great features that create a desirable balance of performance and features. The kayak’s overall design is meant to create the best possible on-the-water performance, but Native has found a way to make use of nearly every part of the kayak so that it gives users many advantages over other brands of similar size.

The kayak is fitted with carry handles on the bow and stern, as well as on either side of the cockpit that makes this model highly portable.

The bow does have a dry hatch, but it is not quite as large as some Native kayak models. However, users will find ample space within the bow section to store a variety of different gear and other items.

The Slayer LT features Native’s vaunted Propel Pedal Drive System that is among the smoothest and most effortless pedal systems on the market in 2020. The system has instant forward and backward capability. It also features a rotomolded insert that is meant to add extra stiffness and support to the pedal drive system that would otherwise create a high level of strain on the thermoformed body.

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The cockpit area’s deck is fitted with non-slip padding that helps add comfortable support for anglers as they stand. On either side of the cockpit are four gear tracks that are ideal for placing rod holders, electronics, cameras, and other gear in the exact places each user prefers.

The Slayer LT also features Native’s famous sliding seat that offers outstanding comfort and support in addition to adjustability. There is also a decent amount of storage space underneath the seat where anglers can stash tackle boxes, extra rain gear, or even a few snacks.

The kayak doesn’t offer the usual cup holder as some models do, but there is a slot on the middle of the console where a water bottle can be secured.

Behind the seat are two rod holders and an open storage well that’s idea for placing coolers, crates, and any other gear that might be needed.

Performance

The Slayer LT’s thermoformed ABS body is very much as durable and rigid as rotomolded kayak models, but is also considerably lighter. This, along with the excellent keel and hull design help give this kayak outstanding speed and tracking compared to other kayaks of similar size and shape. It takes very little effort on the Propel Pedal Drive System to get the kayak up to a swift cruising speed that can be easily maintained, even in rough, choppy water conditions.

Users also report that the Slayer LT has great agility and can make very tight turns. The stability is reported to be good, but not quite as highly-rated as some of Native’s other models. Nevertheless, this kayak is highly portable and among one of the most capable fishing kayaks when it comes to on-the-water performance.