Native Ultimate FX 12 Pro

Size and Weight

The Ultimate FX 12 PRO is made in the same style as a traditional canoe with a long body and wide midsection that tapers to a point at both the bow and stern. The kayak is 12’2” (371 cm) long and 30.5” (77 cm) wide, which means it is slightly more narrow than most other Native models. The Ultimate FX 12 PRO is also highly portable thanks to its lightweight design. The kayak only has a fitted hull weight of 60 lbs (27 kg) and a fully-rigged weight of 65 lbs (29.5 kg).

Capacity

The kayak does not offer as much capacity as some Native models of similar dimensions. With an overall capacity of 350 lbs (159 kg), the Ultimate FX 12 PRO is able to tote an adequate amount of gear for an all-day fishing trip, or even an overnight camping trip.

Features

The Ultimate FX 12 PRO was designed by Native with input from a number of professional fishing anglers and guides who sought to have a kayak/canoe crossover that offered the best of both styles of boats without sacrificing the high level of performance that the brand is known for on the water.

There is a scupper/drain hole on the front of the bow that can easily be plugged when on the water. The drain is located on the bow of the kayak because Native designers wanted to also have room for a rudder on the stern.

There are hard plastic handles located on both the bow and stern that help add to the overall portability of the Ultimate FX 12 PRO. There is also a large dry storage hatch on the bow of the kayak that’s perfect for storing a variety of gear items that need to be kept dry and out of the elements. The hatch cover is fitted with bungee cords to allow anglers to place any necessary gear securely on top of the kayak.

The Ultimate FX 12 PRO also features two molded thwarts at the bow and stern that are perfect for mounting everything from fish finders to paddle holders and many other optional features. The bow fork features a gear track that offers the perfect position for electronic displays or GPS equipment.

There are gear tracks on either side of the cockpit area that allows users to place camera gear, rod or paddle holders, and many other accessories in the exact spot they choose. There are also two rod grooves that allow for easy storage of rods that are located directly in front of the angler and available to be accessed quickly and easily once you reach the perfect spot.

The deck features non-slip padding that helps anglers have better footing when standing. The deck is also open and free from any obstructions that might snag fishing line or other items on the water, making this an ideal kayak for fly fishing.

The Ultimate FX 12 PRO’s seat is one of its most impressive features as the entire seat unit can be moved to fit each angler’s specific preference. The seat is also fitted to an aluminum frame and offers padding and breathable mesh material to keep users dry and comfortable on the water. The seat can also be adjusted into a high or low position very easily using two knobs on either side of the cockpit.

The stern area also features a large open storage well that is perfect for coolers, crates, and any other gear that an angler deems necessary to take with them.

The kayak is also fitted with a kneel-inspired anchor trolley on either side of the vessel that’s built using a heavy-duty bungee cord which keeps the anchor line tight to the kayak.

Performance

Many users find it very easy to stand up in the Ultimate FX 12 PRO, even in choppy water conditions on larger lakes, as well as fast-moving rivers. The stability is not quite as highly-rated as other Native kayaks, but most average-sized users have no problem fishing from the standing position. The kayak’s design helps users avoid getting as wet as they would with a typical sit-on-top design, but that can also be seen as an undesirable trait for users who do not prefer a sit-inside vessel.

The Ultimate FX 12 PRO has much better speed than many other brands of similar length because it’s canoe-like design helps it cut through the water with relative ease and maintain good tracking, even without a rudder. The kayak can become windblown in many cases, but anglers report that it is not difficult to control.