Native Ultimate FX Propel 13

Size and Weight

Native sought to develop the Ultimate FX Propel 13 with the goal of being one of the lightest 13’ pedal kayaks ever made. They managed to do just that as this kayak has an overall length of 13’6” (411 cm) and a width of 32.5” (82.5 cm). The Ultimate FX Propel 13’s fitted hull weight clocks in at just 79 lbs (35.8 kg) and the kayak boasts a fully-rigged weight of 98 lbs (44.4 kg), making it significantly lighter than most other kayaks of similar build.

Capacity

Despite its lightweight design, the Ultimate FX Propel 13 has an overall capacity that’s able to haul quite a bit of gear for most average-sized anglers. Full capacity for this kayak is rated at 400 lbs (181.4 kg), which means most anglers should have no problem fitting all of their gear, including electronic equipment and extra tackle.

Features

The Ultimate FX Propel 13 has no problem gaining speed with relative ease thanks to its Propel Pedal Drive System that’s capable of instant forward, or reverse motion. Users report that this system is as smooth as any on the market in 2020, and is comfortable and easy to use for all-day fishing.

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The seat might also be the best outstanding feature for the Ultimate FX Propel 13. With a hand sewn, padded fabric fitted to a sturdy aluminum frame, many users consider this to be as comfortable as any seat for kayaks in the $1,500 to $3,000 range.

The seat can also easily adjust forward and backwards to allow each user to determine their own specific leg-room needs instead of relying on foot pegs or wells. Anglers will also appreciate the ample storage space that can be found underneath the seat.

The Ultimate FX Propel 13 lives up to its name by offering users everything they need to quickly and easily install their favorite electronic equipment. The kayak features a built-in battery box that will keep most batteries safe and dry. The Ultimate FX Propel 13 also offers a ready-made transducer mount located underneath the hull.

The bow has a large storage hatch that’s great for stashing everything from extra tackle to rain gear, or even camping gear for long range journeys.

Users will find no problem placing equipment in or around the cockpit area as there are long gear tracks located front facing on the bow, as well as on either side of the cockpit and another set on the left and right of the seat. These gear tracks allow users to place rod holders, camera equipment, electronic displays, and many other items in the exact place they want.

Anglers will also appreciate a removable thwart box located directly behind the seat that’s fitted with two additional rod holders. The Ultimate FX Propel 13 has a tight line anchor trolley, as well as concealed paddle park capacity under both sides of the gunwales.

The impact-resistant stern rudder can be easily controlled using a simple knob feature located on the left of the user’s seat. To the right of the seat is a forward-facing rod holder that’s perfect for trolling.

The deck features extra non-slip padding that makes standing up much more comfortable and secure. There is also a large open storage well on the stern of the kayak that’s ideal for placing coolers, crates and other gear. Users will also find an additional gear track on the stern that’s perfect for mounting a camera to overlook the user inside the kayak.

Performance

The Ultimate FX Propel 13’s hull and overall body design are specially made to provide excellent speed, agility and tracking. Users report that this kayak has all three of those qualities in spades. It’s also wide enough to provide stability in rough, choppy waters, as well as to allow the user to stand while fishing or paddling.

Most anglers shouldn’t expect to be able to turn on a dime with such a long frame, but the Ultimate FX Propel 13 is able to maneuver quite well for its overall size. The kayak has better tracking than most of Native’s other models and is not prone to being windblown in the same way other models might be.