Kayak Reviews

Pelican Kayaks in 2023: Full Model Lineup and Reviews

Alex Buchnev

July 6, 2023

Pelican International is one of the largest manufacturers of plastic boats in the world. Founded in 1968 in Quebec, Canada, the company now has over 800 employees and three production sites in North America. Pelican International makes kayaks, canoes, paddle boards (SUP), fishing boats, paddles, and paddling accessories.

Most of Pelican kayaks are made of RAM-X Premium material using the thermoforming technology. RAM-X is a three-layer sheet of high-density polyethylene with an advanced resin in the top layer. This material has a glossy finish and provides significantly more rigidity than standard polyethylene. A sheet of RAM-X is heated up and stretched over a mold using vacuum. Two parts of the hull are then melted together, creating a strong bond.

In late 2019, Pelican International acquired Confluence Outdoor, the owner of six watersport brands including Wilderness Systems, Perception, Dagger, Mad River Canoe, Harmony Gear, and Boardworks.

In June 2021, Pelican International also acquired Advanced Elements, a manufacturer of popular inflatable kayaks.

Today, Pelican International offers over 50 models of recreational and fishing kayaks under the Pelican brand. In this overview, we will take a look at Pelican’s model range in 2023. We hope it will help you quickly decide which kayak is the best for you. Enjoy!

As an affiliate of Amazon and other retailers, we may earn a small commission when you buy via our links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

Pelican Argo 100XP Angler

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 29” (74 cm)
Weight: 41 lb (18.5 kg)
Capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)

Paddlers who enjoy sit-in kayaking and share the flare for fishing may want to have a look at Pelican’s Argo 100XP Angler. Its multifunctional hull and overall quality make this kayak one of Pelican’s bestselling kayaks. Whether you’re into recreational paddling, spending time in nature, or fishing, this kayak is equipped to support your plans for the day.

Pelican Spirit 100

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 36 lb (16.3 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

Pelican Spirit 100 is a version of Pelican Argo 100X sold at Tractor Supply. It is an entry-level recreational kayak that offers great value for the money. It has the essential features for recreational paddling trips and offers the stability that Pelican kayaks are known for. It is a good option to consider at this price point.

Pelican Clipper 100X

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 38 lb (17.2 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

Pelican Clipper 100X is a version of Pelican Magna 100 sold exclusively at Walmart. It is an entry-level recreational kayak with a basic set of features for short, relaxed paddling trips on calm waters.

Pelican Solo

Length: 6’ (183 cm)
Width: 24” (61 cm)
Weight: 19 lb (8.6 kg)
Capacity: 100 lb (45.4 kg)

Pelican Solo is a six-foot sit-on-top kayak for kids. It is both a great beach toy and an easy way to introduce your child to kayaking.

Pelican Ultimate 80X SOT

Length: 8’ 3” (254 cm)
Width: 29.5” (75 cm)
Weight: 34 lb (15.4 kg)
Capacity: 225 lb (102 kg)

The Ultimate 80X SOT is a version of the Sentinel 80X model sold exclusively at Dunham’s Sports. It is specifically tailored to smaller paddlers, and for those looking for a kayak under 10′ long.

Pelican Ultimate 60

Length: 6’ (183 cm)
Width: 24” (61 cm)
Weight: 19 lb (8.6 kg)
Capacity: 100 lb (45.4 kg)

The Pelican Ultimate 60 is a version of the Solo model sold exclusively at Dunham’s Sports. It is a six-foot kayak perfectly scaled down in size to suit smaller paddlers.

Pelican Ultimate 80X

Length: 7’ 7” (236 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 27 lb (12.2 kg)
Capacity: 200 lb (91 kg)

Pelican Ultimate 80X is a version of Pelican Argo 80X exclusively sold at Dunham’s Sports.

Pelican Rise 100X

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 38 lb (17.4 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

Pelican Rise 100X is the most affordable of Pelican’s 10 ft boats. With its basic Ergobase seat, no thigh pads and only one non-waterproof storage hatch in the back, it is a no-frills package for those on a budget.

Pelican Argo 80X

Length: 7’ 7” (236 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 27 lb (12.2 kg)
Capacity: 200 lb (91 kg)

Pelican Argo 80X is an 8-ft sit-in recreational kayak for teenagers and smaller adults. If your priority is low weight, ease of transportation and storage, as well as an affordable price, this might be the kayak for you.

Pelican Challenger 80X

Length: 8’ 3” (254 cm)
Width: 29.5” (75 cm)
Weight: 34 lb (15.4 kg)
Capacity: 225 lb (102 kg)

Pelican Challeger 80X is a version of Pelican Sentinel 80X sold exclusively at Academy stores. The CHALLENGER 80X is specifically tailored to smaller paddlers, and for those looking for a kayak under 10′ long.

Pelican Clipper 80X

Length: 7’ 7” (236 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 27 lb (12.2 kg)
Capacity: 200 lb (91 kg)

Pelican Clipper 80X is an entry-level recreational kayak for kids and smaller adults. At just 7’9” and 27 lb, it is super easy to transport and store. It carries up to 200 lb (91 kg), which is more than adequate for a kids’ kayak.

Pelican Rally 80X

Length: 8’ 3” (254 cm)
Width: 29.5” (75 cm)
Weight: 34 lb (15.4 kg)
Capacity: 225 lb (102 kg)

Pelican Rally 80X is a version of Pelican Sentinel 80X sold only at Walmart.
The RALLY 80X is specifically tailored to smaller paddlers, and for those looking for a kayak under 10′ long.

Pelican Trailblazer 100 NXT

Length: 10’ (305cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 36 lb (16.3 kg)
Capacity: 275lb (124.7 kg)

Pelican Trailblazer 100NXT is an extremely popular 10-foot sit-in recreational kayak. Its light weight, excellent stability, and ease of use make it a no-brainer choice for thousands of beginners and casual paddlers all over the country. It does not have a ton of features, but it’s got everything to ensure you have a great experience on the water.

Pelican Challenger 100 Angler

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 30” (76 cm)
Weight: 43 lb (20 kg)
Capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)

The Challenger 100 Angler is an entry-level sit-on-top fishing kayak. It is competitively priced but offers a decent number of features. Made for beginners looking for an affordable start to fishing, it offers good value that is hard to beat at this price point.

Pelican Argo 100X

Length 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 36 lb (16.3 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

Pelican Argo 100X is another widely popular recreational kayak from Pelican. With the right balance of price and features, it is not difficult to see why.

Pelican Magna 100

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 38 lb (17.2 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

The Pelican Magna 100 is designed to answer the needs of the most demanding recreational paddlers. Built on twin-arched multi chine hull, this sit-in kayak offers great stability while providing good tracking. This kayak has a forward storage platform and a storage hatch with bungee cords to safely stow your personal items, a cockpit table with bottle holder, and carrying handles.

Pelican Bandit 100 NXT

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 30” (76 cm)
Weight: 43 lb (20 kg)
Capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)

Pelican Bandit 100 NXT is a beginner sit-on-top kayak for short recreational trips. With its inherent safety, low weight, and good stability, it’s a viable option for those who prefer the sit-on-top design.

Pelican Cove 100XP

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 38 lb (17.2 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

The Pelican Cove 100XP is a beginner-level kayak that has been designed with great attention to detail. This vessel will satisfy the most discerning recreational kayakers. It has some features you would only expect from more expensive products. For the price, the Cove 100XP has a compelling value proposition that makes it a viable option to consider.

Pelican Fazer 100

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 38 lb (17.2 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

Pelican Fazer 100 is an affordable recreational kayak aimed at those who are just getting into kayaking. Comfortable padded seating and exceptional stability will help you enjoy your first trips and fall in love with the sport.

Pelican Sentinel 100X

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 30” (76 cm)
Weight: 43 lb (20 kg)
Capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)

If you’re thinking of trying out recreational kayaking in a sit-on-top boat that offers plenty of storage, you’d do well to check out Pelican Sentinel 100X. Offering excellent material and construction durability at a low price, Pelican designed the Sentinel 100X for beginner paddlers that can find their balance and style while having fun.

Pelican Argo 100X Angler

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 38 lb (17 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

The ARGO Recreational Sit-in Collection is ideal for the paddler looking to enjoy a stable and relaxing kayaking experience during the cool or warm season on calm and slow moving waters. Built using Twin Arched Multi Chine Hull, these kayaks provide excellent stability and combined with our spacious cockpits, getting in-and-out of a kayak, has never been easier!

Pelican Mustang 100X

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 29” (74 cm)
Weight: 39 lb (18 kg)
Capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)

The Pelican Mustang 100X is a 10 foot sit-in fishing kayak built on a twin-arched multichine hull that offers great stability while providing good tracking. It features molded footrests, knee pads, a cockpit smartphone holder, the ERGOFORM™ seating system, two flush mounts rod holder, a front deck storage hatch with bungee cord, a tank well with bungee cords to store your fishing gear or secure the included 17L hard shell removable storage compartment, and ergonomic carrying handles.

Pelican Sentinel 100X EXO

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 30” (76 cm)
Weight: 43 lb (19.5 kg)
Capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)

The Sentinel Recreational Sit-on-top Collection is ideal for the paddler looking to enjoy a stable and relaxing kayaking experience during the warm season on calm or slow moving waters. The Sentinel 100X EXO is perfect for the recreational paddler looking to do some on-shore exploring.

Pelican Argo 100X EXO

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 37 lb (16.8 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

If you decided to take up recreational paddling and you need a sit-in kayak of excellent quality and reliable performance, it would be a good idea to take a look at Pelican Argo 100X EXO. Highly appreciated for its stability and forgiving hull, many beginner and intermediate paddlers enjoy gliding calm lakes and slow-moving rivers in this kayak.

Pelican Icon 100XP Angler

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 30.5” (77 cm)
Weight: 49 lb (22.2 kg)
Capacity: 325 lb (147 kg)

Pelican designed their Icon 100XP Angler for the passionate fishermen who enjoy paddling and casting lines in tight, non-commercial turfs. Well, this kayak can take you to any freshwater fishing spot you made up your mind about.

Pelican Covert 120 Angler

Length: 12’ (366 cm)
Width: 30” (76 cm)
Weight: 55 lb (24.9 kg)
Capacity: 350 lb (159 kg)

The Pelican Covert 120 Angler is a premium level sit-on-top kayak that is expertly designed for the discerning angler. It is loaded with features that provide convenience and ensure you remain comfortable throughout your trip, however long it may last. Very few vessels at this price point can compete with the Covert 120 Angler in performance and reliability. This makes it one of the best value-for-money products Pelican has to offer.

Pelican Coast 100XR

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 30.5” (77 cm)
Weight: 49 lb (22.2 kg)
Capacity: 325 lb (147 kg)

Pelican Coast 100XR is a recreational kayak intended for beginners with a little extra to spend. It is best suited for calm waters and offers great stability we have come to expect from Pelican. When compared to other beginner-level kayaks, the considerably large cockpit and substantial storage area justify its higher price.

Pelican Argo 100XP

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 29” (74 cm)
Weight: 40 lb (18 kg)
Capacity: 300 lb (136 kg)

Pelican Argo 100XP is one of the bestselling sit-inside recreational kayaks in Pelican’s premium line of models. Stable for novices and agile for intermediate paddlers, this kayak’s high quality is designed to be affordable for all paddlers.

Pelican Sentinel 100XP Angler

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 30.5” (77.5 cm)
Weight: 50 lb (22.7 kg)
Capacity: 325 lb (147 kg)

The Sentinel Recreational Sit-on-top Collection is ideal for the paddler looking to enjoy a stable and relaxing kayaking experience during the warm season on calm or slow moving waters. The Sentinel 100XP ANGLER is specifically tailored to the angler looking for upgraded features that will make their experience more enjoyable.

Pelican Sentinel 100XR

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 30.5” (77.5 cm)
Weight: 48 lb (21.8 kg)
Capacity: 325 lb (147 kg)

The Sentinel Recreational Sit-on-top Collection is ideal for the paddler looking to enjoy a stable and relaxing kayaking experience during the warm season on calm or slow moving waters. The Sentinel 100XR is specifically tailored to the paddler looking for the most comfortable paddling option at the same time benefitting from equipment upgrades that will make their experience more enjoyable.

Pelican Sentinel 100XR Angler

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 30.5” (77 cm)
Weight: 50 lb (22.7 kg)
Capacity: 325 lb (147 kg)

The Sentinel Recreational Sit-on-top Collection is ideal for the paddler looking to enjoy a stable and relaxing kayaking experience during the warm season on calm or slow moving waters. Pelican Sentinel 100XR ANGLER is specifically tailored to the angler looking for exceptional comfort and quality features that will make their experience more enjoyable. 

Pelican Sentinel 130X Tandem

Length: 13’ (396 cm)
Width: 34” (86 cm)
Weight: 73 lb (33.1 kg)
Capacity: 500 lb (227 kg)

The Sentinel Recreational Sit-on-top Collection is ideal for the paddler looking to enjoy a stable and relaxing kayaking experience during the warm season on calm or slow moving waters. Pelican Sentinel 130X Tandem is specifically designed for those looking to share an on-the-water adventure.

Pelican Argo 136X Tandem

Length: 13’ 6” (411 cm)
Width: 31.8” (81 cm)
Weight: 66 lb (30 kg)
Capacity: 500 lb (227 kg)

The Argo Recreational Sit-in Collection is ideal for the paddler looking to enjoy a stable and relaxing kayaking experience during the cool or warm season on calm and slow moving waters. Built using a Twin Arched Multi Chine Hull, these kayaks provide excellent stability and combined with spacious cockpits, getting in-and-out of a kayak, has never been easier! The Argo136X Tandem is specifically designed for those looking to share an on-the-water adventure.

Pelican Sprint 120XR

Length: 12’ (366 cm)
Width: 28” (71 cm)
Weight: 51 lb (23.1 kg)
Capacity: 325 lb (147 kg)

The Sprint Recreational Performance Sit-in Collection has been specially created for those looking for better performing hull designs. With a Deep V Chine Hull and 12’ long design, Pelican Sprint 120XR is made for those looking for a little extra capacity, for even better tracking and return on effort, increased secondary stability so choppy conditions won’t be a problem and, better responsiveness to shifts in body weight and position.

Pelican The Catch 100

Length: 10’ (305 cm)
Width: 34” (86 cm)
Weight: 54 lb (24.5 kg)
Capacity: 350 lb (159 kg)

The Catch family features a Tunnel Hull granting amazing stability making it easy to stand while casting your lines and there is plenty of floor space to prevent you from tripping over your equipment. Well planned out accessories help keep everything conveniently stowed and these boats are light enough for most people to carry and launch on their own! Pelican The Catch 100 is specially designed for those looking for an easy to store option.

Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler

Length: 9’ 5” (290 cm)
Width: 30” (76 cm)
Weight: 45 lb (20.5 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

Are you looking for a fishing kayak with plenty of tackle storage, rod holders and gear compartments that won’t break the bank? – Pelican Sentinel 100X Angler might bring an end to your search.

Pelican Argo 136XP Tandem

Length: 13’ 6” (411 cm)
Width: 31.5” (80 cm)
Weight: 67 lb (30.4 kg)
Capacity: 500 lb (227 kg)

The Argo Recreational Sit-in Collection is ideal for the paddler looking to enjoy a stable and relaxing kayaking experience during the cool or warm season on calm and slow moving waters. Built using a Twin Arched Multi Chine Hull, these kayaks provide excellent stability and combined with spacious cockpits, getting in-and-out of a kayak, has never been easier! Pelican Argo 136XP Tandem is specifically designed for those looking to share an on-the-water adventure in style and comfort.

Pelican The Catch 120

Length: 11’ 8” (356 cm)
Width: 34” (86 cm)
Weight: 69 lb (31 kg)
Capacity: 400 lb (181 kg)

Pelican The Catch 120 has a compelling value proposition and is meant for those who are looking to become more serious with their kayak angling. It offers the stability and comfort you would expect from more expensive products and it is competitively priced considering the plethora of features it has.

Pelican Sprint 120DT

Length: 12’ (366 cm)
Width: 25.5 (65 cm)
Weight: 43 lb (19.5 kg)
Capacity: 275 lb (125 kg)

The Sprint Recreational Performance Sit-in Collection has been specially created for those looking for better performing hull designs. With a Deep V Chine Hull and keel extension, Pelican Sprint 120DT is a 12′ long day touring kayak designed specifically for those looking for better secondary stability so choppy conditions won’t be a problem, a better return on effort, and significantly improved tracking.

Pelican Catch PWR 100

Length: 9’ 7” (297 cm)
Width: 39.8” (101 cm)
Weight: 75 lb (34 kg)
Capacity: 450 lb (204 kg)

Take on your next fishing trip with the Pelican Catch PWR 100 9 ft 9 in Motor-Ready Fishing Kayak. The Ergo360 swivel seat allows you to position yourself for optimal trim, and the anti-slip padding helps keep you secure. This kayak is built to handle a high weight capacity, so you can bring all your gear on board and stow it in the compartments or with the straps and bungees. It’s pre-wired and accepts either a gas or electric motor, and its compact design makes it easy to get it up on a roof rack and hit the road.

Pelican The Catch 110 HyDryve II

Length: 10’ 5” (320 cm)
Width: 34” (86 cm)
Weight: 67 lb (30.4 kg)
Capacity: 350 lb (159 kg)

The Catch 110 HyDryve II by Pelican brings pedal drive technology within reach on this 10’6” rudder controlled fishing kayak. Made with our proprietary RAM-X™ Premium, a multi-layer polyethylene with an advanced resin in the top layer imparting a glossy finish and providing significantly more rigidity than standard polyethylene, The Catch 110HDII remains light, stiff, strong, easy to move, and is ideal for those between 5’ and 6’4” tall.

Pelican The Catch 130 HyDryve II

Length: 12’ 5” (381 cm)
Width: 34” (86 cm)
Weight: 78 lb (35 kg)
Capacity: 425 lb (193 kg)

Pelican The Catch 130 HyDryve II brings pedal drive technology within reach on this 12’6” rudder controlled fishing kayak. Made with our proprietary RAM-X™ Premium, a multi-layer polyethylene with an advanced resin in the top layer imparting a glossy finish and providing significantly more rigidity than standard polyethylene, The Catch 130 HyDryve II remains light, stiff, strong, and easy to move. At only 78lbs, you won’t need any help to transport this kayak to your favorite fishing spot.