Sun Dolphin Boss 12 SS

Size and Weight 

Sun Dolphin’s Boss 12 SS measures 12 feet  / 375 cm in length, 33.25 inches / 85 cm in width, and stands 13 inches / 33 cm in height. 

It weighs 78 lbs / 35 lbs, similar to other solo fishing kayaks of similar size like the Ascend H12 at 76 lbs / 34.5 kg. However, it is slightly heavier than some others like the BKC PK12 which weighs 70 lbs / 32 kg.

Its weight and length make it tricky to handle it solo, and you might need a kayak cart for easier transportation and launch. 

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Capacity

The Boss 12 SS has a capacity of 500 lbs / 227 kg, which leaves much flexibility in terms of the paddler’s size and the amount of gear that he or she can take. This kayak can hold a tad more than the BKC PK12’s 460 lbs / 209 kgs or the Ascend H12’s 450 lbs / 204 kg. 

Nevertheless, anything above 400 lbs / 182 kg and the Boss 12 SS can significantly decrease in speed and maneuverability. 

Features

The Boss 12 SS’s hull is shaped like a catamaran for maximum stability and is built with rugged UV-resistant Fortiflex high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Although it is built to last, you can still prolong its lifespan by applying UV protectant and marine sealant at the start and end of each season.

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At the bow of the boat is a non-slip rubber-lined handle for comfortable carrying and there’s also a drain plug for you to remove excess water that finds its way into the inside of the kayak. 

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Further along the kayak, the roomy bow storage area can be secured by a detachable bungee tie-down system that goes onto J-hooks. 

Moving down, there are two forward-facing flush-mounted rod holders and a large hatch area with a drop-in bag for your smaller stuff. If you remove the bag, you can access even more storage in the kayak for you to stash things you don’t need frequently like camping gear and tents.

After the flush-mounted rod holders is an attachment on the port side for a removable rod holder. The Boss 12 SS also comes with one articulating rod holder that can swivel 360 degrees and tilt in whatever direction you want. 

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In the cockpit, there are two adjustable footrests, and on the deck, there are two out of the eight scupper holes in the Boss 12 SS. 

There is also a standing assist strap that you can grab onto if you want to stand on the deck. This strap comes with a built-in measuring tape for you to measure your catch on the fly.

On the main deck are traction pads for more stability and grip while you are on the standing platform, but these pads have been known to wear out and lift, especially if constantly submerged in water. 

Back from the footrests are two accessory rails for you to mount your GoPros, fish finders, and other stuff. 

In the middle of the boat, there are two more rubber-lined carrying handles so you can carry your kayak from side to side instead of only from the front and back that many other kayaks have. 

The aluminum-framed mesh seat is mounted on brackets and is super comfortable, unlike many other more basic models that do not have padded bottoms. 

The seat is completely adjustable, and you can control the firmness of the seat and backrest, the angle of the lean, and the height at which you sit in the kayak. 

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On both sides of the seat along the gunnels are two paddle park systems with bungees to stash your paddle when not in use. 

Right behind the seat are two more rear-facing flush-mounted rod holders and a second through-hull hatch with the same bag. 

The huge stern storage area is large enough to store a cooler or milk crate and can be secured by a bungee system. 

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Lastly, at the stern is the second rubber-lined carrying handle and a second drain plug. Underneath, the hull has a skid plate that you can use to protect the kayak when dragging it around. 

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While the plate is easily replaced when damaged, it is a tad small and if you aren’t careful, you can still damage the kayak’s hull when you’re dragging it. 

Depending on the individual retailer, the Boss 12 SS typically doesn’t come with an included paddle. 

Performance 

The Boss 12 SS is a no-frills fishing kayak that has just enough features for a beginner angler or someone just starting to get into kayak fishing.

The craft tracks well in the water and the catamaran-shaped hull gives plenty of stability, even in high winds and rough waters. It doesn’t do so well in rivers but in lakes and moderate ocean swells, this kayak’s handling is excellent.

The seat is a major bonus as it reduces the risk of muscle aches or fatigue even after a long day out. Overall, this is an excellent choice at a very attractive price point for someone that wants to give kayak fishing a try without burning a hole in the wallet.