Viking Profish 400, it's changed some from the original Lite model which was listed as light as 52 lbs and had a 30 inch beam. It is now currently listed on the American site as 61 lbs and 32.75 inches in width. I heard they added some more resin to beef it up, also interesting to note is the original length specified was 13'2, and is now at 13'6. This kayak is very comfortable with a good seat (seat included not adequate), I already had a comfortable Surf to Summit seat so not a problem. Easy to paddle at a good pace if you want, quite a bit faster than the Jackson Cruise I owned but not quite as efficient as my Necky Vector, but close. That says a lot considering the width.
It comes stock with 4 flush mounted rodholders, two in the middle behind the seat and two on either side on the gunwale that face forward for placing your rod if you're unhooking a fish or tying on a lure. There is room behind the seat to install 2 more flush mounts on the outside of the inner ones, which may make them a little easier to access, as it is now I reach behind and do it by feel but it works. If you use a shorter paddle stroke, the ones up front won't be a problem but I only do that if I'm fishing and not paddling any distance. There is a Starpoint mount made by Railblaza in the back behind the tank well that will accommodate a stern light or flag. In fact the Viking kayaks were designed with the Railblaza mounts in mind. 4 threaded holes sit in front of the tackle pod cover that will fit Starpoint mounts for rod holders or camera mounts made by Railblaza. One cool thing to note is with your rod holder pointed towards the stern the rod will be above your head but you'll still be able to troll like they do in New Zealand and see the strike right in front of you, unique to these kayaks. You can add a portable tackle pod to carry everything - depth finder, battery, tackle boxes etc., or add a portable Chill Pod behind you to add ice for your catch or your food and drinks. The tank well is very wide, the widest I've ever had. When I put my standard size milk crate behind me, I've got almost 3 inches to spare on either side. The unique scalloped hull makes the boat paddle much more efficiently, and it also sits low in the water, meaning it's not a wind catcher with minimal weathercocking. Tackle storage is easy with the tackle lid and bin beneath right in front of you.
Now for the few things I don't like but not major. The scalloped hull design brings with it a decent amount of hull slap in light chop against the wind. Even in smooth flat conditions there is a gurgling sound beneath the hull. The only other 2 complaints I have are the the handles are part solid and part tough cloth, I'd prefer solid all the way. The last one is one I don't get. Right under the side handles are pad eyes that will crunch your fingers if you carry the kayak sideways like I do when I pick it up from its stored leaned position. Overall the kayak is a winner in my book and one I think will suit my fishing needs for some time to come. Sorry for the long review but hope it can help someone make the right choice.
