Cobra Kayaks Marauder – Big-water Fishing Kayaks

Get this straight right from the start: This is a new Marauder, a meaner machine than the predecessor that shared its name.

By: oliverbentley | Monday, October 24, 2011

Photo: Jeff Moag

Cobra Kayaks Marauder
($899 in roto-molded super-linear polyethylene, $1,089 Recreational Package adds hatches and rod holders, $1,495 with rudder, cobrakayaks.com)
L: 14’3″; W:29″; 55 lbs., 450-lb. capacity

Get this straight right from the start: This is a new Marauder, a meaner machine than the predecessor that shared its name. The new design, imported from Cobra’s New Zealand offshoot, is built around a comfortable, copious cockpit. That’s only the beginning of the improvements that put this ride on the cutting edge.

Chief of those is the excellent new Custom Center Hatch system topped by a handy cutting board. As-is, it provides ample tackle storage without sacrificing the hull’s seaworthiness. Add plumbing, and you’ve got a livewell. Or slice out the bottom section for better hull access to easily stash rods and other gear right from the cockpit. It’s puzzling that the next fishing nicety isn’t a universal standard: a transducer-compatible scupper that provides the best possible fishfinder performance, which is a big plus for serious anglers. Other goodies include a huge bow hatch, upgraded foot pegs, Cobra’s trademark Xtra Fishy molded-in measuring tape, and acres of deck real estate for easy rigging.

The 14-foot-long hull is heavily rockered, with shapely upturned ends that give the boat plenty of wave-riding lift and make for nimble performance in tight spots. That means a minor loss of speed—one we scarcely noticed. The new Marauder comes in a variety of optional configurations and offers a fine all-around fishing craft.

Comments

Michael L Kavanaugh
February 14, 2012 12:14 pm

I just sold my Hobie Mirage due to getting older and not having great access to the gulf.
Can you give me some idea’s about a great Kayak weighing in at a window of the 30-45 lbs.

What is your opinion of the (INNOVA Helios)

Mike.

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