Is the Isle Flywater Inflatable Kayak / Skiff the Ultimate Kayak Fishing Platform?
Hey, fellow fishing enthusiasts! Aaron Hunt here from the Aaron Hunt Fishing YouTube channel. I’ve been fishing from various watercraft for years, and today, I’m thrilled to share some exciting news about the latest addition to the Isle lineup—the Flywater inflatable kayak. As someone who’s already on the list to buy one of these incredible kayaks, I couldn’t wait to tell you all about it. The Isle Flywater is set to launch in August 2024, and trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this game-changer.
Why the Isle Flywater is a Game-Changer
The Isle Flywater is an inflatable skiff-kayak hybrid that has been designed for both stability and speed. Thanks to its unique catamaran hull design, this kayak can navigate shallow waterways with ease, making it perfect for those hard-to-reach fishing spots. The elevated floor and 42-inch width provide a stable platform, while the innovative Infinity Fiber technology makes the kayak five times more rigid and durable than typical inflatables.
Key Features and Specifications:
- Catamaran Hull Design: The Flywater’s catamaran hull provides excellent stability and speed. This design allows the kayak to navigate shallow waters efficiently, making it ideal for fishing in areas where other boats might struggle.
- Elevated Floor: The drop-stitch floor sits 6 inches off the water, enhancing both stability and comfort. This feature ensures that you stay dry and can focus on fishing without worrying about water splashing in.
- Five-Chamber Inflatable System: Safety is paramount with the Flywater. The kayak features a five-chamber system that ensures buoyancy even if one chamber fails. The chambers are separated by baffles, and a cone inside each baffle redirects air to the other chambers, maintaining stability.
- Infinity Fiber Technology: This patented technology is a high-performance composite construction exclusive to Isle. It makes the Flywater five times more rigid than typical inflatables, providing unmatched durability and performance.
- Versatile Functionality: The Flywater can be used as a traditional kayak or equipped with up to a 5-horsepower electric motor, transforming it into a micro skiff. This versatility makes it perfect for various fishing environments and conditions.
- Custom Features: The kayak comes with splash guards, carry handles, universal mounts, and a custom motor mount. These features enhance convenience and functionality, allowing you to customize your setup to suit your needs.
- Lightweight and Portable: Weighing only 49 lbs, the Flywater is easy to transport and can be set up in under 10 minutes. This portability makes it ideal for spontaneous fishing trips and exploring new waters.
- Durable Construction: The custom heavy-duty PVC pontoons and drop-stitch floor, combined with non-skid materials on the rails and pontoons, ensure that the Flywater can withstand the rigors of serious fishing trips. The open transom design allows water to drain out easily, adding to the kayak’s practicality.
- Dimensions: With a width of 42 inches and a length of around 12 feet, the Flywater provides ample space for gear and a comfortable fishing experience.
My Experience with Isle Products
I’ve had the pleasure of fishing from a Hobie kayak for the past two years, which has been an incredible experience. The Hobie provided excellent stability and functionality, allowing me to enjoy countless successful fishing trips. However, when I tried the Isle Switch and the Isle Switch Pro SUP, I was blown away by the quality and performance of these products. Isle has a reputation for innovation and excellence, and the Flywater is no exception.
The Flywater’s heavy-duty PVC pontoons, drop-stitch floor, and non-skid materials on the rails and pontoons ensure that it can withstand the toughest fishing conditions. The open transom design allows water to drain out easily, preventing the kayak from getting bogged down. Additionally, the Infinity Fiber transom supports a motor mount, increasing both speed and range while providing a safety backup.
The Versatility of the Flywater
One of the most exciting aspects of the Isle Flywater is its versatility. Whether you prefer paddling or using a motor, this kayak can accommodate your needs. The ability to switch between a traditional kayak and a micro skiff allows you to adapt to different fishing environments and conditions.
It comes with two kayak seats, which it appears can be stacked to give you one elevated seating position. Isle has also developed an aluminum framed seat that turns the Flywaer into a true mini skiff. That is definitely an option I would consider buying.
For those who enjoy paddling, the Flywater offers a smooth and stable ride. The catamaran hull design ensures that you can maintain good speed and maneuverability, even in narrow or shallow waters. The elevated floor keeps you dry and comfortable, allowing you to focus on catching fish rather than dealing with water splashing into the kayak.
If you prefer using a motor, the Flywater can be equipped with up to a 5-horsepower electric motor. This setup transforms the kayak into a nimble and fast micro skiff, perfect for covering larger areas of water quickly. The custom motor mount and steering holder make it easy to control the kayak and keep your hands free for fishing.
I’ll personally be using the Bixpy K-1 motor that I have been using on the Hobie and the Isle Switch Pro. Seems like the perfect match for my needs.
And lastly, because of the way I intend to use the Flywater and inflate it on-location, I also plan to get an electric pump this time around. It just makes inflating (and hopefully deflating) so much easier.
Safety and Durability
When it comes to inflatable kayaks, safety is often a concern. The Isle Flywater addresses this with its five-chamber inflatable system and Infinity Fiber technology. The multiple chambers ensure that the kayak remains buoyant even if one chamber fails, providing peace of mind during your fishing trips. The Infinity Fiber construction makes the kayak incredibly rigid and durable, capable of withstanding rough conditions and potential punctures.
The heavy-duty PVC pontoons and drop-stitch floor further enhance the kayak’s durability. These materials are designed to withstand impacts and abrasions, ensuring that the Flywater remains in top condition even after extensive use. The non-skid materials on the rails and pontoons add an extra layer of safety, preventing slips and ensuring a secure grip.
Why I’m Excited About the Flywater
As someone who has spent years fishing from various watercraft, I’m incredibly excited about the Isle Flywater. This kayak combines the best features of a traditional kayak and a micro skiff, offering unparalleled versatility and performance. The advanced technology and durable construction make it a reliable choice for serious fishermen, while the lightweight and portable design ensure that it’s easy to transport and set up.
My hope is that the flywater will make longer fishing rips easier and more economical by being able to pack the Flywater instead of hauling the Outback int he truck bed. And also, getting a 50-pound kayak to some remote water is easier than taking a 120-pound kayak there!
Having used the Isle Switch and the Isle Switch Pro SUP, I have full confidence in Isle’s commitment to quality and innovation. The Flywater is a testament to their dedication to creating top-of-the-line products that meet the needs of avid fishermen like myself. So I’m prepared to give it a bit of a torture test and make it my main kayak for the remainder of 2024 and all of 2025.
Get Ready to Elevate Your Fishing Game
If you’re looking to elevate your fishing game and explore new waters with a versatile, durable, and high-performance inflatable kayak, the Flywater is the way to go. I’m already on the list to buy one, and I can’t wait to experience all the benefits it has to offer. And maybe find a few faults as well.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own what for me looks to be the ultimate fishing vessel. Click the link below to learn more and pre-order your Isle Flywater today! (or at least get your name on the list.) MSRP is $1695, which is about half of what the Hobie Outback coasts new. And maybe Isle will have some good specials for the launch.
Pre-Order the Isle Flywater Now!
Stay tuned to my YouTube channel, Aaron Hunt Fishing, for more updates and I’ll post a detailed review once I receive my Flywater and get some fishing time in it. Tight lines, everyone!
Aaron Hunt