- Editor Rating
- FeelFree Lure 13.5
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- Build Quality
- Storage Capacity
- Comfort
- Stability
- Maneuverability
While anglers often have to make sacrifices or trade-offs when purchasing entry-level kayaks, this is not always necessary for those pursuing those priced at the higher end of the cost spectrum. When you start targeting kayaks in excess of $1,000, you can usually find a kayak that provides incredible stability, tracks well and comes loaded with all of the storage space and angler-friendly features you’d want.
The FeelFree Lure 13.5 is a great example of this type of vessel, and it should garner attention from any angler seeking a very high-quality kayak, which will elevate your fishing significantly.
Pros
- Abundant storage space
- Recessed transducer port allows you to use a fish finder without requiring you to drill through the hull
- Very stable kayak that permits standing
Cons
- Quite heavy for its size
- Some anglers reported the hull flexing during wave impacts
- Not exceptionally fast
Build Quality
Made from polyethylene, the Lure 13.5 is a strong and durable craft. Most anglers who tried it reported that it was quite rigid, although it would occasionally deform a bit when running head-on into large waves.
A relatively large and heavy craft, the Lure 13.5 measures 13 feet and 5 inches long and has an impressive 36-inch-wide beam. It weighs approximately 95 pounds and comes in seven different color patterns.
Storage Capacity
The Lure 13.5 is swimming in storage capacity. The primary storage area is an oval-shaped compartment located in the bow, but the Lure 13.5 is also equipped with a covered, insulated console compartment at the front of the cockpit, which is designed to hold cold drinks or bait. However, you can also keep caught fish in the compartment during your trip back to shore.
A transducer recess and port allow you to use a fish finder without having to drill through the hull, and two flush-mount rod holders are located behind the cockpit. Accessory rails are also included and are positioned on each side of the seat. Finally, a large cargo deck is located at the rear of the craft and features bungee cords to help keep your gear secure. Additionally, a few pockets are included with the vessel’s seat, so you can keep small items handy.
Comfort
The FeelFree Lure 13.5 provides a very comfortable ride. The cockpit is quite roomy, even for large or tall anglers, and it features adjustable foot braces, which allows you to customize the cockpit to suit your frame. However, no discussion of the Lure 13.5 would be complete without covering the included Gravity Seat.
These patent pending seats are fully adjustable, and you can even raise or lower them as needed. This way, you can sit high above the surface while fishing, or lower yourself down to deck level when it is time to paddle. An included standing pad also ensures that your feet will remain comfortable while standing.
Stability
The Lure 13.5 is a very stable craft, thanks to its large size and well-conceived design. Anglers reported that it handled moderately choppy waters well, and never threatened to toss them into the drink.
It not only permits standing (it also comes with a standing strap to help you stand up or sit down), but it also allows you to sit sideways, when it is time to take a break.
Maneuverability
The Lure 13.5 features an included keel (a moveable rudder is available as an option), which helps to ensure it tracks well and holds a straight course over long distances. It isn’t the easiest vessel to turn, thanks to its large size, but most anglers found that it was adequately nimble. Some anglers did complain that the kayak wasn’t as fast as they’d have liked, but other anglers found that it was fast enough for general fishing.
The craft is heavy, which makes transporting it across dry ground challenging, but the included Wheel in the Keel helps make it easier for one person to move. It also comes with molded handles at the bow and stern, which also help facilitate transport.
Summary
If you’ve been fishing from a kayak for a year or two, and you are ready to enter the world of high-performance kayaks, the Lure 13.5 is a great option. It provides all of the storage capacity an angler could need, as well as a very stable ride.
It also handles well and cuts through the water like a knife. It is quite heavy and large, so it may give anglers some problems during the launching and landing process, but this is easy to overcome with the use of a wheeled cart.
Brand | FeelFree |
Model | Lure 13.5 |
Price | Check on Amazon |
Type | sit-on-top |
Color(s) | desert camo, winter camo, blue camo, red camo, orange camo, lime camo |
Length (ft / cm) | 13'5" / 411cm |
Width (in / cm) | 36" / 91cm |
Height (in / cm) | N/A |
Kayak Weight (lbs / kg) | 95lbs / 43kg |
Weight Capacity (lbs / kg) | 500 lbs / 227kg |
Cockpit Size (in / cm) | N/A |
Hull Material | Polyethylene |
Transducer Compatible | Yes |
Number of People | 1 |
Inflatable | No |
Salt Water Friendly | Yes |
Peddles | No |
Tracking Enhancement | None |
Adjustable Seat | Yes |
Rod Holders | 2 |
Adjustable Foot Braces | Yes |
Paddles Included | No |
Other Included Items | None |