Pelican Sport - Killer Kayaks!

Pelican Argo vs Pelican Maxim: Which One Should You Buy?

When it comes to choosing a kayak that suits your needs, it can be a challenging task, especially if you’re new to the activity. The Pelican Argo and Maxim are two awesome kayaks that a lot of kayakers love. I have used these kayaks on a few different trips and know them inside out.

In this article, I’ll give you an in-depth comparison between the two models and help you choose the one that’s right for you. Let’s get started.

Pelican Argo vs Maxim: Which Kayak Deserves You?

Now, Pelican is known to produce some of the best and most affordable kayaks out there but which one is better? The Argo or the Maxim? Let’s find out.

#1. Design Comparison

Editor's Pick!

Pelican Argo 100XR

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The Pelican Argo is a sit-inside kayak that has an ergonomic design that’s perfect for long paddling sessions. The cockpit has adjustable footrests and an adjustable padded seat for extra comfort.

In comparison, the Pelican Maxim is a sit-on-top kayak that allows for more freedom of movement while paddling. It has an open cockpit design that’s suitable for warm weather conditions.

#2. Storage Comparison

Both kayaks offer storage compartments but the sizes differ.

Pelican Argo offers dry storage, perfect for keeping your belongings safe, while the Pelican Maxim’s storage distance doesn’t offer the same dryness unless you are carrying a dry bag.

If you’re planning on spending long hours kayaking, Pelican Argo may be your best bet.

#3. Weight and Size Comparison

The Pelican Maxim is 10 feet long and weighs 47 pounds, making it a lightweight and easy-to-transport kayak. It’s a great kayak for beginners or those looking for a kayak to take on lakes and calm rivers.

On the other hand, the Pelican Argo is 12 feet long and weighs 53 pounds, so it requires more effort to transport.

However, the added length and weight can be beneficial for more experienced kayakers who want to tackle rougher waters.

If you have any conditions where you can’t carry a lot of weight or don’t want to, then you may want to consider the Maxim as it’s a good 6 pounds lighter!

#4. Price Comparison

Second Pick!

Pelican Maxim 100X

$356.3322

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05/18/2024 06:10 am GMT

The Pelican Maxim is priced lower than the Pelican Argo and is an attractive option for those on a budget.

That being said, the Pelican Argo may be a better investment for experienced kayakers who want a kayak that can handle more challenging conditions.

This will entirely come down to your budget!

#5. Purpose

When considering purchasing either the Pelican Argo or the Pelican Maxim, thinking about what you want to do with your kayak is essential.

The Pelican Argo is perfect for long trips and paddlers who want to use it for both fishing and touring.

The Pelican Maxim is ideal for beginners looking for a kayak to use on calm, shallow waters.

Can You Go Fishing On Both of These Models?

Yes, you can go fishing with both models.

The Pelican Argo is designed for more experienced kayakers and includes features that make it a great choice for fishing. It has adjustable footrests and plenty of storage space to store your gear.

The open cockpit design on the Pelican Maxim also makes it suitable for some types of fishing but its shorter length and lighter weight may not be suitable for more adventurous outings.

Does Either Model Come With Fishing Rods?

No, neither model comes with fishing rods. However, both models have features and accessories that make them suitable for fishing.

If you’re serious about kayak fishing, then I would go ahead and invest in some decent fishing rods and and rod holders.

Where are Pelican Kayaks Made?

Pelican kayaks are manufactured in Canada with production facilities spread across the country.

Quality control procedures are observed to ensure that all products meet high standards and each kayak is tested before it’s shipped out to customers. Pelican also stands behind its products and offers a limited lifetime warranty on all of their kayaks.

Is the Argo or the Maxim More Tippier?

The Pelican Argo is slightly tippier than the Pelican Maxim due to its longer length and wider beam.

It’s important to note that neither kayak is prone to tipping over, but if you’re just starting out in kayaking, the Pelican Maxim may offer a more stable experience for you.

Which Kayak is Harder to Carry?

The Pelican Argo is larger and heavier than the Pelican Maxim, making it more difficult to carry.

The added weight can be beneficial for experienced paddlers who want a stable kayak that can handle more challenging conditions.

However, if you’re looking for something light and easy to transport, then the Pelican Maxim is definitely your best bet.

Argo vs Maxim: Which One Wins?

Editor's Pick!

Pelican Argo 100XR

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Personally, it’s hard to decide which model I love more and here’s why: I love the Maxim for the easy tracking and the lighter weight. However, I love the Argo in fussier waters but it’s also about two feet bigger and while experienced kayaks love it, it’s a bit harder for me to handle due to arthritis.

With that said, I recommend the Maxim for kayaking in easy waters and the Argo in rough waters.

Pelican Kayak vs Old Town: Which One Produces the Better Kayaks?

Are you in the market for a new kayak and weighing your options between Pelican Kayaks and Old Town Kayaks? Both brands have been around for a while and both make great products and have a great fanbase.

However, if you’re like many kayakers, you’re looking for a kayak that offers a perfect balance of performance, durability, and affordability.

Pelican Kayaks vs Old Town Kayaks: Which One Deserves Your Money?

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of owning and renting several Pelican and Old Town kayaks so in this article, I’ll take a close look at both brands and their top 3 kayaks to help you decide which one is the better choice for your specific needs.

#1. Design and Performance

When it comes to kayaks, design and performance are crucial factors to consider.

I love the look for Pelican Kayaks. They are known for their sleek and modern designs and stand out for it. They offer a wide range of kayaks including recreational, sit-in, and sit-on-top kayaks.

These models are great for beginners and intermediate kayakers. Pelican kayaks are also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them perfect for calm rivers, lakes, and ponds.

On the other hand, Old Town Kayaks are known for their performance-oriented designs, making them ideal for experienced kayakers. They offer a range of touring and fishing kayaks with advanced features such as increased speed efficiency and extra storage space.

#2. Durability and Material

When purchasing a kayak, you want to ensure that you’re getting value for your money.

Now, Pelican kayaks are made from a high density polyethylene plastic that is incredibly durable and impact-resistant. They come equipped with several features such as adjustable footrests, padded seats, and rod holders, making them perfect for fishing and recreational kayaking.

In comparison, Old Town Kayaks are made from 3-layer polyethylene, making them incredibly strong and durable. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and will last a lifetime with proper care.

As for durability, they’re both even!

#3. Affordability

Second Place Pick

Pelican Sentinel 100X

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The price of a kayak is another crucial factor to consider when making your choice. While both brands offer affordable models, Pelican kayaks are generally cheaper than Old Town kayaks.

Pelican kayaks offer budget-friendly models for novice kayakers, and they are a great way to start kayaking without breaking the bank. In fact, Pelican was the second kayak I ever bought because I could afford them and knew they performed well.

Old Town kayaks are typically more expensive but to be fair, they offer high-quality features and advanced designs.

#4. Guarantee and Customer Service

When you purchase a kayak, it’s essential to know that you’re getting a reliable product.

Both Pelican and Old Town offer limited lifetime warranties to their kayaks, assuring customers that they’re getting a high-quality product.

Both companies also have excellent customer service, evident from the numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers.

3 Popular Kayaks By Pelican

Following are three of the most popular Pelican kayaks you’ll find:

Pelican Catch 120

This is a 12′ recreational sit-on-top kayak. It has adjustable footrests, padded seats, and rod holders.

Pelican Maxim 100

This is a 10′ recreational sit-in kayak. It has adjustable footrests, padded seats, and plenty of storage space.

Pelican Argo 100

Editor's Pick!

Pelican Argo 100XR

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This is a 10′ touring kayak. It has adjustable footrests, padded seats, and plenty of storage space.

3 Popular Kayaks By Old Town

Following are three of the most popular Old Town kayaks you’ll find:

Old Town Vapor 10

This is a versatile sit-on-top recreational kayak with adjustable footrests and a comfortable seat.

Old Town Dirigo 106

This is a 10’6” touring kayak. It has adjustable footrests, an ergonomic seat, and plenty of storage space.

Old Town Sportsman AutoPiloT

This is a sit-on-top fishing kayak with adjustable footrests and a comfortable seat.

Are Pelicans Good Kayaks?

As mentioned earlier, I recommend Pelican kayaks especially for beginner and intermediate level kayakers. They offer a wide range of models with advanced features such as adjustable footrests, padded seats, and plenty of storage space.

These kayaks are also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them perfect for calm rivers, lakes, and ponds. And yes, Pelican kayaks are great kayaks!

Are Old Town Kayaks Good?

Yes, Old Town kayaks are good and hold great brand reputation. Old Town Kayaks offer performance-oriented designs that make them ideal for experienced kayakers. They offer models with advanced features such as increased speed efficiency and extra storage space.

Old town kayaks are also highly durable, and with their advanced hull design, they can handle rough water conditions such as strong wind and waves.

Are Pelican Kayaks Tippy?

Pelican kayaks are usually very stable and not overly tippy. Most models have a wide and flat hull design which provides excellent stability in the water.

Are Old Town Kayaks Tippy?

Old Town kayaks usually have a narrower and deeper hull design which can make them tippier than Pelican kayaks. However, they also offer models with wide and flat hulls that provide excellent stability in the water.

Are Pelican or Old Town Kayaks Better for the River?

Honestly, both kayak brands produce kickass kayaks.

Pelican kayaks are great for recreational use and offer models with adjustable footrests, padded seats, and rod holders which make them perfect for fishing or exploring calm rivers.

Old Town Kayaks, on the other hand, offer performance-oriented designs that are ideal for experienced kayakers who want to tackle rougher water conditions such as strong wind and waves.

Are Pelican or Old Town Kayaks Better for the Ocean?

Both Pelican and Old Town offer models that are suitable for use in the ocean.

As discussed previously, Pelican kayaks are great for recreational use in calm waters, while Old Town kayaks offer advanced designs that are ideal for tackling rough conditions. It really depends on your specific needs and skill level.

Which Kayak Should You Purchase: Old Town or Pelican?

So, I’ve used several different kayaks by both brands and can tell you they both offer eye catching design and good performance. b

I think Pelican Kayaks are perfect for novice and intermediate kayakers who want a budget-friendly kayak with modern designs, while Old Town Kayaks are more suitable for experienced kayakers who require high-performance kayaks that can handle tough weather conditions.

Determine your budget and what type of water you’ll be using this kayak in and then the answer will become much easier!

Pelican Argo vs Sentinel: Which Model Should You Choose?

Have you been checking out the Pelican Argo and the Pelican Sentinel but can’t make up your mind between which one to get? You’re not the only with that problem. When I narrow down my selection to two kayaks, sometimes I get stuck and can’t make the decision on which one I should get.

Pelican Argo vs Pelican Sentinel

Both models are popular among kayakers and for good reason, but how can you decide which one is the best for you? In this article, I’ll compare both the Argo and Sentinel and help you decide which one you should choose.

Design Comparison

Editor's Pick!

Pelican Argo 100XR

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The Pelican Argo and Pelican Sentinel both come with similar design features but they differ in size and weight.

The Pelican Argo is a 100% twin-sheet thermoformed kayak that is designed to be lightweight, while the Pelican Sentinel is a bit heavier. The Pelican Sentinel is also a little longer than the Argo, making it a better option for those who prefer more stability.

In contrast, the Argo is more agile and can maneuver well in narrow waterways.

Stability Comparison

The Pelican Sentinel offers better stability than the Argo thanks to its wider width and longer length. This makes it a great option for beginners who need more stability and balance while paddling.

The Argo, on the other hand, is more suitable for experienced kayakers because of its agility and speed.

Storage Comparison

Second Place Pick

Pelican Sentinel 100X

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Both kayaks come with good storage options that are useful when you’re out on the water.

The Pelican Sentinel comes with a storage hatch and a stern container where you can store your gear and keep it dry which I found super useful.

In contrast, the Argo comes with a large storage area behind the seat which can be useful when kayaking for long periods.

Comfort Comparison

Comfort is essential when kayaking (especially if you have back issues) and both the Pelican Sentinel and Argo offer comfortable seats.

The Pelican Sentinel has a padded, adjustable seat that supports your back while the Argo has a more basic seat that is suitable for shorter paddles.

However, the Pelican Sentinel is a better option if you plan on spending hours kayaking.

Price Comparison

Finally, price is an important factor when choosing between the Pelican Argo and the Pelican Sentinel.

The Argo is more affordable than the Sentinel, making it a great option if you’re on a budget. However, if you’re willing to spend a little extra, the Pelican Sentinel offers more features including better stability and a more comfortable seat.

How Much Does the Argo Weigh?

Editor's Pick!

Pelican Argo 100XR

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The Pelican Argo weighs in at 43 lbs. Compared to a lot of kayaks, it’s considered a lightweight kayak that is easy to carry and transport.

How Much Does the Sentinel Weight?

The Pelican Sentinel is slightly heavier than the Argo and weighs in at 50 lbs. If you don’t have upper body strength or dealing with a heavy kayak is an issue, than the Sentinel is definitely the heavier choice.

Can Either Kayak Be Comfortably Used for Fishing?

Actually, both the Pelican Argo and the Sentinel can be comfortably used for fishing.

Do I Need to Buy Fishing Rods For Either Kayak?

No! Both the Pelican Argo and Sentinel come with built-in rod holders, so there’s no need to purchase any extra rods.

Does One Model Track Better Than the Other?

The Pelican Sentinel has a longer keel which helps it track better in the water. Personally, I think the Argo is tracks well but the Sentinel has a slight edge. The longer keel on the Sentinel makes it the better option for long-distance paddling or if you’re looking for more straight tracking.

Which One Should You Choose: the Argo vs the Sentinel

Second Place Pick

Pelican Sentinel 100X

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If you’re an experienced kayaker who enjoys agility and speed, then the Pelican Argo is a great option. Alternatively, if you’re new to kayaking and prefer more stability, then the Pelican Sentinel is a better option.

As someone who enjoys leisurely kayaking and also has the skill level of an intermediate kayaker, I love the Argo just a bit more. However, that doesn’t mean that the Sentinel isn’t a solid kayak!

Be sure to select the one that fits your needs, preferences, and skill level.

Pelican Unison 136T Kayak – Surprisingly Comfortable Tandem Ride?

The Pelican Unison 136T kayak is a premium watercraft made by Pelican, which has some great features and design qualities. Pelican is a renowned manufacturer that has produced many quality products in the industry. With this background, there is a lot of expectation for this watercraft, considering that the market is saturated with good options. The watercraft borrows heavily from various design aspects of previous products by the same company.

However, the 136T is out of stock which is why we are recommending another kayak that fares better than what this review was dedicated to:

Superior Choice

Driftsun Teton Tandem Kayak

$1,499.00

The Driftsun Teton is superior to the Pelican 136T, has accumulated excellent reviews, and was tested by one of our staff, making it an amazing replacement.

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05/18/2024 07:06 am GMT

Most boats made by Pelican are aimed at a specific niche of users who want to get the best value out of an affordable product. The same principle seems to be the idea behind the manufacture of the Pelican Unison 136T kayak. There are many other things that give this kayak its character. While it does not fall short of features, the main determinant of the real value of the Pelican Unison 136T kayak is the user experience. Any good product needs to have a careful balance of features and user value.

With such huge clout behind it, will the Pelican Unison 136 tandem manage to impress? We will find out shortly when we analyze this watercraft in detail. Since there are many different things to explore with this kayak, we will look at its frame, features, storage options and a number of benefits the kayak offers. Any disadvantages will also be listed in the following comprehensive Pelican Unision 136T review.

Frame

Starting off with the frame, the Pelican Unison 136T kayak is made of Ram-X Premium, which is mulitple layers of polyethylene treated with a high quality resin to be more rigid than regular polyethylene. There are many advantages with this kind of plastic, but it is most preferred because it is strong but lightweight.

Because of these qualities, the Pelican Unison 136T tandem kayak is built for great performance and durability.

When it comes to the dimensions of the Pelican Unison 136T kayak, the total length of the frame is 13’6” and the beam is 31.75″. With this length, the watercraft is not difficult to maneuver in the water. The cockpits are 102″ long and 26″ wide.

In terms of capacity, it is able to carry a load of 500 pounds. That simply translates to two adults and a reasonable amount of gear, or option 3 at the end of this Pelican Unision 136T review. Not many tandem kayaks have such specifications without an off-putting price.

Looking at the exterior of the Pelican Unison 136T kayak, you get to see a well-designed hull bottom. This is typical of modern watercrafts that are specifically designed to optimize speed and reduce drag. It is also streamlined for maximum strength in the water, and the frame can be described as modern and improved. The obvious design language of traditional Pelican watercrafts included in this boat goes a long way to give users an assurance of great performance.

Pelican Unison 136T Kayak Features

Superior Choice

Driftsun Teton Tandem Kayak

$1,499.00

The Driftsun Teton is superior to the Pelican 136T, has accumulated excellent reviews, and was tested by one of our staff, making it an amazing replacement.

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05/18/2024 07:06 am GMT

There are many features that come with the Pelican Unison 136T kayak. The first main feature of the kayak is a multi-chine, flat-bottom hull design that is constructed for stability. This feature is created from a modern machine-aided design for optimization of speed and reduction of drag. There are handles at both the front and back for easy transportation. In addition, you get a spacious cockpit that is well-designed to give you ample room to move around.

The Pelican Unison 136T kayak comes with seats which feature ERGOfit seating for comfort. They are also adjustable for various heights. The backrest of both seats are built creatively to ensure decent support, which is thoughtful for a tandem boat. There is enough space for a bottle holder for each paddler on the deck of each cockpit. An open compartment for each paddler is also available, as well as a 4″ day hatch in the middle for additional storage.

In terms of functionality, there is a tie-down mechanism included for securing paddles at the sides of the Pelican Unison 136T tandem kayak. The bungees fitted in the bow are great for securing paraphernalia at the front. Comfort features like the adjustable foot pegs for sufficient stability when paddling are not left out. There are a number of other minor features which only serve to make the Pelican Unison 136T kayak a unique product.

Storage Space in the Pelican Unison 136T Kayak

The Pelican Unison 136 tandem features a number of storage options. Starting off with the small storage areas, there is a drink holder available for each paddler, as well as a 4″ day hatch in the middle. You can store your keys and possibly a cell phone in there, or other smaller items. The main storage for the boat, however, is the water resistant storage at the rear. This hatch is big and capable of holding up to 60 liters of water.

It is quite a welcomed addition that the storage on the Pelican Unison 136T tandem kayak features a quick-lock mechanism. Its location in the stern is also advantageous as it can hold all of your important gear.

Other storage options include the various tie-downs for securing gear. These storage options are quite sufficient for a tandem kayak, especially for a day trip. More storage would be made available to the paddler who decides to use the boat as a single-person watercraft.

Superior Choice

Driftsun Teton Tandem Kayak

$1,499.00

The Driftsun Teton is superior to the Pelican 136T, has accumulated excellent reviews, and was tested by one of our staff, making it an amazing replacement.

Check Out Price On Amazon Now

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05/18/2024 07:06 am GMT

Pros

Easy to transport, with handles at both the front and back
Modern hull design that gives it stability in the water
Great performance, due to its sturdy construction
Multiple comfort features in the backrest and footrest
Storage options are sufficient for day trips
The Pelican Unison 136T kayak is affordable
Lightweight, weighing 67.4 pounds
Great for taller people

Cons

Tracking might be difficult for beginners, as there is no rudder
Width might make quick turns more difficult
The Pelican Unison 136T kayak’s storage is not great for overnight trips
Can’t be disassembled for easier storage

Pelican Unision 136T Review Conclusion

The Pelican Unison 136T kayak is a unique watercraft made with the great features of other Pelican models. The Unison is roomy for both paddlers, has adjustable footrests, and it is extra sturdy because of the company’s Ram-X Premium construction. There is also the multi-chine flat bottomed hull that adds stability and improves tracking, staying flat on land while loading gear onto the kayak.

Since it is optimized for great performance, the Pelican Unison 136T kayak is a decent option for tandem kayakers. There’s so much room in each cockpit, you can take your dog out with you if you’re going solo! They can be completely comfortable and stretch out while they enjoy the ride.