The Emotion Grand Slam Angler Fishing Kayak Review
The Emotion Grand Slam is a super-slim and very long fishing kayak that is one of the fastest and most efficient kayaks that we have ever reviewed.
While it does lack in unique features, it has a brilliant empty space in front of the seat that allows for great standing room.
This is something that does set it aside from other kayaks and while the price tag is slightly high in our opinion, we do think that sporty anglers will love this kayak and we wholly recommend it. Read on to see if this is THE fishing kayak for you.
What to Consider when Buying a Fishing Kayak
When you are considering which kayak to buy there are some considerations that you have to make. Buying a kayak can be a large investment for anyone so you want to make sure that you get one that meets all of your needs.
Consider the following when you start your search, it will help you to eliminate some of your choices by ensuring that you are making a choice that is well suited to your personal needs. Consider these points while you shop:
- Skill level
- Sit-on-top vs. Sit-in kayaks
- Type of construction
- Stability vs. Speed
- Intended use
- Outfitting
- Sponsons
- Cost
The Emotion Grand Slam Angler Fishing Kayak Review
One look at this kayak and you know that you are looking at a high-quality kayak. Some of the features are immediately obvious and a closer look will reveal all the other features that are offered. This kayak is obviously well made and high quality. It offers many features that you can check off the above list.
Of course, it is not all good news, there are some things that you need to know about before you make the purchase so you can make an informed decision based on all the facts.
We have put together an honest review to help you make a choice you will be happy with.
Specifications
| Length | 14.5′ |
| Width | 30.5″ |
| Weight | 72 pounds |
| Type | Sit on top |
| Capacity | 350 pounds |
| Rigged for fishing | Yes |
| Propulsion | Paddle |
Pros
- Very long and slimline, measuring 14.5 feet. This makes for great hull efficiency and very good speed
- A narrow beam allows it to roll through water easily
- Adjustable foot braces
- Great seating system
- Good standing ability
Cons
- Less maneuverable than some kayaks due to its length
- At 72 pounds this is a heavy kayak, making it difficult to transport
- Not as stable as some kayaks, so it may not be suitable for new starters
- A poor fixture on the seat, so do not forget to detach when you are transporting
- No paddle keeper
- No anchor trolley
Size and Weight
The Emotion Grand Slam Angler has an overall capacity of 350 pounds and is great for anglers who are tall or who are carrying more weight. The designers have built this kayak to be fast, coming in at just 14.5 feet in length with a 30-inch beam.
This means that this kayak may not be suitable for those just starting out in kayaking or who enjoy a slower pace of fishing. If you like your fishing trips to be fast-paced this could bet the model for you.
Coming in at 72 pounds it is relatively heavy compared to some other fishing kayaks and those who are not very strong may struggle to manage the kayak easily. We would say that you are likely to need to help to move the kayak any significant distance or when tying to your roof.
Design
Emotion’s Grand Slam Angler is 14.5 inches in length which means it hits reasonably good speeds, enough to handle any surf zones and rough waters.
You can reach almost any destination in this kayak, although areas that are a little tricky to maneuver may cause a problem. The length of this kayak also makes it a little less stable than a lot of kayaks, so novices may feel a little uncomfortable paddling in this model.
We really like the rudder system that the team has designed as you can focus on paddling whilst the rudder keeps you on track. Tracking is good all-round and is a major pull for many anglers looking to upgrade to a faster kayak.
One of the best features of the Grand Slam is the Comfort Rest Seating System that is adjustable and very comfortable indeed. The foot braces can also be adjusted so that anglers can sit in the optimum position.
There is a center console that has a hinged lid and offers good storage space for fishing finders and other important equipment. There are also extra places to mount equipment and there is enough there could be a little more, in our opinion. The design of the console means that there is a generous cockpit area that allows for good standing space.
So many kayaks are built with protruding storage space or console, that get in the way when we are concentrating on a big catch. If you are an angler who gets excited when in the throes of catching a fish, you will not want to have to think about what is under your feet.
The free space in this kayak is very much welcome. Of course, this does have its downsides, in the fact that the kayak is a little spartan in certain areas, but we love it nonetheless.
Features
This kayak looks great AND it offers some really intriguing features. At first things like adjustable foot braces may not seem like a big deal but when you think about the size differences of anglers it makes complete sense that adjustable foot braces may be a huge selling point for some. Having a few extra inches can really make a difference in comfort.
Dry storage space in the day hatch is good, although it is out of reach if you want to store items that you use regularly, such as cameras or fishing finders. There is good space for bait and cool boxes and overall the storage features are well planned out, although we do not really see the need for a cup holder that is placed out of reach.
This kayak does not have paddle keepers, so you will have to think of a way to customize your kayak if you need to have your arms free instead of holding onto a keeper. Sometimes it is the little things like paddle keepers that make a difference but don’t let that put you off.
Whilst a lot of the features of this kayak are great, some very unique even, some people may not be sure if this kayak is worth the price, although the clear standing space is something we admire greatly.
Summary
If you have read any of our previous reviews, you will know that we love long slim kayaks so we are bound to say that we like this kayak. We have had a little grumble over the price of this model, but overall it should give you value for money and we are being super picky when we say that the price is a little high.
The seating system is something that we would like to see on all kayaks, it is very good indeed. The standing room appeals as does the good storage space and standing room, so the only negatives in our opinion is the lack of stability, which doesn’t bother us too much but we are aware that novices may take issue with it.
Overall, this is a very attractive kayak that does the job in hand and celebrates a good level of durability. Despite some of our minor qualms, we are sure that after reading this review you will have seen the many benefits of this kayak and it will allow you to enjoy many happy fishing days.
