For anglers looking to up their fishing game, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 kayak should definitely be on your radar. This versatile vessel has been making waves (pun intended) in the world of kayak fishing, and for good reason. In this hands-on review, we’ll dive into all the nitty-gritty details so you can decide if the Outlaw 11.5 is the right fishing kayak for you.
Introduction to the Perception Outlaw 11.5 Kayak
Perception designed the Outlaw 11.5 as an evolution of their popular Pescador series, integrating feedback from avid kayak anglers. The result is a stable, customizable, and durable kayak ready to handle everything the angling world throws at it.
At 11’6″ in length with a width of 32.5″, the Outlaw 11.5 provides a nice blend of tracking, speed, and maneuverability. Its streamlined hull eats up the miles while still allowing tight turns around structure and changing current lines. The pronounced keel helps keep you on track in windy conditions or large swells.
Weighing in at a transportable 57 pounds, the Outlaw 11.5 strikes a nice balance between portability and stability. The wide stance, rockered keel, and modest weight make it easy to balance while standing and sight fish. The kayak’s 375 pound capacity means you can load up for a full day on the water.
Storage options abound on this kayak. A large rear tank well can swallow bulky gear, while a front sealed hatch keeps small items and electronics dry. Plenty of built-in gear tracks and bungees allow almost endless rigging configurations.
Stability and Tracking When Fishing
For many anglers, stability is a top priority in a fishing kayak. You want the confidence to stand, lean, and work a fish without ending up in a chilly dunk. Here the Outlaw 11.5 really shines.
The wide 32.5″ beam provides an exceptionally stable platform for such a nimble boat. Standing and sight casting is no problem, even in fairly rough water. Leaning over the side to net or unhook a fish won’t be tippy.
Despite the short 11’6″ length, the Outlaw 11.5 tracks well and maintains speed efficiently. The rockered keel and pronounced tracking fin help keep the kayak moving straight when paddling. This allows you to focus on fishing the most productive structure and current seams while the kayak cooperatively goes where you aim it.
Stand Up Fishing Capabilities
Stand up fishing freedom is one of the Outlaw 11.5’s biggest perks. The wide standing platform and stability let you rotate 360 degrees when fighting fish or spotting new targets. Leaning over to unhook fish or grab a net is stable and secure.
Being able to stand also allows for increased sight fishing possibilities. You can spot fish cruising shallow structure more easily. Make longer and more accurate casts while utilizing your whole torso for power. Overall, the stand up functionality makes for a more engaging and active fishing experience.
Storage and Rigging Options
With so much gear and equipment needed for a successful kayak fishing trip, having smart storage options is a must. The Outlaw 11.5 kayak delivers on this front.
The spacious rear tank well can swallow small coolers, crates, or tackle bags effortlessly. A bungee latticework secures your load. Inside the cockpit, a smaller front sealed hatch keeps small items like keys, phones, and electronics dry.
Gear tracks run along the sides and rear of the kayak, allowing almost endless rigging options. Rod holders, fish finders, anchor systems, and more can be mounted securely. Flush mount rod holders behind the seat allow easy access to your poles when paddling or pedaling.
Comfort and Adjustability
Considering how much time you’ll spend in your fishing kayak, comfort is critical. The Outlaw’s adjustable padded seat provides a comfortable perch during long days on the water. The backrest can be reclined to find the perfect angle between efficiency paddling and laid back comfort.
Thigh and knee pads protect your legs while giving you increased leverage when casting. Large foot wells allow you to stretch out for true comfort. Multiple footrest positions accommodate different leg lengths.
A generous side carry handle makes it easy to transport the 57 pound kayak from your vehicle to the water. Once loaded with your gear, the kayak still isn’t overly heavy or bulky at just under 75 pounds.
Carrying Capacity and Weight Limit
With a carrying capacity of 375 pounds, the Outlaw 11.5 provides flexibility for kayak anglers of almost any size. With safety always the priority, staying under the recommended weight limit allows the kayak to maintain its design performance and characteristics. This keeps you and your gear secure.
Even when fully loaded with angling gear, the Outlaw 11.5 only weighs around 75 pounds. The kayak is designed to be portable at this fully rigged weight. The kayak can be carried short distances by one person, with two people needed for longer distances.
Transport and Portability
Weighing in at 57 pounds and just 11’6″ long, the Outlaw is about average in terms of portability for fishing kayaks. The compact size and pointy bow allow it to fit into most truck beds or onto nearly any roof rack.
Short solo carries are doable thanks to the molded side handle. For longer journeys from vehicle to launch, recruiting a helper to carry the second handle is recommended. The kayak isn’t overly bulky or unwieldy compared to other fishing kayaks.
Once in the water, the Outlaw 11.5 paddles efficiently and smoothly. Maneuvering in tight spaces and making quick turns is easily accomplished.
Durability and Construction
Constructed from durable polyethylene plastic, the Outlaw 11.5 can handle scrapes with docks, rocks, or other hard objects. The material is impact resistant and can flex if contacted before popping back into shape. UV inhibitors help protect against sun damage.
The Outlaw contains no wood components that can rot or deteriorate over time. Sealed bulkheads help keep the interior dry. Chrome-plated brass inserts allow attachment of accessories without damaging the hull.
The plastic hull material isn’t impervious to damage, but it is highly durable for typical kayak use. Following proper care and maintenance procedures will keep your Outlaw in shape for seasons of fishing adventures.
Comparison to Other Fishing Kayaks
The Outlaw 11.5 goes fin to fin quite well with other popular fishing kayaks like the Bonafide RS117 and Feelfree Lure 11.5. Compared to the Bonafide, the Outlaw has a slight edge in stability and stand-up fishing freedom. The Lure offers similar stability but lacks some of the customization options.
Compared to wider sit-on-top kayaks like the Hobie Outback, the Outlaw compromises some stability for improved speed and paddling performance. The Outback does have the option of a pedal drive for hands-free propulsion.
When compared to cheaper recreational kayaks, the Outlaw provides a clear upgrade in fishing-specific features and performance. The wider, more stable Outlaw costs a bit more but adds key functionality for anglers.
Ideal Conditions for the Outlaw 11.5
The versatile Outlaw 11.5 excels across a range of conditions. The stability and comfort make it a great option for all-day fishing trips or kayak camping overnights. The nimble hull allows tight navigation through woody structure or rocky outcroppings.
Thanks to the pronounced keel, the Outlaw tracks well even in moderate winds and waves. The stand-up stability lets you sight fish in fairly rippled water. The kayak is short enough to maneuver tight small rivers and streams.
While the Outlaw isn’t a speed demon, it efficiently paddles across large lakes with no problems. It’s a dependable all-around performer.
Pros and Cons
Like all kayaks, the Outlaw isn’t perfect. Here are a few pros and cons to consider before buying.
Pros:
- Very stable standing platform
- Comfortable, adjustable seat
- Plenty of storage and rigging options
- Durable rotomolded polyethylene construction
- Nice blend of speed, stability, and agility
Cons:
Rigging Tips
One of the Outlaw 11.5’s strengths is its nearly endless rigging potential. Here are some must-have accessories to outfit your kayak:
- Rod holders – Allow hands-free trolling and easy rod access
- Fish finder – Find structure and baitfish locations
- Anchor trolley – Strategically place anchors from any spot on the kayak
- Stakeout poles – Temporary anchors for fishing a precise spot
- Bungee nets – Secure gear and harvests in the tank well
Investing in quality kayak fishing accessories tailored to your needs allows you to get the most out of the Outlaw’s performance.
Is the Investment Worth it for Anglers?
With a price tag of around $900, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 represents a serious investment for many anglers. But given its quality construction, versatile performance, and thoughtful fishing features, we think it’s worth every penny.
Kayaks comparable to the Outlaw from other top brands like Wilderness Systems, Bonafide, and Feelfree often cost even more. You’d be hard pressed to find a similar fishing-specific kayak of this quality for much cheaper.
For kayak anglers willing to spend money to get a stable, customizable, and durable vessel that will last many seasons, the Outlaw 11.5 is absolutely worth the price tag.
The Verdict
The Outlaw 11.5 rightfully deserves its growing reputation as a top-notch fishing kayak. It blends stability, comfort, customizability, and access into a thoughtfully designed package ready for seasons of kayak fishing adventures.
For anglers wanting a versatile performer ready to stand up to real-world fishing conditions, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 should be at the top of your wish list. While not a budget option, it delivers excellent quality and functionality for the price. All said, it is one of the best all-around fishing kayaks available today.
When researching your next fishing kayak, understanding the key specifications and features is crucial to finding the right fit. The Perception Outlaw 11.5 has an ideal blend of size, capacity, accessories, and performance factors that make it a top contender.
Overview of Key Specs and Features
Here’s a closer look at some of the Outlaw 11.5’s vital stats and capabilities:
Size and Dimensions
At 11’6″ long and 32.5″ wide, the Outlaw hits a sweet spot between speed and stability. It’s compact enough for easy transport and storage, yet wide enough for excellent balance while fishing.
Weight and Capacity
The Outlaw weighs approximately 57 pounds. While not ultra-light, this makes solo carries manageable. The 375 pound capacity gives plenty of gear hauling ability.
Construction
Rotomolded from high density polyethylene plastic, the Outlaw is impact resistant and durable. UV inhibitors help protect against sun damage and fading.
Storage and Rigging
A large rear tank well and smaller front hatch provide abundant dry storage. Thigh pads allow easy access during paddling. Numerous gear tracks and flush mount rod holders allow endless rigging options.
Comfort and Seating
The padded, adjustable seat can be tweaked for all-day comfort. Large cockpit opening allows easy entry and exit, even for bigger anglers. Footrests adjust to fit different leg lengths.
Stability and Maneuverability
Excellent stability comes from the wide 32.5” beam and rockered standing platform. The modest 57 pound weight allows tight turns and easy navigation in current or wind.
Tracking and Speed
A pronounced keel and sharp entry point provide solid tracking that stays on course. While not the speediest, the hydrodynamic hull delivers efficient glide with less paddling effort.
Stand Up Fishing
The non-slip standing pad and wide beam create a stable stand-up platform. Anglers can sight fish and land catches with confidence.
Considering all these performance factors and fishing-friendly features, it’s easy to see why the Perception Outlaw 11.5 kayak is highly regarded by serious anglers. The smart design provides versatility, customization, and functionality for conquering a variety of waterways.
A fishing kayak lives and dies by its stability and tracking abilities. You want the confidence to work fish without worrying about capsizing, even in adverse conditions. Precision tracking allows you to maintain position over prime structure.
With its dual-chine hull and pronounced keel, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 delivers impressive performance when it comes to balancing and staying on course.
Stability and Tracking Performance on the Water
The Outlaw’s 32.5″ beam provides a super stable platform that performs admirably when fighting strong fish or taking on blustery winds.
Normally wide kayaks can be cumbersome and slow. But the Outlaw’s rockered standing area keeps it surprisingly nimble despite the girth. Tight turns and sudden maneuvers won’t be a problem.
The kayak feels planted and secure when sight casting, even in fairly rippled water. You can lean over the sides or stand tall with confidence the Outlaw won’t betray you.
In terms of tracking, the Outlaw stays true when paddling or pedaling in windy, wavy conditions. The keel slices through swells to minimize sideways drift. This allows you to maintain position over sweet spots like dropoffs, weed lines, or channel ledges.
The Outlaw isn’t the absolute fastest kayak, but makes efficient forward progress with less wasted paddle strokes. The pointed bow helps penetrate chop and disturbed water.
Despite being just 11’6″ long, the Outlaw tracks surprisingly well. The keel design deserves the credit here. Maneuverability doesn’t suffer either, as the kayak turns sharply when needed.
All said, the Outlaw 11.5 kayak’s stability and tracking are clear standouts. You’ll have the versatility and poise to tackle rough water and winding rivers alike. It’s a balanced performer only a notch below premium kayaks costing much more.
One of the Outlaw 11.5’s biggest selling points is its stand up fishing stability. Anglers who enjoy the freedom of sight casting and fighting fish on their feet will appreciate this kayak.
Stand Up Fishing Capabilities
The Outlaw’s 32.5″ width and dual-chine hull provide an incredibly stable standing platform for a boat its size. You can stand and cast with confidence that an unexpected wave won’t knock you off balance.
Rotating 360 degrees when hooked into a strong fish is no problem. The non-slip deck allows sure footing when reeling, maneuvering the rod, or landing your catch.
Leaning over to grab a net or release the fish won’t make you nervous like some tippy kayaks might. Even sitting and propping your feet up on the front deck feels secure.
The Outlaw has one of the most functional stand up fishing platforms under $1000. Rival boats from Vibe and Feelfree don’t quite match its poise.
Being able to stand expands your fishing versatility. You can stalk shallow bass more easily from an elevated perspective. See over grass and visually hunt for cruising fish. And fight big fish with added leverage utilizing your whole body.
Casting and landing fish also improves from a standing position. You can rocket long casts with extra torso power. Use the increased sight lines to land fish quickly and accurately.
While standing and paddling takes more skill, it’s doable on flat water to reach distant spots. The Outlaw gives you that option if desired.
All said, the Outlaw’s stand up stability is confidence inspiring. Anglers who enjoy the freedom of fishing on their feet will feel right at home with this capable kayak.
Any seasoned kayak angler knows you can never have enough storage and gear attachment options. Tackle, rods, electronics, anchors, and accessories need a home to stay secure and organized.
Storage and Rigging Options
The Outlaw 11.5 acknowledges the realities of kayak fishing with abundant storage possibilities both inside and out.
The stern tank well can swallow small coolers, crates, or dry bags to keep essentials close yet out of the way. Shock cord latticework secures your load in place while allowing easy access.
Inside the cockpit, a smaller sealed hatch keeps valuables like phones and keys dry and protected. The hatch lid clips securely to keep contents from rattling around.
Anglers who use fish finders will appreciate the dedicated transducer cavity beneath the hull. Run wires cleanly through the factory installed scupper holes into the battery storage in back.
Gear tracks run down each side and across the stern for securing rod holders, anchors, cameras, or other accessories. Flush mount rod holders behind the seat allow quick rod access when paddling or pedaling.
Paddle holders, a molded cup holder, and bungee tie-downs provide additional convenience. Cargo nets create handy storage for planer boards, float bags, or rain gear within easy reach.
With so many smart storage solutions, the Outlaw allows endless customization for your specific fishing and gear needs. You’ll be fully equipped heading out on the water.
You’ll be spending long hours seated in your fishing kayak, so comfort is key. The Outlaw 11.5’s adjustable padded seat provides a comfortable and customizable perch.
Comfort and Adjustability of the Seat
The Outlaw’s quilted fabric seat pad features 3 inches of cushioning to pamper your backside on those all-day trips. Pressure points are nicely distributed by the ergonomic shaping.
A ventilated mesh fabric on the seat back allows air circulation to keep you cool and sweat-free on hot sunny days. The padding contours to your back without pinching or rubbing.
The seat can be raised, lowered, and tilted to fine tune the comfort and leg positioning. Shorter paddlers can gain a better stroke angle from the increased seat height. Set it upright for efficient paddling or recline it to relax.
Side cutouts help you rotate and turn freely for fighting fish behind you. Thigh pads cushion your legs from the boat walls when hook setting.
Getting in and out of the cockpit is helped by the generous opening size. Even bigger anglers have room to maneuver. Once seated, the adjustable foot braces secure you in place.
Small touches like the molded-in side handles make carrying and transporting the kayak more comfortable. And the paddle-ready position behind the seat gets you paddling without wasted effort.
All said, the Outlaw’s comforts add up to a great fishing platform for anglers wanting solace and adjustability during lengthy days on the water.
Understanding a kayak’s weight capacities and limits is key for safety and performance. You want to stay within the designed specs for the best on-water experience.
Carrying Capacity and Weight Limits
The Outlaw 11.5 has a maximum capacity of 375 pounds. This gives reasonable flexibility to carry gear and cargo.
For an average sized angler of 180 pounds, that leaves nearly 200 pounds of additional capacity. This allows for tackle boxes, rods, a small cooler, anchor system, and other fishing accessories.
Keep in mind the Outlaw itself weighs 57 pounds. Once loaded with fishing gear, you can expect it to weigh 70-80 pounds depending on your rigging.
While the Outlaw can technically carry up to 375 pounds, staying closer to its rated capacity will provide the best performance. Handling becomes sluggish and stability suffers if greatly overloaded.
Carrying too much weight can also cause the kayak to ride lower in the water. This reduces clearance over obstacles and affects tracking ability. Not to mention overloading puts additional strain on the hull.
When outfitting your Outlaw 11.5, use the 375 pound capacity as a maximum limit, not a target. Keep cargo weight sensible for one person to paddle and transport comfortably.
Using good judgment when loading gear ensures your Outlaw will handle nimbly and safely across a range of fishing conditions.
Between vehicle, shore, and water, a fishing kayak goes through a lot of transporting. The Outlaw 11.5 provides a nice balance of portability and stability when traveling to and from the launch.
Transport and Portability When Not on the Water
Tipping the scales at 57 pounds and stretching 11’6″ long, the Outlaw hits a nice sweet spot for a stable fishing kayak. It’s compact enough for easy handling yet has the weight for good water manners.
The sleek hull shape allows it to fit into most truck beds without issue. Smaller SUVs and roof racks can transport it with minimal overhang.
Carrying the Outlaw short distances is manageable solo thanks to the molded side handles. But for longer jaunts from vehicle to water, recruiting a second person to share the load is recommended.
The kayak isn’t overly wide or bulky feeling compared to other fishing models. The pronounced keel helps it track straight when pulled on a kayak cart.
Loading the kayak onto roof racks can be done solo by sliding it up on its side then rotating it into position. The 57 pound weight is easily managed by most average strength paddlers.
In the water, the Outlaw accelerates smoothly and turns on a dime. The modest size makes it maneuverable in tight quarters near docks or around structure.
While not incredibly fast, the Outlaw makes efficient forward progress for its size. It won’t wear you out paddling across lakes or into a stiff breeze.
All said, the Outlaw finds a nice compromise between stability, cargo capacity, and portability. It’s at home on top of a car or slipping through winding rivers.
Kayaks take a beating from sun, scrapes, impacts, and the elements. Durability depends largely on the materials used in construction. The Outlaw 11.5 utilizes tough rotomolded polyethylene able to handle real-world abuse.
Durability and Construction Materials Used
The Outlaw’s hull is constructed from a single piece of high-density polyethylene formed using a rotomolding process. This creates a rugged, impact-resistant shell.
Polyethylene is a flexible plastic that can bend and flex when contact occurs with docks, rocks, or other hard objects. It will then return to its original shape rather than crack or puncture.
UV light inhibitors are added to the plastic formula to help protect against sun damage and fading over time. This retains the bright, like-new sheen even after years of exposure.
There is no wood used for structure or outfitting. Wood can rot and deteriorate from moisture exposure. The Outlaw contains no foam either, which can soak up water if the hull is breached.
Chrome-plated brass threaded inserts are embedded in the plastic for securely mounting accessories like rod holders and gear tracks. This prevents screws from drilling into and weakening the hull over time.
The Outlaw isn’t indestructible; dragging it over rocks or hitting bridges can cause gouges. But it’s highly abrasion and impact resistant for a long service life under normal paddling conditions.
With careful use and maintenance, the sturdy Outlaw 11.5 will provide many seasons of rugged reliability out on the water.
With so many fishing kayak options on the market, it helps to see how the Outlaw 11.5 stacks up against the competition. Overall, it holds its own against other popular models in the same class and price range.
How it Compares to Other Popular Fishing Kayaks
The Outlaw goes hull-to-hull quite well with the Bonafide RS117. Both offer excellent stability and load capacity for their modest size. The Outlaw has a slight edge for stand-up fishing, while the RS117 is a bit faster.
Against the Feelfree Lure 11.5, the Outlaw offers comparable stability with added versatility from more rigging options. However, the Lure’s wheel in the keel makes rolling transport easier.
Wider sit-on-tops like the Vibe Sea Ghost 130 provide more immense weight capacity but less nimble tracking. Their bigger size also limits transport options.
Pedal kayaks such as the Hobie Outback have game-changing hands-free propulsion. But they sacrifice speed, drive inefficiently upwind, and cost much more.
Budget recreational kayaks like the Lifetime Tamarack Angler lack specialized features and stability compared to the Outlaw. You get what you pay for.
When looking at high-end options like the Wilderness Systems Radar 135, the Outlaw offers 80% of the performance at half the price. It punches well above its weight.
All said, among fishing kayaks under $1000, the Outlaw 11.5 competes with the best of them. Only the most demanding anglers would need to look at pricier alternatives.
Understanding the ideal conditions for a kayak helps match it to your local waters. With its blend of speed, stability, and nimbleness, the Outlaw 11.5 is versatile across many different environments.
Ideal Conditions for the Outlaw 11.5
The Outlaw really shines on medium to large sized lakes. It’s stable enough to stand and sight fish open water structure, while still paddling efficiently across long distances.
On rivers, the Outlaw navigates tight, winding channels with agility. The stability lets you cast and work banks and structure despite current and debris.
For kayak camping adventures, the Outlaw has the cargo capacity and tracking to cover miles while loaded with gear. The modest 57 pound weight won’t exhaust you portaging.
In coastal areas, the Outlaw handles inlets and estuaries well. The hull shape slices through chop while preventing sideways drift in beam winds and swell.
Thanks to the pronounced keel, the Outlaw can manage mild river rapids up to Class II. Always exercise appropriate caution in fast moving water.
While stable for a 32″ wide kayak, super windy conditions on big lakes may favor wider options. But the Outlaw will handle most scenarios an angler will encounter.
All said, the Outlaw 11.5 provides versatility across a wide range of fishing hotspots. It’s an excellent do-it-all kayak for anglers hitting different types of water.
As with any kayak, the Outlaw 11.5 has its pluses and minuses. Determining the pros and cons allows an informed decision about its suitability for your needs.
Pros and Cons of the Design and Performance
Pros:
- Very stable standing and fishing platform
- Good speed and tracking for its moderately sized hull
- Durable rotomolded polyethylene construction
- Rear storage tank well swallows large loads
- Thoughtful seating comfort and adjustability
- Endless rigging options for accessories
Cons:
- No rudder option available
- Not quite as fast as longer, narrower kayaks
- Can be heavy and awkward for one person to carry long distances
- Plastic scuffs and scratches over time
As you can see, the Outlaw provides excellent stability, storage, durability and customization for its price point. The only downsides are moderate speed and portability challenges.
For anglers wanting a balanced kayak optimized for standing, storage, and fishing versatility, the pros easily outweigh the cons with the Perception Outlaw 11.5.
One of the Outlaw 11.5’s strengths is its virtually endless rigging possibilities. With some strategic outfitting, you can customize it to perfectly match your fishing style and home waters.
Outfitting the Kayak for Your Specific Fishing Needs
Here are some of the most useful accessories to deck out your Outlaw for fishing success:
- Rod holders – At least 2 flush mount and 1 Scotty type holder allows access to rods while paddling and trolling.
- Anchor system – Either a stakeout pole or anchor trolley to keep you positioned over structure.
- Fish finder – Mount a fish finder on a RAM mount to hunt fish and map bottom contour.
- Safety gear – A whistle, signal light, and paddle leash for emergency situations.
- Motor mount – Add a trolling motor to cover more water and precision positioning.
- Livewell – A portable livewell keeps bait lively and catch fresh during tournaments.
Think through how you fish and mount accessories strategically within reach. Utilize the ample gear tracks, baitwell tank, and storage options.
Add creature comforts like a seat cushion, sun shade, or cupholder to make long days more enjoyable. Personalize with custom paint or graphics.
Properly outfitting your Outlaw 11.5 allows you to tailor it for everything from casual weekend trips to serious tournament fishing and everything between.
With a price tag hovering around $900, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 represents a serious investment for many anglers. But given its quality and performance, it delivers good value for dedicated kayak fishermen.
Is it Worth the Investment for Avid Anglers?
It’s true the Outlaw commands a premium price in the fishing kayak market. But when you factor in the stability, storage, durability, comfort, and versatility it provides, the price becomes more reasonable.
Kayaks comparable to the Outlaw from other top brands like Wilderness Systems, Hobie, or Old Town often cost $1000 or more. The Outlaw competes with models costing much more.
Budget sit-on-top kayaks in the $300-500 range look enticing at first. But most anglers find their lack of fishing features and performance limitations quickly apparent.
Due to its thoughtful design and quality construction, the Outlaw truly punches above its class. You’d be hard pressed to find a similar fishing-first kayak of this caliber for much less.
For anglers who regularly hit the water and want a versatile, stable, and durable vessel, the Outlaw is worth every penny. It will reward you with seasons of memorable fishing adventures.
Avid kayak fishermen willing to invest in a top-notch boat will appreciate everything the Perception Outlaw 11.5 brings to the water. Overall it provides excellent bang for the buck.
With so many kayak options on the market, is the Outlaw 11.5 objectively the single best fishing kayak available? While subjective, based on its performance and features, it makes a strong case in its class and price range.
Final Verdict – Is This the Best Fishing Kayak Available?
When comparing the Outlaw to premium $1500+ kayaks, those models edge it out slightly in speed, accessories, and finesse. But they should for double the cost!
Up against its direct competition – fellow fishing kayaks under $1000 – the Outlaw 11.5 reigns supreme. It masterfully blends stability, cargo capacity, durability, and thoughtful design in a wallet-friendly package.
While pedal kayaks offer hands-free convenience, their limited upwind speed, heavier weight, and high cost make paddling kayaks like the Outlaw compelling alternatives.
Could aspects like the seat comfort, plastic hull, or gear tracks be incrementally improved? Perhaps. But at its price point, the Outlaw out-delivers its competitors.
While not a budget kayak, the Outlaw provides outstanding versatility, customization, and capability for a mid-range cost. It Punishes above its weight class.
For anglers wanting the freedom to stand and fish with confidence on a durable and well-designed hull, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is arguably the best option available. It elegantly balances fishing amenities with paddling performance in an affordable do-it-all watercraft.