Anglers have been taking pedal kayaks, and they are very popular for good reason. This gives you the ability to move hands-free which affords you the ability to maneuver around while also keeping a grip on your kayak.
The Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 Overdrive is one standout option in the market. Having spent some time on the water testing different models, I’d like to provide you with a breakdown of the best features, as well as the pros, cons, and why it might make a great fishing kayak to get you out on the water.
What is the Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 Overdrive?
The Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 is a pedal-driven fishing kayak for people who need versatility and performance. With its Feelfree’s Overdrive system, you can pedal, paddle or use an electric motor – a Motordrive add-on gives you the option. The options combined allow you tons of flexibility on the water; whether cruising across open lakes or getting silky tight in tight spots.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 11.5 feet
- Width: 34 inches
- Weight: 87 lbs (without Overdrive system)
- Capacity: 425 lbs
- Pedal System: Feelfree Overdrive Pedal Drive (upgradeable to Motordrive)
- Seat: Gravity seat system (adjustable height)
Features and Build Quality
The Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 is a functional and responsive kayak that was designed with fishing in mind, so the manufacturer put thought into the design of this kayak to make it as functional and as durable as possible.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the top features:
1. Feelfree Overdrive Pedal System
This kayak shows the star of the Overdrive system. It allows you to pull, shake, or whatever it is you want to do with your hands and still propel yourself, without having to worry about paddling. The system can also be upgraded with the Motordrive, so your kayak becomes an electric-powered boat. Regarding durability, the Overdrive system is built for the long haul and can tackle both shallow and deeper water without a problem.
2. Wide, Stable Platform
The Lure 11.5 V2 is incredibly stable at 34 inches wide. That is cheaper than many other fishing boats out there and makes it easier to stand up and fish, which is a plus for anglers who either prefer sight casting or need that one more manoeuvrability when landing a catch. While the handle is stable, it doesn’t come at the cost of manoeuvrability, as the kayak is still responsive—which is especially so when using the pedal drive.
3. Gravity Seat System
The Feelfree Lure series’ adjustable Gravity seat is one of the few unique features of this series. Then it can be changed to different heights for comfort or so you don’t have to be hunched overfishing. And it’s also well-padded so it’s good for long days on the water.
4. Ample Storage
This fishing kayak is designed as a real fishing kayak and has storage options to match. It has a front shield to store dry gear or a rear tank well with bungees to stash larger items such as tackle boxes or coolers and includes a waterproof map Doc. Furthermore, it has lots of space for mounting fishing materials, including rod holders, fish finders, etc.
5. Wheel in the Keel
The Keel feature from Feelfree includes their patented Wheel, making it easier to transport your kayak from your car to the water. This is a great feature whether you are considering the kayak’s weight.
Pros of the Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 Overdrive
1. Versatility
This kayak is super flexible with the ability to drop the paddle, pick up the pedals, and take it to the motorboat. Then, regardless if you’re fishing in tight mangroves, large lakes, or river channels, you can easily adjust your method of propulsion.
2. Stability for Fishing
The 34-inch wide version of this kayak will give you the stability to stand up and fish in choppier waters. It’s also stable enough not to worry if you do indeed tip on landing a big fish.
3. Comfort
Of the most comfortable seats on the market, the Gravity seat system is easily adjustable which allows you to get the perfect height for paddling, pedaling or just fishing. It was ergonomic to sit in even during long trips.
4. Pedal System
The Overdrive is capable, although lacking a motor, it is somewhat efficient and durable, and the speed is good. For those who wish to fish large areas in a single day, it is a real plus that this does not have to cost the earth in terms of power from a motorized boat.
5. Great for Gear
This kayak has you covered if you, like me, bring a ton of gear on your fishing trips. There are multiple hatches and a big rear storage area that’s all covered by bungee cords, so you can work with a wide range of fishing rods to have tackle boxes and coolers.
Cons of the Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 Overdrive
1. Weight
With this pedal drive, the Lure 11.5 V2 is on the heavier side of things coming in at 87 lbs, so unless you’re willing to enlist a little help for it you might have some trouble getting it in your vehicle yourself. Ground transport is done through the Wheel in the Keel, and it’s a two-person job to lift it.
2. Speed
The Overdrive pedal system works good, but they don’t push you as fast as some really good pedal systems out there, like the Hobie MirageDrive. This may not be the kayak for you, if speed is your number one concern.
3. Cost
The base kayak isn’t bad for the price, but once you add the Overdrive and Motor drive — the cost can go through the roof very quickly. The price range is almost pushed into a higher area due to the upgrades, but you get a lot of value for the money.
4. Limited Maneuverability in Tight Spaces
The kayak is well maintained is relatively stable and relatively manoeuvrable, but as its hull is a bit wide, you find the kayak slightly less manoeuvrable in tight, narrow channels, when using the pedal drive. In such situations, you may be switching to paddling.
Performance on the Water
The Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 Overdrive is not a one-use wonder, this is a versatile kayak that works well in varying conditions. The pedal system on calm lakes and rivers is very efficient, and you can cover a fair amount of water with little effort. It’s also stable enough to stand up and fish from the kayak and I found I could comfortably cast and reel without the fear that I’m going to tip over.
The stability continues to be good in a choppier sea. But I discovered the kayak’s wide, bulbous hull means it isn’t quite as easy to manoeuvre in small areas. For the extra stability, this is a trade-off, but if you are planning to fish in narrow rivers or marshes, something to keep in mind.
As for speed, I was able to ride what seemed a good speed, but not as fast as some other pedal kayaks I’ve used. However, the speed is more than adequate for fishing, and the hands-free is helpful to put your gear and a hand on a fish.
Stability
As I mentioned early on, this kayak was super stable. You’ll feel safe in calm waters or moderate waves. The kayak’s width means you won’t feel wobbly when trying to move about or cast, and stand-up fishing is no problem.
Pedaling Experience
The Overdrive Pedal System is not so smooth so don’t expect to set a speed record. For a kayak of this size it’s more efficient, but this is more about convenience and hands-free fishing than speed. I discovered that it’s best for anglers who tend to troll slowly or cover some moderate distances without needing to put much effort in.
Comfort
The Gravity Seat is infinitely adjustable, which is important if your days on the water are going to be long. I’ve put this in multiple positions, and the one benefit I like about it is the ability to raise the seat for better sightlines and lower it for paddling comfort.
Storage and Fishing Features
It’s great for storing fishing gear. Multiple rods, tackle box, and fish cooler? No big deal; I could bring those along. However, the centre pod is especially useful if you like having a sonar setup, and it’s easy to mount electronics
Who is the Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 Overdrive For?
Serious anglers who want the flexibility to fish in a variety of conditions will make themselves at home in this kayak. The Lure 11.5 V2 will serve you well if you’re quite the fisherperson who fishes in really calm lakes, rivers or even sea waters because you might need that stability, that comfort and then storage. The versatility in propulsion systems makes it the go-to kayak for those who would like to be able to use different propulsion mechanisms without having to buy many different kayaks.
This is also a good choice if you like standing while fishing because its a broad, steady platform. But if you’re in the market for something light or super-fast, you may wish to consider something else.
Final Thoughts on the Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 Overdrive
Feelfree Lure 11.5 V2 Overdrive is a good all-around fishing kayak with quite a bit of versatility and comfort to offer. It’s not the fastest or lightest kayak out there, but it’s stable, made of solid, durable construction, and upgradeable to motorized propulsion. Fishing doesn’t have to be expensive, or difficult, the Lure V2 11.5 is a great jump in investment for both beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
Unless you’re serious about fishing and willing to spend a bit more to get hands-free movement and long-term comfort, then this is too good a kayak to be cheap.
