Bonafide SKF117 – The Ultimate Hybrid Fishing Kayak

When it comes to fishing kayaks, versatility is king. The Bonafide SKF117 Hybrid Fishing Kayak delivers just that, a true hybrid kayak designed for both stand-up and sit-down fishing, perfect for anglers who chase a wide variety of species in equally diverse waters, from the mangroves chasing snook, to tiny backwaters chasing smallmouth. A fly fisherman stalking redfish on the flats, or a weekend paddler looking for a stable platform, the SKF117 offers a rock-solid, feature-rich solution.

Take a walk through the SKF117 with the head of design at Bonafide here!

Hybrid Design

The "SKF" in SKF117 stands for Skiff, as this kayak was designed around the same premise as a Skiff Boat and built for cruising and pushpoling your way through flats and backwaters. This 11'7" kayak blends the open, stable deck of a stand-up fishing platform with the efficiency and control of a sit-down kayak. Its compact size makes it easy to transport, weighing only 78lbs without additional accessories, making it easy to launch from just about anywhere. Yet, it's packed with the features serious anglers demand.

The hybrid layout gives you the freedom to switch seamlessly between standing to sight-fish and sitting for long paddles. The expansive, flat deck ensures stability when you're casting flies or working lures, while the unique catamaran hull design offers excellent tracking and maneuverability in both calm and moving water.

Fishing

The Bonafide SKF117 caters to anglers who want versatility in their fishing adventures. The stable, open deck excels at sight-casting in shallow flats, navigating narrow river channels, and working along the shorelines of calm lakes. With its responsive handling and shallow draft, you can access hidden waters that larger boats can't reach. Plus, the comfort-focused seating and fishing-ready rigging keep you prepared for long days on the water, no matter what species or environment you're targeting.

Fishing-Ready Features

The Hi Rise seat system provides all-day comfort, whether you're paddling miles or patiently waiting for that perfect bite. Gear tracks, rod holders, and ample storage allow for a custom rigging setup, so you can carry everything from tackle boxes to tackle trays. The kayak's open cargo area readily accepts your fishing crate, even up to a 16x16 YakAttack BlackPak Pro. In contrast, the open bow area keeps essentials within easy reach, such as a paddle or a push-pole, while maintaining a clean, uncluttered deck, allowing you to stand and land fish with ease.

The SKF117 will accept some of your favorite accessories, such as the Sidekick Wheel System along the rear gear tracks,  a Power-Pole Micro Anchor using the pre-drilled mounting holes, and a fish-finder along the cup holder up front through a transducer pocket. The SKF117 may be small in stature, but it's built with heavy use in mind, accommodating the core features that kayak anglers want and need.

Performance

Thanks to its hybrid catamaran hull design, the SKF117 glides smoothly across the flats, holds its line in wind, and turns quickly in tight spaces. Stand-up stability inspires confidence, while the low-profile draft makes it easy to slip into skinny water.

A core feature of the SKF117 is the built-in drop-skeg that is integrated right into the keel of the kayak. Using the lever right by your seat, you can easily drop the skeg when you're moving from spot to spot to improve your control and performance. When you're in shallow water or transporting the kayak on land, the skeg is easily retractable.

Conclusion

The Bonafide SKF117 is a rare breed; it's a compact fishing kayak that doesn't compromise on stability, comfort, or versatility. For anglers who want one kayak that can handle everything from shallow waterflats fishing to maneuvering through creeks and rivers, the SKF117 delivers. Whether you're a season angler or a recreational paddler, the SKF117 offers something for everyone. Stand up, sit down, and fish anywhere with the Bonafide SKF117 Hybrid Fishing Kayak.

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