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The Bic Bilbao Fishing kayak
this is my first impresions review
of this kayak
the first thing you wil notice with the bilbao is the quality of the build its superb evert thing about
this kayak is well thought out
from the tri shape hull design to the placement of the handles
the kayak comes surplied
with the following
Integrated footrests * Seat EVA foam cushioning
Front EVA foam cushioning * Safety grab lines
Stern protector + wheel * Drink holder
Reserve buoyancy * Inserts for backrests
Bow protector * Rubber carry handles
Mooring straps * Accessory stowing mesh
Nestable watertight front hatch * Nestbale watertight rear hatch
Rear
rod holders x2 * Paddle leash
Self draining scuppers x 2
This first photo shows the bilbao with a deluxe angling seat this seat
is an add on
Please note the drain plug is above the waterline so no chance of any water ingress
The bilbao is 9ft10inches
long and 31 inches wide it weighs 50lbs .
It is made from high quality thermoformed polyethylene and its maximum load is
264lbs
The sleek designed hull is very quick through the water .
The bilbao
boasts a host of clever design features such as the small cargo net at the front this is in an ideal position for tucking
your paddle blade in to while fishing .
There are 2 drain scuppers in the cockpit area one under the seat and another by
your feet so any water quickly drains away
The front carry handle is central so carrying or pulling this kayak is
very easy
2 caped rod holders are fitted to the kayak and we found them easy to reach
Also
note the clever cross straps these not only make sure your hatch can not come off they are also elasticised so tackle boxes
can be slotted under them for safe keeping
The deep cockpit design gives a lot of leg space and plenty of room to
handle your fish while fishing
Note the fittings used to secure the net these are very neat and the handy hatch
at the front
In the large rear tankwell is another surprise the seating area has a closed
cell foam all around it this is an additional safety feature which is your reserve buyancy should the kayak fill with water
it still would not sink
Note the raised hatch cover frame this is to stop any water ingress through the hatches
The wheel and black rubbing strip at each end of the kayak can be re-placed should
the need arise
The incorporated rear wheel is very handy for moving the kayak to and from
the beach
All in all I think bic have a superb kayak here it has been very well thought out.
It has a lot of features
for kayak under 10ft we found it very stable and really enjoyed paddling it.
The kayak tracked very well and turned on
a dime the quality of the build is superb
And very robust the kayak retails for £529.00 and is very good value for that.
Article by Terry Jackson
(zebra)
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