Love my Impulse 120. I waited 7 month's for mine. Same color. I'm 5ft 7 151 lbs. So far, I don't ever see a reason to upgrade. You can't beat all they give you. A fin drive kayak, rudder controlled, rod holder, gear tracks, Paddle, a real adjustable seat. While waiting, I purchased, a ton of accessories. my FF, storage crate, DIY'D my 12V Cabela's battery box, with the USB/VM/CIGG PLUG, for additional running and charging, all my add-on's. Then of course my Bixpy J2 motor, attached to the rudder. I can walk bow to stern, in calm water. But I can stand and sight fish, no tipping feeling. Great vessel!!🤟🎣🙏
By the way..When I started setting my kayak up. My fishing equipment, electronics, DIY Battery box, with charger panel and VM.. After installing my Bixpy, I really JUST fun fished, getting used to my kayak. But i did purchased 1/4" and 1/2" window weather gasket trim. Every storage hatch, has a strip, with clear marine silicone. Running the bixpy, even in some chop, after every trip, I've never seen a drop of water in my hull, or storage panel's. 🎣 🙏
@@FishingWithHeath lol..Yeah that dam waiting period, and then the TH-cam vids. I ordered mine,, just when covid hit. Little did I know, so did 90% of bank fisherman, like myself. Allot of thing's are needed, especially on a fishing kayak, but then the excitement of my 1st kayak, had me spending, but stuck to a budget. And after a year of research, that was an amazing deal. Wanted the Oldtown Sportsman 106, with the Minnkota. And i also wanted the Bonafide 127. But, the Impulse is actually the same hul, and deck setup, as the bonafide. I'm glad I got the 1st version made, because everyone is having major drive issues now.. But love the Bixpy, Perfect for me, and I did order a 2nd bixpy battery, and will mount it to my storage crate, or under my seat. Next season I have tournaments lined up, and wanna know I venture further, and deeper, all day. Be safe bro, love your setup. 🙏 🎣
My husband and I both just bought one at our sportsman show and we are taking them both out this weekend for Fourth of July up north in Minnesota so far they seem to be very nice very well-built. I was confused though because it does not come with instructions on where certain things go, but we did get the extra set of flippers. We paid I believe $1400 a piece.
I just found this video and it's very informative. I'm currently looking for a peddle drive and see this one is priced really nice. In 2023 do you think its still one of the better entry level peddle drive kayaks out?
Hey I don't have this kayak anymore due to not having enough room. This is a good kayak but if you're looking to compare other entry level kayaks....check out Lightning kayaks.
Two major drawbacks I see immediately are related to the fin drive. No reverse option and no kick-up fins. Yes, you're saving money over buying a hobie, but those are key features that you will most certainly be missing out on. Spend an extra $1000 or so for the better setup. Might take a while to save up the extra cash, but you'll appreciate it in the long run.
@geoffspakes 1000%. Not understanding how someone would think/say otherwise. I use the reverse option quite frequently for positioning, backing off the bank and out of tight spots. It's also a great feature for reverse trolling or dragging a Carolina rig parallel to a gravelly bank. Also for digging in on fighting big fish. I own a Hobie Outback and a Hobie compass. When you get good at maneuvering, you can do sort of a "3-point turn" to get in and out of areas when you're trying to retrieve a snagged lure, or other similar scenarios.
Anyone who has this kayak in the fin version how is it bass fishing? Is not having reverse an issue, I really like the look and the stability with this yak but the propeller one is never available
Hello Heath, Can you please clarify what Bixpy adapter u used? Bixpy doesn’t have the a HooDoo pedal adapter listed on their reference material. They list a rudder mount adapter. I much prefer the one u showcase. A link would be Awesome!!
Anyone who got this guy and got the fin drive do they regret it is it a pain to not have reverse cuz on the hoodoo website the propeller one isn't available
Thanks for the video! I was really wanting the propeller but its not available. I so mainly open lake areas. Do you think the fin drive is as easy as the propeller drive? Also can you maintain a cruising speed similar to the speed of the propeller? Thank you
@HeathPanganiban I'm wanting to get into kayak fishing. I knew the fin out pulls the prop, but I assumed I'd like the reverse of the prop. I never thought about the problems coming from a spinning prop in shallow areas. That would be snag, untangle city. Thanks for that tip!
I really love the size and width of this kayak and the flexibility of different drive systems for one kayak. Have you tested the pedal drive? does the fins go in reverse? Thanks
This is a nice kayak that you have. I am looking to buy a pedal drive kayak. I do have a question? Do you know how wide the pedals are & do they come with foot strap that go across the top of your foot on the pedal? I have big very very extremely wide feet sz15 6 EEEEEE wide with very chubby fat wide toes that are equally straight across making my foot very very wide at 6 1/2 inches wide from my big toe to my lil toe. My foot keeps falling off the narrow pedals because of it being so wide. It also doesn't help that my toes are very fat & straight across. I never thought that having a foot that is 6 1/2 inches wide would be a problem for kayaking. Good video thank you for sharing.
Hey there! I just measured it. The width of the pedal where your feet pushes against the drive is about 3.75 inches wide and it does come with straps. I always take the straps off of my drives. I don't like locking my feet in them.
@@FishingWithHeath thank you so much sir for this. Those Pedals are just three inches shorter then the width of my foot. I can see those pedals are not going to work for me my foot is just going to keep falling off those pedals. Oh I don't blame you I wouldn't want my foot locked up in those straps too. I hate those straps which is good for me because my toes are so wide that my foot will not slide through those straps because of my toes being so wide. I can get my #1. , 2. , 3. Toe through the straps but my #4. , 5. toe are on the outside of the straps & that is very discomfort on the feet. Again thank you so much I really appreciate your help.
Is it pretty quick on the water using the fins? Do you know roughly your Cruising speed? Just looking to get a quicker kayak than my Dorado 125. My wife has a tempest 120p and it's really fast.
@MyNameIsJeff I got the Vanhunks elite pro angler. Pretty happy with it. Just got it on the water briefly, waiting for it to warm up more. So far it checks all the boxes. Light, Quick, and maneuverable.
Ya, the impulse has been revised and it's better than ever. Just picked one up for my wife this Friday. I was very impressed witht he quality and layout, so much so I want to sell my kayak and buy one as well. And by the way, pictures don't do it justice, it's an amazing rig when you see it in person, very stout craft. Definitely a good buy!
Hey, I was going to pick up this kayak tomorrow and I had a few questions and figured I’d see if you would respond. How’s the kayak holding up? Im worried about the quality of the pedal drive system. Has anything in your opinion changed ? Or do you still think it’s worth the money Is there anything you don’t prefer about the kayak at all? Like things you wish would be fixed or redesigned. Thanks!
Guys don't cheap out. Please purchase a $20 bilge pump, and it comes with a rubber hose, to get into your hull. You don't want to be out in the ocean with a sponge, rag, or a or bucket. It won't be good. I have all my toys, Bixpy, add-ons, fin drive, accessories. But NRS PFD, And that bilge pump always on me and pump stored on board. 😎 🌊 🎣 🛶
Love my Impulse 120. I waited 7 month's for mine. Same color. I'm 5ft 7 151 lbs. So far, I don't ever see a reason to upgrade. You can't beat all they give you. A fin drive kayak, rudder controlled, rod holder, gear tracks, Paddle, a real adjustable seat. While waiting, I purchased, a ton of accessories. my FF, storage crate, DIY'D my 12V Cabela's battery box, with the USB/VM/CIGG PLUG, for additional running and charging, all my add-on's. Then of course my Bixpy J2 motor, attached to the rudder. I can walk bow to stern, in calm water. But I can stand and sight fish, no tipping feeling. Great vessel!!🤟🎣🙏
By the way..When I started setting my kayak up. My fishing equipment, electronics, DIY Battery box, with charger panel and VM.. After installing my Bixpy, I really JUST fun fished, getting used to my kayak. But i did purchased 1/4" and 1/2" window weather gasket trim. Every storage hatch, has a strip, with clear marine silicone. Running the bixpy, even in some chop, after every trip, I've never seen a drop of water in my hull, or storage panel's. 🎣 🙏
Man! Looks like you have EVERYTHING you need! I'm glad you're decking it out and having fun with it. Tight lines!
@@FishingWithHeath lol..Yeah that dam waiting period, and then the TH-cam vids. I ordered mine,, just when covid hit. Little did I know, so did 90% of bank fisherman, like myself. Allot of thing's are needed, especially on a fishing kayak, but then the excitement of my 1st kayak, had me spending, but stuck to a budget. And after a year of research, that was an amazing deal. Wanted the Oldtown Sportsman 106, with the Minnkota. And i also wanted the Bonafide 127. But, the Impulse is actually the same hul, and deck setup, as the bonafide. I'm glad I got the 1st version made, because everyone is having major drive issues now.. But love the Bixpy, Perfect for me, and I did order a 2nd bixpy battery, and will mount it to my storage crate, or under my seat. Next season I have tournaments lined up, and wanna know I venture further, and deeper, all day. Be safe bro, love your setup. 🙏 🎣
My husband and I both just bought one at our sportsman show and we are taking them both out this weekend for Fourth of July up north in Minnesota so far they seem to be very nice very well-built. I was confused though because it does not come with instructions on where certain things go, but we did get the extra set of flippers. We paid I believe $1400 a piece.
I just found this video and it's very informative. I'm currently looking for a peddle drive and see this one is priced really nice. In 2023 do you think its still one of the better entry level peddle drive kayaks out?
Hey I don't have this kayak anymore due to not having enough room. This is a good kayak but if you're looking to compare other entry level kayaks....check out Lightning kayaks.
What are the rudder cables mede of?
I don't remember honestly. Sorry!
Two major drawbacks I see immediately are related to the fin drive. No reverse option and no kick-up fins.
Yes, you're saving money over buying a hobie, but those are key features that you will most certainly be missing out on.
Spend an extra $1000 or so for the better setup. Might take a while to save up the extra cash, but you'll appreciate it in the long run.
Currently researching and making decisions and reverse on the pedal drive for positioning while fishing is a must have for me.
I hear you. From my perspective...I own two Hobie PA's and they both have reverse. I use the reverse almost never and I fish up against the mangroves.
@geoffspakes 1000%. Not understanding how someone would think/say otherwise. I use the reverse option quite frequently for positioning, backing off the bank and out of tight spots. It's also a great feature for reverse trolling or dragging a Carolina rig parallel to a gravelly bank. Also for digging in on fighting big fish. I own a Hobie Outback and a Hobie compass. When you get good at maneuvering, you can do sort of a "3-point turn" to get in and out of areas when you're trying to retrieve a snagged lure, or other similar scenarios.
Screw overpriced hobie
How do you maintain it for salt I’m looking to buy a kayak for saltwater fishing because I don’t have the money for a boat for saltwater
I rinse it with fresh water after every use.
Are the fins flat against the bottom of the kayak when you push one pedal forward like in a Hobie?
Yes
Two question do you have to register it still with the remote control motor and also where do you find them?
Yes you do have to register in my state. (Florida) Also look up Bixpy.
DO THE FINS KICK UP IN SHALLOW WATER?
They do not
Does it have a spot for a fish finder transponder on the bottom?
Yes
I believe it does. I'll double check.
When u used it u take out all plug out or you leave them on
I take the plugs out.
I’ve had issue with water seeping in through the hatch right below the seat, have you had this happen?
Haven't had that yet.
Is the front hatch strong enough to stand on? Because that is how I launch my kayak from the ramp/ bank.
I wouldn't stand on it for too long but a quick jump on it to the seat is fine.
How tall are you? Notice how far the front tracks are from arms reach.
I'm 5 foot 10"
Anyone who has this kayak in the fin version how is it bass fishing? Is not having reverse an issue, I really like the look and the stability with this yak but the propeller one is never available
it’s because they are having issues with the propeller system on the impulse most likely, there’s a vid on youtube about it
Hey! I personally have a 180 drive and very rarely put it in reverse.
Good review, I was more interested in the Bixpy, regards the paddle, you can place it next to the seat inside the kayak, will be easy also to use it.
Gotcha!! Thanks for watching.
What system & setup do you have for the bixpy drive?
Here there - It's the J-2 Outboard Kit with the Hobie Drive Kit
I just buy one kayak like this
But hoodoo don’t send me yet,also they customers service never answer the phone
Did you have the same problem or not
Yikes! No they answered me right away.
Hey buddy where u get the motor from
X $
Check out Bixpy.
How is the steering with the bixpy? Did it get worse than without it?
Nope. It stayed about the same!
Can I ask what model Bixby Jet it was ?
This was the J1
OK I see others asking about the drive popping out whats that all about ?
Yeah they make a warranty replacement for that.
What bixby mounting stuff did it require to pair it to the hoodoo, I have been searching and can't find one and my new yak is on the way
Hey check out the drive attachment on the Bixpy website!
How did you install the Bixby
Man, there's about 185 ways to do it! haha. Depends on where you want it.
no side handles to carry or load the yak??
There's side handles
What's the difference between the Hoodoo 105 and 120?
10.5 ft long and 12ft long
length
Can you reverse in this kayak?!?
Nope
Will the kayak allow you to use a scupper hole wheel trolley??
Yep! I don't recommend those. Ever. I would not risk damaging those weak spots in the hull. Use something like a C-Tug.
Hello Heath,
Can you please clarify what Bixpy adapter u used? Bixpy doesn’t have the a HooDoo pedal adapter listed on their reference material. They list a rudder mount adapter. I much prefer the one u showcase. A link would be Awesome!!
The Hobie drive mount works perfect.
Which adapter did you chose for it to fit is it the universal adapter?
What do you mean? For the bixpy? Just the drive adapter.
Anyone who got this guy and got the fin drive do they regret it is it a pain to not have reverse cuz on the hoodoo website the propeller one isn't available
I have a few pedal drives and very RARELY use reverse.
Thanks for the video! I was really wanting the propeller but its not available. I so mainly open lake areas. Do you think the fin drive is as easy as the propeller drive? Also can you maintain a cruising speed similar to the speed of the propeller? Thank you
I think the fin drive beats the propeller all the time on every type of kayak. Less maintenance. Less snags. Less everything.
@HeathPanganiban I'm wanting to get into kayak fishing. I knew the fin out pulls the prop, but I assumed I'd like the reverse of the prop. I never thought about the problems coming from a spinning prop in shallow areas. That would be snag, untangle city. Thanks for that tip!
Is there any flex at all from any of the surfaces?
Nope
Hey do you still have this kayake
I don't. I wish I did!
Excellent review, you really nailed the features. I always wondered, can the fin drive be mounted backwards and if so would that pedal it in reverse?
Yes and yes!
Heath; How many water skiers can you pull at one time?
Negative 4 lol
I really love the size and width of this kayak and the flexibility of different drive systems for one kayak. Have you tested the pedal drive? does the fins go in reverse? Thanks
Fins do NOT reverse.
This is a nice kayak that you have. I am looking to buy a pedal drive kayak. I do have a question? Do you know how wide the pedals are & do they come with foot strap that go across the top of your foot on the pedal? I have big very very extremely wide feet sz15 6 EEEEEE wide with very chubby fat wide toes that are equally straight across making my foot very very wide at 6 1/2 inches wide from my big toe to my lil toe. My foot keeps falling off the narrow pedals because of it being so wide. It also doesn't help that my toes are very fat & straight across. I never thought that having a foot that is 6 1/2 inches wide would be a problem for kayaking. Good video thank you for sharing.
Hey there! I just measured it. The width of the pedal where your feet pushes against the drive is about 3.75 inches wide and it does come with straps. I always take the straps off of my drives. I don't like locking my feet in them.
@@FishingWithHeath thank you so much sir for this. Those Pedals are just three inches shorter then the width of my foot. I can see those pedals are not going to work for me my foot is just going to keep falling off those pedals. Oh I don't blame you I wouldn't want my foot locked up in those straps too. I hate those straps which is good for me because my toes are so wide that my foot will not slide through those straps because of my toes being so wide. I can get my #1. , 2. , 3. Toe through the straps but my #4. , 5. toe are on the outside of the straps & that is very discomfort on the feet. Again thank you so much I really appreciate your help.
Wait so this kayak takes any drive?
It can take multiple, yes.
@@FishingWithHeath I'm referring to different brand drives?
Is it pretty quick on the water using the fins? Do you know roughly your Cruising speed? Just looking to get a quicker kayak than my Dorado 125. My wife has a tempest 120p and it's really fast.
Oooooo. I didn't check the speed while on the water. It's as quick as you pedal it. Pretty quick!
Did you get the impulse after all? Deciding whether to get the impulse or tempest.
@MyNameIsJeff I got the Vanhunks elite pro angler. Pretty happy with it. Just got it on the water briefly, waiting for it to warm up more. So far it checks all the boxes. Light, Quick, and maneuverable.
I’ve watched this video so many times before and after I purchased this
Great review 👍
Does it come as a tandem?
Not that I know of! Thanks for watching!
Will it take Hobie 180 drive?
I believe so!
Do it have reserve?
Nope. Only if you flip the pedals around You rarely need reverse.
@@FishingWithHeath idk where your at but I use reserver alot where I'm at
Where do you order these kayaks??
I called the company and set it up. But there are dealers around the US.
Can you go in reverse with this drive?
Nope!
I was thinking about slapping the mirage 180 into mine but since those are still going for $900+ I might just get the bixpy for the extra $400.
Yeah bixpy added on would be the way to go. Keep the original drive.
How the fin drive doing?
Still doing good!
Hey man do you still think this is a good buy?
Ya, the impulse has been revised and it's better than ever. Just picked one up for my wife this Friday. I was very impressed witht he quality and layout, so much so I want to sell my kayak and buy one as well. And by the way, pictures don't do it justice, it's an amazing rig when you see it in person, very stout craft. Definitely a good buy!
Great video. Did you have any issues with the drive popping out?
I did! Customer service was contacted.
@@FishingWithHeath was the problem resolved or is it just a flaw in how it’s built?
Well done. Looks like a great starter kayak.
Appreciate it!
@@FishingWithHeath what's considered a "non starter" kayak then? This kayak's price tag sure aint no "starter" :)
an old town or hobie lol, 1500 is cheap compared to 3 grand starting price
@@asianangler
Would you buy it again?
As of now, yes.
Hey, I was going to pick up this kayak tomorrow and I had a few questions and figured I’d see if you would respond.
How’s the kayak holding up? Im worried about the quality of the pedal drive system.
Has anything in your opinion changed ? Or do you still think it’s worth the money
Is there anything you don’t prefer about
the kayak at all? Like things you wish would be fixed or redesigned.
Thanks!
It's holding up well although I just traded it. My opinion is still the same. Great kayak!
You should compare this to the tempest 120p
I don't have a tempest :(
Good review ! Thanks !
Thanks for watching!
Do the drive fins break away like the Hobie pedal drive system?
They do not.
@@FishingWithHeath thanks for the update on this!
Great video. Thanks.
Thank YOU!
you can also just get a paddle leash
yes
Kool kayak
Thanks!
Guys don't cheap out. Please purchase a $20 bilge pump, and it comes with a rubber hose, to get into your hull. You don't want to be out in the ocean with a sponge, rag, or a or bucket. It won't be good. I have all my toys, Bixpy, add-ons, fin drive, accessories. But NRS PFD, And that bilge pump always on me and pump stored on board. 😎 🌊 🎣 🛶
Reverse?????
Flip the drive
@@FishingWithHeath too late, lost the fish!!!
Try learning the kayak before reporting on it
I would but No Hablo English
Made in china?
Most defiantly.
It's made in cypress texas
Looks like a rip off bonafide.
Hmm. Maybe!