Congrats on your order and I hope that you can get it on the water quickly and enjoy this great design!! Let me know what you think of the paddle performance when you get it in the water. Safe paddles!!!
Very nice overview! How long of a fly rod were you showing that you laid forward on the boat? I’d like to store an 8’4” and 8’9” rods horizontally pointing forward with the rod tips either tucked under the bow cover or in tubes drilled on to the kayak
Thank you. It was a 9 fit fly rod, so either of your two should work well. I killer the bow cover, rod tubes can cause line snag issues when landing fish or line management issues when casting.
I have no issues at all standing up and fly fishing out of the CK1 Venture. It is a very stable kayak and the open deck and skinnier gunwales allow you to stress your feet wide and get a good stance.
@@theoutdoordad7395 it is a fairly moderate draft, the keel in the stern is more pronounced than the bow. That can reduce the depth of water that you can traverse without portaging. If I am just going out with minimal gear, I can draft in about 5-6 inches of water, dependent upon a well balanced load. For reference I weigh around 180 and I take about 30 lbs of total stuff with me on most trips.
I love everything about it… plenty of room for crab rings, fishing poles, cooler and catch bag. Loved that it’s a sealed hill; however, where do you mount a transducer for a fish finder without having to drill? Is an 11’ kayak slow?
There are companies that make a transducer arm that allows you to hang the transducer over the side of the kayak from the rails/gunwales. Some even make it so that the battery case, wires, transducer, and fish finder are all on one mount, easy to install and remove. This particular kayak is not slow, it is not as fast as a touring kayak by no means, but it is as fast or faster than most other 11 foot fishing kayaks with a raised seat on the market today. It is the ease of paddling and paddle performance that really makes a difference. It takes less effort to get the kayak moving and less effort the maintain that movement. So in short, no it isn't slow, but no it isn't a super fast kayak either, but when compared to other 11 foot fishing kayaks, it is faster than most and is well worth demoing one if you can.
Zach, it does great in the Gulf!! The bow rides over the waves well and the width allows for a stable launch and paddle. I am planning on getting some on the water videos done in the next month or two. I live in the Foley AL area and take it in the Gulf and Bays around here to fish and to just paddle. I stay mostly inshore (within a mile or two of the shoreline, and don't go off shore (three miles or more from shoreline) too often.
It does have a higher front rocker than the UL. It allows it to not only mitigate water over the bow, but helps that bow to stay up even when loaded with weight. No internal storage like the UL, but has other features. If you love your UL and it works for you, I say keep it and maybe test one of these out on the water one day to see if you may want one in the future.
Hi Benjamin. Indeed there is a way to install a stand assist strap. I use a locking carabiner and attach it to the front handle. It gives me a stand assist strap and a tow strap. The handle area is reinforced and is strong enough to support a good amount of weight to help you stand and sit.
@@kayakflyfishingschool Hi Donald. Thanks for the reply. I was able to finally find and view your video on the stand assist strap shortly after I sent my first message. Great information. I'll be rigging one up as soon as I get my Crescent CK1. Thanks again.
@@benjaminskobel2847 you’re welcome and thank you! Let me know if you have any questions or concerns as you get closer to getting your CK1 Venture and of course after you get it too! :)
It does great!! I have taken it out in the Gulf here in the Gulf Shores area and that 11 foot length is just enough to handle moderate surf and short enough to maneuver around pilings and sea grass.
Trying to decide between this and the LT for my lake boat; one of the bigger lakes in GA so I’m leaning LT. But I have to wheel cart it down a fairly steep hill and through some rough terrain to a not so simple launch point. Wondering if the LT is too heavy/cumbersome for that, though I have no doubt it’s the better boat for once I’m on the water. What do you think? Too difficult/cumbersome to use the LT on land? 5’10 and 185 lbs. also drive a small Honda Fit.
Honestly, either this or the LiteTackle will work well for you. As far as too heavy/cumbersome, no the LT will be fine, it depends more on your cart than the Kayak. Your Honda Fit being smaller, the CK1 May be easier to transport, but if you can handle the weight of the LT, you should be good. As far as a cart for you, take a look at the Suspenz All Terrain Airless Cart, it is what I use for rough terrain for all of my Crescents. I even use it to haul multiple kayaks at once over rugged terrain, hills, and such.
@@kayakflyfishingschool Thanks! I appreciate you taking the time to write a thoughtful reply. Is there really a substantial difference between how these boats do on flat water?
@@chefmatt6299 Not a super substantial difference, they both perform well on flat water, the CK1 takes the advantage on moving waters, but the LT does come out slightly ahead on flat waters. The LT will handle the wind a bit better than the CK!, as the bow of the CK1 is raised a bit to accommodate the moving waters.
Hi Chris. Any rod holders with a t-bolt will Mount to the mighty mounts. I like the Omega and Omega Pro from YakAttack as they secure my fly rods well, but they also work great for most other rods. The Zooka and AR Tubes rod holders from YakAttack also mount well to the mighty mounts.
I used this 11 foot model to fish a tournament this year and it worked fantastic. I was in a brackish water lake and the kayak worked wonderfully. Enough room and stability to fish from, stand in, and it is super easy to paddle.
That is a tough one to answer, but I will give it a go. Since I live near the Gulf and go saltwater fishing often, I would take the CK1 Venture. If I were still located in North Alabama and fished primarily flat waters, I would choose the LT. I do not camp or take a lot of things out with me, so the storage on the CK1 is more than sufficient. What I do take, such as waders, change of clothes, etc. all goes in dry bags no matter what vessel I am in.
Just sold an LT, I'm looking for something lighter, a little more accessible. You hear a lot of great things about the LT & it's all true. I like the length of the kayak, but didn't need the internal storage. The one thing I had a hard time with was its weight. I'd like to be able to go at the drop of a dime, but also still fish when things got rough. I generally transport via car topping on a small hatchback & on occasion, throw it on a trailer. Even with the trailer, it's still a lot to haul around. For what I do locally, it's a bit much so I sold it. I might consider an CK1, but also something with a more flexible platform that includes a pedal drive. Anyway, good luck.
@@capcityorgnzr the LT is a really great kayak, no doubt, but it is in that 12 fit class and the weight for some can be a factor. The CK1 Venture is lighter, shorter, just as easy to paddle, for me a bit more stable, you sacrifice the internal storage, but other than rods, most stuff can fit in a dry bag on deck anyway.
I was going to ask if you thought it would be a good inshore boat but the other comments seem to verify that. I’m 5,9 5.10 what would be a good length paddle for me. I will be a 70 year old newb. Thank you in advance!
Hi Tony, you are right, it makes a fantastic inshore kayak. At your height and the width of the CK1, I would recommend a 250cm paddle. If you can find one that has adjustable length, say from 240 - 255cm, that may be even better so you can fine tune it just right.
@@kayakflyfishingschool like Tony, I too am a kayaking newbie. Female, 5'3" tall. It would be my 1st yak. Would be using it in near Greater Orlando and maybe Lake Apopka near the shoreline. Still a good choice for me too?
@@pamelaklemp5615 it is a good length Kayaks for those waters and the sealed hull is ideal for waves and coastal areas. If you get a chance to test one out, I always suggest to do that. If you are looking for a great paddling kayak that is stable and comfy, this one is a really great choice that will work well for you.
They sell out fast. I am unsure where you are located, but there is a way to check dealers close to you and not so close www.crescentkayaks.com/dealer-locator/ You can also search Facebook groups for “The official Crescent kayaks owners group”, and “Crescent Kayaks but sell trade”.
I love my Venture for the throw and go capacity, and how well it paddles. I also love my lite tackle but it's alot harder to roof top. I've actually been considering picking up a crew and using it's solo. I love the sealed hull for the intracoastal waterway around Savannah. I think the crew with the sealed hull and 13 foot length would be outstanding in the intracoastal and for island hopping offshore.
It is a great size for throw and go. As for the Crew, I really like mine in the surf and the intercostal waterways here in south Alabama. It works really well and that sealed hull is a fantastic feature. A bit heavier and longer to load and unload, but I usually use a trailer, so that helps alleviate some issues.
What would be your "go to" choice for island hoping, lighthouse chasing, and island camping? I'm in Charleston and I'm torn between the Venture and the LT. In my head I see overnight floats along the ACE Basin and the occasional trip out to a barrier island. I'm on a brackish pond and can paddle out to the harbor too when I feel like chasing reds. The biggest hang up right now is regarding the open front deck vs the hatch of the LT. I know I'm going to need dry bags either way so maybe I'm over thinking it???
@@Motorep146 if I had to choose between the LT and CK1 for those adventures, I would choose the. LT. It gives you more storage room for camping equipment below the deck so your balance when loaded will be much better as your weight can be below your seat. IF you can handle the heavier LT and the longer length, I would go with it over the CK1 for your needs. IF not the shorter CK1 can handle your ventures, but it does mean that when loaded up with all your camping equipment, it will ride all on the deck and make it a little more top heavy than the LT can be with the same load. You are right, you will need dry bags for either, so great thinking there.
It may be the audio. This was shortly after changing to an iPhone and I was unable to use an external microphone. My latest videos more incorporate the external microphone and audio is much better.
@@cmr7217 wow, ok. That's why I'm here. You a Crescent henchman barking up the wrong tree, reads with emotions instead of comprehension? I gave him feedback, because I watch this guy's channel. wtf?
@@cmr7217 he was serious in his question, he is a subscriber and has commented on other videos. Constructively, he was asking why this video is not as well made as some of the others. The audio is a little rough, and the video stabilization did not happen for some reason, so this one is a little out of the norm. :)
I have one on order now and will be picking it up in March. The light weight and rocker are huge selling features for me.
Congrats on your order and I hope that you can get it on the water quickly and enjoy this great design!!
Let me know what you think of the paddle performance when you get it in the water.
Safe paddles!!!
I like the square stern for a trolling motor if you need a little more range and less work .
Yes, exactly!! That squared off stern makes it so easy to mount a trolling motor!!
Very nice overview! How long of a fly rod were you showing that you laid forward on the boat? I’d like to store an 8’4” and 8’9” rods horizontally pointing forward with the rod tips either tucked under the bow cover or in tubes drilled on to the kayak
Thank you. It was a 9 fit fly rod, so either of your two should work well. I killer the bow cover, rod tubes can cause line snag issues when landing fish or line management issues when casting.
is the CK1 stable enough to stand up in and fly cast comfortably? thanks!!
I have no issues at all standing up and fly fishing out of the CK1 Venture.
It is a very stable kayak and the open deck and skinnier gunwales allow you to stress your feet wide and get a good stance.
@@kayakflyfishingschool thanks so much!!
@@kayakflyfishingschool one more question for you- does it have a deep draft since it has a significant keel?
@@theoutdoordad7395 you’re welcome!! Tight lines and safe paddles!!
@@theoutdoordad7395 it is a fairly moderate draft, the keel in the stern is more pronounced than the bow. That can reduce the depth of water that you can traverse without portaging. If I am just going out with minimal gear, I can draft in about 5-6 inches of water, dependent upon a well balanced load. For reference I weigh around 180 and I take about 30 lbs of total stuff with me on most trips.
I love everything about it… plenty of room for crab rings, fishing poles, cooler and catch bag. Loved that it’s a sealed hill; however, where do you mount a transducer for a fish finder without having to drill? Is an 11’ kayak slow?
There are companies that make a transducer arm that allows you to hang the transducer over the side of the kayak from the rails/gunwales. Some even make it so that the battery case, wires, transducer, and fish finder are all on one mount, easy to install and remove.
This particular kayak is not slow, it is not as fast as a touring kayak by no means, but it is as fast or faster than most other 11 foot fishing kayaks with a raised seat on the market today. It is the ease of paddling and paddle performance that really makes a difference. It takes less effort to get the kayak moving and less effort the maintain that movement. So in short, no it isn't slow, but no it isn't a super fast kayak either, but when compared to other 11 foot fishing kayaks, it is faster than most and is well worth demoing one if you can.
@@kayakflyfishingschool thank you.
@@Theophilus1968 you are welcome. www.yakattack.us/cellblok-battery-box-and-switchblade-transducer-arm-combo-clb-1003/
How did it do in the Gulf? Would really like to see a video of this kayak offshore.
Zach, it does great in the Gulf!! The bow rides over the waves well and the width allows for a stable launch and paddle. I am planning on getting some on the water videos done in the next month or two. I live in the Foley AL area and take it in the Gulf and Bays around here to fish and to just paddle.
I stay mostly inshore (within a mile or two of the shoreline, and don't go off shore (three miles or more from shoreline) too often.
Looks like the front has more rocker in the front bow to keep water out than the ultralite but I love my ultralite.
It does have a higher front rocker than the UL. It allows it to not only mitigate water over the bow, but helps that bow to stay up even when loaded with weight. No internal storage like the UL, but has other features.
If you love your UL and it works for you, I say keep it and maybe test one of these out on the water one day to see if you may want one in the future.
Hi Donald. Is there anyway to install a stand up assist strap on the CK1 Venture? Thanks.
Hi Benjamin. Indeed there is a way to install a stand assist strap. I use a locking carabiner and attach it to the front handle. It gives me a stand assist strap and a tow strap.
The handle area is reinforced and is strong enough to support a good amount of weight to help you stand and sit.
Here is a video where I talk about stand assist straps.
th-cam.com/video/q6MabZ1Iewg/w-d-xo.html
@@kayakflyfishingschool Hi Donald. Thanks for the reply. I was able to finally find and view your video on the stand assist strap shortly after I sent my first message. Great information. I'll be rigging one up as soon as I get my Crescent CK1. Thanks again.
@@benjaminskobel2847 you’re welcome and thank you!
Let me know if you have any questions or concerns as you get closer to getting your CK1 Venture and of course after you get it too! :)
How would it do in the surf? Southeast Virginia- Chesapeake Bay and the Outer Banks of NC
It does great!!
I have taken it out in the Gulf here in the Gulf Shores area and that 11 foot length is just enough to handle moderate surf and short enough to maneuver around pilings and sea grass.
Trying to decide between this and the LT for my lake boat; one of the bigger lakes in GA so I’m leaning LT. But I have to wheel cart it down a fairly steep hill and through some rough terrain to a not so simple launch point. Wondering if the LT is too heavy/cumbersome for that, though I have no doubt it’s the better boat for once I’m on the water. What do you think? Too difficult/cumbersome to use the LT on land?
5’10 and 185 lbs. also drive a small Honda Fit.
Honestly, either this or the LiteTackle will work well for you.
As far as too heavy/cumbersome, no the LT will be fine, it depends more on your cart than the Kayak.
Your Honda Fit being smaller, the CK1 May be easier to transport, but if you can handle the weight of the LT, you should be good.
As far as a cart for you, take a look at the Suspenz All Terrain Airless Cart, it is what I use for rough terrain for all of my Crescents. I even use it to haul multiple kayaks at once over rugged terrain, hills, and such.
@@kayakflyfishingschool Thanks! I appreciate you taking the time to write a thoughtful reply. Is there really a substantial difference between how these boats do on flat water?
@@chefmatt6299 Not a super substantial difference, they both perform well on flat water, the CK1 takes the advantage on moving waters, but the LT does come out slightly ahead on flat waters.
The LT will handle the wind a bit better than the CK!, as the bow of the CK1 is raised a bit to accommodate the moving waters.
@@kayakflyfishingschool Thank you again for your help! I really appreciate it!
@@chefmatt6299 you are very welcome, thank you for watching the videos and asking questions.
What rod holders work with the mighty mount? Thanks
Hi Chris. Any rod holders with a t-bolt will Mount to the mighty mounts. I like the Omega and Omega Pro from YakAttack as they secure my fly rods well, but they also work great for most other rods. The Zooka and AR Tubes rod holders from YakAttack also mount well to the mighty mounts.
@@kayakflyfishingschool Thank You Sir! Also what floor stand are you using? Great video!
@@cmr7217 it is an automotive work stand. I have a video on it.
th-cam.com/video/jS_vYgkBoew/w-d-xo.html
Would the 11.0 ft be ok to qualify for local lake or river tournaments? I am so stoked about that exact kayak for close to shore lakes and creeks.
I used this 11 foot model to fish a tournament this year and it worked fantastic.
I was in a brackish water lake and the kayak worked wonderfully. Enough room and stability to fish from, stand in, and it is super easy to paddle.
@@kayakflyfishingschool can't ask for more than that 👏🏆
LT or CK1 if you could only have one?
That is a tough one to answer, but I will give it a go.
Since I live near the Gulf and go saltwater fishing often, I would take the CK1 Venture.
If I were still located in North Alabama and fished primarily flat waters, I would choose the LT.
I do not camp or take a lot of things out with me, so the storage on the CK1 is more than sufficient. What I do take, such as waders, change of clothes, etc. all goes in dry bags no matter what vessel I am in.
Just sold an LT, I'm looking for something lighter, a little more accessible. You hear a lot of great things about the LT & it's all true. I like the length of the kayak, but didn't need the internal storage.
The one thing I had a hard time with was its weight. I'd like to be able to go at the drop of a dime, but also still fish when things got rough. I generally transport via car topping on a small hatchback & on occasion, throw it on a trailer. Even with the trailer, it's still a lot to haul around. For what I do locally, it's a bit much so I sold it. I might consider an CK1, but also something with a more flexible platform that includes a pedal drive. Anyway, good luck.
@@capcityorgnzr the LT is a really great kayak, no doubt, but it is in that 12 fit class and the weight for some can be a factor.
The CK1 Venture is lighter, shorter, just as easy to paddle, for me a bit more stable, you sacrifice the internal storage, but other than rods, most stuff can fit in a dry bag on deck anyway.
I was going to ask if you thought it would be a good inshore boat but the other comments seem to verify that. I’m 5,9 5.10 what would be a good length paddle for me. I will be a 70 year old newb. Thank you in advance!
Hi Tony, you are right, it makes a fantastic inshore kayak.
At your height and the width of the CK1, I would recommend a 250cm paddle. If you can find one that has adjustable length, say from 240 - 255cm, that may be even better so you can fine tune it just right.
@@kayakflyfishingschool thank you, sir. Really looking forward to this!
@@tonybishop51 you’re welcome good Sir. Please let me know if I can help with anything else.
@@kayakflyfishingschool like Tony, I too am a kayaking newbie. Female, 5'3" tall. It would be my 1st yak. Would be using it in near Greater Orlando and maybe Lake Apopka near the shoreline. Still a good choice for me too?
@@pamelaklemp5615 it is a good length Kayaks for those waters and the sealed hull is ideal for waves and coastal areas.
If you get a chance to test one out, I always suggest to do that.
If you are looking for a great paddling kayak that is stable and comfy, this one is a really great choice that will work well for you.
Where can I buy one of these Kayaks? No one seems to have any in stock. Thanks
They sell out fast. I am unsure where you are located, but there is a way to check dealers close to you and not so close www.crescentkayaks.com/dealer-locator/
You can also search Facebook groups for “The official Crescent kayaks owners group”, and “Crescent Kayaks but sell trade”.
I love my Venture for the throw and go capacity, and how well it paddles. I also love my lite tackle but it's alot harder to roof top.
I've actually been considering picking up a crew and using it's solo. I love the sealed hull for the intracoastal waterway around Savannah. I think the crew with the sealed hull and 13 foot length would be outstanding in the intracoastal and for island hopping offshore.
It is a great size for throw and go.
As for the Crew, I really like mine in the surf and the intercostal waterways here in south Alabama. It works really well and that sealed hull is a fantastic feature.
A bit heavier and longer to load and unload, but I usually use a trailer, so that helps alleviate some issues.
What would be your "go to" choice for island hoping, lighthouse chasing, and island camping? I'm in Charleston and I'm torn between the Venture and the LT. In my head I see overnight floats along the ACE Basin and the occasional trip out to a barrier island. I'm on a brackish pond and can paddle out to the harbor too when I feel like chasing reds. The biggest hang up right now is regarding the open front deck vs the hatch of the LT. I know I'm going to need dry bags either way so maybe I'm over thinking it???
@@Motorep146 if I had to choose between the LT and CK1 for those adventures, I would choose the. LT. It gives you more storage room for camping equipment below the deck so your balance when loaded will be much better as your weight can be below your seat.
IF you can handle the heavier LT and the longer length, I would go with it over the CK1 for your needs. IF not the shorter CK1 can handle your ventures, but it does mean that when loaded up with all your camping equipment, it will ride all on the deck and make it a little more top heavy than the LT can be with the same load.
You are right, you will need dry bags for either, so great thinking there.
Why is this video is hard to watch, the audio?
It may be the audio. This was shortly after changing to an iPhone and I was unable to use an external microphone. My latest videos more incorporate the external microphone and audio is much better.
Do you want serious reviews or would you rather cry about nonsense? This is the best ck1 informational video so far!
@@cmr7217 wow, ok. That's why I'm here. You a Crescent henchman barking up the wrong tree, reads with emotions instead of comprehension? I gave him feedback, because I watch this guy's channel. wtf?
@@cmr7217 he was serious in his question, he is a subscriber and has commented on other videos. Constructively, he was asking why this video is not as well made as some of the others. The audio is a little rough, and the video stabilization did not happen for some reason, so this one is a little out of the norm. :)
@@capcityorgnzr I think he may have just misread it as a negative thing, I don't hold it against him, so hopefully you do not either. :)