This kayak has so much going for it. Backed by the same limited lifetime warranty that Native Watercrafts has against manufacturer defects. Made in the USA. Weighs 78 lbs without the seat. Stable and fishable. Ready to be rigged. Affordable price. What a great platform to start with. I am barely getting back into kayak fishing and I car top my kayaks. I'm so glad I waited, this is definitely the one to get.
This has got to be the MOST detailed and informative kayak presentation I have seen, stern to bow with every detail in-between. You give all the included items and specifically when it is an add-on (and that the add-on is already available through Bonafied)! Not to mention this PWR129 WILL be my first and probably last kayak I ever purchase, once I have it properly kitted out I won't ever need anything else (this foundation is perfect for my needs, I only need to add the few things to make it for ME personnaly). Now, Chad, I sooooo enjoy your presentations in your videos, you are a down to earth guy, so down to earth that you left the shop in of your scratching yourself while on the water (now that is comfortable on the water ehh). 😂😂😂 I cannot wait until I get mine, thank you CHAD for the presention and thank you HANS for designing this kayak for us "BIG DUDES" (I know it wasn't just for us big dudes, but, I am going to think it is). I know I am going to feel sooo much more confident and safe out in the water, and Chad, yes I will be practicing water self-lifesaving drills (getting the kayak fliped upright and getting back into the kayak by myself! Ya'll have an awesome day, wet lines....
Great review. Bonafide has done an excellent job of paying attention to how the kayak fishing community is using their kayaks and designing kayaks to accommodate their needs. I’m tempted to pick up the PWR and RVR as my lake/big river and skinny water kayaks. I love the idea of the pod delete to open the deck. Thanks for the review.
Thanks Chad! This video played a huge part in me pulling the trigger on a pwr 129. Just waiting for my local kayak shop to get their next delivery from Fletcher, NC. Can’t wait to get this bad boy on the water.
I think I might want to get the PWR 129 as my FIRST kayak ever. Making it my everything kayak. For fishing and working out. I was 330 pounds and I’m now 299. Still working to get down to 240 is my goal. Also I LOVE the idea of pedaling kayaks as well. Everything is going to be new to me, Including fishing. I think I’ll enjoy it because I love the water. I live near the Gulf of Mexico. Just wondering how well it will work in some high chop (waves) from a beach launch. Or how it will handle in the Bay Area. I have the luxury of salt water and fresh water life here in the good ol’ state of Texas. And no I don’t sound like a Southern Cowboy. Take care, love your input and God bless you.
I especially like the replaceable rigging plates with inserts so you can repair or rewire your rigging without messing withe screws and cutting holes in your hull.
I love the way you rigged the torqeedo lift cord, looks really clean, I think I will rig mine the same way when I get it. Will there be a video explaining how to do it? If not, can you explain a little bit, are there any pulleys inside the hull or something that doesn't meet the eye? Loved the video and thanks for the info! Greetings from the Team Iron Kayaker 🤙🇲🇽
What a great setup. I’ve been hesitant on the bonafide because I’m also a heavy guy (5’10” 300lbs) and they haven’t really been at the capacity. However with this being a 500lb capacity this may be the replacement for the more expensive Native Titan X I’ve been wanting. I’m at the section where you’re describing under the seat. I like that the tray is in a track. However I think it would be beneficial to replace the thumb screw or nut, with like a flip nut like what would be on a road bike tire. So you just have to flip up the lever and slide. Just a thought.
I was already excited with the stats on paper. As a 300lb 6ft person, the stability and capacity increases have me very excited, especially for standing and fishing, vs my SS127. Especially since I want to start fishing tournaments next year
That is one sweet Kayak! I just wish it had come out a few years ago before I bought my SS127 🤣 Maybe I can pick one up one day. Really like the added stability and increased capacity, not just weight but the tank well as well. Lots of improvements over the SS127 and that's tough to do.
Good review of the Ultimate motorized kayak. It won't need a gimmick name like "Pro Angler" or " Outback" to sell. Which doesn't sense cause I'm looking at a lightweight pedal platform named " Lynx" and " Gateway" 😂 Sorry i missing the Knucklhed weekend. I'll be there next year atleast for fun day hanging with Team Wendell. He's having a blast
I still prefer the pedal drives over this or the old town autopilot, only because it's very easy to motorize a kayak, it's VERY hard to make it a pedal drive. meaning I can have a pedal drive kayak and add a motor, so now I have paddle, pedal AND power. I love using my bixpy to cross long distances to a spot, then work the spot with the pedal drive as it's more stealth. paddle for emergencies only at this point 😂
Chad…. I think you sold me on my next yak. I’m retired from the tournament game but I think this is just what I need for run and gun fun , but still have the opportunity to deck the hell out of it if I decide I miss the competition.
I've had the P127 for a couple years now. Overall I really like it, but they screwed up on the seat not being high enough and also the rear not being on tracks. If you have to adjust your seat while you're out there, good luck getting it aligned in the back. Also the plastic tubes came out underneath the steering handle and they had to ship me the new ones. Now they have their own fishing rods? Would hope they would just fine tune their kayaks before trying to pump out new products to make more money. Hopefully they didn't make any mistakes on this one.
Really loving the design and functionality of the pwr129.that being said,I'm currently running a old town auto pilot 120 and am considering trading in to go with the pwr 129 with a nk300? What's your thoughts?
Chad, as a fellow older big guy how would you compare going from sitting to standing to a Hobie PA? And with all the kayaks you have been in is there one that sits higher and makes that transition easier? Thanks for all you do for kayak industry! Enjoy the videos with my morning coffee!!
The Hobie PA is definitely top of the line in our industry and one of the easiest kayaks to go from sitting to standing and back to sitting. The best kayaks for this are obviously ones with higher seats, but also have the stability to match. The Bonafide kayaks are all in this category with the exception of the RVR 119 that is a lot lower for river fishing. The Native Titan Series (especially the new TitanX) are definitely in this category. The NuCanoe Unlimited fits the bill, especially if you install their seat riser system. There are probably a few others, but those would be my recommendation for consideration along with the PA.
RVR or PWR? I fish for smallies ( and cats at night ) in the Susquehanna River a little above Harrisburg, Pa. almost exclusively. I have a Torqeedo 1103 and will not be using any electronics except for lights. Rigging would be front and rear anchors via Anchor Wizards, some rod holders, and my tackle. I'm 5' 10" and weigh somewhere around 250 lbs. I like to both stand and sit while fishing. I like feeling stable and secure. Very occasionally I would have a cooler and gear for camping on the islands. Generally speaking which yak should I be looking at?
That is a really cool looking, well designed boat. Love the pod for the sounder all in one, but the fact it looks like it paddle well while toting a motor for distance running or a lazy ride back to dock. Cheers man,
Great video. Awesome Kayak. Been paddling my Lure 10 for 9 years and was thinking about getting pedal drive kayak. After watching this video it has change my mind. What’s the weight on this kayak?
@@ChadHooverFishing it’ll be a huge upgrade from the shearwater 125 for sure. Not a fan of how low it sits in the water with a tourney load, always a super wet ride and that’s zero fun in cooler weather.
I bought one, but not enough legroom for me to comfortably use foot control steering with my 1103. I’m 6’8”. I’ll have to xi3 or paddle, or sell it. Other than that a very cool kayak.
That’s how I did it. Directly to the motor. If I could get another inch or two of legroom it would be more comfortable. Maybe if I lost 30 lbs it would move me farther back in the seat and give me more room. Maybe this is the kick in the pants to do that. I’ll hang on to it. May just need to get used to it.
Chad, I am looking to get a motorized kayak in spring 2024. Your review of Old Town autopilot 120 had me convinced that this was the one. Until.....I saw your this video on Bonavide PWR 129, although you didn't talk about its motor? Will motor have spot lock?Have an opinion on your favorite powered kayak?Plan to do comparison video?
The PWR doesn’t come with a motor. You have to install the motor on it and you can install a bow mount or stern mount (or both) and it’s up to you what features the model you choose would have. I’m planning to install a Torqeedo 1103 on one, a NewPort Vessels NK300 on the other and then put a Motorguide Xi3 on one of them as well. I will be doing full comparison videos of each setup.
I am interrested for sure. As a 200# 70 year old man I need to pay attention to balance - both MINE and the BOAT's. Only problem is I live in the State of Utah and Bonafide kayaks just don't seem to exist in Utah, Wyoming, Montana, Arizona, New Mexico,Washington, North and South Dakota most of Nevada etc. Bonafide's webside lists one dealer in Utah in their Dealer Search option but when you search his website EVEN USING THE KEYWORD BONAFIDE I get no return hits. Sadly Bonafide does not appear to offer a Factory Store sales option either. Two SCHEELS stores in Colorado are listed as dealers but sadly not the SCHEELS in my home town. Weird? -Yes; Frustrating? -Yes. Likely to purchase a Bonafide PWR 129? - how much harder could it be?
I hear your frustration. That part of the West has been tough. There is a great community and interest in the sport with some great fisheries, but there just hasn’t been enough to support and sustain a dealer since much of the participants are very spread out over a large area. Freight prices have made it next to impossible to ship kayaks practically any more and I’m hoping that begins to come down over the next few years. If you decide to make the drive to a dealer just come on over to Alabama and we can go fishing after you pick up your boat.
@@ChadHooverFishing @ChadHooverFishing Two months have passed and the local Scheels has ONE PWR129 in stock in the Grey color. I called and they confirmed it is there. No budging on the MSRP price so now I am trying to negotiate on any "optional" parts or kit they may have available. I will likely pull the trigger on this. Sorry, but probably not making it to Alabama to fish. I am still looking at fresh snow on my lawn and all lakes and reservoirs are covered in ice. 😞 Oh well, it will give me time to swap things over from the Old Towne Predator Angler Pro to this boat. Tighties
Would've been great if you had a camera in those "talking hands" to better illustrate the features you were discussing? Appreciate you showing the hull.
Hey Chad, I am interested in this pwr129, and I'm a saltwater fisherman. How does it work in saltwater? How does it feel, perform and handle waves, wind etc... Maybe you can test it for me, before I purchase this new PWR129.
Pretty much all of the kayaks can be used for both fresh and saltwater. I will be taking the PWR129 to Florida to put it through the paces in a ton of situations (Including off shore) in mid December. I will do the best I can to get the content out as soon as possible
The most important question - How do we get the exact hat and shirt that Hans is wearing? I don't see that hat on the website and the big guy shirts are never in stock.
I like the new quantifieds, the native watercraft. I like to do third 130 I want to fight but I wish you would not have taken away the 135 native Titans got enough room for both of them in the lineup. I like it because of the rod stores and the capability of when I go to the river and go on a river camp out and fish float. I wish you.Could you please bring back the titan thirteen five
Regardless of YG affiliation or not, Bonafide makes what I think are the best designed kayaks with the most included features. I have worked with, designed and sold products for literally every major brand of kayak on the market. Nucanoe and Bonafide are my personal favorite brands. The OG SS seat is by far the best comfort seat on the market. Hans is one of the best designers in the industry period. Another home run. Now I need the new boats in the shop to design for.
Another question I have is even though this is going to mainly be for powered guys, is there going to be a pedal module to go into the storage drop in, where the Lowrance is in the video?
No. You can’t just put a pedal drive in a kayak unless it’s designed for it. You have to have adjustability for leg length and the boat has to have a hand steering mechanism
You can always store a kayak sitting flat. You can also store it on PVC in the recesses as well, but do not strap it down tight and don’t leave it strapped down for extended times. EVER.
LOL you're right your feet are going to drop down lower not your butt so you have raised nothing with your swing bar. What I did was take 4 inches of 2 by 4 drilled a hole to just fit the REAR lower support bar and now I got the raise in the right place solid as a rock. The front compartment has a 100ah and a 30ah lithium totally water proof batteries secured together (i spend all day running around coastal Florida) and it's so nice to use my paddle near the launch only plus I installed stabilizers so I can stand up and site fish or throw my cast net I could send pictures I have the finest rear gadget box you will ever see
Help needed I’m torn between the pwr129 and the native x without the pedal drive I really like the swivel seat I’m planning on using the xi3 on the one I go with any thoughts would be appreciated thanks
Personally, the Native Titan X is great and it’s the pinnacle of what a small one person watercraft can be. I wish they would sell it without the pedal drive for folks like you, but I understand the business side of it too. That said, I’m going to have to say I would go with the PWR 129 because it’s lighter, less expensive, easier to paddle and get into tighter places Nd for the difference in price you can add the other stuff you want and save on the overall package. The PWR is also faster and more efficient when motorized if that’s a consideration for you
Can I put a stern mounted trolling motor in a set (straight) position and use the included rudder to steer the kayak with the trolling motor engaged? I fish in a lot of very shallow creeks and rivers and the motor would have to be pulled up most of the time. I suspect that would limit my maneuverability when using the trolling motor but most of my maneuvering would be while paddling through moving water with the motor pulled up anyway. Any thoughts?
If it is too shallow to have the motor down then the rudder is also likely too deep to be used. I don’t recommend using a rudder to navigate moving water either. It has a tendency to catch eddies and seams that you are already through and throw your stern into a position that you don’t really want and potentially put you in a bad position. To answer your question though, what you are saying is possible, but I’m not sure how much control you will have over the motor with the rudder. It would be interesting to see. I actually removed my rudder to use the steering cables for the motor so that it is foot controlled.
The SS127 is still a great option. It’s lighter, paddles well and is super stable. I’m not 100% sure that the price point will stay the same, But even if it does it’s still a great value
this is MrBear hudson fl. what colers now and what colers will thay make it in ?? i have an ss127 love it and i am 300hunderd lbs, and can i buy a 1103 torqedo with out the battery and use my 100 amp dakota battery? please answere to make up my mind. thank you
The colors are all listed on the website. If I tell you the names you still won’t know what they look like without going to the site. You can’t use the Torqeedo with any other battery other than theirs, it doesn’t work with other batteries
How feasible would it for Bonafide to make this boat compatible with their pedal drive down the line? I understand it wasn’t designed for that but the hull design is almost perfect. Adding battery compartment behind the seat, forward facing flush mount rod holder and pedal option would make this perfect and any other kayak obsolete.
You can’t just make a kayak “pedal compatible”. It has to be designed that way from the beginning. The hull has to be different, the seat configuration has to be different, the place where the pod goes has to be different, you have to have a hand controlled rudder to steer while pedaling and the incorporation of that, the cost of labor to install it and all of that would drive the cost up substantially. If you want a pedal drive then the P127 is available and/or one of the Native Slayers or Titans.
@@ChadHooverFishingUnderstood. Originally wanted Titan X but this look sleeker and half of the weight. It would be ideal grab & go with pedal drive. Either way, will go with pwr129 for weight savings and paddling/motor combo.. looking forward to more reviews to solidify my decision..
I am planning on buying one. Can anyone recommend a place to buy online? There are no stores close to me. I’m concerned about shipping damage, should be fine ha..
I am using the scuppers, but I think you mean scupper plugs. I don’t use them because then it prevents the boat from draining should you ever take on water, they are actually designed to drain the boat so plugging them doesn’t make sense to me unless it’s super cold out
@@ChadHooverFishing yeah totally meant plugs. Sorry i got distracted I was talking to my best buddy Darren Wendall on the phone, and he was telling me how he put a whooping on some southern boys.
No. For a kayak to be able to be pedaled it has to have that as part of the design, with integration of hand steering for the rudder and that adds a lot to the cost for materials and extra labor to install all that extra stuff
That’s not what this boat is made for, if it came with the pedal drive it would be $1200 more and there are tons of options in that price point with pedals like the P127, TitanX and Slayer Max
@@ChadHooverFishing I get that’s not what this is made for but I believe Bonafide is missing out on some of the market. I’ve been a paddler but a shoulder injury and getting 3 tears in my rotator cuff fixed and a bicep reattachment surgery has me looking for a peddle drive.
I agree pedal option would be nice. TitanX might be my next one but 170LBS is insane. This 80 lbs hull with options to motorize or pedal would smoke anything else on the market. I understand can’t have it all but man can dream.
doesn’t look very stable, it looks to very quick to tilt. i find it suspect that you can’t think of a more stable boat. What other boats have you been in?
I’ve probably been in every major fishing kayak to ever be manufactured, plus many that aren’t made for fishing and for over 200 days almost every year. But, my 30 years experience in kayaks, kayak design and manufacturing may not be as calibrated as your eyeballs while watching a video.
Do you think they gave him this boat , all gear on it , plus a envelope stuffed filled with dirty cash before or after this video ? Place your votes 😮😅
Does your job just give you money at the end of each pay period or do you earn it? Nobody “gives” me anything brother. We sign a contract with agreed upon deliverables and those are done in exchange for whatever pay and product I receive and if I don’t feel like dealing with the company, I just buy it.
Im not a kayak hater, but at what point do you just go get a john boat.. lol so much talk about capacity and increase in size, but a 12ft john boat would be just as accessible and likely cheaper. Cool kayak though
When I decide I want to have a harder time loading and unloading, more vulnerable to the wind, harder to paddle or motor, access less water and be less maneuverable when I get there, have a louder watercraft that spooks more fish and then have a boat that holds water in the rain or can’t go out in big waves because it will fill up and sink. That’s pretty much when I will decide to go that route. 😜
@ChadHooverFishing some good points for sure. However, i think a couple of those are points are bit exaggerated. Not the loudness tho. That is spot on 🤣. Anyways, I'm not here to stir up trouble. Even though we may not agree, i still very much enjoy your content. Ty for making these videos!
This kayak has so much going for it. Backed by the same limited lifetime warranty that Native Watercrafts has against manufacturer defects. Made in the USA. Weighs 78 lbs without the seat. Stable and fishable. Ready to be rigged. Affordable price. What a great platform to start with. I am barely getting back into kayak fishing and I car top my kayaks. I'm so glad I waited, this is definitely the one to get.
This has got to be the MOST detailed and informative kayak presentation I have seen, stern to bow with every detail in-between. You give all the included items and specifically when it is an add-on (and that the add-on is already available through Bonafied)! Not to mention this PWR129 WILL be my first and probably last kayak I ever purchase, once I have it properly kitted out I won't ever need anything else (this foundation is perfect for my needs, I only need to add the few things to make it for ME personnaly).
Now, Chad, I sooooo enjoy your presentations in your videos, you are a down to earth guy, so down to earth that you left the shop in of your scratching yourself while on the water (now that is comfortable on the water ehh). 😂😂😂
I cannot wait until I get mine, thank you CHAD for the presention and thank you HANS for designing this kayak for us "BIG DUDES" (I know it wasn't just for us big dudes, but, I am going to think it is). I know I am going to feel sooo much more confident and safe out in the water, and Chad, yes I will be practicing water self-lifesaving drills (getting the kayak fliped upright and getting back into the kayak by myself! Ya'll have an awesome day, wet lines....
Thank you sir! I’m pretty comfortable just being me
Great review. Bonafide has done an excellent job of paying attention to how the kayak fishing community is using their kayaks and designing kayaks to accommodate their needs. I’m tempted to pick up the PWR and RVR as my lake/big river and skinny water kayaks. I love the idea of the pod delete to open the deck. Thanks for the review.
Thanks
Thanks Chad! This video played a huge part in me pulling the trigger on a pwr 129. Just waiting for my local kayak shop to get their next delivery from Fletcher, NC. Can’t wait to get this bad boy on the water.
Thank you. Glad I could help and I know that you won’t be disappointed
Very practical layout. What a work of art.
Thanks Jeremy
I think I might want to get the PWR 129 as my FIRST kayak ever. Making it my everything kayak. For fishing and working out. I was 330 pounds and I’m now 299. Still working to get down to 240 is my goal. Also I LOVE the idea of pedaling kayaks as well. Everything is going to be new to me, Including fishing. I think I’ll enjoy it because I love the water.
I live near the Gulf of Mexico. Just wondering how well it will work in some high chop (waves) from a beach launch. Or how it will handle in the Bay Area. I have the luxury of salt water and fresh water life here in the good ol’ state of Texas. And no I don’t sound like a Southern Cowboy. Take care, love your input and God bless you.
I also have two ss127's and love them, and this new pwr 129 ordered due in a week. After watching this I'm like a kid in the candy store!! can't wait.
Great video Chad but needs better camera views love the boat
Gonna be a lot of SS127s hitting the used market soon. Mine will be one of em! I love my 127, but this seems like an upgrade for me.
That is entirely possible
I especially like the replaceable rigging plates with inserts so you can repair or rewire your rigging without messing withe screws and cutting holes in your hull.
I like it as well.
That kayak is super cool Chad! Can't wait to see it. Bring one with you when you come to Florida and we'll compare it with my Titan X.
This looks really good, I like that it’s symmetrical being a lefty. Can we see a more detailed view of rods in the horizontal protectors? Thanks
I will do that when I get mine and do another walkthrough of how I set it up. Thanks for the suggestion
That's a good hour of information. Thanks for all you do
Thank you and thanks for watching
Would like to see you do a similarly detailed walkthrough/test of the TitanX.
We did that at ICAST, but we will do one for it like this soon.
I love the way you rigged the torqeedo lift cord, looks really clean, I think I will rig mine the same way when I get it.
Will there be a video explaining how to do it? If not, can you explain a little bit, are there any pulleys inside the hull or something that doesn't meet the eye? Loved the video and thanks for the info! Greetings from the Team Iron Kayaker 🤙🇲🇽
Yes, there will be one that’s more in-depth as I’m rigging mine
What a great setup. I’ve been hesitant on the bonafide because I’m also a heavy guy (5’10” 300lbs) and they haven’t really been at the capacity. However with this being a 500lb capacity this may be the replacement for the more expensive Native Titan X I’ve been wanting. I’m at the section where you’re describing under the seat. I like that the tray is in a track. However I think it would be beneficial to replace the thumb screw or nut, with like a flip nut like what would be on a road bike tire. So you just have to flip up the lever and slide. Just a thought.
Thanks. I think that type of locking mechanism would just catch on too much stuff honestly
The most primary stability I’ve seen in a kayak is my Osprey 1436. I’d love to see how this one compares.
I was already excited with the stats on paper. As a 300lb 6ft person, the stability and capacity increases have me very excited, especially for standing and fishing, vs my SS127. Especially since I want to start fishing tournaments next year
That is one sweet Kayak! I just wish it had come out a few years ago before I bought my SS127 🤣 Maybe I can pick one up one day. Really like the added stability and increased capacity, not just weight but the tank well as well. Lots of improvements over the SS127 and that's tough to do.
Good review of the Ultimate motorized kayak. It won't need a gimmick name like "Pro Angler" or " Outback" to sell. Which doesn't sense cause I'm looking at a lightweight pedal platform named " Lynx" and " Gateway" 😂
Sorry i missing the Knucklhed weekend. I'll be there next year atleast for fun day hanging with Team Wendell. He's having a blast
I still prefer the pedal drives over this or the old town autopilot,
only because it's very easy to motorize a kayak, it's VERY hard to make it a pedal drive.
meaning I can have a pedal drive kayak and add a motor, so now I have paddle, pedal AND power.
I love using my bixpy to cross long distances to a spot, then work the spot with the pedal drive as it's more stealth. paddle for emergencies only at this point 😂
👍
Chad…. I think you sold me on my next yak. I’m retired from the tournament game but I think this is just what I need for run and gun fun , but still have the opportunity to deck the hell out of it if I decide I miss the competition.
Tht front is beefy.. luv it.. awesome review..Chad sold me on this yak.. Genes belly and Hans quads..sold me on working out👍
😂😂😂😂😂 Thanks!!
This may be the best kayak on the market. It's either this or the Unlimited by nucanoe, in my opinion
I love my nucanoe and wouldn’t get rid of it. But I might have to get it a buddy
@@rhodesianhunter9360 (☛⚆‿˒⚆)☛ NICE!
My p127, you talked about water, if I pull a scupper plug to let water out, it let's more in. Hopefully that one sits higher.
It sits alotttt higher. Going to support heavier anglers and/or loaded to the gills setups very well.
Nice boat. Thank you for doing the walk-through.
Thanks for watching! 👊🏻
I've had the P127 for a couple years now. Overall I really like it, but they screwed up on the seat not being high enough and also the rear not being on tracks. If you have to adjust your seat while you're out there, good luck getting it aligned in the back. Also the plastic tubes came out underneath the steering handle and they had to ship me the new ones. Now they have their own fishing rods? Would hope they would just fine tune their kayaks before trying to pump out new products to make more money. Hopefully they didn't make any mistakes on this one.
Really loving the design and functionality of the pwr129.that being said,I'm currently running a old town auto pilot 120 and am considering trading in to go with the pwr 129 with a nk300? What's your thoughts?
Well, I had the one you have last year and now I have this one. Hope that helps… 😜
Chad, as a fellow older big guy how would you compare going from sitting to standing to a Hobie PA? And with all the kayaks you have been in is there one that sits higher and makes that transition easier? Thanks for all you do for kayak industry! Enjoy the videos with my morning coffee!!
The Hobie PA is definitely top of the line in our industry and one of the easiest kayaks to go from sitting to standing and back to sitting. The best kayaks for this are obviously ones with higher seats, but also have the stability to match. The Bonafide kayaks are all in this category with the exception of the RVR 119 that is a lot lower for river fishing. The Native Titan Series (especially the new TitanX) are definitely in this category. The NuCanoe Unlimited fits the bill, especially if you install their seat riser system. There are probably a few others, but those would be my recommendation for consideration along with the PA.
I'd say it is definitely one of the nicest Kayaks to come out lately in my opinion. The only issue is the money and me not having it to buy it.😞
Well, I can’t help that unfortunately
RVR or PWR? I fish for smallies ( and cats at night ) in the Susquehanna River a little above Harrisburg, Pa. almost exclusively. I have a Torqeedo 1103 and will not be using any electronics except for lights. Rigging would be front and rear anchors via Anchor Wizards, some rod holders, and my tackle. I'm 5' 10" and weigh somewhere around 250 lbs. I like to both stand and sit while fishing. I like feeling stable and secure. Very occasionally I would have a cooler and gear for camping on the islands. Generally speaking which yak should I be looking at?
In those conditions I would say the RVR would be your best bet.
Going Thursday to put my deposit. Once my hobie sells I’ll be rigging it up for next season
Solid video brother. Just got an RVR. They make great yaks
Yes they do!
That is a really cool looking, well designed boat. Love the pod for the sounder all in one, but the fact it looks like it paddle well while toting a motor for distance running or a lazy ride back to dock. Cheers man,
Thanks Jake
Great video. Awesome Kayak. Been paddling my Lure 10 for 9 years and was thinking about getting pedal drive kayak. After watching this video it has change my mind. What’s the weight on this kayak?
They have the updated weight on the specs on the website, but I believe the outfitted hull weight is 102 pounds
Heck yes brother got my 129 on order! Xi3 is on the way. Can’t wait to rig her up and hit the 24 season hard! Thanks for the info on the video man
I think you will love it
@@ChadHooverFishing it’ll be a huge upgrade from the shearwater 125 for sure. Not a fan of how low it sits in the water with a tourney load, always a super wet ride and that’s zero fun in cooler weather.
Replace those rear twin skid plates ...with...twin keel wheels !
I bought one, but not enough legroom for me to comfortably use foot control steering with my 1103. I’m 6’8”. I’ll have to xi3 or paddle, or sell it. Other than that a very cool kayak.
How were you trying to use the foot control steering?
I removed the rudder and connected the foot pedals directly to the 1103 and got a lot more movement from the pedals
That’s how I did it. Directly to the motor. If I could get another inch or two of legroom it would be more comfortable. Maybe if I lost 30 lbs it would move me farther back in the seat and give me more room. Maybe this is the kick in the pants to do that. I’ll hang on to it. May just need to get used to it.
I may also try pole steering. I did that with a kaku I had. It’s not bad. Not as good as foot steering, but it’s ok.
Another great informative video
Chad, I am looking to get a motorized kayak in spring 2024. Your review of Old Town autopilot 120 had me convinced that this was the one. Until.....I saw your this video on Bonavide PWR 129, although you didn't talk about its motor? Will motor have spot lock?Have an opinion on your favorite powered kayak?Plan to do comparison video?
The PWR doesn’t come with a motor. You have to install the motor on it and you can install a bow mount or stern mount (or both) and it’s up to you what features the model you choose would have.
I’m planning to install a Torqeedo 1103 on one, a NewPort Vessels NK300 on the other and then put a Motorguide Xi3 on one of them as well. I will be doing full comparison videos of each setup.
I am interrested for sure. As a 200# 70 year old man I need to pay attention to balance - both MINE and the BOAT's. Only problem is I live in the State of Utah and Bonafide kayaks just don't seem to exist in Utah, Wyoming, Montana, Arizona, New Mexico,Washington, North and South Dakota most of Nevada etc. Bonafide's webside lists one dealer in Utah in their Dealer Search option but when you search his website EVEN USING THE KEYWORD BONAFIDE I get no return hits. Sadly Bonafide does not appear to offer a Factory Store sales option either. Two SCHEELS stores in Colorado are listed as dealers but sadly not the SCHEELS in my home town. Weird? -Yes; Frustrating? -Yes. Likely to purchase a Bonafide PWR 129? - how much harder could it be?
I hear your frustration. That part of the West has been tough. There is a great community and interest in the sport with some great fisheries, but there just hasn’t been enough to support and sustain a dealer since much of the participants are very spread out over a large area. Freight prices have made it next to impossible to ship kayaks practically any more and I’m hoping that begins to come down over the next few years. If you decide to make the drive to a dealer just come on over to Alabama and we can go fishing after you pick up your boat.
@@ChadHooverFishing @ChadHooverFishing Two months have passed and the local Scheels has ONE PWR129 in stock in the Grey color. I called and they confirmed it is there. No budging on the MSRP price so now I am trying to negotiate on any "optional" parts or kit they may have available. I will likely pull the trigger on this. Sorry, but probably not making it to Alabama to fish. I am still looking at fresh snow on my lawn and all lakes and reservoirs are covered in ice. 😞 Oh well, it will give me time to swap things over from the Old Towne Predator Angler Pro to this boat. Tighties
Would've been great if you had a camera in those "talking hands" to better illustrate the features you were discussing? Appreciate you showing the hull.
Thanks. We do the best we can and I think we covered and showed all of the features extensively over the course of the video.
Those freeloaders stayed at my house back in the day. Nice yak Hans.
Hey Chad, I am interested in this pwr129, and I'm a saltwater fisherman. How does it work in saltwater? How does it feel, perform and handle waves, wind etc... Maybe you can test it for me, before I purchase this new PWR129.
Pretty much all of the kayaks can be used for both fresh and saltwater. I will be taking the PWR129 to Florida to put it through the paces in a ton of situations (Including off shore) in mid December. I will do the best I can to get the content out as soon as possible
Just based on what I know so far, I can’t imagine that this kayak will not handle big water very well.
Does the Bullwinkle mount come with the pwr 129? Great Video!!
You should get Bonafide to make something to attach the sidekick to the ss127 too...
They do
Bag clips on both seats along with most seats from less brands. Just not Hobie.. because hobie.
The most important question - How do we get the exact hat and shirt that Hans is wearing? I don't see that hat on the website and the big guy shirts are never in stock.
I’m working on that
I am paddling now looking for good one for lakes and rivers.
It’s definitely a great choice
I like the new quantifieds, the native watercraft. I like to do third 130 I want to fight but I wish you would not have taken away the 135 native Titans got enough room for both of them in the lineup. I like it because of the rod stores and the capability of when I go to the river and go on a river camp out and fish float. I wish you.Could you please bring back the titan thirteen five
They definitely put a lot time in to work out anything that was not great. chance to make it more comfortable and easier to operate
Regardless of YG affiliation or not, Bonafide makes what I think are the best designed kayaks with the most included features. I have worked with, designed and sold products for literally every major brand of kayak on the market. Nucanoe and Bonafide are my personal favorite brands. The OG SS seat is by far the best comfort seat on the market. Hans is one of the best designers in the industry period. Another home run. Now I need the new boats in the shop to design for.
Thanks JT
Another question I have is even though this is going to mainly be for powered guys, is there going to be a pedal module to go into the storage drop in, where the Lowrance is in the video?
No. You can’t just put a pedal drive in a kayak unless it’s designed for it. You have to have adjustability for leg length and the boat has to have a hand steering mechanism
nice review..i think i found my new yak...also i ve seem Han's quads, i dont think you cam take him lol😊
I’ll give it my best shot😜
This is amazing. It has me throwing rocks at my NUcanoe 12
How does this need to be stored? Flat on the pontoons or on PVC rails in the recessed areas? Just got this today.
You can always store a kayak sitting flat. You can also store it on PVC in the recesses as well, but do not strap it down tight and don’t leave it strapped down for extended times. EVER.
@@ChadHooverFishing thanks Chad! I wasn’t able to find anything on bonafide’s site as what they say is best to do for weight distribution, etc.
LOL you're right your feet are going to drop down lower not your butt so you have raised nothing with your swing bar. What I did was take 4 inches of 2 by 4 drilled a hole to just fit the REAR lower support bar and now I got the raise in the right place solid as a rock. The front compartment has a 100ah and a 30ah lithium totally water proof batteries secured together (i spend all day running around coastal Florida) and it's so nice to use my paddle near the launch only plus I installed stabilizers so I can stand up and site fish or throw my cast net I could send pictures I have the finest rear gadget box you will ever see
Nice! Sounds like you have your setup dialed in
Help needed I’m torn between the pwr129 and the native x without the pedal drive I really like the swivel seat I’m planning on using the xi3 on the one I go with any thoughts would be appreciated thanks
Personally, the Native Titan X is great and it’s the pinnacle of what a small one person watercraft can be. I wish they would sell it without the pedal drive for folks like you, but I understand the business side of it too.
That said, I’m going to have to say I would go with the PWR 129 because it’s lighter, less expensive, easier to paddle and get into tighter places Nd for the difference in price you can add the other stuff you want and save on the overall package. The PWR is also faster and more efficient when motorized if that’s a consideration for you
@@ChadHooverFishing Thanks that helps a lot coming from the pro
Can I put a stern mounted trolling motor in a set (straight) position and use the included rudder to steer the kayak with the trolling motor engaged?
I fish in a lot of very shallow creeks and rivers and the motor would have to be pulled up most of the time. I suspect that would limit my maneuverability when using the trolling motor but most of my maneuvering would be while paddling through moving water with the motor pulled up anyway.
Any thoughts?
If it is too shallow to have the motor down then the rudder is also likely too deep to be used. I don’t recommend using a rudder to navigate moving water either. It has a tendency to catch eddies and seams that you are already through and throw your stern into a position that you don’t really want and potentially put you in a bad position.
To answer your question though, what you are saying is possible, but I’m not sure how much control you will have over the motor with the rudder. It would be interesting to see. I actually removed my rudder to use the steering cables for the motor so that it is foot controlled.
I would like to see a speed comparison with same motor (Xi3) vs PA12 / TitanX,....
Do you guys use the rudder in conjunction with the rear motor or do you just not use the rudder when using the rear motor
I completely removed the rudder and use the steering for the motor
@@ChadHooverFishing thanks man
With the release of the PWR is the Ss127 no longer a good option in terms of what you get for the money?
Not necessarily, I just think it emphasizes the value on what you get in the PWR 129 for an extra $250.
The SS127 is still a great option. It’s lighter, paddles well and is super stable. I’m not 100% sure that the price point will stay the same,
But even if it does it’s still a great value
@@ChadHooverFishinggotcha, looks like a heck of a boat for the price!
this is MrBear hudson fl. what colers now and what colers will thay make it in ?? i have an ss127 love it and i am 300hunderd lbs, and can i buy a 1103 torqedo with out the battery and use my 100 amp dakota battery? please answere to make up my mind. thank you
The colors are all listed on the website. If I tell you the names you still won’t know what they look like without going to the site. You can’t use the Torqeedo with any other battery other than theirs, it doesn’t work with other batteries
@@ChadHooverFishing thank you so much stay fishing stay safe
If I was gonna buy a kayak to run a trolling motor, this would absolutely be it
How feasible would it for Bonafide to make this boat compatible with their pedal drive down the line? I understand it wasn’t designed for that but the hull design is almost perfect.
Adding battery compartment behind the seat, forward facing flush mount rod holder and pedal option would make this perfect and any other kayak obsolete.
You can’t just make a kayak “pedal compatible”. It has to be designed that way from the beginning. The hull has to be different, the seat configuration has to be different, the place where the pod goes has to be different, you have to have a hand controlled rudder to steer while pedaling and the incorporation of that, the cost of labor to install it and all of that would drive the cost up substantially. If you want a pedal drive then the P127 is available and/or one of the Native Slayers or Titans.
@@ChadHooverFishingUnderstood. Originally wanted Titan X but this look sleeker and half of the weight. It would be ideal grab & go with pedal drive.
Either way, will go with pwr129 for weight savings and paddling/motor combo.. looking forward to more reviews to solidify my decision..
Its a TARDIS. Its bigger when inside than when looking from the outside.
Looks so sick
Will a 70lbs thrust trolling motor make the pwr129 unsafe?
I don’t think so. But it also depends on how you rig it and balance the load
That thing is a tank.. do they make a pedal drive option, or is this boat for motorized propulsion only?
Paddle and motor only. The pedal version is the P127
I am planning on buying one. Can anyone recommend a place to buy online? There are no stores close to me. I’m concerned about shipping damage, should be fine ha..
Where are you located?
I'm an older man and not gonna be wrestling a kayak in and out of the back of my truck. Do they make a trailer fo this thing?
“they” don’t but there are several options that are available
Looks pretty awesome. One day….
Are you still going to do the kayak weight limit testing?
Yes
So what does this kayak do better than say the Oldtown 120?
Hey Chad, why don’t you like to use scuppers? Thanks.
I am using the scuppers, but I think you mean scupper plugs. I don’t use them because then it prevents the boat from draining should you ever take on water, they are actually designed to drain the boat so plugging them doesn’t make sense to me unless it’s super cold out
@@ChadHooverFishing yeah totally meant plugs. Sorry i got distracted I was talking to my best buddy Darren Wendall on the phone, and he was telling me how he put a whooping on some southern boys.
Amigos estoy en tx que caña me recomiendan para agua dulce de acción rápida saludos
Is there a pedal option
No. For a kayak to be able to be pedaled it has to have that as part of the design, with integration of hand steering for the rudder and that adds a lot to the cost for materials and extra labor to install all that extra stuff
Does anyone know what the market is gonna look like in the next few months? I’m thinking about selling my NuCanoe U and getting a smaller peddle drive
What cart does Bonafide recommend for the SS and the PWR?
Both. But I like the Bunkster the best
Does that motor mount area allow for the Bixby mounts?
Pretty much any mount can be accommodated
Chad isnt there a kayak where you can face the shoreline and peddle but it goes sideways?
Hobie pa 360
Is peddle drive available for this
If it would come with a peddle drive option I would definitely be getting one.
That’s not what this boat is made for, if it came with the pedal drive it would be $1200 more and there are tons of options in that price point with pedals like the P127, TitanX and Slayer Max
@@ChadHooverFishing I get that’s not what this is made for but I believe Bonafide is missing out on some of the market. I’ve been a paddler but a shoulder injury and getting 3 tears in my rotator cuff fixed and a bicep reattachment surgery has me looking for a peddle drive.
I agree pedal option would be nice. TitanX might be my next one but 170LBS is insane. This 80 lbs hull with options to motorize or pedal would smoke anything else on the market. I understand can’t have it all but man can dream.
Great video chad but ill stick to my inflatable.
Whatever works for you! 👊🏻
This is great boat made to install a motor! No pedals
Yeap.
When do these things ship out?!?
From what I’ve been told any day now😍
Jackson all day long!
Which one? 😂😂
This is like when vegans comment on hunting videos….. 😂😂
Cossa FD
The Bonafide is sweet though.
My desire to buy a new kayak is strong
Make it happen 😜
Do they make a keil protector?
It has 2, one for each pontoon.
doesn’t look very stable, it looks to very quick to tilt. i find it suspect that you can’t think of a more stable boat. What other boats have you been in?
I’ve probably been in every major fishing kayak to ever be manufactured, plus many that aren’t made for fishing and for over 200 days almost every year. But, my 30 years experience in kayaks, kayak design and manufacturing may not be as calibrated as your eyeballs while watching a video.
@@ChadHooverFishinglol😂 stable hull design?
They can probably land a AH-64 chopper on that kayak
I’m the truck driver by Knoxville.
What’s up brother. Thanks for getting my attention. If you are in North Alabama stop by the KBF HQ and let’s wet a line
Thank you so much I live in dalton Georgia
I want one! Santa!
Do you think they gave him this boat , all gear on it , plus a envelope stuffed filled with dirty cash before or after this video ? Place your votes 😮😅
Does your job just give you money at the end of each pay period or do you earn it? Nobody “gives” me anything brother. We sign a contract with agreed upon deliverables and those are done in exchange for whatever pay and product I receive and if I don’t feel like dealing with the company, I just buy it.
My wife calls it a "personal delivery float" bc she says it personally delivers me back to her alive floating"😂😂😂
Im not a kayak hater, but at what point do you just go get a john boat.. lol so much talk about capacity and increase in size, but a 12ft john boat would be just as accessible and likely cheaper. Cool kayak though
When I decide I want to have a harder time loading and unloading, more vulnerable to the wind, harder to paddle or motor, access less water and be less maneuverable when I get there, have a louder watercraft that spooks more fish and then have a boat that holds water in the rain or can’t go out in big waves because it will fill up and sink. That’s pretty much when I will decide to go that route. 😜
@ChadHooverFishing some good points for sure. However, i think a couple of those are points are bit exaggerated. Not the loudness tho. That is spot on 🤣.
Anyways, I'm not here to stir up trouble. Even though we may not agree, i still very much enjoy your content. Ty for making these videos!
Ball scratcher.
Did you just need to say that? 😜
Great name for kayak you got my thumbs up
Can you put pedal drive in?
No, that cut-out in the cockpit is for a pod.