So I've been looking at some models, and I'm leaning towards picking up a Nucanoe Frontier.  Anyone out there know anything about these hybrids kayaks.  They look really cool, but I'm not sure if there are any downfalls or other brands people on here would recommend.  I laways get great advice on the forums, so I figure I'd ask.

 

Try typing that in on the search on this section. I could be wrong but i thought Darren m who posts on here often has one.

Actually, I have a Native Ultimate 12 - also a hybrid.

 

You can look at my model (or the 14 depending on what size you're looking for), and the Wilderness Systems Commander models.

 

This is a personal decision only you can make. In other words, I strongly urge you to find local shops where you can sit in the respective kayaks, and/or demo them on the water. I say this because what works for me may not work for you. Thus a personal decision.

 

I preferred the Native Ultimate's interior and such over the Commander. But you may feel opposite.

 

NuCanoe has a fine reputation and certainly worthy of consideration.

 

The only "downfall" I see in hybrids is the lack of scupper holes for drainage. So I don't usually take my U12 out on large bodies of water, although I do plan on some York River (brackish) fishing in the future, but will remain close to shore to avoid the big water.

I have the frontier and love it. Its super stable, endless rigging options. Easy to stand in, etc. Its a bit heavy at 77 lbs dry, but manageable. Certainly not the fastest through the water, but I wanted stability to fish not speed. I highly recommend it. I bought mine up at the Tackle Shack in Newbury NH. I had a few issues with minor things, and called Nucone and dealt with Blake the owner. There customer service is top notch. I actually just sent and email to Nucanoe and Blake replied back withing about 20 minutes. I'm only about 20 minutes from Portsmouth if you are really torn and want to check one out in person we could probably arrange that. My schedule is a bit odd and really busy at the moment, but can work something out. 

I have the frontier and love it. Its super stable, endless rigging options. Easy to stand in, etc. Its a bit heavy at 77 lbs dry, but manageable. Certainly not the fastest through the water, but I wanted stability to fish not speed. I highly recommend it. I bought mine up at the Tackle Shack in Newbury NH. I had a few issues with minor things, and called Nucone and dealt with Blake the owner. There customer service is top notch. I actually just sent and email to Nucanoe and Blake replied back withing about 20 minutes. I'm only about 20 minutes from Portsmouth if you are really torn and want to check one out in person we could probably arrange that. My schedule is a bit odd and really busy at the moment, but can work something out. 

 

That's a good point about the weight. My U12 is 55lbs. Easy to hoist car top. Now that I have a Tundra, it's even easier to load up. And I even lift it with all my gear aboard, including MinnKota Endura 30 trolling motor. Usually take the 56lb battery out. Oi.

Forgot to mention if you get the frontier definatley invest in the transport wheels that clip into the transome mount. Worth every penny. I went the cheap way and tried to make my own and after spending more time fixing them then using them, I bit the bullet and bought them. I hoist mine on the roof of my SUV with no problems. Keeping an eye out for a PWC trailer though so I can keep it all rigged up and not have to deal with rigging all the time. 

Whatever you get I would just try to demo before you buy and don't go to town rigging stuff up until you've got a good feel for the kayak.  NuCanoes look nice, I have no experience with them but they look to be built well but perhaps a little heavier than I'd like in terms of weight

How does the frontier handle wind?

I have the frontier and love it. Its super stable, endless rigging options. Easy to stand in, etc. Its a bit heavy at 77 lbs dry, but manageable. Certainly not the fastest through the water, but I wanted stability to fish not speed. I highly recommend it. I bought mine up at the Tackle Shack in Newbury NH. I had a few issues with minor things, and called Nucone and dealt with Blake the owner. There customer service is top notch. I actually just sent and email to Nucanoe and Blake replied back withing about 20 minutes. I'm only about 20 minutes from Portsmouth if you are really torn and want to check one out in person we could probably arrange that. My schedule is a bit odd and really busy at the moment, but can work something out. 

I really appreciate the info. and the offer, but i think I'm going to head to a shop this weekend and test a Frontier and possibly 2 other boats before it gets any colder.  It seems the shops I've talked to are all looking to make a deal for the end of the season here, so I'm hoping I can get a few bucks off retail.  Glad to know you recommend the transport wheels, as it does seem a little heavy to handle out of the water.