I have narrowed my choices down to an Old Town Predator, Ride 115x, or a Jackson Cuda 12.

Any tips or pro's and cons of any would be greatly appreciated.

 

Thanks

I've got a cuda 14 and love it, but if I were buying again it probably wouldn't be my first choice. However, that's solely because where I fish has changed dramatically. When I bought the Cuda14 I was fishing large bodies of water(Chesapeake Bay etc) and now I'm doing more river fishing. The Cuda is a great big water kayak, tracks well blah blah blah, but isn't so good in rivers. I've only dumped it once, but would like something a little more nimble. If I were to do it again it would probably be a Coosa or Ride 115x. Both of them are better suited for river fishing(especially the Coosa), but still do fairly well on bigger bodies of water.  

What type of water do you fish most of the time? Lakes (how big), rivers, creeks, etc.?

Those are three very different hulls and will have different paddling, stability and handling characteristics.  Seat time/water time is the only true judge of which one is right for your fishing style.  Assess your style, focus on what you do 70-80% of the time and pick the kayak hull that fits that style.  The remaining 20-25% can be handled typically in the same hull just not too frequently without some adjustments on your part.

Native slayer propel 10 if you have the budget. Peddle power with the ability to reverse is incredible.

The ride is a really nice boat for bass fishing. It is slow but stable. 135 might be worth a look. Just make sure you paddle before you buy if you have the option.

the Predator is a large, heavy, wide boat..it is great for standing and carrying a load...it is not a long distance or fast yak tho due these same reasons. They are being sold used now in CA on yak forums for $700-800, like new and with extras.