Spring is lurking right around the corner, so that means it's time to start thinking about summer toys. Everybody knows that boats are one of the premier summer toys. What you may not know is that there's a Canadian company that makes easily transportable, lightweight, inexpensive boats that are perfect for the weekend explorer or the gonzo angler. They go by the name Pelican International and they offer canoes, paddleboats, and fishing and sport boats. We've selected a couple of models from the company's product line to highlight this month-one general-purpose unit and one geared specifically for fishing. Best part is, either can be carried in the bed of a fullsize pickup.
The revered jon boat is the Swiss Army Knife of boats, and they're perfect for a variety of uses from fishing to exploring. The Intruder 12 jon boat is a neat little craft that is made of durable Ram-X with double-hull ribbed construction for greater strength and stability. It has no rivets or seams, which contribute to a smooth, watertight finish; it has a tough bumper to resist dock abrasions; and it has a tri-grooved hull for superior tracking. Both the transom and bow have reinforced motor mounts. Inside, the Intruder 12 has 36 feet of cargo space, vertical rod-holders, oarlock sockets, and a pair of comfortable, reinforced seats for extra strength and a quiet ride. Best of all, the craft weighs only 136 pounds and comes with fore and aft carrying handles so you and a friend can easily load it into the bed of your fullsize pickup.
Model: '06 Pelican Intruder 12
Base price: $549.99
Construction: Ram-X, double-hull ribbed, tri-grooved hull
Seats: Two full-width reinforced bench seats
Rod holders: 4
Length (ft): 12
Beam (in): 48
Weight (lb): 136
Maximum capacity (lb): 420
Maximum engine size (hp): 6
Break out those rods and reels, because this craft is ready to fish. It has two vertical rod holders at the bow; drink holders; tackle compartments; and two contoured swiveling seats. The Bass Raider 8 is made from virtually indestructible Ram-X (a material that has outstanding impact resistance and the ability to regain its original shape after an impact), and features double hull construction and extra large pontoons for superior stability. It has a high freeboard to help you stay dry, and a tough bumper to protect the craft from dock abrasions. If rowing isn't your thing, the Bass Raider 8 can be fitted with up to a 3hp motor. Thanks to reinforced motor mounts at each end of the craft, the engine can be mounted on either the transom or bow. Transporting the Bass Raider 8 is easy, thanks to the fact that it will easily fit in the bed of a fullsize pickup and has sturdy carrying handles. One of the things we like best is that it only weighs a paltry 97 pounds.
Model: Pelican Bass Raider 8
Base price: $429.99
Construction: Ram-X, double hull, extra wide pontoons
Seats: 2
Rod holders: 2
Length (in): 95
Beam (in): 49
Weight (lb): 97
Maximum capacity (lb): 500
Maximum engine size (hp): 3