Review of the 2017 Ocean Kayak Prowler Big Game II The Battleship

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The Battleship by Ocean Kayak truly lives up to its name. It’s designed with the arsenal you need to go fishing. It can be taken anywhere for the day, even on big water.

First things first, the new mod pod console has so many awesome features. It is slightly thinner this year than the previous model, which allows more room inside the kayak for standing. Starting closest to you is a spot that is magnetic for holding tools, hooks and other metal gear. Once an item is placed here, it does not move. It can; however, be easily grasped when needed, with no excessive pull from the magnet.

Next up is the lashing for holding your cell phone or pliers. This is designed on the lid of a locking waterproof storage area and is perfect for cell phones. I personally have a Samsung S8 Plus and can put it in there easily with room to spare. This area is hinged and opens for a nice deep storage area with a removable bin. The next section features two sets of rails about 8 inches. Each one can hold rods or even phone and camera holders. The possible uses of this rail system are endless.

In the center of the kayak is a common cup holder, perfect for holding your drink or lures. Behind the cup holder is a removable mounting plate for a depth/fish finder. It has notches to run wiring down to a nylon battery hung inside the hull. This helps to prevent the battery from getting wet. Similar to the other part of the console, this lid opens to another large removable bin. Storage is almost limitless in this newly redesigned console. It can also be purchased separately and installed on other kayaks that have similar consoles with slight modifications. Lastly, if you take out both bins, there is room to store more rods in your hull.

Similar to last year’s kayak, the 2017 Ocean Kayak Prowler Big Game II The Battleship features six mounting plates for accessories or tracking. I really like these mounting plates since I don’t have to drill holes in my kayak. Also, the front handle is very comfortable and makes this Ocean Kayak easy to pick up and transport. The handles are located on the middle of each side for quick pick up and loading of the kayak. The bow hatch has the click seal cover allowing you to lock the lid for a waterproof design. In the rear, you’ll find a large storage area, equipped with a bungee, allowing you to take what you need for your fishing adventure. The two scupper holes located in the rear, combined with a bungee cord keeps your gear secure in the event that you flip. The paddle keeper holds your paddle secure with a durable flexible strap. New to this year’s model are two flush mount rod holders which angle your rods nicely so you can drift fish with no worries. Up front there are two spots designed for additional flush mount kits. The glide track foot bracing is easily adjustable and adapts to the rudder kit. The rudder installs somewhat easy, but it does take some time and patience. I do suggest the rudder kit for this kayak to help on windy days and maneuvering.

The polyethylene kayak measures 12 feet 9 inches and weighs only 70 pounds, much lighter than some kayaks the same size. The width measures 34 inches with the leg length a roomy 50 inches and a weight capacity of 550 to 600 pounds. This is great for big guys and additional gear. This kayak comes in many color options including urban camo, camo, lemon grass and sand. I chose the lemon grass kayak and find it highly visible on the lake and a good color to work with.

I had a blast installing my accessories on this kayak and a great time with it on the lake. The stability of the hull design is unbelievable. I tested it by rocking it back and forth rather violently and stopping quickly. The kayak came to a halt almost immediately. Sitting side ways and sliding off, I found I slid off before the kayak would flip. While I did not attempt to stand in this kayak, I would have to say I will in time and would not hesitate to question the stability given. The keel protector is replaceable and helps protect from wear in the rear. Looking at the kayak sitting in the water with only my gear, I am amazed at how high it sits in the water. Once I sat in the kayak, it continued to float high, a testament to how it handles large loads and makes paddling almost effortless. A representative explained to me that the hull will only allow the kayak to go so fast and after bringing it on the lake, I can confirm that. You do not need to paddle hard to get the most out of this kayak.

I purposely left discussing the seat for last. The Element Seating System is so far, the most comfortable seat I have been in. I use it on the low setting for long distance paddling, on the higher setting for fishing, or folded back to give you access to the full deck for sight casting. I haven’t experienced a stiff back, or any lower back discomfort while out on the water. The mesh material allows you to stay cool, allowing for good breathability. The kayak’s stand-up assist strap makes standing up easy.

Overall, this is a great kayak for fishing. The stability exceeds some other kayaks that I have reviewed and the enjoyment that I've received from fishing off this kayak cannot be taken for granted. Why spend your day uncomfortable and fighting to have room for gear, when you can ride in a kayak like the Battleship?

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For more information, please visit www.oceankayak.com or www.kayakbattleship.com.

Review written by Gary Elliott, facilitator of www.Facebook.com/GarysOutdoorNewsandReviews and @garys_outdoor_news_and_reviews.