Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak Review

The Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak is a high-performance fishing kayak designed for avid anglers who seek stability, comfort, and versatility on the water. With a spacious cockpit, durable construction, and ample storage options, this kayak is ideal for fishing in both calm lakes and more challenging rivers. Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or a newcomer to the sport, the Outlaw 11.5 offers a smooth, stable ride and plenty of features to enhance your fishing experience. In this review, we’ll cover the key features, performance, pros, cons, and overall value of the Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your next fishing adventure.

Introduction to the Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak

The Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak is built for serious fishing, offering a blend of performance, stability, and comfort. Its design emphasizes tracking and maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through various water conditions. The kayak’s size provides ample room for gear, ensuring you can take everything you need for a successful fishing trip. The Outlaw 11.5 is known for its excellent stability, making it suitable for standing up while fishing, and it offers great value for both recreational and seasoned kayakers. Let’s take a closer look at its features and performance to see how it compares to other kayaks in its class.

Key Features of the Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak

Stable and Wide Hull Design
One of the standout features of the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is its wide, stable hull. The hull design offers excellent stability, which is crucial for anglers who need to stand while fishing or navigate through choppy waters. The wide base ensures that you won’t tip easily, giving you the confidence to cast, reel in, or even paddle in more challenging conditions.
Comfortable Seating System
The Outlaw 11.5 features an adjustable, breathable seat that offers great lumbar support for long days on the water. The padded seat cushion and high backrest ensure comfort, while the seat’s adjustability allows you to customize the position for your specific needs. Whether you’re paddling or fishing, the comfortable seating helps minimize fatigue, so you can stay out on the water longer.
Ample Storage and Gear Options
This kayak is equipped with plenty of storage options, including a large rear tank well, forward hatch, and bungee tie-downs. The rear tank well is perfect for securing larger items such as coolers or fishing gear, while the forward hatch is ideal for smaller items like tackle boxes. The kayak also features multiple flush-mount rod holders and side pockets to keep your gear organized and accessible.
Durable Construction
The Perception Outlaw 11.5 is made from high-quality, rotomolded polyethylene, ensuring durability and resistance to wear and tear. This material is known for its long-lasting performance, making the kayak tough enough to handle various water conditions without showing signs of damage. The sturdy construction also means it can support heavier loads, making it ideal for carrying extra gear or a heavier paddler.
Maneuverability and Tracking
Despite its wide hull, the Outlaw 11.5 offers impressive maneuverability. The kayak’s tracking is excellent, allowing you to maintain a straight line while paddling and reducing the need for constant correction. Whether you’re navigating a lake or a slow-moving river, the Outlaw 11.5 stays on course with minimal effort. The adjustable foot pegs also allow you to customize your paddling position for added comfort and control.
Stable Standing Platform
The Outlaw 11.5 features a flat, stable standing platform, which is a must-have for anglers who prefer standing while casting or reeling in fish. The kayak’s design and hull shape provide a solid, steady base that makes standing easy and safe, even for those who are new to kayaking. The stability of this kayak allows you to fish comfortably while standing, giving you a better view of your surroundings.
Easy to Transport
At 68 lbs, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is lightweight enough to be transported by one person, but it may be easier with a partner. The kayak features front and rear carry handles, making it simple to load and unload from your vehicle. Additionally, its compact size fits well on most roof racks and trailers, offering hassle-free transport.

Performance and Efficiency

The Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak excels in both performance and efficiency. The wide, stable hull offers excellent balance, making it easy to paddle and maneuver, even in tight spaces. The kayak performs well in calm waters, providing a smooth, comfortable ride. Its tracking ability is impressive, allowing you to paddle long distances without constantly adjusting your course.

While the Outlaw 11.5 is not the fastest kayak in its class, its stability and maneuverability make it perfect for fishing and recreational paddling. The kayak is ideal for cruising through calm lakes, slow rivers, or protected coastal areas. For anglers, the stability and storage options are key, making it an excellent choice for those who want to spend long hours on the water without worrying about tipping or discomfort.

Setup and Transport

Setting up the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is quick and easy. The kayak is ready to use right out of the box, with minimal assembly required. Once on the water, the kayak provides a stable and comfortable platform for all your activities. Transporting the Outlaw 11.5 is also straightforward, thanks to the included handles and manageable weight. It’s designed to be lifted by one person, but two people can make it even easier, especially when loading it onto a roof rack or trailer.

Pros of the Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak

Stable design: The wide hull and flat standing platform provide excellent stability, making it easy to stand and fish.
Comfortable seating: The adjustable, breathable seat ensures comfort during long paddling or fishing sessions.
Ample storage: Multiple storage compartments and rod holders make it easy to bring along all your fishing gear.
Durable construction: Made with rotomolded polyethylene for long-lasting durability and resistance to damage.
Maneuverability and tracking: Despite its width, the kayak offers excellent tracking and is easy to steer.
Lightweight: Weighing 68 lbs, it’s relatively easy to transport for a fishing kayak.

Cons of the Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak

Not the fastest kayak: While stable, the Outlaw 11.5 is slower compared to sleeker kayaks.
Weight: At 68 lbs, it may be difficult for some users to transport on their own, especially over long distances.
Limited speed: If you’re looking for a fast, performance-driven kayak, this model is better suited for stability and comfort rather than speed.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak

To maximize your experience with the Perception Outlaw 11.5, follow these tips:

Use the right gear: Ensure you have fishing accessories, including rods, tackle, and a PFD for safety.
Maintain the kayak: Regularly check for any wear and tear, especially on the hull, seat, and storage compartments.
Paddle efficiently: Use the adjustable foot pegs to find the best paddling position, reducing fatigue during long trips.
Balance your load: Distribute your gear evenly for better stability and easier paddling.

Conclusion

The Perception Outlaw 11.5 Angler Kayak offers a fantastic balance of stability, comfort, and performance, making it an excellent choice for anglers and recreational kayakers alike. Its durable construction, ample storage, and wide, stable hull make it a great kayak for fishing trips and leisurely paddling. While it may not be the fastest kayak in its class, the Outlaw 11.5 excels in providing a smooth, enjoyable ride for anglers who prioritize comfort and stability. If you’re in the market for a stable and durable kayak with plenty of features, the Perception Outlaw 11.5 is a solid option to consider.

View