Viking Profish 45 Review (2026)
The Viking Profish 45 is a high-performance, rugged kayak designed specifically for anglers who demand stability, speed, and ample storage for long fishing trips. Known for its excellent design and versatile features, this kayak is perfect for those seeking a reliable vessel for offshore and inshore fishing. In this review, we’ll explore its key features, performance, pros and cons, and overall value.
Key Features of the Viking Profish 45 Kayak
- Dimensions: 14′ 9″ L × 31″ W
- Weight: 77 lbs
- Capacity: 485 lbs
- Material: Rotomolded polyethylene construction
- Seats: Adjustable, padded seat with high backrest
- Storage: Large rear hatch, front storage with bungee cords, and side pockets
- Maximum Speed: 4-5 mph
- Hull Type: Stable, tri-hull design for tracking and stability
- Included Accessories: Paddle, rod holders, storage compartments, and drink holders
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stability and Performance: The tri-hull design provides excellent stability, making the Profish 45 ideal for both calm and rough waters. Its tracking ability is superb, ensuring smooth paddling even in less-than-ideal conditions.
- Ample Storage Space: The kayak is equipped with a large rear hatch, front storage with bungee cords, and multiple side pockets, making it perfect for storing fishing gear, supplies, and personal items for extended trips.
- Comfortable and Adjustable Seating: The adjustable, padded seat with a high backrest ensures maximum comfort for long fishing trips or paddling sessions.
- Durable Construction: Made from rotomolded polyethylene, the Viking Profish 45 is built to withstand the elements, offering resistance to impacts, UV rays, and abrasions.
- Fishing Features: The kayak includes multiple rod holders, a paddle keeper, and additional gear tracks, making it ideal for anglers who need a fully functional fishing platform.
- Great Speed for a Fishing Kayak: With a maximum speed of 4-5 mph, the Profish 45 is one of the faster kayaks in its class, allowing for quick movement across the water.
Cons:
- Heavy Weight: At 77 lbs, the Viking Profish 45 is on the heavier side, which can make it difficult to transport, especially for solo users.
- Size May Be Challenging for Smaller Paddlers: With a length of 14′ 9″, the kayak may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces or narrow water channels, especially for those with less experience.
- Limited for Solo Use: While the kayak can be used solo, its size and weight make it more suited for tandem use or for those with some experience in handling larger kayaks.
- Higher Price Point: The Profish 45 offers premium features, but its price tag may be higher than some entry-level fishing kayaks, which could be a factor for budget-conscious buyers.
Ideal for Serious Anglers and Long Fishing Trips
The Viking Profish 45 is an ideal kayak for serious anglers looking for a reliable, high-performance vessel for offshore and inshore fishing. Its superior stability, fast speed, and large storage capacity make it perfect for extended trips or long days on the water. This kayak is also well-suited for paddlers who are comfortable with larger, more stable kayaks and are looking for a platform that supports a wide range of fishing activities.
Performance and Paddling Experience
The Viking Profish 45 delivers exceptional performance, with its tri-hull design providing excellent stability and tracking. Whether you’re navigating calm lakes, rivers, or ocean waters, this kayak offers smooth and efficient paddling. The kayak’s design allows for effortless gliding across the water, and its sturdy construction can handle waves and rough conditions. While it’s not the fastest kayak in the world, its speed of 4-5 mph makes it a solid performer for fishing and recreational paddling.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Although the Viking Profish 45 is relatively heavy at 77 lbs, it’s equipped with multiple carry handles to help make transportation easier. You may need assistance to load and unload it, but once in the water, the kayak is easy to use, providing great stability and control. Maintenance is minimal—simply rinse the kayak after each use, dry it thoroughly, and store it in a cool, dry place. The durable rotomolded polyethylene construction ensures the kayak remains in excellent condition with basic care.
Durability and Build Quality
Built with rotomolded polyethylene, the Viking Profish 45 is highly durable and designed to withstand the rigors of regular fishing trips. It’s resistant to impacts, UV rays, and abrasions, ensuring long-lasting performance even in harsh conditions. This sturdy build is ideal for serious anglers who need a kayak that can handle heavy-duty use without showing signs of wear and tear. The high-quality construction ensures a reliable and robust kayak for years of use.
Portability and Storage
Weighing 77 lbs, the Viking Profish 45 is relatively heavy, and although the kayak is stable and durable, transporting it solo may be challenging. However, it comes with multiple carry handles to make handling easier, and you may want assistance when moving it over long distances. Storage-wise, the Profish 45 offers ample space for gear with its large rear hatch, front storage with bungee cords, and additional pockets for small items. The kayak’s spacious storage capacity ensures that you can take all the fishing gear you need for long outings.
Final Thoughts on the Viking Profish 45 Kayak
The Viking Profish 45 is an exceptional fishing kayak that offers outstanding stability, performance, and storage space for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its rotomolded polyethylene construction provides durability, while the tri-hull design ensures excellent tracking and stability. Though it’s on the heavier side, its comfort, ample storage, and fishing features make it a top choice for serious anglers. If you’re looking for a reliable, fast, and stable kayak for offshore or inshore fishing, the Viking Profish 45 offers great value for its premium features and performance.