Paddle Kayaks · Fishing
The Crescent LiteTackle II is the second generation of Crescent’s flagship paddle kayak, and it keeps the clean, open deck that made the original popular while adding a better hatch, a front console for electronics, and more factory rigging options. If you want a paddle-powered fishing platform that
The Crescent LiteTackle II is the second generation of Crescent’s flagship paddle kayak, and it keeps the clean, open deck that made the original popular while adding a better hatch, a front console for electronics, and more factory rigging options. If you want a paddle-powered fishing platform that tracks straight and lets you stand and cast, this one deserves a look.
If you want to skip ahead and see what it costs, check the current price here.
Check the current price and availability here:
Who the LiteTackle II Is For
This boat suits anglers who like to cover water with a paddle instead of pedals. It’s a 12’4″ boat, so it tracks well across open water and glides between spots without much fuss. If you fish lakes, slow rivers, or skinny backwaters and want a simple, quiet setup, it fits. It’s also a good pick if you like to customize, since the deck comes ready for YakAttack accessories right out of the box.
Stability and Standing
Stability is the headline here. The 34″ wide hull uses a patented displacement design with a bulbous bow that rides up over chop and full-length keels that keep it tracking straight. Sidewalls sit low at the waterline, which cuts drag and gives you solid secondary stability when you lean into a cast or reach for a net. I’ve seen plenty of boats this narrow feel tippy underfoot. This one gives you a rigid, open standing platform that stays put when you stand up to sight fish.
Seat and Comfort
Crescent builds its seats by hand in the Southeastern U.S., and you can tell. The adjustable height seat has a padded bottom and a single strap compression system that locks it in place. Flip it to the high position for better sight lines and more storage room underneath, or drop it low when the wind picks up. There’s gear space under the seat for tackle trays, plus dual cupholders and stash pockets within arm’s reach.
Storage and Rigging
The LiteTackle II was clearly designed with rigging in mind. Up front, the new hatch system opens up access to the full hull for rod storage, and the anodized aluminum GearTrac on the center console is perfect for a fish finder mounted over the transducer scupper. Flush-mounted YakAttack GearTracs line the cockpit, and the rear tankwell swallows coolers and crates. Crescent even added a Tankwell Cam Strap storage system for quick tie-downs. A rear deck plate doubles your internal hull access, which makes mounting a Power Pole or small motor much simpler.
Paddle Performance
Crescent’s reputation is built on hulls that paddle well, and this one lives up to it. The full-length keel and clean underwater profile mean it holds a line on a long paddle across the lake without constant correction. It’s not the fastest hull in its class, but it glides easily and turns predictably. The bulbous bow keeps the ride drier in chop than you’d expect from a 12-foot boat.
Honest Drawbacks
No boat is perfect. At 75 lbs, it’s not the lightest 12-footer to car-top solo, though the molded handles help. This is a paddle kayak, so there’s no pedal drive option if your legs are supposed to do the work. And while the open deck is great for fishing, there’s less built-in dry storage than some competitors with big center hatches.
Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 12′ 4″ |
| Width | 34″ |
| Weight | 75 lbs |
| Capacity | 450 lbs |
| Drive Type | Paddle |
Crescent LiteTackle II Fishing Kayak FAQ
Is the Crescent LiteTackle II good for standing and fishing?
Yes. The rigid, open deck and 34″ wide displacement hull make it a solid standing platform for sight casting.
Does the LiteTackle II have a pedal drive?
No. It’s a paddle-only kayak built around Crescent’s paddling hull design.
Can I mount a fish finder on the LiteTackle II?
Yes. The front console has a GearTrac and the hull has a transducer scupper made for mounting electronics.
What is the weight capacity of the LiteTackle II?
It’s rated for 450 lbs of paddler and gear.
Where to Buy
If the Crescent LiteTackle II Fishing Kayak sounds like your kind of boat, check the current price:
Also check out our reviews of the Crescent Shoalie Fishing Kayak, and Crescent Smallie Fishing Kayak.
For the latest colors, specs, and warranty details, see the official Crescent website for the Crescent LiteTackle II.
Affiliate disclosure: KayakDIY may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this article, at no additional cost to the reader. Product availability, pricing, and promo codes can change; verify them before purchasing.
