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Native Slayer Propel Max 10 Review: Compact Pedal Kayak

Native Watercraft Slayer Propel Max 10 Fishing Kayak KayakDIY Review

Pedal Kayaks · Fishing

The Native Slayer Propel Max 10 might be the smartest small pedal kayak on the market. It is only 10 feet long, it runs Native’s proven Propel pedal drive with instant reverse, and the “Max” upgrades add the fishing features the original Slayer 10 was missing.

The Native Slayer Propel Max 10 might be the smartest small pedal kayak on the market. It is only 10 feet long, it runs Native’s proven Propel pedal drive with instant reverse, and the “Max” upgrades add the fishing features the original Slayer 10 was missing. I fish a lot of small water where a 14 footer is a hassle, and a boat this size that still pedals is a big deal.

Check the current price and availability here: https://ecofishingshop.com/products/native-watercraft-slayer-propel-max-10-fishing-kayak?aff=20

Native Watercraft Slayer Propel Max 10 Fishing Kayak KayakDIY Review

Published specs put it at 10 feet long, 34.15 inches wide, a 75 pound fitted hull, and 400 pounds of capacity. The Propel 701 series drive gives you forward and reverse without flipping anything around.

Who the Slayer Propel Max 10 Is For

This kayak is for the angler who fishes ponds, creeks, small lakes, and backwaters and is done paddling. It fits anyone who needs a pedal boat that slides into a truck bed instead of needing a trailer. It is also a great pick for the angler who wants a second boat for tight water while the big kayak stays home. If you run long distances on big open water every trip, the short hull will cost you speed.

To haul your kayak, we recommend Malone kayak trailers. See them here.

Stability and Handling

The tunnel hull on the Slayer series is famously steady, and the Max 10 keeps that reputation. The wide 34 inch beam gives you a confident standing platform for a 10 foot boat, and the anti slip standing pads are placed right where your feet land. It turns on a dime with the SpringBlade rudder system, which is exactly what you want in creeks and around docks. It does not glide like a 14 footer, but it was built for maneuvering, not crossing the bay.

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Seat and Comfort

Native’s hand sewn First Class style seat is one of the best in the business. It adjusts for leg length and recline, breathes well, and stays comfortable deep into the day. The seating position pairs well with the pedal drive so your knees are not cramped after a few hours. For a small boat, the cockpit feels roomy and uncluttered.

Storage and Rigging

This is where the Max upgrades earn their name. You get dual horizontal rod storage, three molded in rod holders, dual side tackle storage areas, and an under seat tackle storage drawer that keeps a tray right at your fingertips. There is a rotomolded bow hatch with battery storage and transducer access, a transducer mounting plate on the hull, dual electronics switch mounting plates, and plenty of groove track for accessories. For the battery, I recommend the WattCycle 12V 100Ah mini LiFePO4 battery with Bluetooth — it runs most 12V trolling motors up to 55lb thrust plus a fish finder, and it’s compact and light. The stern has inserts for mounting a Power Pole Micro anchor or even a motor, and split paddle storage keeps the deck clean.

Pedal Drive Performance

The Propel drive is a propeller style system with true forward and reverse. Tap the pedals backward and the boat backs up, which is gold when you are working a dock line or holding on a brush pile in the wind. It is smooth, quiet enough not to spook shallow fish, and the drive trunk cover includes an accessory tray and cup holder. Pedaling all day at a comfortable pace is easy, and you can pull the drive up in seconds for skinny water.

Honest Drawbacks

Ten feet is ten feet. You will not cover big water as fast or as efficiently as a longer pedal kayak, and in heavy chop a short boat gets tossed around more. The 400 pound capacity is solid for this size, but big guys with lots of gear should watch the total. At a 75 pound fitted hull plus the drive, it is light for a pedal kayak but still not a one hand carry. And like every quality pedal boat, it costs real money, so be sure you fish enough to use it.

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Native Watercraft Slayer Propel Max 10 Fishing Kayak FAQ

Does the Slayer Propel Max 10 have reverse?

Yes. The Propel pedal drive gives you instant forward and reverse, which makes boat control around structure much easier.

Can you stand in the Slayer Propel Max 10?

Yes. The wide tunnel hull and anti slip standing pads make it one of the most stable 10 foot kayaks for stand up fishing.

How much does it weigh?

The fitted hull is about 75 pounds, with a fully rigged weight near 97 pounds including the drive and seat.

Is the Max 10 good for big water?

It works in moderate conditions, but the short hull is built for small to medium water. For big open water, a longer hull tracks and rides better.

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Specs

Spec Detail
Length 10 ft
Width 34.15 in
Weight 75 lbs (fitted hull)
Capacity 400 lbs
Drive type Propel 701 pedal drive

Where to Buy

If the Native Watercraft Slayer Propel Max 10 Fishing Kayak sounds like your kind of boat, check the current price:

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