The Jackson Kayak Yupik was introduced in 2018 and made it into full production in 2019 for the 2020 model season. Received the kayak in May 2020. Was skeptical about the design since having mostly owned traditional paddling Jackson Kayak models in the past. However wanted to keep with a lighter weight in terms of sit on top kayaks with stability but really liked the customizable options due the the amount of gear track included stock from the factory. With a MSRP of $1,299 USD it is a great starter kayak!
Carrying Handles
The molded in bow & stern handles are actually much more comfortable than the old style bolt on ones! Much more ergonomic and larger diameter for more grip! Nice design!
Open deck
The open deck design is really nice! If you are a fly angler or just don’t like clutter in front of you the Yupik has this covered! The front dug out canoe style offers space for your dry bags with slots under the gear track makes it easy to cam strap and secure your gear in place.
Seating
The Elite Seat 3.0 (Discontinued) and on 2021-Current models Comfort Seat 4.0 give you all day comfort with its wide seat cushion and ergonomic seat back. The new Comfort Seat also features the Molle panel on the seat back to customize seat back storage from hydration systems to tackle storage to emergency kits.
The seat pan offers a high/low position and also slides the length of the kayak enhancing the ability to trim out the entire kayak or just to make more space to bring along a child or your favorite pet! The footbrace pegs are also track mounted and slide along with the seat for maximum comfort to generate an efficient paddle stroke.
Gear Track System
The Yupik includes factory installed gear track from bow to stern! This allows adding accessories a breeze! Any track mount accessory can be mounted on the track making you Yupik completely customizable to your specifications! Full Length Gear Track on the right and left side and a center track extends from the edge of the Scooped bow to the stern of the tank well.
Storage
Although the Yupik does not feature hatches for internal storage the deck is well configured for your tackle management. There are 4 seat side tackle stagers molded into the hull. This allows Plano 3460 style tackle boxes to be seated here for quick access! Also 2 areas to stow your cell phone at hand.
The seat pan also allows for additional storage. From tackle boxes to small dry bags.
The rear tankwell area is extremely large. It can easily hold a milk crate or up to a 35 QT Orion Cooler! The tankwell area also includes the Strap down gear track system for cam strapping additional gear down.
Stern
At the stern you will find a securable molded in battery recess if you add on a trolling motor. Also included is a (4) molded 1/4-20 threaded inserts for the addition of a Powerpole Micro Anchor or Torqeedo Motor accessory! The drain plug is located on the rear left side.
Hull
The hull has a total of (11) structural scupper holes for draining the deck and keeping it structurally sound for holding weight. Two of the scuppers are recessed in the hull to accept small to medium fish finder transducers. Also included is a replaceable skid plate to enable saving scraping the keel on boat ramps and pavement.
Accessories
The Yupik includes a Yakattack Omega Rod Holder, Stand Up assist strap, Long Load Red Flag, & a 5: Jackson Kayak Sticker with new kayak purchase.
Specs
- Length: 12′ 2″
- Width: 35″
- Height 12″
- Capacity: 425 lbs Total
- Weight: 90 lbs
Review:
The overall quality of the Jackson Kayak Yupik is satisfactory! As always Jackson made in the USA offers a top quality fishing kayak! The overall appearance of the kayak is sleek and modern but with that authentic dug out canoe look of hand made kayaks of the indigenous people many years ago. The 2021 model is offered in 3 factory colors. Earth (Blue Lime & White) Forest (Olive Tan & Black) and Rock & Rockfish (Red Gray & Black).
I feel the kayak paddles with ease which is amazing for a 35″ wide hull. It turns simply with a J paddle stroke. Stability is top notch you can stand on this boat like you would on a floating dock. Stand up paddling is simple also. It is a fast hull for its dimensions and design. Can handle fast moving water such as rivers and excels in back bay/large lakes.
The Comfort Seat 4.0 is incredibly comfortable from sitting all day moving to standing position and ease of sitting back in the seat. The low position allows for less fatigue paddling long distance and to add power to your stroke. The high position allows the ease of standing. A 250 cm – 260 cm paddle is recommended for the width of the boat in the high or low position.
Fully customizable due to its ample amount of included gear track the Yupik can be grown into. From beginners to advanced kayak anglers platform is multi use can be accessorized to fit you. I personally use the Yupik for many outdoor activities. From fishing to photography and yes even kayak camping trips!
The Jackson Kayak Yupik has grown on me!
