The Quest For The Ultimate Fly Fishing Kayak - The SipaBoards Fisherman SUP

Ok...they finally got me.

When I thought SUPs designed for fishing couldn't get any more rad, I get an email about this self-inflating, electric-propelled model from SipaBoards...

Yeah, you read that right.

So let's walk through what's going on here. It's an inflatable stand up paddleboard with a nice, large platform (almost 6 feet long by 3 feet wide) to paddle and fish from. Like most fishing-oriented SUPs, the Fisherman has a lot of D rings to tie and strap things down, be it fishing gear, dry bags, coolers, whatever. But that's where the "normal" comparables end.

At the core of this SUP is a "jet engine," basically a centrally located compressor that serves two functions. The first is that it inflates your board in a few short minutes (video below). The second is that it also plays the role of trolling motor, providing extra "paddle assist" that keeps you on the move for up to 3 hours.


Oh, and how do you control this electric jet engine? Through a Bluetooth control in your paddle, of course. How slick is that?

Here's a little bit more information provided by the manufacturer:

SipaBoards delivers all the advantages of inflatables, like easy storage and transport, at the same time boldly breaking new ground with self-inflation and several hours of paddle assist from the fully integrated electric motor. 

Founder Sebastjan Sitar was happy to answer the calls of those in the fishing community with a model that fits their every need: 

“Our fishing model is also a bit of a hint that SipaBoards is set to introduce some new things. We won’t be surprised if the Fisherman is next year’s hit, since we worked so closely with fishers and paddleboarders to give them exactly what they asked for.”

Now I'm not going to lie, all these bells and whistles don't come inexpensively, but damn if this board wouldn't be a ton of fun to take out on the water. Really hope some demos show up at some point here in the US. MSRP is $2790, but the SipaBoard Fisherman is currently being offered at an introductory-sale price of $1990.