Stable enough for experienced paddlers<\/strong> to stand in while casting, the Ascend 12T gives you plenty of deck space to operate from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But there are some concerns about its overall stability, weight, and speed<\/strong> that keep it from being a world-class angling kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Honestly, I\u2019d strongly recommend<\/strong> the Perception Pescador Pro 12<\/a><\/strong> instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pros<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cons<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although single kayaks can be 17-feet in length or longer, finding storage space for even a 12-foot vessel can be hard. Be sure you have space either in your home, garage, or shed to protect your new investment from rain and other weather hazards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Being a heavier boat<\/strong>, it\u2019s also important to ensure that you have a safe and reliable way to transport it to the water. For most, this will be via car which will probably require a roof rack or trailer to move safely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While this boat does a better job than most sit-on-top kayaks of keeping water out of the cockpit, it can still be hard to stay dry when the water gets choppy. Because of this, I\u2019d suggest reserving it for warm water scenarios<\/strong> or mild summer days in temperate or colder regions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Those that fish in cold-weather regions can look to other options like the Wilderness Systems Tsunami 125<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Ascend 12 foot fishing kayak is made of a durable plastic<\/strong> known as polyethylene. While plastic is heavier than some other materials that are also used in kayak construction like fiberglass, it\u2019s much more durable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It can handle any drops or mishaps you have carrying it to the water. Once afloat it is forgiving should you bump into anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The boat\u2019s weight makes this a plodding kayak<\/strong>. While the hull is more streamlined than some kayaks dedicated to fishing, it\u2019s outpaced by most in its class. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This may not matter if you\u2019re out on your own, but if you\u2019re traveling with a group you should be prepared to paddle hard to keep up<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It can also make it difficult to traverse longer distances and it\u2019s important to bear in mind that it won\u2019t be able to get you out of trouble as quickly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n One of my chief complaints is the lack of a rudder<\/strong>. It makes the Ascend 12 foot fishing kayak a challenge to steer in calm conditions<\/strong> and frustrating in rougher ones. Calm days on tidally influenced waters can breed the same challenges. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While it is possible to install a rudder, it requires quite a bit of work from the owner and some technical know-how. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ascend has done some thinking with their seats<\/strong>. There\u2019s no shortage of uncomfortable kayak seats and I\u2019m happy to say this isn\u2019t one of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With several adjustable settings and the ability to be raised, lowered, or removed, there\u2019s plenty of ways to get comfy<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The foot braces are also fully customizable to help you find the perfect fit. The deck\u2019s footwell provides a solid platform for casting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For calm paddling, the boat tracks decently. Although I once again have to mention the lack of a rudder which would greatly aid with tracking<\/strong>. This is especially true for beginners learning how to manage a kayak for the first time. If you\u2019re just starting out, I\u2019d keep this model in calm water<\/strong> until you feel comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Stability is also somewhat contentious<\/strong>. While I find it a reasonably stable craft, I\u2019m also a cautious paddler who isn\u2019t interested in trying to stand in rough water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A nice non-stick mat<\/strong> is installed on the casting deck to provide better footing for those that wish to stand and cast<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I\u2019d give the same advice to less experienced paddlers and use it in a protected environment and see for yourself how it feels underneath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Any kayak will puncture and start to show wear and tear if you treat it poorly. That said, plastic hulled kayaks are some of the sturdiest on the market, able to handle some pretty good collisions <\/strong>and keep on going.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t use that as a Get Out of Jail Free card. Come into beaches carefully whenever possible and be on the lookout for submerged rocks and other hazards. <\/p>\n\n\n\n On beaches with sand or small rocks, you may find it possible to drag it to the water instead of enlisting a second person to carry it. I\u2019d still suggest finding a carrying partner whenever possible to keep it in the best condition possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For a solo angler kayak, this is one of the heavier ones. Checking in at 77 pounds, it\u2019s quite the burden to try to carry on your own<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n That weight may be hard to get on or off a vehicle by yourself. Chances are you\u2019ll be enlisting the help of someone else to get on the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What sets angler kayaks apart is the built-in accessories that make fishing much easier than in a traditional one. This model from Ascend comes with a pair of paddle holders<\/strong> that will keep them out of the way and secured while you fish. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To compensate for the boat\u2019s heavier weight, handles have been installed in the bow and stern to help with tandem carries. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Six scuppers are built into the hull<\/strong> to help drain water that finds its way into the cockpit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A nice addition is the plugs for the scuppers are included<\/strong>, a feature that some companies omit. This makes the boat more stable in rough water by keeping water from entering the boat. However, paddlers should monitor the water level when these scuppers are in use since splashing water will have no way of draining and can threaten to swamp the kayak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While the wide transom and \u201ctunnel bow\u201d design is meant to help with stability<\/strong>, it\u2019s important to note that some paddlers have expressed disappointment<\/strong> with this model\u2019s stability when standing or sitting. It could be inexperienced paddlers or simply a bad day, but it bears mentioning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There\u2019s plenty of storage space<\/strong> in this kayak. Both the bow and stern are designed as open-air storage compartments complete with bungee cords to secure your gear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A water-resistant hatch<\/strong> with a roomy 10.91\u201d x 14.84\u201d opening can be found midship near the seat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Two rod holders<\/strong> are built into the hull to keep your poles secured as you transit to and from your favorite fishing spot. You\u2019ll also find a pair of accessory-mounting rails (one on each side) that can be outfitted for a variety of custom components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compared to other angler kayaks, the 350-pound weight capacity of this kayak is pretty light<\/strong>. Since this includes the weight of the paddler itself, it quickly limits how much gear you can bring with you. I\u2019m hesitant to load it up with my overnight gear and still feel confident in the boat\u2019s performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Ascend 12T\u2019s biggest appeal to consumers is the price<\/strong>. It is notably cheaper than many of its competitors. And while the included scupper plugs are nice, I would have liked to get a paddle and the ability to install a fishfinder, like on the Vibe Sea Ghost 110<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That said, for the same price I feel like the Perception Pescador Pro 12 is a much better boat overall<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s so stable you can easily stand and cast, it tracks well, is maneuverable…<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Ascend FS12T reviews are mixed. Some question the stability while others praise it. The price efficiency is a bonus for many, but the weight of the model can be a real hindrance when it comes to getting on the water.<\/p>\n\n\n If you\u2019re not sure the Ascend 12T kayak is made for you, here are three alternative fishing kayaks to help you make an informed decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether you\u2019re looking for a budget fishing kayak<\/a> or a high-end vessel with a lot of bells and whistles, I\u2019ve got you covered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The same length as the Ascend 12-foot kayak but a full 15 pounds lighter<\/strong>, the Pescador Pro 12<\/a> is faster and more maneuverable<\/strong>. Despite its lighter design, it still manages a larger weight capacity of 375 pounds. That still probably isn\u2019t enough to accommodate overnight trips.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The improved maneuverability<\/strong> makes it a more reliable vessel in various water conditions and you can feel confident taking the Pro 120 on most rivers and calm ocean environments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Storage is not as easy as it doesn\u2019t have any watertight hatch to speak of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read our full review of the Pescador Pro 12.0.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n With a host of customization options and impressive on-water performance<\/strong>, the Vibe Sea Ghost 130<\/a> is a great angling kayak. Different gear tracks can be outfitted for a range of different components from cameras to fish finders on the intuitive central console.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A watertight storage hatch, a mammoth load capacity, and the comfy \u201chero\u201d seat make for a more expensive but high-performing kayak<\/strong>. On the water, the boat performs well in most water conditions and is surprisingly fast over calm water despite weighing 75 pounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Click here to read my full review of the Vibe Sea Ghost 130.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
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Ascend FS12T Fishing Kayak – Things to Consider Before Buying<\/h2>\n\n\n
![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Ascend-12T-sit-on-top-kayak.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAscend 12T Specifications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Ascend 12T Design<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Material<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Maneuverability <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Comfort<\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Ascend-12T-chair.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nStability & Tracking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Durability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Portability<\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Ascend-12T\u202fkayak-on-the-floor.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAscend FS12T Features & Accessories<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ascend 12T Fishing Ease<\/h2>\n\n\n
![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Ascend-12T-storage.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAscend 12T Value<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ascend FS12T Testimonials<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"First](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Ascend-12T-testimonial.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n![\"Second](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Ascend-12T-testimonial-2.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n![\"Third](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Ascend-12T-testimonial-3.png\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAscend FS12T Alternatives<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Pescador Pro 12<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/pescador-pro-12.0.png\")
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Vibe Sea Ghost 130<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/vibe-sea-ghost-130.jpg\")
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Pelican Catch 120<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
![\"Picture](\"https:\/\/www.happinesswithout.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Pelican-Catch-120.png\")
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