- Read our review guidelines
When you’re looking for the perfect kayak for fun on the water there are a few things you might want to think about. For example, do you plan to paddle in the ocean? Might you want some dry storage?
The Caper from Ocean Kayak may just have what you’ve been looking for. We’ve checked out its features to see if it’s got what it takes to be the ideal vessel for your next trip on the water.
- Length: 11 foot
- Width: 31 inches
- Weight: 47 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 325 pounds
The Caper Kayak Is Aimed At…
The Caper kayak is a sit-on-top recreational vessel that’s aimed at anyone who wants to have fun on the water in a stable, compact craft. If you like the idea of having a yak that can carry by yourself and potentially pack in the back of your truck, then this could be ideal.
If you prefer to paddle in different locations, such as the ocean and lakes, the Caper might be a good choice because of its versatile hull. It can also be ideal for a range of paddlers, from beginners to more experienced and from smaller sized paddlers to larger.
However, if you’re after a speedy craft for covering long distances, a narrower touring yak may be more suitable.
Angler
The Caper Angler features the same hull design as the non-angler version but has the benefit of having two flush mounted rod holders behind the seat. It also features more muted colors than the standard version, making it more suited to fishing and hunting.
The Main Features:
The Caper is a compact recreational kayak with a versatile hull that can make it ideal for ocean use or for paddling in bays, lakes and rivers.
Comfort Features
The Caper benefits from a Comfort Plus seat that can be easily removed. It also features adjustable straps that can be tightened to get a more comfortable seating position.
Video: How To Adjust/Install Your Seatback
Another feature that can make it more comfortable for paddling is the molded footrests. These can give you a better paddling position and because they’re molded into the deck, they’re durable and can easily suit paddlers with different leg lengths.
Storage Options
There should be plenty of space to store your gear for a fun day on the water. There’s a rear tank well that can be ideal for a crate or cooler and has the benefit of bungee cords for helping to keep it all secure.
Both the angler and the non-angler Caper have a 20 inch Click Seal storage hatch at the bow, where you can keep smaller items safe and dry. For added convenience, there’s a cup holder in the center of the craft, just in front of the seat.
Tri-Form Hull
The Tri-Form hull can be ideal for beginners, as it can offer good stability, both primary and secondary. This means it can handle small waves as well as calm, flatwater. This type of hull design can also help with tracking, letting you paddle straighter more easily.
Video: Ocean Kayak Caper Kayak Review
Because of the 11 foot length, this craft should also be pretty easy to maneuver on the water and could be an ideal choice for beginners.
Caper Alternatives
Vibe Kayaks Yellowfin 100
The Yellowfin is a 10 foot yak that’s 32 inches wide and has a high weight capacity of 375 pounds. It could be a good alternative if you’re looking for added fishing features and a more elevated, sturdy seat.
This one comes with two storage hatches, four rod holders, a seat and a paddle. Although it’s a little more expensive, it could be ideal for beginners.
Perception Tribe 11.5
The Perception Tribe is an 11 foot 6 inch yak designed for a range of water conditions, from calm lakes and slow moving rivers to light ocean waves. It’s designed to be stable and easy to maneuver for both beginners and more experienced paddlers. It’s also roughly around the same price as the Caper.
> We talk more about the Tribe here
Ocean Kayak Scrambler 11
The Scrambler is a similar style to the Caper, with a similar Tri-Form hull but without the 20 inch bow hatch. However, there’s a 6 inch center hatch and bungee storage at the bow and stern. It’s 6.5 inches longer and an inch and a half narrower than the Caper, which could give you a bit of extra speed when paddling.
Concluding This Caper…
Pros
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Good storage
Cons
- Not built for speed
- Not ideal for touring
The Ocean Kayak Caper has a lot going for it in its compact size. With its front storage hatch and rear tank well, it could give you the options you need for a day on the water. It also benefits from a generous weight capacity for its short 11 foot length.
If you think the Caper might be the right fit for you, check it out here. And if the angler version is more your thing, click here to check it out. If you’ve enjoyed this review, share it for others to see. And leave us a comment with your thoughts.
Questions And Answers
Is the Caper ok for bigger people?
It has a 325 pound capacity for you and your gear, so as long as you’re within the weight limit.
Is a paddle included with either kayak?
No, no paddles are included.
Could I carry a cooler on board?
A small cooler could fit in the rear storage area.
