Old Town Predator XL Kayak Takes Home Top Honors at ICAST 2014 New Product Showcase
OutdoorHub 07.23.14
Old Town Canoes & Kayaks, a brand steeped in craftsmanship, innovation and tradition, is pleased to announce that its new Predator XL fishing kayak took home not one, but two New Product Showcase awards at the recently concluded ICAST sport fishing tradeshow.
In voting determined by media and buyers attending ICAST, the Old Town Predator XL was awarded both ‘Best of Show – Boats’ honors as well as the coveted overall ‘Best of Show’ award.
Honoring new products that set the bar for innovation, design and potential in the fishing marketplace, the ICAST New Product Showcase received over 700 entries from more than 250 companies this year. The 2014 awards mark the second year in a row that the Predator series has received a winning nod, with the original Predator 13 kayak receiving ‘Best of Show – Boats’ honors in 2013.
“For the Predator series to win ICAST awards two years in a row really speaks to the hard work, dedication and passion for fishing that everyone involved in the product brought to the table,” said David Hadden, Brand Director for Johnson Outdoors Watercraft. “The Predator XL takes kayak fishing to new heights and we are extremely grateful to receive both the Best Boat and Best of Show awards from our industry peers.”
The new flagship in Old Town’s Premier Angler Series, the Predator XL kayak incorporates all the innovative features of the original Predator models that had the industry buzzing, including the multi-stage Element seating system, customizable, high-strength, removable mounting plates, slip-resistant Exo-ridge deck and Tri-Hull design for incredible durability and stability. The XL adds a 45lb thrust, saltwater-grade Minn Kota motor, foot-controlled rudder system and forward and reverse operation to deliver an unrivaled hands-free fishing experience and pinpoint control in wind and current, when fishing in tight spots or where fish are holding close to structure.
The XL will be available in a number of models for maximum adaptability. The base model will feature Old Town’s Utility Console, engineered with sonar equipment in mind. The Minn Kota version comes fully equipped with a foot-controlled rudder, battery box and Minn Kota Console. The third console, the Exo-Ridge Deck, provides a flat floor for standing, providing the perfect platform for poling and casting. The Predator XL is designed to work with all 3 consoles, allowing the user to adapt their ride in a matter of mere seconds.
Like its predecessors, the Predator XL will accept aftermarket options from angler’s favorite vendors like Scotty, YakAttack, Ram, Cannon and more, allowing users to truly customize the craft. Launched at ICAST, the Predator XL will begin shipping to dealers in October 2014. MSRP – $1,599 – $2,699.
Get in on the action: http://www.predatorkayak.com/xl
