Ascend 133X Kayak Review

The Ascend 133X is a sit-on-top fishing kayak that combines stability, customization options, and a robust build designed for anglers who want to make the most of their time on the water. Known for its ample deck space and capacity to handle extra gear, the Ascend 133X is ideal for fishermen looking to stay out for longer sessions, whether on calm lakes or slow-moving rivers. This review will dive into the 133X’s standout features, build quality, comfort, and on-the-water performance to help you decide if it’s the right fishing kayak for your needs.

Key Features of the Ascend 133X

With a design tailored for serious anglers, the Ascend 133X comes equipped with a range of features that maximize stability, comfort, and versatility. Here’s a closer look at its main specifications:

• Length: 13 ft 3 in
• Width: 36 in
• Weight: 125 lbs
• Weight Capacity: 550 lbs
• Material: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
• Type: Sit-On-Top (SOT) fishing kayak

The 133X’s wide hull and substantial weight capacity make it a great option for anglers who want a stable, spacious platform with the flexibility to add accessories for a fully customized fishing experience.

Exceptional Stability for Stand-Up Fishing

One of the primary advantages of the Ascend 133X is its exceptional stability. With a wide 36-inch beam and a hull designed to handle movement on board, the 133X allows for confident stand-up fishing, which is a key feature for anglers looking to cast further and have a better vantage point in the water. The kayak’s width also contributes to its ability to handle choppy conditions without compromising the user’s balance, making it a reliable choice for larger bodies of water or for anglers who may encounter wake from boats or wind-driven waves.

Additionally, the catamaran-style hull design helps it track smoothly in the water, minimizing the risk of tipping and adding to its steadiness on the water. While this stability reduces the kayak’s overall speed, the trade-off is well worth it for anglers who prioritize a safe, stable environment to fish from.

Comfortable Seating for Long Days on the Water

The Ascend 133X is equipped with a removable and adjustable seat that provides an elevated, comfortable platform for extended fishing trips. The seat’s ergonomic design offers lumbar support and breathability, helping to keep paddlers comfortable over hours of casting and reeling. It’s also adjustable to a higher position for better visibility and a more natural fishing posture.

The seat can be removed entirely, making it easy to adjust or transport, and its frame is sturdy and padded to ensure a supportive base for all-day fishing sessions. This adjustable seat option, combined with the kayak’s stand-up stability, gives anglers flexibility in how they approach their day on the water, allowing for a customized and comfortable fishing experience.

Ample Deck Space and Storage Options

The Ascend 133X features a spacious deck layout that’s perfect for anglers who bring a lot of gear. The kayak is equipped with multiple storage options, ensuring you have plenty of room for tackle, rods, and personal items:

• Bow Storage Hatch: The large front hatch offers easy access to interior storage, allowing you to stow away items like dry bags, additional tackle, and even small coolers.
• Stern Tankwell with Bungee Cords: The rear tankwell is spacious and equipped with bungee cords to secure larger items like crates, coolers, or live bait containers, making it easy to access essential items without compromising stability.
• Accessory Mounts: The 133X includes gear tracks on both sides, which allow for the addition of rod holders, fish finders, GPS devices, and other fishing accessories, offering complete customization.
• Molded-In Rod Holders: Built-in rod holders near the seat are designed to keep rods secure and accessible, a convenience that many anglers appreciate while moving between fishing spots or during transport.

Together, these storage features make the Ascend 133X highly adaptable, accommodating everything from minimal gear for a quick trip to extensive equipment for a full-day fishing excursion.

High-Density Polyethylene Build for Durability

Built from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), the Ascend 133X is constructed to withstand frequent exposure to the elements and the bumps and scrapes of typical fishing environments. HDPE is known for its impact resistance, flexibility, and ability to withstand UV exposure without weakening or fading, making it an ideal material for kayaks used in rugged outdoor conditions.

While the 133X’s sturdy build is an advantage in terms of durability, it also adds to its overall weight, which is substantial at 125 lbs. Transporting the kayak may require the help of a cart or assistance from another person, especially when loading it onto a vehicle or trailer. For anglers prioritizing durability over ease of transport, the 133X’s rugged construction is worth the extra weight.

Motor Mount Compatibility for Enhanced Mobility

One of the standout features of the Ascend 133X is its motor mount compatibility. Designed with an integrated motor bracket, this kayak can easily accommodate a small trolling motor, adding extra mobility for anglers who want to cover more distance or fish in areas with currents. The motor mount option makes it convenient for anglers to travel further without tiring from paddling, a feature that can be especially useful on large lakes or during windy conditions.

This capability is a unique addition to the 133X and expands its appeal to anglers looking for a kayak that blends the traditional kayak fishing experience with the convenience of motorized support.

Pros and Cons of the Ascend 133X

To sum up, here are the advantages and limitations of the Ascend 133X:

Pros:

• Excellent stability for stand-up fishing and casting
• Comfortable, adjustable seat for long trips
• Motor mount compatibility for extended range and flexibility
• Generous storage space and gear tracks for customization
• Durable HDPE construction for rugged use

Cons:

• Heavyweight design makes solo transport challenging
• Limited speed due to the wide hull, primarily suited for calm or slow-moving waters
• May be too wide for those who prioritize speed or long-distance paddling

Best Suited for Serious Anglers

The Ascend 133X is designed with dedicated anglers in mind, especially those who value stability and customization options over speed. It’s ideal for fishing enthusiasts who want a kayak they can stand on, with ample space for gear, and the ability to customize their setup with accessories like rod holders, fish finders, and even a trolling motor. The 133X performs best in calm lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers, where stability and fishing features take priority.

While it may not be the best choice for those who want a fast-moving kayak for long-distance paddling, the 133X is a solid option for anglers who appreciate a versatile fishing platform with exceptional stability and a comfortable, customizable setup.

Final Thoughts on the Ascend 133X Kayak

Overall, the Ascend 133X is a robust, stable, and feature-rich fishing kayak designed for anglers who want a durable platform capable of handling all their fishing needs. Its stability, motor compatibility, and customization options make it an ideal choice for serious fishermen who prioritize comfort and on-deck space over speed.

With its rugged HDPE construction, ample storage, and compatibility with motors, the Ascend 133X is well-suited for calm to moderately rough waters and long days on the water. For those seeking a fishing kayak with the capacity for extensive gear and stand-up stability, the Ascend 133X delivers a reliable and enjoyable experience, making it a solid investment for any angler looking to elevate their kayak fishing setup.