As an avid angler and host of Road Trip Angler, the unpredictable weather often follows me, creating unique challenges for every fishing trip. After a massive storm hit North Carolina, I had to venture away from home to find water that hadn't been heavily affected. This led me to a lesser-frequented area still teeming with one of my favorite catches: smallmouth bass. We used the NRS Approach 120 fishing raft to take us up river to the right spot.

Preparation and Gear

Before setting out, I equipped myself with the NRS Approach Fishing Raft. Having previously reviewed and spent some time with it, I knew this was the perfect scenario to truly showcase its capabilities. The raft floats high and shallow, handling riffles and mild whitewater with ease. Its spacious design allows for ample gear storage, making it ideal for two anglers ready to tackle the river.

Hitting the River

Accompanied by my friend Steven, we set off for the river, aiming for a spot near the base of a dam known for its productivity. As we navigated upstream, the raft proved its worth, gliding over shallow waters and exposed rocks. Despite some initial challenges with line management and the rocky terrain, the stability and fishability of the raft were impressive.

The Fishing Experience

Splitting up to cover more ground, I found myself exploring a quieter section of the river. Switching to a fly for a more subtle presentation, I soon landed the first smallmouth bass of the day. The excitement of catching my first fish on a fly in this setting was unmatched.

Steven, fishing in a different spot, also had success, though he lost a few lures along the way. Determined to support each other, I navigated the raft over rocks and around bends to bring him new baits. While Steven re-tied his lines, I couldn’t resist making a few casts in his spot, immediately hooking a solid smallmouth. Despite the lack of photographic evidence, the thrill of the catch was undeniable.

Reflecting on the Day

As the day progressed, we both caught several smallmouth bass, with the biggest reaching 18 inches. Even though some moments went undocumented, the shared experience and the joy of fishing together made it a memorable trip. The NRS Approach Fishing Raft had proven to be an excellent companion, enhancing our ability to navigate the river and fish effectively.

Tips for Fellow Anglers

1. Choose the Right Gear: The NRS Approach Fishing Raft is perfect for shallow rivers and carrying plenty of gear.
2. Adapt to Conditions: After storms, seek out less affected waters and adjust your fishing techniques to the conditions.
3. Fish with Friends: Fishing with friends not only makes the experience more enjoyable but also allows for mutual support and shared knowledge.
4. Document Your Catches: Always have a camera or phone handy to capture your catches, as these moments can be fleeting and memorable.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing in North Carolina

Fishing for smallmouth bass in North Carolina, especially after a storm, can be challenging but incredibly rewarding. With the right gear and a spirit of adventure, every trip can become a cherished memory. As always, stay safe, wear your life jacket, and enjoy the great outdoors.

If you enjoyed this content, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and read my review about the NRS Approach 120 Fishing Raft. Tight lines, and thanks for watching!

The post Smallmouth Bass Fishing in North Carolina appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Specs Showdown:

Before delving into the nuances of on-water performance, let's dissect the specifications that define these fishing companions. Both boats are engineered for tandem fishing in challenging white water, yet they exhibit subtle differences.

The NRS Approach weighs in at 120 lbs, slightly heftier than the Flycraft's 103 lbs. A significant contributor to this weight disparity is the heftier NRS frame and storage boxes. In terms of length, the NRS measures 12 feet, while the Flycraft stands at 11 feet 8 inches. However, the Flycraft width measures 51 inches compared to the NRS's 49. Moreover, the NRS boasts larger diameter tubes, provides a commendable increase in capacity.

Floor Dynamics and Accessories:

Moving on to the underfoot dynamics, both boats feature drop-stitch floors capable of inflating to approximately 8 PSI, ensuring a sturdy and unfaltering surface. The NRS Approach does, however, have a thicker floor supplemented by an EVA pad for enhanced durability and grip.

When it comes to accessories, the NRS Approach comes fully loaded with storage boxes, fly rod holders, thigh hooks, and a standard motor mount. The Flycraft, on the other hand, offers various packages that include some of the accessories at an additional cost. Flycraft also offers stand-alone accessories so you can really build out your setup. A comparably equipped Stealth 2.0 would be similar in price to the Approach once all the items were added.

Durability and Build Quality:

Both rafts are built to handle the river for many years. As I mentioned earlier, the NRS raft is a bit heavier. Most of this is due to the frame and storage boxes, but some of it is the extra material that lines the heavier wear areas on the raft. Both rafts have an added layer of material, but the NRS Approach 120 has even more material in those heavy wear areas.

In addition, as I pointed out earlier, the NRS raft has the extra EVA pad on the floor of the boat as well. Overall, I believe these are both durable and quality-built options, but I would give a slight edge to the NRS Approach, keeping in mind that it is a trade for a bit of extra weight.

Stability, Speed, and Maneuverability:

Stability is paramount in any fishing expedition, and both boats deliver commendably. It was very hard to tell much of a difference here at all. The Flycraft Stealth 2.0 was slightly wider, but the NRS has larger diameter outer tubes so they offset each other in my opinion. For speed, I could really tell no noticeable difference.

I ran them both on the same stretch of water in the same current. I also took advantage of the Torqeedo Travel 903, which is a 2.5HP electric outboard. I could see no difference in speeds while rowing or motoring. When it comes to maneuverability, both boats shine, capable of spinning in place effortlessly.

Fishability and Features:

The primary purpose of these vessels is evident — providing an exceptional fishing experience. Both excel in this regard, each bringing its unique advantages to the table. The Flycraft offers swivel chairs even in its base package, providing flexibility for anglers when casting. It is also the lightest of the two, which may not be super noticeable on the water but can be handy when portaging.

On the flip side, the NRS Approach introduces a thigh brace standard, offering added stability for standing casts. It also allows for more adjustability in the setup with the frame incorporating a track system making it easy to adjust. This also makes aftermarket rigging a breeze when utilizing products from companies like Yakattack, who have developed track-mounted accessories specific for anglers.

Lastly, I want to talk storage. The NRS Approach comes with the boxes under the seat, which I feel is an awesome use of space. They are sealed and keep your gear out of the way and contained. The Flycraft I tested had the gear rack on the rear. However, with the motor option, you would not be able to use it to its full potential due to the tiller handle needing to pivot above it.

Value Proposition and Closing Thoughts:

Considering the value these boats bring to the angling table, the initial price difference becomes negligible when you factor in additional accessories for the Flycraft. Both boats are well-priced, aligning with the quality and features they offer. If you are considering one or the other, I would suggest looking at the standard features of the Approach vs the accessories you would want or need to add to the Stealth. This will give you a more apples-to-apples price comparison.

In conclusion, both the NRS Approach 120 and the Flycraft Stealth 2.0 stand out as commendable options for anglers seeking a versatile and reliable platform. The NRS Approach impresses with its adjustability and sturdiness, while the Flycraft offers swivel seats and a lighter build. Personal preferences might sway towards one or the other, but rest assured, both boats are exceptional choices!

Reviews and Video:

I did a review, in-depth, for each of these rafts as well. Check them out:

– Flycraft Stealth Review

– NRS Approach 120 Review

Here's my full comparison review video:

For an in-depth review of each boat, head over to our YouTube channel. And if you found this content insightful, do consider subscribing. Tight lines, and happy angling!

The post Flycraft Stealth 2.0 vs NRS Approach 120 | Best Small Fishing Raft 2024 appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Key Specs

Before we dive in, let's check out the basics. The NRS Approach 120 measures 12 feet in length and 49 inches in width. It weighs in at a manageable 120lbs (excluding oars). NRS offers two packages. The standard one, which covers essentials like dry boxes, seats, frame, raft, and rod holders. The upgraded version has oars, an anchor, and anchor pulleys for an extra $700. With the standard package costing $4,995, the fully equipped version stands at $5,695.

On the Water

To test out the Approach, my buddy Stephen Cheek and I loaded it up in search of warmer water in Florida. We plan to put it through its paces in some white water as well, but in the meantime the swifter moving water of the spring fed rivers in Florida will have to do!

Stability

Starting with stability, the inflatable raft boasts a drop-stitched floor that can be inflated to 8 PSI, providing a very stiff and stable platform underfoot. This along with the inflated tubes on each side makes the boat plenty stable. I do believe stability is in the eye of the beholder. Stephen and I come from kayak fishing, so we are used to standing and casting from small craft.

But for reference we were able to put all our weight on one side and raft did not feel tippy. In fact, multiple times throughout the day we swapped places to take turns fishing and rowing.

Fishability

This is probably the most important category when considering a fishing vessel of any kind. When I think about fishability, I try to always take into consideration what the boat is designed to do and where it designed to excel. In this case the Approach is home in moving water and is designed to be a lightweight two-person raft that can get you safely downstream. I think that it is laid out perfect for this and a couple of things really stood out to me that make it great for this scenario.

Most rafts offer the ability to row, and that is great, but this one also offers the ability to add a motor. For me this is huge. Having a motor option allows for single access, meaning that instead of having to arrange a shuttle downstream, I can simply motor. Either upstream and float back to the truck, or float down and motor back up.  This opens so much more water to the angler especially when access is limited.

The next feature that stands out to me are the integrated tracks on the rafts frame. These not only allow for adjustability when it comes to dialing in the seating and feet rest, but the offer tons of mounting options for accessories from companies like Yakattack.

From rods to drink holders the possibilities are endless. Lastly, I loved the integrated fly rod tubes down each side. This made is very easy to accommodate two 9’ rods and keep them out of the way when not in use.

Maneuverability & Speed

In terms of maneuverability, the 12-foot length makes it nimble, and with oars in hand, it can spin within its own length. Perfect for those tight fishing spots. When it comes to speed, we tested it with a Torqeedo 903 electric motor, equivalent to a 2.5-horsepower gas motor. The results were impressive, managing upstream travel with ease.

With two anglers and gear we were able to hit speeds up to 4mph against the current. This will greatly vary depending on the current etc, but the raft moved a could clip under power and was easily moved with the oars as well. It is a bit narrower that other rafts I have tested, which I felt made it a bit quicker compared to other rafts in the same length. This could also be because it is lighter weight as well.

Storage

Storage is always a priority for anglers, and the Approach 120 doesn't disappoint. The aluminum gear boxes under the seats, featuring rubber gaskets for watertight storage, are a game-changer. This is just such a great use of space and not something you typically see in a craft of this size. Otherwise, you would need to rely on dry bags and straps to hold them in place.  Additional space behind the rear seat and between your feet and the angler seat offers plenty of room for more gear as well.

Durability

Now, let's talk durability. There's a common misconception about inflatable crafts that they are not durable or may be easily punctured. This is simply just not a common occurrence and people have been fishing out of inflatable rafts for years.  But, to help protect key areas of the raft have been reinforced. For example the bottom has an extra layer of material to help prevent wear. The aluminum frame is super sturdy as well and features a powder coating to help protect it even more.

Value of the NRS Approach 120 raft

This is always a hard one to nail down because who can really put a price tag on fun. The best way I have found to do this is to look at what other are doing in the category and compare. You really have to look at what you are getting for the money and what you could get for the same money elsewhere. Taking that into consideration, I would say this raft is priced right where it should be.

Other options exist and they seem a bit cheaper, but when you add up all that comes with the Approach and what you might have to add to other craft, you end up spending the same money or in some cases even more. For example the Approach has integrated rod storage, but that is a $250 upgrade on other rafts. Basically, what I am trying to say is that the Approach is priced competitively with other rafts on the market.

Final Thoughts on the Approach 120 raft

In conclusion, the NRS Approach 120 proves to be a valuable investment for anglers seeking versatility, customization, and durability in an inflatable raft. Whether you're an avid fly fisher or prefer conventional angling, this boat caters to your needs. It's a vessel I trust to handle whatever challenges the water throws at it, and I'm excited for the many adventures that lie ahead.

More details can be found at NRS Approach 120.

The post NRS Approach 120 Raft Review appeared first on Hazeadventure.