Looking for a fishing kayak that won’t let you down? The Bonafide RS117 might be exactly what you need.
This American-made kayak has become a favorite among serious anglers who want stability, comfort, and quality all in one package.
If you’re new to kayak fishing or have been doing it for years, the Bonafide RS117 offers features that make your time on the water more enjoyable and successful.
From its rock-solid stability to its thoughtful design, this kayak is built to help you catch more fish and have more fun doing it. Let’s get into what makes this kayak so special.
What Makes the Bonafide RS117 Stand Out?
The Bonafide RS117 stands out from other fishing kayaks in several important ways. Its sit-on-top design makes it easy to get in and out of the water, while giving you plenty of room to move around while fishing.
The kayak’s wide hull provides rock-solid stability that lets you stand up and cast without worrying about tipping over. You’ll feel confident even when fighting big fish or reaching for your tackle box.
Built right here in the USA, the RS117 is made with high-quality materials that can handle years of use in different water conditions.
This American-made durability means your investment will last for many fishing experiences to come. The combination of smart design, excellent stability, and quality construction makes the RS117 a top choice for serious anglers who demand the best performance from their kayak.
Specifications of the Bonafide RS117
Here are the key specifications that define the RS117’s size, capacity, and design. These numbers help you understand if this kayak will work for your fishing needs and transportation setup.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 11’7” |
| Width | 33.5” |
| Weight | 77 lbs |
| Capacity | 425 lbs |
| Hull Design | Hybrid catamaran |
| Seat | HiRise seating system |
These specifications show that the RS117 is built for stability and capacity while remaining manageable for most anglers. The dimensions and weight capacity make it suitable for a wide range of fishing situations and angler sizes.
Features of the RS117 Kayak
The Bonafide RS117 comes packed with features that make your fishing trips more comfortable and successful. Every detail has been designed with anglers in mind.
- Adjustable stadium-style seat for comfort during long trips.
- Built-in mount tracks allow for the addition of accessories like fish finders or cameras.
- Large tank well with bungee cords to store crates or coolers.
- Multiple rod holders to keep fishing rods in place.
- Non-slip deck surface for safety when moving around.
These thoughtful features work together to create a kayak that’s ready for serious fishing right out of the box. If you’re planning a quick morning trip or an all-day excursion, the RS117 has everything you need to fish comfortably and effectively.
On-Water Performance of Bonafide RS117
The Bonafide RS117 delivers excellent performance across all water conditions.
If you’re fishing in calm lakes or guiding winding rivers, this kayak gives you the confidence to focus on catching fish instead of worrying about your boat’s performance.
1. Stability for Standing and Fishing
The RS117’s wide beam and flat bottom create a rock-solid platform for standing while fishing. You can cast, fight fish, and move around without feeling wobbly or unsafe.
The kayak’s low center of gravity keeps you balanced even when reaching for gear or netting a big catch. This stability makes it perfect for sight fishing and gives new kayak anglers the confidence they need on the water.
2. Paddling Efficiency
Despite its wide design, the RS117 moves through water surprisingly well. The hull shape cuts through waves smoothly and doesn’t require too much effort to paddle.
You can cover good distances without tiring, allowing more fishing time and less effort in traveling. The kayak responds well to paddling and keeps speed between strokes.
3. Maneuverability in Rivers and Lakes
The RS117 handles well in both tight spaces and open water. It turns easily when you need to steer around obstacles or change direction quickly.
In rivers, you can steer around rocks and logs without trouble. On lakes, it responds well to your paddle input and doesn’t feel sluggish when you need to make quick moves to follow fish or avoid other boats.
4. Tracking and Glide
This kayak tracks straight and true, so you won’t constantly fight to stay on course. The hull design helps it glide smoothly through the water, keeping momentum between paddle strokes.
Paddling in a straight line without zigzagging saves energy and gets you to fishing spots faster. The good tracking also helps when trolling or drifting with the current while fishing.
Bonafide RS117 Review: What Real Users Are Saying?
Don’t just take our word for it – here’s what real anglers are saying about their experience with the RS117. These honest reviews from fishing forums and communities show how the kayak performs in real-world conditions.
“Can’t go wrong with American‑made!! I owned a Bonafide for a while and nothing more stable. You could tell how stable with your re‑entry.” Texas Fishing Forum
“Bonafide RS117 owner here! It’s a little slower than some… but it’s as stable as a dock. I love pulling up to a spot, standing up, and feeling like I’m in a dock.” Reddit
“A Bonafide RS117 fit my needs better than the Crescent. I fish a shallow river and the RS117 doesn’t draft as much water as the Crescents. The RS117 is very comfortable for sitting at least 8 hours.” OldGobbler
These reviews highlight the RS117’s main strengths that matter most to anglers: rock-solid stability, American-made quality, and all-day comfort.
Real users consistently praise the kayak’s ability to provide a stable fishing platform that lets them focus on what they love most.
Buying Tips for the Bonafide RS117
Ready to purchase an RS117? Here are some important tips to help you make the best buying decision and get the most value from your investment.
- Check your weight and gear needs; the RS117 holds up to 425 pounds.
- Look for dealers offering warranties and good customer support.
- The price is mid-range – around $999 to $1,100 USD, offering good value for the features included.
- Consider extra accessories like paddle holders or fish finders.
- Try to test the paddle before buying to check comfort and handling.
Taking time to research dealers, test the kayak, and plan for accessories will ensure you get the best deal and the right setup for your fishing style. The RS117 is a solid investment for many years of fishing.
Wrapping It Up
The Bonafide RS117 proves that quality fishing kayaks are worth the investment.
With its excellent stability, comfortable seating, and durable American-made construction, this kayak delivers everything serious anglers need.
While it may cost a bit more than some options, the RS117’s performance and features make it a smart choice for anyone who spends serious time fishing from a kayak.
Ready to upgrade your fishing game with the Bonafide RS117? We’d love to hear about your experiences!
Drop a comment below and tell us about your favorite fishing kayak or ask any questions about the RS117.
