Searching for a kayak that’s affordable, lightweight, and built for experience?

The Pelican Mustang 100X has quickly become a go-to choice for recreational paddlers and casual anglers across the U.S.

At just 10 feet long, this sit-in kayak blends stability, comfort, and fishing-ready features into a package that won’t overwhelm beginners or their wallets.

Pelican, a trusted Canadian brand with decades of experience, designed the Mustang 100X with practicality in mind: it’s compact enough for easy transport, yet tough enough to handle lakes and gentle rivers.

With its durable polyethylene build and angler-friendly setup, this kayak stands out as one of the most reliable entry-level models available today.

Overview of the Pelican Mustang 100X

The Pelican Mustang 100X is a recreational sit-in kayak with fishing upgrades built in.

At just 10 feet long and weighing under 40 lbs, it’s designed for ease of use, portability, and all-day comfort.

While not a high-performance expedition kayak, it’s ideal for calm lakes, slow-moving rivers, and sheltered coastal waters.

Marketed as an affordable kayak with fishing capability, the Mustang 100X features rod holders, a large cockpit, and a rear storage hatch, essentials for weekend paddlers who also want to cast a line.

With a lightweight hull, adjustable seat system, and stable design, it offers beginners confidence on the water without the intimidation of bulkier models.

Key Details of the Pelican Mustang 100X

The Mustang 100X’s specifications highlight its simplicity, portability, and functional design.

These details confirm the Mustang 100X as a lightweight, easy-to-handle kayak that still delivers practical features for anglers and casual paddlers alike.

Performance Analysis

The Pelican Mustang 100X is designed for recreational paddlers who value comfort and stability over speed.

While compact in size, it offers dependable performance for calm waters, making it a confidence-building kayak for beginners and casual anglers alike.

1. Stability and Confidence

At 29 inches wide, the Mustang 100X provides a reassuringly stable platform for relaxed paddling.

While it isn’t made for standing casts, anglers will feel steady when casting, trolling, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride on flat water.

2. Tracking and Efficiency

The kayak’s shallow V-chine hull helps it track straight despite its shorter length.

It won’t win speed races, but for calm lakes and slow rivers, the Mustang 100X glides smoothly while keeping paddling effort manageable for beginners.

3. Maneuverability and Control

At just 10 feet long, the Mustang 100X excels in tight spots and narrow waterways.

Its compact frame makes it easy to launch, store, and transport, making it an ideal choice for first-time kayak owners with limited space.

4. Comfort for Casual Trips

Pelican’s ERGOFORM™ seat provides essential back support, while molded footrests let paddlers adjust for comfort.

For short sessions of two to three hours, it performs well; however, longer outings may require an upgrade to a seat pad for added cushioning.

5. Gear Capacity and Load Balance

With a 300-pound weight limit, the Mustang 100X comfortably handles paddler essentials and light fishing gear.

A rear hatch with bungee cords provides practical storage for day trips, although more serious anglers may find the space slightly limited for extended outings.

Pros and Cons of the Pelican Mustang 100X

Like any kayak, the Mustang 100X comes with trade-offs. Here’s a quick look at what it does well and where it falls a bit short:

Overall, the Mustang 100X delivers more positives than drawbacks, making it an excellent starter kayak for budget-conscious paddlers who value portability and simplicity.

Pricing and Where to Find It

One of the biggest selling points of the Pelican Mustang 100X is its affordability. Priced well under $500, it’s one of the most accessible fishing-ready kayaks for beginners.

Availability can fluctuate with the season, so it’s wise to check a few retailers before making a purchase.

1. Walmart

• Price range: $399–$429

• Often, the most budget-friendly option is the one with wide availability both in-store and online.

2. Dick’s Sporting Goods

• Price range: Around $429

• Frequently included in promotions, sometimes bundled with paddles.

3. Eco Fishing Shop

• Price range: $429–$459

• Authorized Pelican dealer offering financing and seasonal discounts.

4. Confluence Outdoor

• Price range: Varies

• Distributes Pelican kayaks through official channels, though stock is region-dependent.

Pro tip: Prices often dip during spring outdoor sales and end-of-summer clearance events, making these the best times to buy.

Alternatives to the Pelican Mustang 100X

While the Mustang 100X is a solid entry-level kayak, here are a few alternatives worth considering:

1. Pelican Trailblazer 100 NXT: Lightweight at just 36 lbs and very affordable, but lacks fishing-specific features like rod holders.
2. Lifetime Tamarack Angler 100: Heavier and more stable with higher weight capacity and added fishing outfitting, great for anglers who don’t mind extra bulk.
3. Old Town Vapor 10: Offers premium comfort and long-lasting durability in a 10-foot frame; priced higher (around $600+), but excellent for those seeking longevity.
4. Pelican Catch 120: A sit-on-top design with a stable pontoon-style hull and extra fishing space; pricier than the Mustang, but better suited for anglers.

Choosing the right kayak depends on your needs, whether you prioritize affordability, comfort, or fishing space. Compare options carefully and paddle with confidence.

Maintenance & Setup Tips

Keeping your Pelican Mustang 100X in good shape will ensure it lasts for years:

• Store indoors or under shade to avoid UV damage.
• Rinse after using saltwater to protect the hull and fittings.
• Add foam padding for extra seat comfort on longer trips.
• Use a lightweight paddle (220–230 cm) for best efficiency.
• Invest in a kayak cart to make transport easier.

With a little care and the right setup, your Mustang 100X will stay reliable, comfortable, and water-ready for countless adventures.

Final Verdict

The Pelican Mustang 100X delivers impressive value as an entry-level kayak, offering the perfect blend of comfort, stability, and a fishing-ready design.

Compact and lightweight, it’s easy to carry, launch, and store, making it especially appealing for new paddlers.

While it won’t excel in speed or rough waters, its thoughtful build and dependable performance on calm lakes and gentle rivers make it stand out among budget-friendly kayaks.

The inclusion of rod holders and simple storage adds practical adaptability.

For anyone seeking an affordable and trustworthy way to get started, this kayak is an excellent choice that can be easily found at major retailers.