Let’s get one thing out of the way first. The 360 Angler from Blue Sky Boatworks is not a kayak. It is not trying to be a kayak. I suspect this is why Jackson Kayak launched this project under a brand name not including the word kayak. What the 360 Angler is, is a human powered boat that can be used in a lot of the same situations as a kayak which of course includes places that powerboats are rendered useless. The advantage of the BSB 360 is that it is a supremely stable platform that offers many of the advantages of both a kayak and a larger powerboat (note that I did not say all). It seems to fill a void in the market that should offer anglers yet another option in a human powered watercraft.

I have tried a few of the pedal powered kayaks on the market and have thoroughly enjoyed the ability to be hands-free. The downside for me has been that I have not been comfortable in my knees and hips while pedaling from a seated position. This is not a knock on any manufacturer, rather a result of punishing my body when I was younger. In the BSB 360, the high pedestal seat brought my body into a position that is similar to pedaling a bicycle which is much more comfortable for me. I did not have a device to measure speed but I was more than satisfied with how quickly I was able to move from point A to B.

Another thing I really enjoyed about the BSB 360 is the ability to rotate the seat a full 360 degrees to change your casting angle without repositioning the boat. Additionally, the expansive deck and increased stability allow you to walk around the deck for even more versatility with casting angles. This freedom to move makes for a much more comfortable experience on the water. Additionally, rotating the seat allows for much easier access to what is stored in the stern of the boat. Accessing rods and or tackle can be done while facing those items as opposed to reaching behind you and over your shoulder.

The larger footprint of the BSB 360 also allows you to bring a cooler such as the Orion Coolers 25 quart model (or even larger) that will provide you with enough food and drinks for extended days on the water. The Orion Cooler also provided a second seat for my son to join me. I even took a turn sitting on the cooler while he pedaled the boat. I also had a YakAttack BlackPack on the bow and still had plenty of room to access them.

Even though this boat is pedal driven, a good paddle is still a must. There is even an included paddle holder to secure it while you are on the water that keeps it well within easy reach. I was able to use my Shuna Hooked paddle from Werner Paddles to easily propel the boat in those tight areas where steering is compromised by low speeds. I have even see photos of Jim Sammons using a Werner SUP paddle with the BSB 360. As kayak fishermen, we know that fine adjustments made with a paddle can be done with precision and the benefit of stealth. You will end up using a paddle more than you might expect so do not overlook that.

Is the 360 Angler from Blue Sky Boatworks right for you? The best way to find out is to contact Caney Fork Outdoors at (931) 858-5222 or contact us and schedule a demo to see for yourself. No boat is good fit for every person or budget. The BSB 360 is definitely worth a try if you are looking for a hybrid platform that falls somewhere between a kayak and a larger powerboat. It will not totally replace your fishing kayak if you fish the skinniest of water. However, it will provide you with more comfort and versatility in many of the same places.

You can purchase one here, just click here and you will be taken to the page for the Blue Sky Boatworks.