Here is my honest review of what I think about the NuCanoe Frontier 12. Feel free to ask questions in the comments! Find me on Instagram - @YakfishChris Love this kayak!
Thanks for the review. Exactly the review I needed. Big, older guy myself. I've been researching for a couple of months now and have narrowed my choices down to this kayak and one other one.
Hi Chris .... thanks for the review, after spending the last several years in a Lure 11.5 (mainly because the gravity seat worked well lower back arthritis), it's time for a change. Being a big older dude with lower body issues, I am concerned about durability and comfort of the Fusion seat and fact that it's secured to the track system which I've heard is plastic on the F12. Can you comment on those issues vs the gravity seat? Also, any thoughts on the F12 vs the new kid on the block the Ultimate? Thanks in advance for any insight
I wouldn't worry about the seat being mounted to the tracks! they are solid since the weight is evenly distributed! the fusion seat is comfy for sure and if you add a kayak kushion its almost to the gravity seat level of comfort. The seat padding on the gravity seat is unlike any other to be honest. As for f12 vs Frontier, video should be up soon!
Great review. What are your thoughts on running a bow mount trolling motor on the frontier? Is it difficult to clear weeds off the motor while out on the water?
Have you fished out of or demoed a Jackson big rig? I'm trying to look into that kayak and the frontier (obviously different styles of kayak) but just not seeing as much info as I'd hoped on either boats. If so what would make you recommend the frontier over the big rig, the customizeability obviously but what else? I currently have a feel free lure 11.5 after a Vibe Seaghost 110. I'm a large guy, 6ft 325lbs so thought the lure might work out. The open deck, stability, and wheel in the keel and higher seat are great but I mainly fish the river and the tracking difference was insane and something I took for granted on the sg110, same goes for the dry storage. Does the frontier track pretty well compared to most wide boats? I'm not worried about the speed at all, just don't want to have to mess with a rudder.
I think the frontier does a good job tracking. As good as the pursuit? no, but it's close. The only thing you'll miss is the wheel in the keel going from the lure to the Frontier. It's even more open and the new seat is just as high and probably almost as comfortable.
@@YakFishChris something about the seat on the lure just didn't feel right. I raised the seat back and it still didn't do it for me. It almost felt like the seat base/legs were angled backwards on the kayak so it was all tilted back. Made it hard to lean forward to grab anything with my belly. Is it easy enough to grab the horizontal rods in the frontier?
Got ya. I lean forward a lot. No issues when measuring fish or even getting to the motor or front hatch. The big rig is nice, but the cockpit felt cramped compared to the frontier 12. Plus the big rig is about 15 pounds heavier.
Have you heard if the bottom floor bowing issue was resolved? That is one thing that in my research i have been seeing on the Nu Canoe kayaks. Since i am a big guy also, that is one thing that i have some reserve about. Just curious if you have heard anything from the company about this. Fantastic review! appreciate honest reviews like this.
I have not heard if it’s been resolved but it’s never really been an issue to me. I’ve out the F12 through the paces and torture tested it for sure and the little flex it has, hasn’t effected the performance at all.
Hi Chris I just ran across your channel while researching and F12 and F10, love your channel by the way. Have you ever used the F10 and if so how does it compare to the F12 in stand up stability? I mainly fish small lakes/ponds and Ozark rivers and streams. The flint I would guess would be better for the rivers but I really prefer to stand and fish and feel the frontier models would be a better for that. I'm 5' 10" 225lbs do you think the F10 would be as stable. My reason for the F10 is I believe it will be easier to manage moving around and a little better on some low water rivers. I plan on using my transom mount trolling motor until I can get the extra $$ to upgrade to a bow mount. Seems like the F10 would be easier to use a transom mount as well.
I think you make some valid points! However, I think the f12 is still better suited for what you want. The f10 is not great in wind and seems to catch wind. The tail end will drift all around in circles
How does it perform in tournaments compared to the pursuit if both had a bow mount motor on it? I'm getting the frontier because I also want to be able to take the kids out with me alot but im just curious if I'm sacrificing all that much on the tournament angling side by choosing this over the pursuit. Obviously the pursuit will paddle and track better but were there any other big differences in your experience?
Great review! From my understanding, more scuppers could help with the bowing issue as well. Not a kayak builder so not sure what the negatives or issues there are with that. Either way, going on my 2nd year on my Frontier and love it. Hopefully can get that bow mount also someday, would love to be able to use spot lock.
Correct! But by adding that amount of plastic to create reinforcement in the scuppers, you’d add 15-20lbs to it. Nu is creative. They will think of something awesome as a solution!
Could you stuff some pool noodles in the hull to help with the deck issue? I am getting a Frontier 12 soon and want to get the bow trolling motor. Can’t wait to see your review on your Motorguide and how long your 60aph Amped battery lasts. I am looking to get the same exact set up. Thank you and keep it up!
Possibly. Everything is dependent on the user, how much use, the storage. There are too many variables for an end all be all solution. And I don’t run a motorguide. I run a minnkota iPilot.
Other than the nucanoe are there any other similar canoes for big dudes that you’d recommend? Btw I’m 6’4 330 and this would be my first kayak purchase but also terrified of buying anything less than like a 475lb weight limit.
Take a look at the Nucanoe Unlimited! The issues I talk about in this video are addressed with that boat! Similar specs to the frontier 12 with what seems to be better paddle-ability
This puppy is stable. I am 5'10 260, and I bring my 70lb lab + duck decoys, shotgun etc. You will fall out from leaning over, long before you flip the kayak (in my opinion)
I love my frontier 12, its delivered on the reasons I bought it. I would really like to know total weight on this beast though. I'm a big guy, construction working all my life. And after a day of paddeling, I can barely get it back into the truck myself. All you see if hull weight - that ranges 77-80+ depending where you read it. I'm guessing thats not even the included hardware, moreless the fusion seat etc. My guess would be over 100lbs for this puppy.
Also mine has deck bend. I never stand in it, and its been stored top up under my deck on flat concrete. Shouldn't have any bow because of use/storage - Its just a bad molding design. Not an issue for me unless it starts to crack/leak , which I've heard of. Then its a massive issue and I would be pissed.
I'm commenting as I watch, and mostly agree with what his video says. Couple other points. The 600+ lb capacity is with the scuppers in, you'll max out around 400ish if you keep the scuppers removed (self bailing mode) Also, with the deck bend, the scuppers don't fully drain. There are channels that just dont work. Even when lifting the bow/stern after a paddle, I still have 1/2 gallon of water in the boat, that won't go thru the scuppers. Not reallyl an issue, I wear water shoes in the summer and waders in the winter for hunting. Design flaw though, and probably related to the deck flexing. I would say its to do with the position of chair/items , but even post paddeling lifting the bow/stern back and forth, the darn water should 100% drain.
Great review. Wanting one just not sure how I’d do with it as far as comfortability and accessing the gear while I’m in it. I’m 5’8” 290. 55 years old.other than size I’m pretty active. Duck Hunt and fish.How do you think it would do for me? Thank you!
This swivel seat is great. Now from a paddling perspective, its not ideal to have a swivel seat. As you power through strokes you don't want the chair turning. It's not an issue for me and I prefer it to be able to turn and get items from behind me.
My reason to go bigger was to get more days without charging. I can get a full day out of the 60ah, but i haven’t pushed it beyond that. I want to be able to go off grid and not have to worry about charging
I really wish they would fix the deck issue I mean come on you're paying $1,600 for this kayak and I would really like to buy one I love how open it is I don't need a bunch of gear it would be perfect for me to have all that standing and walking space
It’s really not even that bad to be honest. Plus the more you use it, the less you notice it. Get the new unlimited if it’s a deal breaker. That boat solves that issue completely with added benefits and features.
I'm so close to getting this one. How does it track? How does it handled wind? Lastly, in terms of speed do you know how it compares to a Bonafide SS107 or 127 by any chance?
It handles wind fairly well for how big it is. Tracks straight and is probably the same as a 127. Maybe a bit slower, but to me the stability of the frontier is way better which makes up for it.
@@YakFishChris Yeah, stability, and tracking are most important. I'm actually using a 107 right now, and suspect that the frontier is going to be a faster paddle. Does that sound right to you? I think it will because the SS107 is about 10ft, and weight 75 pounds bare hull. I believe the F12 weights about 77 pounds bare hull so it's not that much heavier.
I think it will be a bit faster. The hull design is the most important piece to speed, not necessarily the hull weight. The sharp keel on the frontier will make it a bit easier for sure. My pursuit is the fastest paddling boat I’ve been in and has about the same stability as the 127. Maybe a little less, but wayyyyy faster. I can average 3.5-4mph paddling in my pursuit
So I am asking for your honest opinion. I have the older style Big Rig, and the 2019 Lure 11.5, I don’t like Lure. I am 6’5 360, and it’s a problem with a lot of kayaks. Is the Frontier 12 way to go, or the Ultimate? I am wanting to put a motor on and also pedal drive. So I am just asking for your opinion, i fish mostly calm water. Thank you Sir.
I have this canoe and it SUX fishing in it. Lateral stability is crap. You see other people fishing in their hobie or whatever and they fish relaxed. Out of the frontier 12 you can fish but the pucker factor will curl your ass hairs. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
I’m not sure what you mean. I stand and fish a lot on the f12 with no issues. Never come close to tipping it. I walk to the bow to deploy my motor. And luckily I shave my ass, so no hair to curl
It’s not stable. I didn’t say it would tip easy, because it won’t. I said it is unstable laterally…in other words if your weight shifts from center, it has a tendency to make you feel like you’re going to tip! It rocks side to side too easy compared to other manufacturers fishing yaks. Yes you can Stan and yes you can walk, but if you don’t have a good sense of balance you are toast. I think this company misleads people into thinking it’s as stable as a Jon boat…it’s not. It will curl your ass hair and I don’t doubt you do shave your ass hair…most girls do!😃
@@2cthetruth idk what you are talking about either. I don’t have any problems with mine. I use a tohatsu 3.5 outboard. I can stand and fish no problem. I’ve had a hobie pa14 and I moved to this. If you can’t handle the kayak maybe you need to bank fish. Just don’t get too close to the waters edge. Wouldn’t want you to lose your balance and fall in and drown.
I thought you said before on some other video that you were pushing your nucanue with a 10 horse? I hear the us navy might replace their destroyer fleet with a fleet of these canoes?! You could be the first to take yours into battle! They are so stable oh my. I can cook my breakfast on it in 5 footers. 🤣🤣🤣🤣 fanboi
Thanks for the review. Exactly the review I needed. Big, older guy myself. I've been researching for a couple of months now and have narrowed my choices down to this kayak and one other one.
Hell0 . Good Job and it helps for me to decide which kayak want to buy
Great video man!
Have you gone tandem with the Frontier at all?
Hi Chris .... thanks for the review, after spending the last several years in a Lure 11.5 (mainly because the gravity seat worked well lower back arthritis), it's time for a change. Being a big older dude with lower body issues, I am concerned about durability and comfort of the Fusion seat and fact that it's secured to the track system which I've heard is plastic on the F12. Can you comment on those issues vs the gravity seat?
Also, any thoughts on the F12 vs the new kid on the block the Ultimate? Thanks in advance for any insight
I wouldn't worry about the seat being mounted to the tracks! they are solid since the weight is evenly distributed! the fusion seat is comfy for sure and if you add a kayak kushion its almost to the gravity seat level of comfort. The seat padding on the gravity seat is unlike any other to be honest.
As for f12 vs Frontier, video should be up soon!
The frontier paddles so much better than my bonafide. It also turns significantly easier. So glad I traded to a frontier.
Thank you for your information I am going to buy one just getting in to kayak bass fishing
Awesome! Let me know if you have any questions!
Great review. What are your thoughts on running a bow mount trolling motor on the frontier? Is it difficult to clear weeds off the motor while out on the water?
Nah, it’s not bad! Especially with a weed edge prop!
I love my Frontier 12 ..best kayak for fishing and hunting
Have you fished out of or demoed a Jackson big rig? I'm trying to look into that kayak and the frontier (obviously different styles of kayak) but just not seeing as much info as I'd hoped on either boats. If so what would make you recommend the frontier over the big rig, the customizeability obviously but what else? I currently have a feel free lure 11.5 after a Vibe Seaghost 110. I'm a large guy, 6ft 325lbs so thought the lure might work out. The open deck, stability, and wheel in the keel and higher seat are great but I mainly fish the river and the tracking difference was insane and something I took for granted on the sg110, same goes for the dry storage. Does the frontier track pretty well compared to most wide boats? I'm not worried about the speed at all, just don't want to have to mess with a rudder.
I think the frontier does a good job tracking. As good as the pursuit? no, but it's close. The only thing you'll miss is the wheel in the keel going from the lure to the Frontier. It's even more open and the new seat is just as high and probably almost as comfortable.
@@YakFishChris something about the seat on the lure just didn't feel right. I raised the seat back and it still didn't do it for me. It almost felt like the seat base/legs were angled backwards on the kayak so it was all tilted back. Made it hard to lean forward to grab anything with my belly. Is it easy enough to grab the horizontal rods in the frontier?
Got ya. I lean forward a lot. No issues when measuring fish or even getting to the motor or front hatch. The big rig is nice, but the cockpit felt cramped compared to the frontier 12. Plus the big rig is about 15 pounds heavier.
Have you heard if the bottom floor bowing issue was resolved? That is one thing that in my research i have been seeing on the Nu Canoe kayaks. Since i am a big guy also, that is one thing that i have some reserve about. Just curious if you have heard anything from the company about this. Fantastic review! appreciate honest reviews like this.
I have not heard if it’s been resolved but it’s never really been an issue to me. I’ve out the F12 through the paces and torture tested it for sure and the little flex it has, hasn’t effected the performance at all.
Hi Chris I just ran across your channel while researching and F12 and F10, love your channel by the way. Have you ever used the F10 and if so how does it compare to the F12 in stand up stability? I mainly fish small lakes/ponds and Ozark rivers and streams. The flint I would guess would be better for the rivers but I really prefer to stand and fish and feel the frontier models would be a better for that. I'm 5' 10" 225lbs do you think the F10 would be as stable. My reason for the F10 is I believe it will be easier to manage moving around and a little better on some low water rivers. I plan on using my transom mount trolling motor until I can get the extra $$ to upgrade to a bow mount. Seems like the F10 would be easier to use a transom mount as well.
I think you make some valid points! However, I think the f12 is still better suited for what you want. The f10 is not great in wind and seems to catch wind. The tail end will drift all around in circles
@@YakFishChris that makes sense, never thought about the wind factor.
Great review! Question, can you tow this kayak with a boat to get it to a fishing spot?
I’m sure you could! I just wouldn’t go very fast.
How does it perform in tournaments compared to the pursuit if both had a bow mount motor on it? I'm getting the frontier because I also want to be able to take the kids out with me alot but im just curious if I'm sacrificing all that much on the tournament angling side by choosing this over the pursuit. Obviously the pursuit will paddle and track better but were there any other big differences in your experience?
I have a video comparing the two going up tonight!
@@YakFishChris perfect! Thank you!
Great review! From my understanding, more scuppers could help with the bowing issue as well. Not a kayak builder so not sure what the negatives or issues there are with that. Either way, going on my 2nd year on my Frontier and love it. Hopefully can get that bow mount also someday, would love to be able to use spot lock.
Correct! But by adding that amount of plastic to create reinforcement in the scuppers, you’d add 15-20lbs to it. Nu is creative. They will think of something awesome as a solution!
Could you stuff some pool noodles in the hull to help with the deck issue? I am getting a Frontier 12 soon and want to get the bow trolling motor. Can’t wait to see your review on your Motorguide and how long your 60aph Amped battery lasts. I am looking to get the same exact set up. Thank you and keep it up!
Possibly. Everything is dependent on the user, how much use, the storage. There are too many variables for an end all be all solution. And I don’t run a motorguide. I run a minnkota iPilot.
Hello there ...im 6"1 338 pounds would this kayak be recommended (stable)
Yes! I would 100 percent recommend this kayak for big guys! I am 6’ 298. I love this boat!
I wonder when they start 3D printing kayaks with integral, internal trusses to increase rigidity and structural integrity while saving weight.
I love my Frontier 12.
Other than the nucanoe are there any other similar canoes for big dudes that you’d recommend? Btw I’m 6’4 330 and this would be my first kayak purchase but also terrified of buying anything less than like a 475lb weight limit.
To be honest, in this price range no. The Hobie PA 12 or 14, old town predator pdl line or the wilderness system recon would be options for sure.
@@YakFishChris thanks for the quick response! Seems this frontier 12 is legitimately the ultimate big man option. Liked and subbed!
Take a look at the Nucanoe Unlimited! The issues I talk about in this video are addressed with that boat! Similar specs to the frontier 12 with what seems to be better paddle-ability
What life vest are you wearing? I’m a bigger guy and want to find something that won’t let me down lol
NRS Chinook has saved me more than once! It’s a good one!
If you don’t mind me asking. How big are you. I am 6’5” 260 lbs. looking at two yaks. The FT12 and the Hobie PA14 360
I’m 6’0 299.
This puppy is stable. I am 5'10 260, and I bring my 70lb lab + duck decoys, shotgun etc. You will fall out from leaning over, long before you flip the kayak (in my opinion)
I love my frontier 12, its delivered on the reasons I bought it. I would really like to know total weight on this beast though. I'm a big guy, construction working all my life. And after a day of paddeling, I can barely get it back into the truck myself. All you see if hull weight - that ranges 77-80+ depending where you read it. I'm guessing thats not even the included hardware, moreless the fusion seat etc. My guess would be over 100lbs for this puppy.
Also mine has deck bend. I never stand in it, and its been stored top up under my deck on flat concrete. Shouldn't have any bow because of use/storage - Its just a bad molding design. Not an issue for me unless it starts to crack/leak , which I've heard of. Then its a massive issue and I would be pissed.
I'm commenting as I watch, and mostly agree with what his video says. Couple other points. The 600+ lb capacity is with the scuppers in, you'll max out around 400ish if you keep the scuppers removed (self bailing mode) Also, with the deck bend, the scuppers don't fully drain. There are channels that just dont work. Even when lifting the bow/stern after a paddle, I still have 1/2 gallon of water in the boat, that won't go thru the scuppers. Not reallyl an issue, I wear water shoes in the summer and waders in the winter for hunting. Design flaw though, and probably related to the deck flexing. I would say its to do with the position of chair/items , but even post paddeling lifting the bow/stern back and forth, the darn water should 100% drain.
I have been in a frontier 12 for 2 years and the one complaint I have is the front hatch leaking when I have waves crash over the front
I don’t seem to have that issue. Have you reached out to Nu and asked for a new hatch gasket?
@@YakFishChris not yet it only happens when I take big waves over the bow all day long so it’s not that annoying
Got ya. Def reach out. Free parts for life! Including that gasket!
I have this issue from day 1. I dont use the hatch, but when i open it, its always a couple cups of water in there. Making it useless for dry storage.
I'm just wondering why they couldn't make the pedal drive for this go in reverse? Doesn't seem like that would be hard but I'm not an engineer either.
The pivot drive? All you need to is pedal backwards.
@@YakFishChris Really? Someone told me it doesn't go in reverse. That's good to know.
Here’s to 2021 🤙🏻 hope to see you at some tourneys
Great review. Wanting one just not sure how I’d do with it as far as comfortability and accessing the gear while I’m in it. I’m 5’8” 290. 55 years old.other than size I’m pretty active. Duck Hunt and fish.How do you think it would do for me? Thank you!
This swivel seat is great. Now from a paddling perspective, its not ideal to have a swivel seat. As you power through strokes you don't want the chair turning. It's not an issue for me and I prefer it to be able to turn and get items from behind me.
What motor do you suggest for the frontier 12
I prefer a bow mount. Motorguide Xi3 or Minn Kota Powerdrive with iPilot are my suggestions!
What battery do you suggest. And is bow mount a good option for river and tribes off of rivers
I have an amped 60ah. I may go to an 80ah or a Dakota 100ah. We shall see!
That’s what I was looking at the amped 60 does it not last to long or what’s reason to go bigger . I’ll just be running motor off of it
My reason to go bigger was to get more days without charging. I can get a full day out of the 60ah, but i haven’t pushed it beyond that. I want to be able to go off grid and not have to worry about charging
I really wish they would fix the deck issue I mean come on you're paying $1,600 for this kayak and I would really like to buy one I love how open it is I don't need a bunch of gear it would be perfect for me to have all that standing and walking space
It’s really not even that bad to be honest. Plus the more you use it, the less you notice it. Get the new unlimited if it’s a deal breaker. That boat solves that issue completely with added benefits and features.
@@YakFishChris I'll have to give that one to look thanks
I'm so close to getting this one. How does it track? How does it handled wind? Lastly, in terms of speed do you know how it compares to a Bonafide SS107 or 127 by any chance?
It handles wind fairly well for how big it is. Tracks straight and is probably the same as a 127. Maybe a bit slower, but to me the stability of the frontier is way better which makes up for it.
@@YakFishChris Yeah, stability, and tracking are most important. I'm actually using a 107 right now, and suspect that the frontier is going to be a faster paddle. Does that sound right to you? I think it will because the SS107 is about 10ft, and weight 75 pounds bare hull. I believe the F12 weights about 77 pounds bare hull so it's not that much heavier.
I think it will be a bit faster. The hull design is the most important piece to speed, not necessarily the hull weight. The sharp keel on the frontier will make it a bit easier for sure. My pursuit is the fastest paddling boat I’ve been in and has about the same stability as the 127. Maybe a little less, but wayyyyy faster. I can average 3.5-4mph paddling in my pursuit
So I am asking for your honest opinion. I have the older style Big Rig, and the 2019 Lure 11.5, I don’t like Lure. I am 6’5 360, and it’s a problem with a lot of kayaks. Is the Frontier 12 way to go, or the Ultimate? I am wanting to put a motor on and also pedal drive. So I am just asking for your opinion, i fish mostly calm water. Thank you Sir.
With my experience in the unlimited so far, I’d go that route! It’s been fantastic so far and I like it more than the f12!
What yak are you fishing with these days???
NuCanoe unlimited!
This kayak is what I'm leaning toward for my fat ass. Looks like an amazing duck hunting rig.
It is! Nucanoe makes a blind for it as well! Plus quite a few hunting focused accessories
Who dat lady was?
Or cryack
I have this canoe and it SUX fishing in it. Lateral stability is crap. You see other people fishing in their hobie or whatever and they fish relaxed. Out of the frontier 12 you can fish but the pucker factor will curl your ass hairs. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
I’m not sure what you mean. I stand and fish a lot on the f12 with no issues. Never come close to tipping it. I walk to the bow to deploy my motor. And luckily I shave my ass, so no hair to curl
It’s not stable. I didn’t say it would tip easy, because it won’t. I said it is unstable laterally…in other words if your weight shifts from center, it has a tendency to make you feel like you’re going to tip! It rocks side to side too easy compared to other manufacturers fishing yaks. Yes you can Stan and yes you can walk, but if you don’t have a good sense of balance you are toast. I think this company misleads people into thinking it’s as stable as a Jon boat…it’s not. It will curl your ass hair and I don’t doubt you do shave your ass hair…most girls do!😃
Ok buddy. You’re right and I’m wrong. My hairless ass is offended now. Why didn’t you make a review video of your f12 to warn everyone how bad it is?
@@2cthetruth idk what you are talking about either. I don’t have any problems with mine. I use a tohatsu 3.5 outboard. I can stand and fish no problem. I’ve had a hobie pa14 and I moved to this.
If you can’t handle the kayak maybe you need to bank fish. Just don’t get too close to the waters edge. Wouldn’t want you to lose your balance and fall in and drown.
I thought you said before on some other video that you were pushing your nucanue with a 10 horse? I hear the us navy might replace their destroyer fleet with a fleet of these canoes?! You could be the first to take yours into battle! They are so stable oh my. I can cook my breakfast on it in 5 footers. 🤣🤣🤣🤣 fanboi
It’s not a Boat 🚤 Its a canoe 🛶