Hard SUP stability meets kayak-level fishability
Anglers who prioritize durability and built-in fishing features over portability
4 photos of the Crescent Kayaks CK1 Crew 12’3″
The Crescent CK1 Crew blurs the line between SUP and kayak in the best possible way. Built from rotomolded polyethylene — the same material used in premium fishing kayaks — this board is designed for anglers who prioritize durability and built-in fishing features above all else.
At 36 inches wide with a flat, stable hull design, the CK1 Crew provides incredible primary stability. You can walk around on this board, shift your weight, and manage gear without concern. Secondary stability is equally impressive — when the board does tilt, it recovers predictably and smoothly. The rotomolded hull sits lower in the water than inflatables, which contributes to the planted, secure feeling. In our testing on Galveston Bay with 10-15 mph winds and light chop, the board remained stable and fishable throughout.
Unlike inflatables that require aftermarket accessories, the CK1 comes ready to fish out of the box. Built-in gear tracks run along both rails, accepting standard kayak accessories like Scotty rod holders, camera mounts, and fish finder transducers. Flush-mount rod holders are molded into the hull, and scupper holes drain water that splashes onto the deck. The non-slip deck pad covers the entire standing area and provides excellent grip even when wet. These integrated features feel more secure and permanent than clamp-on alternatives.
At 55 pounds, the CK1 is the heaviest board in our review lineup by a significant margin. Solo transport requires either a good set of SUP wheels or a strong back. Loading it onto a roof rack is a two-person job for most people. A truck bed is the easiest transport solution. This weight is the primary reason the board does not score higher in our overall ranking — it limits where and how easily you can use it. But once it is on the water, the weight becomes an advantage, providing a planted, solid feel that lighter boards cannot match.
The Crescent CK1 Crew is the most rugged, fish-ready platform in our review lineup. If you have the vehicle to transport it and do not need the compact storage of an inflatable, this board offers unmatched durability and built-in fishing features. It is the closest thing to a fishing kayak in SUP form — and that is exactly what many anglers want.
2 reviews from verified owners
I am hard on gear. Kayaks, boards, you name it — I scratch, dent, and ding everything. This rotomolded beast does not care. I have dragged it across shell beds, dropped it off the tailgate, and it looks the same as day one. The built-in gear tracks accept all my kayak accessories. Only downside is the weight — at 55 pounds you need a buddy or a good set of wheels to get it to the water.
Performance on the water is outstanding. I fish the Savannah marshes and this board handles current and wind better than any inflatable I have tried. The scupper holes drain water fast and the non-slip deck is confidence-inspiring. But at 55 pounds and 12 feet long, getting it on and off my SUV roof rack solo is a workout. If you have a truck, this is a no-brainer. If not, think carefully about logistics.
See how the CK1 Crew 12’3″ stacks up against other fishing SUPs
Common questions about the CK1 Crew 12’3″ for fishing
Explore our buying guide, compare boards side-by-side, or check out our rigging guide to set up your new board for fishing.
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