Submitted: 09-25-2009 by bostonbeanie
Just bought a used Merlin in great condition for $800 so that will affect my rating. My first kayak is an Old Town Casco (polylink 3) 12' x 28". Very stable large cockpit rec kayak.
First trip yesterday in Merlin LT on Blue Mt Lake NY. Entry was tricky due to smaller cockpit and built in thigh braces. I am 5'2" and 122, mid 50's. Would recommend a much larger paddler try out for entry and exit reasons. The boat turns on a dime, moves along nicely under a short gentle stroke, probably twice as fast as the Casco. I was out in good conditions, light breeze and it handled well. Love the deck hardware. Easy to load on top of high vehicle due to weight. |