You’ll find the Brooklyn 12.5 tandem sit‑on‑top is a solid, roomy fishing platform that tracks well when you sync strokes, handles light chop for standing casts, and carries lots of gear, but you should test seat fit, footrest positions, and weight shifts before hauling it out; check the four flush rod holders, two adjustable ones, and motor pad for your setup, pack a small repair kit and UV protectant, and try calm‑water maneuvers and a speed check to confirm feel — keep going for more specifics.
Some Key Points
- Feels very stable for tandem fishing, with a wide 34-inch beam that supports standing casts and two adults plus gear.
- Tracks straight with synced paddling, but small turns require leaning or bracing to manage wave reaction.
- Fishing-ready layout: four flush rod holders, two articulating holders, motor pad, and multiple accessory mounting points.
- Comfortable tandem ergonomics: roomy padded seats, adjustable footrests, and multiple foot positions for differing leg lengths.
- Durable rotomolded HDPE hull resists impacts and UV, though routine inspections and maintenance are recommended.
How the Brooklyn 12.5 Performs on Water (Stability, Tracking, Speed)
Even if you’re new to tandem kayaks, you’ll find the Brooklyn 12.5 feels reassuringly solid on the water, so start by paying attention to three things on your first outing: how steady it feels when you shift weight to cast or reach for gear, whether it tracks in a straight line when you paddle together, and how much speed you can coax out before it stalls. You’ll test calm water maneuvering first, paddling with smooth, synced strokes to see how the hull keeps you straight, then try small turns to judge wave reaction handling, noting when to lean, brace, or feather strokes. Brooklyn Kayak Co. also offers a range of accessories and gear to outfit your trips, including fishing mounts and storage options for extended outings like those on urban waterways.
Fishing Features and Rigging Options (Rod Holders, Trolling-Motor Readiness, Accessory Layout)
The Brooklyn 12.5 comes set up like someone who’s already done the homework, so start by checking the rod holders and the accessory points to match how you like to fish — you’ve got four flush-mount holders for long-term placement and two articulating holders that you can angle for trolling or quick grabs, and that mix means you can keep two rods ready, one on a troll, and another for active casting without shuffling gear. Use the built-in motor pad if you want electric push, add rails or plates where you need them for tools, and stash lures in quick access storage pockets. Reel Yaks carries matching accessories and replacement parts to outfit your kayak for every water adventure, including specialized kayak gear for anglers.
Comfort, Ergonomics, and Capacity for Two Anglers
Because you’re likely going out with a partner, you’ll want to check comfort and gear layout before you shove off, so take a minute to sit in both seats, adjust the footrests, and load some typical gear to see how the boat balances; the Brooklyn 12.5 gives you roomy, padded seats for two adults plus a child or extra kit, multiple footrest positions to fit different leg lengths, and a wide 34‑inch beam that helps keep things stable when you cast or move around. Sit fully, test the adjustable footrests, feel the seat padding, redistribute gear to keep trim, and plan where each angler stores rods and coolers so you can cruise free, comfortable, and ready. Double kayaks like this are ideal for shared trips and tandem paddling techniques that improve efficiency for two people, so consider practicing basic tandem strokes together before heading out.
Durability, Construction, and Real-World Wear Resistance
You’ve checked the seats and footrests, now take a close look at how the boat’s built, because how it’s constructed will tell you how it handles dings, sun, and heavy loads over time. You’ll like the rotomolded HDPE hull, it’s one-piece for strength, designed to resist impacts and UV, but do subject it to basic impact testing yourself — drop a loaded cooler at slow speed or scrape a rock edge, then inspect for stress. Watch for material aging like chalky spots, softenings, or color fade, carry UV protectant and repair kit, and rinse salt off after trips. This site specializes in lifetime kayaks and related gear for paddlers and water adventurers.
Who Should Buy This Kayak and Alternatives to Consider
If you want a roomy, stable fishing platform that’ll handle two adults plus a kid or extra gear, the Brooklyn 12.5 is a strong choice, and you’ll want to think about how you plan to use it before buying — are you mainly doing calm-lake outings with lots of tackle and coolers, casting from a standing position in choppy bays, or planning longer solo trips where load weight matters? You’ll love it if you crave freedom, want rugged stability for standing casts, or need space for family outings, and budget buyers will find solid value; if you need lighter solo speed, consider a narrower solo yak. This model is ideal for paddlers who prioritize stability and gear capacity on multi-person trips.
Some Questions Answered
What Is the Kayak’s Warranty Period and Coverage?
The kayak usually comes with a limited warranty covering hull defects for a set period, so you’re protected if the rotomolded hull fails, cracks, or separates; accessory coverage is often limited or shorter, so check specifics. Contact customer support right away if you spot damage, keep proof of purchase, photos, and serial numbers, and avoid DIY fixes that could void the warranty—want help drafting that support email?
How Easy Is Transport and Roof-Rack Mounting?
Pretty easy: you’ll fit it on most roof racks if you use foam blocks or stack pads, cinch straps, and the lifting handles to steady one end while you secure the other, and consider a buddy for solo-free loading on higher vehicles. Check crossbar width and use bow/stern tie‑downs, carry gloves and straps, tighten slowly while the kayak sits centered, and test the load before you drive, got it?
Are Dry Storage Compartments Included?
Yes — you’ll get dry hatches and a sizable bow locker for gear, so you can stash phones, maps, and packs without worry, but don’t treat them like dive bags. Check seal condition before trips, pack items in small dry bags inside the locker for extra protection, and keep heavy gear low and centered to preserve stability; test closures after loading, then paddle off knowing your essentials are secure.
Can a Child Seat or Pedal System Be Added?
Yes — you can add a child seat or a pedal system, you’ll want a child harness for safety and a secure mount point, check the hull for threaded inserts or rail systems, use a bow cooler as an anchor point for snacks or gear but don’t rely on it for weight support, and fit pedal drives that match sit-on-top thickness and mounting pattern; test stability solo first, then with a child secured, and carry a spare paddle.
What Color Options and Available Accessories Exist?
You can get it in Blue Camo or Olive Drab, both meant to blend into water and shorelines, and you’ll want accessories like a paddle leash, rod holders upgrade, crate or cooler for gear, a skirt or spray shield for rough water, and a trolling motor setup if you plan long days, so check the built-in mount, battery space, and wiring access first, bring extra tie-downs, and test fit gear at a demo or dealer.
