BKC UH-FK184 Kayak Review | Outdoor Expert (2024)

Many entry- and mid-level fishing kayaks are perfectly worthy crafts for fishing, but they lack some of the features that high-performance kayaks employ to ensure a smooth, stable and nimble ride. However, some kayaks in this price range take the opposite approach and prioritize the performance of the kayak above all else. The BKC UH-FK184 review covers all features in depth.

The Brooklyn Kayak Company’s UH-FK184 is a great example of this type of kayak, and this 9-foot- 2-inch- long craft is notable for being incredibly stable and easy to maneuver through even the choppiest waters. Nevertheless, the UH-FK184 still has plenty of fishing-friendly features, including several rod holders and an abundance of storage space.

Build Quality

The UH-FK184 is a very well-designed kayak, that is better built than many other crafts at the same price point. A lightweight craft, the UH-FK184 is made from polyethylene and weighs only 45 pounds, making it is easy to load, unload and carry down to the water.

The manufacturer rates its capacity at only 250 pounds, so it isn’t a good choice for exceptionally large anglers or those who like to bring along tons of gear. However, several reviewers have reported that the craft would support much more weight than this while still staying afloat.

Storage Capacity

The UH-FK184 offers several different places for storing your gear. Two screw-off, watertight hatches serve as the perfect places to store tackle and tools, as well as your cell phone, car keys and wallet. One hatch is located directly in front of the seat, while the other is located at the bow.

Behind the seat, the UH-FK184 features a spacious cargo area for storing a cooler or other large items. Included elastic cords will help keep your gear secure. The UH-FK184 also provides five rod holders, including four flush-mounted holders and one articulating rod holder directly in front of the seat. A pair of paddle parks are also provided to keep your paddles out of the way.

Comfort

No matter how many features a fishing kayak provides, or how well it is built, it won’t be very fun to use if it doesn’t provide the type of comfort you desire. Fortunately, most anglers will find that the UH-FK184 provides a very comfortable ride, thanks to its adjustable seat.

Additionally, despite being a fairly small craft, the UH-FK184 provides a surprising amount of leg room, to help keep you comfortable on long trips. The only problem to be found with the comfort of the UH-FK184 relates to the forward position of the second watertight hatch, which may require you to lean forward rather far to access it.

Stability

One of the UH-FK184’s claims to fame is its impressive stability for a craft that is only 31.5 inches wide. While you probably won’t find this relatively small craft stable enough for standing, you won’t ever worry about taking a spill from the seated position – even when you are battling huge fish. This is an especially important factor to consider for those who like to fish for large species in open water. Additionally, most anglers reported that it is easy to climb into or out of the UH-FK184.

Maneuverability

The UH-FK184 is a highly agile and maneuverable craft that will cut through choppy ocean waters as well as most similarly priced kayaks will handle a calm farm pond. And thanks to the included keel, it tracks very well and keeps a consistent heading, even when traveling long distances.

The UH-FK184 is also easy to maneuver across dry ground, thanks to the included carrying handles. Four handles (including one on each side, one at the bow and one at the stern) are provided to make the kayak easy to carry from your car or truck down to the lake and back.

Summary

The Brooklyn Kayak Company’s UH-FK184 is an impressive kayak for the price, that will allow you to cruise confidently around the water, thus leaving your mind free to concentrate on catching fish. It doesn’t have many high-end features, such as a foot-operated rudder or fishing electronics pods, but few similarly priced kayaks have these features either.

It provides a comfortable and stable ride, tracks well and is easy to load and unload thanks to its lightweight construction. It has all of the features most anglers would consider mandatory, such as ample storage space and plenty of rod holders, so most anglers seeking a beginner to intermediate craft will be pleased with the UK-FK184.