I have been blessed to have the opportunity to try a lot of different watercraft out. Last year I dove into a couple of smaller fishing rafts. This included the Outcast Striker and the NRS Slipstream 96. This year I am exploring other two person raft options. I had the opportunity recently to test and review the NRS Approach 120.
Key Specs
Before we dive in, let's check out the basics. The NRS Approach 120 measures 12 feet in length and 49 inches in width. It weighs in at a manageable 120lbs (excluding oars). NRS offers two packages. The standard one, which covers essentials like dry boxes, seats, frame, raft, and rod holders. The upgraded version has oars, an anchor, and anchor pulleys for an extra $700. With the standard package costing $4,995, the fully equipped version stands at $5,695.
On the Water
To test out the Approach, my buddy Stephen Cheek and I loaded it up in search of warmer water in Florida. We plan to put it through its paces in some white water as well, but in the meantime the swifter moving water of the spring fed rivers in Florida will have to do!
Stability
Starting with stability, the inflatable raft boasts a drop-stitched floor that can be inflated to 8 PSI, providing a very stiff and stable platform underfoot. This along with the inflated tubes on each side makes the boat plenty stable. I do believe stability is in the eye of the beholder. Stephen and I come from kayak fishing, so we are used to standing and casting from small craft.
But for reference we were able to put all our weight on one side and raft did not feel tippy. In fact, multiple times throughout the day we swapped places to take turns fishing and rowing.
Fishability
This is probably the most important category when considering a fishing vessel of any kind. When I think about fishability, I try to always take into consideration what the boat is designed to do and where it designed to excel. In this case the Approach is home in moving water and is designed to be a lightweight two-person raft that can get you safely downstream. I think that it is laid out perfect for this and a couple of things really stood out to me that make it great for this scenario.
Most rafts offer the ability to row, and that is great, but this one also offers the ability to add a motor. For me this is huge. Having a motor option allows for single access, meaning that instead of having to arrange a shuttle downstream, I can simply motor. Either upstream and float back to the truck, or float down and motor back up. This opens so much more water to the angler especially when access is limited.
The next feature that stands out to me are the integrated tracks on the rafts frame. These not only allow for adjustability when it comes to dialing in the seating and feet rest, but the offer tons of mounting options for accessories from companies like Yakattack.
From rods to drink holders the possibilities are endless. Lastly, I loved the integrated fly rod tubes down each side. This made is very easy to accommodate two 9’ rods and keep them out of the way when not in use.
Maneuverability & Speed
In terms of maneuverability, the 12-foot length makes it nimble, and with oars in hand, it can spin within its own length. Perfect for those tight fishing spots. When it comes to speed, we tested it with a Torqeedo 903 electric motor, equivalent to a 2.5-horsepower gas motor. The results were impressive, managing upstream travel with ease.
With two anglers and gear we were able to hit speeds up to 4mph against the current. This will greatly vary depending on the current etc, but the raft moved a could clip under power and was easily moved with the oars as well. It is a bit narrower that other rafts I have tested, which I felt made it a bit quicker compared to other rafts in the same length. This could also be because it is lighter weight as well.
Storage
Storage is always a priority for anglers, and the Approach 120 doesn't disappoint. The aluminum gear boxes under the seats, featuring rubber gaskets for watertight storage, are a game-changer. This is just such a great use of space and not something you typically see in a craft of this size. Otherwise, you would need to rely on dry bags and straps to hold them in place. Additional space behind the rear seat and between your feet and the angler seat offers plenty of room for more gear as well.
Durability
Now, let's talk durability. There's a common misconception about inflatable crafts that they are not durable or may be easily punctured. This is simply just not a common occurrence and people have been fishing out of inflatable rafts for years. But, to help protect key areas of the raft have been reinforced. For example the bottom has an extra layer of material to help prevent wear. The aluminum frame is super sturdy as well and features a powder coating to help protect it even more.
Value of the NRS Approach 120 raft
This is always a hard one to nail down because who can really put a price tag on fun. The best way I have found to do this is to look at what other are doing in the category and compare. You really have to look at what you are getting for the money and what you could get for the same money elsewhere. Taking that into consideration, I would say this raft is priced right where it should be.
Other options exist and they seem a bit cheaper, but when you add up all that comes with the Approach and what you might have to add to other craft, you end up spending the same money or in some cases even more. For example the Approach has integrated rod storage, but that is a $250 upgrade on other rafts. Basically, what I am trying to say is that the Approach is priced competitively with other rafts on the market.
Final Thoughts on the Approach 120 raft
In conclusion, the NRS Approach 120 proves to be a valuable investment for anglers seeking versatility, customization, and durability in an inflatable raft. Whether you're an avid fly fisher or prefer conventional angling, this boat caters to your needs. It's a vessel I trust to handle whatever challenges the water throws at it, and I'm excited for the many adventures that lie ahead.
More details can be found at NRS Approach 120.
