Any one have any knowledge of Mad River Synergy 12 ?

Looks pretty nice for the money


http://www.madrivercanoe.com/product/index/products/sporting/synergy_series/synergy_12/

I have a Synergy 12 myself. Bought it used last summer.

I've been fishing from it several times in Lake Grapevine and in rivers around the DFW area.

It handles great and it stays very dry evem on moderate swells.

Because the sides are higher, you might need a longer paddle than on other SOT kayaks.

Like I said, I've taken it on fairly rough days in Lake Grapevine and didn't see any problems. I did take some water in the front but it was stable. No scupper holes so bring a spong to bail some water out if needed.

In the river, I've gone upstream even with fairly stiff currents and it worked beautifully.

It's heavy for the size because it's basically a double hull canoe.

PM me if you need more information.

great thank you, I was hoping it would work on lakes and stay dry.

We had some here in the shop, camo was very good looking.
I always consider how easy a boat is to flip BACK over while in the water and then drain afterwards. I know some people say "Just don't flip the boat" so if you are that awesome and the unexpected NEVER happens to you then disregard, but if you like to plan for the possibilties for your own safety and perhaps that of anyone yakking with you then I would consider it. Think about getting caught in a deluge as well. And this one, with no scupper plugs and high gunwales (side walls) would be difficult and (during winter months) potentially dangerous. The high gunwales would also make sitting side saddle uncomfortable.
Correct about the slightly longer paddle and sponge (a hand bilge pump might even be necessary in emergencies).
That being said: great storage, solid boat with cool features and MR is a pretty unique line.
Cyp

Until I got my wood yak I was really leaning toward that canoe.
I read lots of reviews on it and 99% of them were good.

So what paddle length do you think is needed.
I am 6'2"

Is 240 long enough or do I need to do longer?

I wonder how this handles.

I'm looking for a kayak to yak baits out on the coast.

I would be very reluctant to take this type of yak past the breakers.

There are no scupper holes so it won't drain. I've seen pictures of Ultimates that swamped and only a few inches stick up.

I've taken in water in heavy lake surf and I haven't felt unsafe but I can usually orient myself long enough to bail out some water.

The other side of the coin of course is that you'll have a very dry ride no matter how heavy you are. I used to sit in a couple of inches of water in my previous yak.