Profish 400 vs Profish Reload – Which Offshore Fishing Kayak Should You Choose?

By Jason | 15-Year Kayak Industry Veteran

If you’re in the market for an offshore-ready fishing kayak, you’ve probably come across two top contenders — the Viking Profish 400 and the Profish Reload. They’re both fantastic options, and one of the most common questions I get is:
“Which one’s better?”

The truth? It depends. Both are designed to perform, but each has its strengths based on how, where, and what you fish for. Let’s take a deeper look at the key differences to help you decide which one suits your style.

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🔹 Real-World Experience You Can Trust

Hi, I’m Jason. I’ve worked in the kayak industry for over 15 years and have paddled everything from small creeks to open ocean swells. These reviews are based on hands-on experience — not just spec sheets — so you’ll get real feedback you can rely on.

Got a question? Leave a comment — I’m happy to help!

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📏 Size and First Impressions

At first glance, both kayaks share a similar layout. But one of the first things you’ll notice is the length difference:

• Profish Reload: 4.5 meters

• Profish 400: 4.1 meters

That extra half-meter gives the Reload slightly better tracking and glide on long-distance paddles. But the 400’s more compact length makes it easier to handle solo — especially when transporting or storing.

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🌊 Offshore Handling & Surf Performance

The Profish Reload is known for its offshore capabilities — it handles chop incredibly well and keeps stable thanks to its heavier profile and flared bow. But here’s the good news…

The latest version of the Profish 400 now punches well above its weight.

With an upgraded bow design and added large front hatch, the 400 now tackles surf like a champ. Whether you’re beach launching or punching through breakers, it holds its line and gets you offshore without drama.

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🧰 Storage & Layout Differences

Storage is where the Reload really flexes. You get:

• Large rear tank well

• Optional rear storage pods

• Oversized tackle pod in the cockpit

That said, the new Profish 400 now comes with a generous front hatch, which earlier models lacked. While it doesn’t have rear pods, the improved hatch and ample rear well make it a solid choice for anglers who pack smart.

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🎛 Tackle Pod System – Gear Storage & Fish Finder Integration Compared

Both the Viking Profish 400 and Profish Reload feature Viking’s well-known Tackle Pod system, designed to keep your gear organized and electronics secure. While they serve the same purpose, the two pods are quite different in size, integration, and practicality — especially for fish finder setups.

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Profish Reload Tackle Pod – Fully Integrated and Protected

The Reload’s Tackle Pod is designed for anglers who want an all-in-one electronics and storage solution:

• Larger Capacity: Ideal for long offshore trips, with space for tackle trays, batteries, tools, and accessories.

• Fully Integrated System: The fish finder screen mounts on top, while the battery and transducer are stored inside the pod. The transducer is installed beneath the pod, allowing clean internal wiring.

• Quick & Easy Removal: The entire pod lifts out for transport, cleaning, or storage.

• Transducer Protection: Because it’s built into the removable pod, your transducer stays protected when the kayak is out of the water — ideal for long-term durability.

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Profish 400 Tackle Pod – Compact and Practical, with External Wiring

The Profish 400’s Tackle Pod is a more compact version and offers a simpler setup for tackle and electronics:

• Smaller Footprint: Great for anglers who want lightweight storage for short sessions or calm water use.

• External Electronics Setup: The transducer must be mounted underneath the kayak hull, with the fish finder screen placed on top of the pod. Cables exit the kayak and must be manually connected to the screen each time you go paddling.

• Always Exposed: The transducer is always exposed to weather, saltwater, and impact, making it more vulnerable than the Reload’s internal setup.

• Removable Pod: While still detachable for transport and cleaning, the electronics are separate from the pod, requiring more setup time.

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🔍 Summary: Which Tackle Pod is Better?

If you’re looking for a fully integrated, high-capacity electronics system, the Profish Reload is the superior choice. It keeps everything compact, protected, and easy to manage — perfect for serious offshore fishing.

The Profish 400 is still a solid option for day trips or lighter setups, but its fish finder wiring is more exposed, and the installation is less streamlined.

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🐕 Paddle Lifestyle Vibes

The Profish 400’s lighter weight and easy maneuverability also make it perfect for inland paddling or casual river sessions — even with a four-legged friend onboard.

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🐟 Reload in Action

When it comes to serious offshore missions and game fish hunting, the Profish Reload is built for performance. Fully rigged, it’s a stable platform that can handle the fight — and the gear.

 

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🔚 Final Thoughts: Which One Is Best?

It depends on you. Here’s the breakdown:

Profish Reload:

• Best for long-distance offshore missions

• Maximum storage and rigging potential

• Slightly more stable in rough seas

Profish 400 (new model):

• More compact and lighter to handle

• Now includes a large front hatch

• Performs impressively in surf and chop

• Great for solo anglers and mixed terrain paddling

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Still undecided?
Leave a comment or contact us directly — I’m always happy to help you figure out what suits your fishing adventures best.

See you on the water!
— Jason , Paddle Guy