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Viking Profish Reload review by Paddle Guy after 10+ years offshore.
Viking Profish Reload Review by Paddle Guy – offshore-tested, real-world feedback after 10+ years on the water.
Profish Reload– Offshore-Ready, Surf-Tested
I’ve been paddling the Viking Profish Reload for over ten years now, and in that time it’s become my go-to weapon for offshore fishing. Whether I’m launching through heavy beach breaks, trolling for pelagics, or filming my sessions, this kayak has consistently proven why it's a favourite among serious yak fishers — not just in New Zealand, but here on the Sunshine Coast too.
Designed and made in NZ, the Reload was built for the kind of conditions we deal with offshore — and Viking nailed it.
Built for Distance, Designed for Surf
At 4.5 metres long and 75cm wide, the Reload is the perfect balance of speed, tracking, and surf handling. It punches through waves, glides when you're covering ground, and still remains manoeuvrable in tight spots. I’m around 80kg, and I’ve seen guys well over 130–140kg fully loaded, fishing in rough water, and this thing doesn’t flinch.
The hull design is super stable, but not sluggish — something hard to find in a big offshore yak.
Modular Setup with Serious Tackle Flexibility
One of the standout features for me is the removable Tackle Pod system. It’s brilliant. I have two pods: one fully loaded with tackle and electronics, and another configured for live bait. I load them the night before, drop them in, clip one pin, and I’m ready to go.
🎒 Gear Tip: If you use live bait offshore, get the Twin Tackle Pod. It keeps your liveys healthy while keeping your main pod dry and organised.
Seat Setup and Fit: Locked In and Comfortable
I don’t use the included backrest — I just go with a foam pad. Why? Because the built-in lumbar support is spot on. The Reload puts your butt and heels low in the hull, which drops your centre of gravity and keeps you connected to the boat.
Add the thigh braces and you’re practically locked in like a sea kayak. Great for surf work and when you want to brace through a fast run or a big turn.
Foot Pedals and Rudder – Subtle But Solid
The foot pedal system lets me generate leg drive while still steering the rudder with my toes. Super intuitive.
As for the Viking angler rudder — it's different to most. It’s not as deep as others, but it’s more responsive than many I’ve tried. Plus, it doesn’t grab weed or get hung up in the shallows. It just kicks up and resets itself. Love that.
Rod Holders, Layout, and Practicality
You get four flush mounts at the back and two in the cockpit — solid base setup. But I’ve added Railblaza rod tubes at the front. They hold my rods up high while I’m re-rigging, landing fish, or trolling.
When I want a clean stroke — especially into the wind — I move everything to the back.
🎣 What’s Your Offshore Setup Like?
I’d love to know how others rig their Reloads or set up their surf launches. Do you run dual pods? Have you customised your rod storage?
📩 Drop me a comment below — always keen to chat gear!
Storage That Works
You’ve got three hatches: one between your legs (perfect for wet tackle), and two behind the seat for things like food, leader or dry gear. The large front oval hatch fits my C-Tug trolley, seat, dry bag — no dramas.
As for fish storage, I use the insulated fish bag 90% of the time. It’s lighter than the Chill Pod and handles long pelagics better when I’m punching through surf.
Surf-Proven, Sunshine Coast Tested
Since moving to Australia, I’ve faced some brutal surf launches — and the Reload holds its own. Nose flare, hull shape, scupper holes — all dialled for surf performance.
I’ve also added some toggles and strapping mods to keep my rods and pod secure. Strip the reels, flatten the rods, and stash your sounder in the hatch — takes me 10 minutes behind the break to set up.
🎒 Gear Tip: Going through heavy surf? Remove your Railblaza rod holders and stash your electronics — safer, lighter, smarter.
Camera Setup
I run the Railblaza Camera Boom 600 both front and rear. I can swing it over my shoulder, get great over-the-water shots, and even dip it underwater. If you’re filming content, this is a must.
🎥 Want to See the Reload in Action?
Check out my full Viking Profish Reload review on YouTube — real offshore footage, surf launches, and live setups from my own kayak.
Help us improve this Viking Profish Reload Review
Is there anything we didn’t cover in this Viking Profish Reload Review? Maybe a specific setup question, an offshore detail, or a feature you’d like us to test and discuss?
Send us your ideas and we’ll happily add them as an update — so this review becomes even more useful for the Kayak & SUP community.
Viking Profish Reload Review: Final Thoughts
The Profish Reload is a kayak that’s earned my trust. Offshore, surf, solo filming days or family trips — it’s handled it all. It’s modular, fast, balanced, and comes with a 6-year warranty. You can’t ask for much more in a sit-on-top fishing kayak.
If you’re looking for something built for real conditions — check it out.
Still have questions or want to try the Profish Reload?
We’re here to help. Whether you’re comparing kayaks or want to test the Reload in surf — reach out anytime.
- 📞 Call us: 0410 520 267
- 📧 Email: dan@kayakandsup.com.au
- 📍 Book a 1-on-1 demo or quote at our Sunshine Coast location
