Dude, I Am Pumped": Bearded Dad Fishing Reviews the FluxJet at ICAST 2026
Ever since we first announced the FluxJet, anglers have been asking to see real production models out on the water. At ICAST 2026, Bearded Dad Fishing stopped by the demo pond to get hands-on time in the seat and put the jet drive through its paces.
From testing standing stability at 235 lbs to driving straight over floating timber and thick grass, watch his full on-the-water walkthrough below:
Integrated Jet Drive & Micro-Adjustment Throttle
Unlike traditional setups where you have to buy and mount a separate motor, the FluxJet features a fully integrated jet drive built straight into the hull. It is purpose-built for shallow water, rivers, and mucky areas where props and pedal drives constantly snag.
One of the first things Bearded Dad noticed was how smooth and responsive the hand throttle is. Even adjusting it just 5 degrees gives immediate response, allowing you to fine-tune your speed in tiny increments while casting and moving down a bank.
“First impressions of this thing, dude, I am pumped for it. The motor is already integrated, it comes in the kayak already... You can set it to very small increments and fish while you move.”
Rigged for Real River & Shallow Water Anglers
A kayak can have all the power in the world, but if the layout is clunky, it ruins your day on the water. Bearded Dad walked through the entire deck from bow to stern, pointing out features designed specifically for fishermen:
- Front Rod Holders: Two forward-facing rod staging spots make it easy to set your rod down safely while unhooking a fish or re-tying a lure.
- No-Drill Power Plates: Integrated mounting plates allow you to attach fish finders and accessories without drilling directly into the kayak hull.
- Molded-In Side Handles: Super sturdy handles that act as solid tie-down points for truck beds, roof racks, or trailers.
- Low-Profile Rear Rod Holders: Flush-mounted rear rod holders keep your gear lower, preventing your rods from snagging on low-hanging river branches.
- On-Board Tech: Includes an integrated voltage meter for your battery, USB charging ports, and full deck padding from front to back.
Standing Stability Test: 235 lbs on the Water
Even if you spend most of your time seated in rivers, being able to stand up to sight fish or stretch your legs is essential. Bearded Dad put the hull to a direct stability test standing up on the water.
“I'm 230, 235 lbs, and I'm standing in it just fine... As far as I'm concerned, this is a super stable kayak.”
He also noted the comfortable two-position adjustable seat, which allows you to easily pop between a forward seating position and a rearward seating position depending on your leg length and fishing style.
The Slop & Obstacle Course Test
To finish off his run, Bearded Dad drove the FluxJet into the thickest weeds on the demo pond and took it through our custom obstacle course.
He ran the kayak directly through floating vegetation, straight over a submerged cargo net, and across floating lumber without damaging the drive, catching a prop, or getting bogged down in the slop.
“We're going to go right over this cargo net. Tell me any other motor or kayak that could do that. Absolutely wild.”
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