By Paul Lebowitz

This Mini Cooper of a kayak thinks it’s a truck. The Mini-X measures a mere 9 feet long and 38 pounds (sans hatches), yet boasts an impressive 325 pound weight capacity. In plain English, that means even full tackle boxes and bigger-bodied anglers won’t sink it. The cockpit is plenty long too, easily accommodating a 6 foot 4 frame.

Like any short, stubby kayak the Mini-X wants to wander a bit and won’t win any races, but that can hardly be seen as a criticism. It isn’t meant to make tracks. This is a boat best suited to small waters or short distances.

Within its limits, the Mini-X is a very competent fishing platform with a solid, stable ride. The deck features an easy to rig layout with plenty of room to mount electronics and multiple rod holders. Malibu even found space for its trademark large rectangular cockpit hatch, a handy option that few buyers should skip. But think twice about sinking an 8-inch round hatch in the tankwell. Under heavy loads that sucker will be underwater.

The Mini-X is a viable choice for paddle fishers who want something lightweight and easy to tote and store. It’s a great complement to a full-sized main ride, either as a buddy boat or for those after work ‘quickies.’

THE MINI-X FROM MALIBU is a Mini Cooper that thinks it’s a truck. The deck features an easy to rig layout with plenty of room to mount electronics, multiple rod holders, and even Malibu’s trademark large rectangular cockpit hatch.