beats bushwhacking!
My buddy and I presently own 3 newer models and recently sold 3 older ones. Spent 12 years bushwhacking southeast Alaska streams and when these boats were first introduced, we took the leap for 2 of them. We liked the first 2 enough that we bought a 3rd for guests.
There is a small learning curve, as mentioned, basically staying out of stronger stream currents and picking your way upstream from bolder eddy to bolder eddy.
Original models had Honda engines and overall we thoroughly enjoyed the easier access the Mokai's provided going way upstream. Inevitably the Honda engines were constantly an issue and when you're outback and 50 miles from no where, taking carburetors apart streamside was a pain in the ass. Last year we bought 2 used slightly older models with the Subaru engines with electric start and have very much enjoyed the difference. They will run for a solid 6 hours on a single 2 gal tank of gas. They handle well in fairly rough water whether in open salt or in stream rapids. We will take them out for a leisurely cruise in the evening and do some wildlife viewing also. I have flipped mine going downstream and that was a hairy event I hope doesn't happen again!
We are hoping to convert the 3rd Honda boat to a Subaru engine, but that is a $1,500-$2,000 job including engine, brackets, cables and engine cover. We have always done quite a bit of customizing on the boats that we own. The polyethylene hulls are 1/4" thick and are pretty easily "welded" with a soldering iron for any repairs or modifications that might be needed. We have added PVC piping for rod tubes so we don't have to break our rods down when hopping from hole to hole, elastic cross strapping to carry waterproof bags, GPS holders, 15' nylon pull ropes, interior shelves, shotgun holders, etc. Others have added fish finders, windshields and all sorts of improvements.
We store the Mokais on top of our mother ship, a 30' lobster boat which we converted and use as floating cabin. A hand winch lifts them from the water to to roof. We recently, this past winter bought a 21' river jet skiff that will comfortably carry 2 of the Mokais to get us around a bit faster from a mother ship to more remote, larger rivers.
I generally feel confident recommending the Mokai craft. The newest models are 3 pc hulls and have altogether replaced one pc. that we own. I am not personally sold on the concept, but spoke with Mokai's owner this past week and understand they are swamped with orders.
If I can be of any further help, send me a PM and I will be glad to do so.
