This past Sunday we hit the James River with 8 adults and 8 kids for a 2 + mile float within the James River State Park. It was the perfect time to test out the NRS Approach 120 Fishing raft. Shoutout to Matt and Coltin at the shop for getting one set up and ready to enjoy.

The NRS Approach 120 is 49" wide and 12'ft long. It weights in at 160lbs fully rigged with options to rig at 132lbs, 120lbs and raft only at 70lbs. Its lightweight enough to car top or slide into the bed of a pick up. It's the ultimate grab and go raft set up for fishing. 

With dry boxes under the seats, rod holder frame slide tubes and a whitewater tough construction, the Approach is ready for adventure. Our first test was not so fishing specific, but rather how would it handle itself as a buffet table. 

My wife can pack a river lunch. It's a point of pride in our household, and she out did herself on this trip. Can you comfortably fish from the bow perch with the standing cast platform? Yes! I did so through multiple ripples and rock banging low water environments. But the Approach can also be an excellent buffet table for 16. 

Rowing was new to me, and at first I let me wife take the helm so I could fish. The slip resistant flooring was rock solid, and I enjoyed my time at the bow performing various "Titanic" movie poses. 

Being out on the river with our crew was an absolute joy. I love spending time outside with good people. That's the essence of why we all get in paddlecraft to begin with after all. It's the shared experience.

After lunch I got an extended time behind the helm of the raft with my eldest in the front fishing. It took a bit, but I quickly grasped the concept of rowing and began to really enjoy the paddle. Combined with my wide brimmed hat, I felt like I was leaning into the part of raft guide. 

Out on the water that day, we also had the Jackson Riviera which our youngest paddled. She enjoyed it's sleek design. It's a great livery option and fantastic for kids. Multiple folks paddled the Jackson Staxx which likewise proved a good option. My wife paddled the Hurricane Sweetwater (it's on sale) when our oldest wasn't paddling it. It's a very nice thermoformed option with a quick, well designed hull that glides down the river or across flatwater. Any question about thermoformed integrity can be put to rest after my kids had a chance to bang that thing down the river on a bony, low water day. Here's my wife searching for smallmouth. 

The NRS Approach 120 was enjoyable enough that I will take it out again. I want more time in it. That is a testament in itself. This was a fun ride in a craft that was easily manageable in and out of the water. It provided a lot of storage, flexibility for adventure, and a dry ride. I look forward to more trips and the opportunity to test out the fishability of this platform. Given our short run, I'm confident it will perform.

The raft realm is new for us. But we are diving into the inflatable market on many angles given the interest from our customers. So give us a call with any questions. If the Approach isn't on the water, it's in the showroom ready to be shopped. 

As for river trips with friends - take as many as you can. It's well worth it. We all know this fact. It's why we do what we do. Make the time. 

You won't regret spending more time with people you enjoy in the great outdoors. It's a fact. Trust us. And if we can get you outfitted for those adventures, all the better. It's what we live for at ARC. Thanks y'all!