Malibu Mini-X Review

Malibu Mini-X Kayak Review©Copyright July 2007 by Brice Sanchez * 

The new Malibu Mini-X kayak is compact but optional features make this rig a winner!

 First Impressions

The Mini-X kayak by Malibu packs a big kayak punch in a small versatile package.  Weighing in at 38lbs and just over 9’ long this is an excellent kayak for a one-person show.  Light enough to carry and short enough to fit in the back of a large SUV, this kayak is ideal for the spur of the moment afternoon excursion or an all day float.  The optional front and rear 8” hatches will come in handy for anchor and gear stowing and the large (and I do mean large 19.5” x 19”) tank-well positioned behind the seat has ample space for a live-well, 5 gallon bucket (with molded indentation) or gear crate. I had mine geared up for fishing without the rear hatch but including four flush mount rod holders.

 

Large tank well includes indentation for a 5 gallon bucket,  scrupper holes for drainage and flush mount rod holders.  Can also host an optional 8″ hatch.

 

 

When sitting in the cock pit it’s obvious the design team of the Mini-X put a lot of thought into many details. The rectangular dry box hatch is perfect for storing the larger plastic tackle boxes that are so prevalent today. However, I did find access to the rectangular hatch a bit cumbersome as it utilizes four latches that must be disengaged by twisting and lifting.  Not easily accomplished especially if you have a rod in your hand.  The upgraded seat also covered a portion of the hatch which contributed to the awkward access I experienced.  The molded cup holder is within easy reach and managed to a cold beverage with out issue. The flush mount rod holders are at perfect angles for both trolling and holding your extra poles out of the way while you cast.  You’ll also notice well positioned eyelets which can conveniently connect to your rod leashes keeping your gear from plunging to the bottom.  They also included paddle holders on both sides of the kayak so you can quickly secure your paddle and grab your rod when the situation warrants.   The Mini-X utilizes the same heavy duty molded carrying handles on both sides, fore and aft as its bigger brother the X-Factor.  These handles are a necessity when maneuvering the kayak on land and when tethering the yak to piers and docks. The spacious sitting compartment is quite comfortable however I recommend you obtain a seat with a high back like the Malibu Explorer.

 

Paddle holders on each side keep your paddle within easy access.

 

The rectangle, dry hatch with gig bag directly in front of the wide sitting holds large plastic tackle boxes perfectly.  Note the four latches.

 

Complete with molded foot rests, a wide beam (33.5”) and a maximum load capacity of 300 lbs this kayak is up to handling a large load.  Though this kayak has a lot of features there is space allocated for additional gear like fish finders, anchor trolley systems and many other options avid kayakers can’t live without.   It’s also available in a variety of colors including dark blue, red, stone, sand, white, yellow, hunter green, mango and lime.

 

On the Water

The stability of the Mini-X is excellent in calm water.  Being able to sit on the rectangular center hatch sideways with my feet dangling into the water is an added benefit for when my legs started numbing after 5 hours of fishing.  I was also able to kneel easily and carefully turn in various directions while casting to structure.  It’s super for very shallow water as I was able to paddle over very large beds of thick hydrilla in only one to two inches of water.

 

Speed was acceptable but it’s not going to win any races.  It didn’t take long to approach my first secret fishing hole with modest exertion.  In the calm water it performed very well and was fun to maneuver.  Its sound tracking performed as expected for such a short and wide kayak but did require correction strokes.  Against a light wind and with light boat traffic of course the return trip required more effort. The Mini-X handled well and did not take on water even through some 2’ feet of boat wake. I’m anxious to take this out in the surf and see how it performs in rougher water.

  

The skeg measures approximately 9” on the stern and 11” on the bow.

Rigged after a great morning of fishing.

 

The Malibu Mini-X kayak comes with optional 8“ front and rear hatches, a 13” x 10” rectangle center hatch with gig bag and up to 4 flush mount rod holders.  The kayak shipped to me also included a Crack of Dawn Paddle Sports paddle.  Prices on these models range from $500-$800 depending on options and dealer pricing.  Shop around and find a great value in the Malibu Mini-X kayak.

 

Pros:  Light weight, stable, lots of storage, maneuverable, wide seat area, very well designed and a great value!

Cons:  The rectangluar hatch’s four latches is combersome. Not a speed demon and not recommended for long term excursions in rough water. The Mini-x is an excellent choice for any calm or back water outing.

  * I have no affiliation with Malibu or any other company or publication.  All information provided is of my personal opinion and should be interpreted as such.  Not responsible for any action anyone would take based on this article. Form your own opinion and do your own thing.