The Angler Elite Fishing SUP from GLIDE comes packed with features that make it a great option for both serious anglers and recreational paddlers looking to occasionally wet a line.
Marketed and equipped for fishing, this board comes with two RailBlaza mounts for the two included rod-holders. These mounts could also be used to mount cameras and other fishing doo-dads. I like that the mounts also come with caps to seal them up when not in use. In the rear, there are two Scotty-compatible plates for anchors, downriggers or gear trays.
Built with a cross-woven dropstitch core, the board inflates very stiff with minimal flex. No floppy bounce from this board, that’s for sure. This helps when loading additional things like coolers, dogs and little kids. GLIDE lists the weight limit at 500 lbs., and beyond fishing I would definitely short list this board as a capable multi-day sled for mellow down-river trips. And while I didn’t stress test it too much, the rails also seem extra tough.
With a width of 36 inches, stability will not be a problem. Whether you’re whipping your fly rod or just learning to paddle, this board will provide confidence on the water. It’s not made to win any speed races, but it’ll get you and whatever you decide to load there high and dry.
After paddling many different inflatable paddleboards, I start to appreciate the little things. These SUPs from Glide have three padded carry handles, providing comfortable transport to and from the water, something not all paddleboards can boast. The naked weight of this board is 23 lbs., which is light enough considering the size and extras built into the design.
Bungees come standard on most boards, and this one is no exception. The bungees are strong and seem more than dependable to keep gear lashed where it needs to be.
The EVA deck pad is comfortable and not too slippery. If you’re a barefoot paddler, you’ll appreciate it. A corrugated or diamond plate style deck pad might be something you’ll be missing, though, if you plan on more bumpy river riding.
This SUP also offers an interesting and fun add-on – an inflatable two-section seat GLIDE calls the ‘AirThrone.’ Sure, it’s bulky and will add weight, but it’s totally optional to use. Not everyone wants to stand and so the included paddle comes with an extra blade for a kayak paddle conversion. I found that the AirThrone also doubles as a handy beach chair!
Flipping the board over, you’ll find a universal center fin box! What a concept! I was very stoked to see this and know that I’d be able to use any kind of standard longboard style fin, of which I have plenty of extras. The two side fins are proprietary, but the design is well thought out. It uses a spring tension latch to slide the ‘click fins’ into place. If you plan on shallow water paddling it might be worth picking up some shorties, or at least a ‘weed-fin’ with a very sharp angle.
A very well-designed and tough roller-bag rounds out the package. Seriously, this bag is one of the best iSUP bags I’ve come across. Heavy zippers, interior straps, pockets, shoulder straps and roller wheels too!? GLIDE also throws in the obligatory repair kit and SUP pump but also includes a well-built coiled leash.
Overall, my takeaway is that the Angler Elite Fishing SUP is a great choice for anyone looking to get into a great fishing SUP at an affordable price. Good design choices and added features paired with extra durable materials make it a slam dunk.
Ceheck them out at glidesup.com
MSRP for the whole package is currently at $750
