We have recently focused on the new AquaGlide models for 2021 as they’ve arrived over the past few months. A division of Connelly Skis, the Aquaglide brand has grown steadily over the past 15 years, now encompassing inflatable kayaks and standup paddle boards. Priced at $999, the Blackfoot Angler 11 iSUP is at the top end of Aquaglide’s range, yet still packs features and value to punch above its weight in the category.
2021 Aquaglide SUPs carried at Airkayaks
To-date, product reviews have included the new Chelan 120 and the Cascade 11’0″ inflatable paddle board.
We were so excited to try out the new Blackfoot Angler 11 inflatable SUP that we used it 4+ times before getting around to the review. It remains the only fishing-specific model in the AquaGlide standup paddle board line.
Getting Started
The double-boxed board as-arrived is 43l x 18w x 16h (in) weighing in at 54 lbs.
Inside is the Blackfoot Angler 11 body, backpack, repair kit, high pressure pump with gauge and removable fins. The instructions are included and the board is wrapped nicely!
Airkayaks Pro Tip #1
TAKE A PICTURE of your board as you take it out of the box so that you know how to pack it back up again. Here is a nice one of the Blackfoot Angler 11. Note – this is the way we have found it easiest to repack after 4+ uses. Detailed instructions at the end of the review.
The board itself weighs 29 lbs, or 40 lbs inside the backpack with pump – these all easily fit in the back of a small car. Folded up in the bag, the dimensions are 42 x 15 x 12 inches with a bunch of room at the top. We are storing our sup belt and a few extras in the pack.
For your first set up unroll the SUP body. Lay it out face up so that you can access the Halkey-Roberts (HR) valve.
The Blackfoot Angler 11′ iSUP utilizes one spring-loaded HR valve for inflation. These are very simple to use and feature an inflate mode (spring plunger is UP) and a deflate mode (spring plunger is DOWN). Use your finger to gently push on the plunger, it moves to the inflate mode (air goes in and doesn’t come back out) and deflate mode (air goes in and comes back out). Before you go to all the effort of inflating the board, PLEASE make sure the plunger is in the inflate position.
The Blackfoot paddle board we received included the standard AquaGlide double-action pump with gauge.
First, attach the gauge to the hose, then the hose to the pump handle.
Then screw it onto the board valve and firmly lock it into position. You’re ready to pump!
AirKayaks Pro Tip #2
The first time may be difficult to attach the adaptor due to the