02-13-2003, 02:49 PM
[cool] Hey, Bro. According to the list of dealers on the Creek website, Sportsmans has their products, and there are several other dealers listed in the area too. Just in case you haven't found their website, here is the link, with pics and descriptions of their craft: ([url "http://www.creekcompany.com/craft_sub.html"]http://www.creekcompany.com/craft_sub.html[/url] (Click on the Dealers button and just put in Utah)
While I have not had personal experience with the 714, I like several things I see in the pics and descriptions. It has a lot of flotation (350# rating) and high seating...above waterline. And, at $149 it is a lot of craft for the money. I always advise fellow floaters to try before they buy, but if you can't, you should at least try to get a personal looksee. I would check the quality of the zippers and the number and placement of the "D" rings. I would also check the type of valves. I have developed a dislike of the Boston valves, since they wear after useage and are prone to leakage or popping loose. That can result in an unsceduled trip to the bank...or worse.
I would also look at the stabilizer bar, and the type of attachment. Some of those things are a major pain, and your craft will not function without them being properly attached. Next, look at the pockets. Depending on the type of fishing you do, and the size and type of lure boxes you prefer to carry, you may not be happy with the size and configuration of the pockets.
The only other thing I can see that might be a problem with some anglers is the length. I would have a tough time fitting the 7' craft in my SUV, but it would work fine in a pickup or strapped to a roof rack. Of course you can always take it to the water in a deflated mode, but that means extra setup time when you would rather be on the water.
In short, it looks like a good craft at a reasonable price. The manufacturer is recognized for quality, so I would be confident in the materials and construction. If you get one, put up a post to let us know how it works for you.
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While I have not had personal experience with the 714, I like several things I see in the pics and descriptions. It has a lot of flotation (350# rating) and high seating...above waterline. And, at $149 it is a lot of craft for the money. I always advise fellow floaters to try before they buy, but if you can't, you should at least try to get a personal looksee. I would check the quality of the zippers and the number and placement of the "D" rings. I would also check the type of valves. I have developed a dislike of the Boston valves, since they wear after useage and are prone to leakage or popping loose. That can result in an unsceduled trip to the bank...or worse.
I would also look at the stabilizer bar, and the type of attachment. Some of those things are a major pain, and your craft will not function without them being properly attached. Next, look at the pockets. Depending on the type of fishing you do, and the size and type of lure boxes you prefer to carry, you may not be happy with the size and configuration of the pockets.
The only other thing I can see that might be a problem with some anglers is the length. I would have a tough time fitting the 7' craft in my SUV, but it would work fine in a pickup or strapped to a roof rack. Of course you can always take it to the water in a deflated mode, but that means extra setup time when you would rather be on the water.
In short, it looks like a good craft at a reasonable price. The manufacturer is recognized for quality, so I would be confident in the materials and construction. If you get one, put up a post to let us know how it works for you.
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