WHAT IS IT?
BOTE Breeze Aero
WHAT SETS IT APART?
Getting a paddleboard to the water is a lot easier when you can throw it in a backpack instead of strapping a full-size vessel to the roof of your vehicle. The Breeze Aero takes that portability a step further by giving anglers a stable platform that can be outfitted with fishing accessories. BOTE’s AeroULTRA construction keeps the board durable while still making it light enough to carry and easy to pack away when the day is over.
The Breeze Aero is offered in two sizes — 10 feet, 6 inches and 11 feet, 6 inches — allowing users to choose between a more compact, maneuverable platform or additional deck space and stability. The 11-foot, 6-inch provides more room for anglers carrying extra gear, while the 10-foot, 6-inch offers easier handling and transportation.
Its accessory system is another useful feature for anglers. Removable RAC receivers provide mounting points for BOTE accessories, including the Tackle Rac, which creates a dedicated area for organizing tackle and keeping essential gear within easy reach. The board can also be outfitted with accessories such as the KULA Cooler and other MAGNEPOD-compatible gear, while front bungees provide additional storage. The MAGNEPOD system uses built-in magnetic mounting points to hold compatible accessories on the board while keeping them easily accessible. For anglers, it provides a convenient way to keep drinks, tools or other small essentials within reach without taking up additional deck space.
The result is an inflatable paddleboard that offers more than basic portability. With two size options and a range of fishing-focused accessories, the Breeze Aero can be set up for everything from casual paddling to a day of fishing.
HOW DO I USE IT?
I have minimal experience with paddleboards, but I’m going to be doing it a whole lot more with this Breeze Aero. It’s proven to be great for casual paddling and even doing some fishing. I was a little skeptical at first about combining an inflatable vessel and fishing, but the durability quickly gave me confidence.
It comes with a 10-inch click-in fin that helps keep the board stable and tracking straight. The 3-piece adjustable paddle makes it easy to maneuver, and even when a breeze made the water a little bumpy, the board stayed stable.
Because I knew I wanted to fish from this paddleboard, I made sure to get the larger 11-foot, 6-inch model for more stability and the included Tackle Rac. It provides a place to hold rods and other gear while also giving me something to grab onto when needed. I’m certainly glad I included it. With the built-in Aero Rac Receivers, installing and removing the accessory is quick and easy.
I can take my rod in and out of the holder, giving me the ability to switch between moving and fishing quickly. I was pleasantly surprised by how solid and stable I felt while fishing. I could bomb a cast without feeling unsteady. I really like sneaking into the shallows and targeting fish that I couldn’t reach in my boat.
Another simple feature I really appreciate is the travel backpack. It makes carrying the paddleboard to your next adventure much easier. That’s one of the biggest advantages of the inflatable design: You can pack it up and bring it along for your next trip to the water.
HOW MUCH?
$799.99 (Tackle Rac – $225.00)
MORE INFORMATION:
ANGLER’S INSIGHT:
I’m always ready for a fishing or boating adventure, no matter the vessel. The BOTE Breeze Aero provides another way to get on the water, whether that’s a lake, river, creek or ocean. It’s great for gatherings and paddling around, but it can also be used for some serious fishing. It can take you places almost no other vessel can, including tight canals and swamps. And while it’s inflatable, its tough construction doesn’t limit where you can take it. I’m excited to see where it takes me next.
