This Is How You Fish All Day Like a Pro: Weslie’s Ultimate NK180PRO Kayak Rig

If you’ve ever dreamed of building the perfect all-day kayak fishing rig, professional kayak angler Weslie Gray gives us a full walkthrough of hers.  Think a masterclass in range, comfort, and efficiency on the water. Gray's rig is built around the Newport NK180PRO Electric Kayak Motor and our 24V 50Ah Bluetooth Lithium Battery- a setup specifically engineered to fish harder, go farther, and stay out longer.

Whether you're preparing for your first tournament or just want to see how the pros rig their boats, this breakdown is packed with gold so you can to level up your own kayak fishing system.  Heck, maybe you'll go win some tournament money!

The Platform: Newport Powered Hobie PA14 

Weslie’s fishing platform of choice is the new 2024 Hobie Pro Angler 14 360 XR, one of the most well known platforms in the history of competitive kayak bass fishing. Rigged out by Mariner Sails in Dallas,TX - this kayak is built for serious tournament fishing, but it’s really the motor and batterty setup that takes this rig from capable to unstoppable.

The Powerhouse: Newport NK180PRO

At the heart of her fishing system is the NK180PRO—Newport’s next-gen 24V brushless electric kayak motor. Mounted to a custom motor mount, this upgraded version of the original NK180 delivers:

• 25% more efficiency thanks to a larger, redesigned propeller

• Finer throttle control, especially at ultra-low and top-end speeds

• Smoother acceleration, and 16% higher top end speed 

• Enhance silence - ideal for activating stealth mosde

Weslie runs hers with foot-control steering, freeing up both hands to fish while cruising the bank or slow-trolling. Combined with the throttle’s low-speed finesse, it’s an unmatched setup for maximizing time on the water without draining energy—or your battery. The range is the most impressive thing about the new generation motor.

The Battery: Newport 24V 50Ah Bluetooth Lithium

To fuel her NK180PRO, Weslie uses Newport’s 24V 50Ah Bluetooth Lithium Battery, which lives securely in the rear tank well, just behind her seat. This battery is compact, lightweight, and packed with enough juice to keep her on the move all day—even with long runs at moderate throttle.

With integrated Bluetooth monitoring, she can track real-time battery levels and plan her power usage in real time via her iPhone. 

"That 80–90% throttle range is the sweet spot. I can cover water fast, but still conserve battery. I can fish all day without even thinking about range."

Built for Comfort & Efficiency

Weslie adds two Kayak Cushion pads (one on the seat bottom, one behind the back), because spending 8–12 hours in the saddle demands actual comformt. Under-seat storage holds an oversized Plano box, and custom Marine Mat deck pads keeps things quiet and cool underfoot—perfect for barefoot fishing.

She’s also optimized her gear storage with a crate, horizontal rod holders that carry up to 12 rods, and a bunch more. 

Real Range. Real Results.

If you’ve ever wondered whether an electric kayak system can truly support a full day of hardcore fishing, Weslie’s setup answers with a bold yes. Powered by the NK180PRO and 24V 50Ah Bluetooth Lithium Battery, this rig is the definition of efficient all-day power.

Thinking About Your Own Rig?

Weslie’s system is proof that with smart rigging, you don’t have to compromise between power, comfort, and control. Whether you’re preparing for your first tournament or just want to fish farther with confidence, the Newport NK180PRO and 24V Bluetooth Lithium Battery makes dreams come true.