Why the Bass Raider 10E is a smart small boat
After a year of small lake mornings, the Pelican Bass Raider 10E earned its space in the garage. RAM-X polyethylene took everything we threw at it, and the molded floor felt stable enough for cautious stand up casting.
Rigging and fishing
We mounted a 40 lb thrust trolling motor on the transom and ran a 5-inch sonar at the bow with a Group 24 deep cycle battery. The two pedestal seats turned the boat into a real two angler platform, which is hard to find at this price.
Handling
The boat tracked smoothly under trolling motor power, and the wide hull stayed steady when we shifted weight to fight fish. High freeboard caught wind on open lakes, so we anchored more than we would in a heavier boat.
Value
At $649 the Pelican Bass Raider 10E Boat is the right Sports & Outdoors in 2026.
Pelican Bass Raider 10E Boat vs. the competition
| Product | Our rating | Price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Dolphin Pro 120 | - | - | Buy - Bigger casting deck and gas motor friendly, although heavier and harder to launch solo. |
| Pelican Bass Raider 8E | - | - | Consider - Same DNA in a smaller package, easier to handle but tighter for two anglers. |
| Intex Excursion 5 | - | - | Consider - Cheaper inflatable with high capacity, but not a real casting platform. |
| Lifetime Tamarack Pro Sit-On Kayak | - | - | Skip - A different category, and it is not a true bass boat replacement. |
Full specifications
| Length | 10 feet |
| Width | 55 inches |
| Weight | 104 lbs |
| Max Capacity | 500 lbs |
| Hull | RAM-X polyethylene |
| Seats | Two swivel pedestal |
| Motor | Up to 1.5 HP or trolling motor |
Should you buy the Pelican Bass Raider 10E Boat?
The Pelican Bass Raider 10E is the small fishing boat that makes the most sense for solo anglers who want a real casting deck without a trailer headache. RAM-X molded polyethylene held up to a full season of bank launches, the swivel pedestal seats stayed comfortable, and rigging a trolling motor, battery, and sonar felt natural. It is heavier than a kayak, so a small utility trailer or two strong arms is a must.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put a small gas outboard on it?+
Yes, up to a 1.5 HP gas motor or a typical 30 to 55 lb thrust trolling motor.
Is the floor stable for stand up casting?+
Yes within the rated load. We routinely stood and cast in calm conditions without issue.
Does it fit in a pickup bed?+
It fits in a standard bed with the tailgate down. A small utility trailer is the easier long term answer.
📅 Update log
- May 14, 2026Inspected the hull, transom, and seat pedestals after a season of mixed bank and ramp launches.
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Alex Patel
Alex Patel writes for The Tested Hub.
