[jbaker]

I've paddled both, the 12 is nice but better suited to smaller waters. Ponds, lakes, bays ect. It would be fine in LJ but if the wind or swell kicked up it would make for a bumpy ride. A smaller boat is nicer off the water for transporting and storage but the longer boat is better on the water. If you are looking for 12' kayak options from Jackson the cruise is a sleeper. Super stable and nice open deck layout. Sight fishing skinny water in the back bays would be killer on the cruise especially if you fly fish.