About the reviewer

I'm a relatively new paddler, yet aggressive. My interest has been river/play boats. I have paddled a few and can compare them

Test environment

Class III New Boston Section and Flat Water

Review

I just blindly purchased the WaveSport Fuse 48 after owning a Dagger RX 6.7. A deal came thru and I was able to get the Fuse for at a steal. I never demo'd the boat, just bought it based on WaveSport's reputation and some research. The Fuse 48 is an awesome boat. From the first peel out to my last eddy out, I was amazed at the difference when compared to the Dagger RX and the Jackson Fun. The Fuse is by far a better boat (for me) then either of the other two.. or the CR for that matter. The Fuse is the most "playful" off all these boats. Besides that, downriver this thing is super stable and way forgiving. The Fuse is super easy to roll and it's stability when put on edges is truly amazing. Put it this way... on flat water you have to try to flip upside down, the boat almost feels like it's fighting to keep itself upright. The dagger and the fun on the other hand would catch the stern and send you under with little time to react. Not the fuse. The Fuse is so much easier to control in all situations. I can bow plow this boat without even paddling to pick up speed before pushing the bow under. Just lean forward and take a few strokes and vertical you'll go. This ofcourse depends on your weight. The boat is very comfortable and I have tons of room. Oh yeah... and I simply feel connected in this boat.... it goes right where I want it to go. Paddled it on flatwater and getting vertical was a simple bow initiation away. Sick boat for what it is.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a river / play boat that you can actually play in - get this boat. The RX is way more of a river runner and so is the CR and the Fun. This boat leaves WAY less to be desired. If you're in the market for this style boat... check out the Fuse. You'll be impressed.