If you're looking for Glide's ultimate fishing platform, you've probably found yourself comparing two very different products: the Glide Mako Elite and the Glide StarShip.
At first glance, they seem like they serve the same purpose. Both are built for anglers, both are incredibly stable, and both can take you places larger boats can't.
But once you get on the water, they couldn't feel more different.
The Mako is a premium fishing paddle board designed to paddle efficiently while giving anglers a stable casting platform.
The StarShip is a motor-ready micro skiff designed to carry more gear, provide maximum stability, and serve as a compact alternative to a small fishing boat.
So which one is right for you?
Let's take a closer look.
At a Glance
| Feature | Glide Mako Elite | Glide StarShip |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Serious SUP anglers | Motor-ready micro skiff |
| Stability | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★+ |
| Paddling Performance | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Motor Compatible | No | Yes |
| Gear Capacity | Excellent | Outstanding |
| Portability | Excellent | Good |
| Best Water | Lakes, rivers, bays | Lakes, reservoirs, marshes, backwaters |
Choose the Mako If...
The Mako is for anglers who love paddle boarding just as much as fishing.
It's the better choice if you:
- Paddle to every fishing spot
- Like covering water under paddle power
- Want a fast, efficient fishing SUP
- Travel frequently with your board
- Fish several different bodies of water
- Want premium paddling performance
The Mako rewards every paddle stroke.
It's designed to help you reach fish quietly while still being enjoyable to paddle all day.
Choose the StarShip If...
The StarShip is designed for anglers who want something closer to a boat.
It's ideal if you:
- Plan to use a trolling motor
- Carry lots of equipment
- Fish all day from one platform
- Prioritize stability above everything else
- Want maximum deck space
- Like the idea of a compact micro skiff
Instead of asking, "How well does it paddle?"
The better question is, "How capable is it once I get there?"
Paddling Performance
This is where the biggest difference appears.
The Mako is built to paddle.
It glides efficiently, tracks well, and makes exploring enjoyable.
The StarShip paddles surprisingly well for its size, but efficiency isn't its primary purpose.
Its larger platform creates more drag, especially over longer distances.
If you're regularly paddling a mile or more to reach your fishing spots, the Mako will require significantly less effort.
Winner: Mako
Stability
Both boards are extremely stable.
The difference is how that stability is used.
The Mako provides a balance of stability and performance that allows anglers to stand comfortably while still enjoying efficient paddling.
The StarShip takes stability even further.
Its oversized platform feels remarkably secure, whether you're casting, organizing gear, or walking around the deck.
If stability is your number one priority, the StarShip is hard to beat.
Winner: StarShip
Gear Capacity
The Mako easily carries:
- Coolers
- Tackle
- Dry bags
- Landing nets
- Safety gear
The StarShip carries all of that—and then asks what else you'd like to bring.
Its expansive deck is built for anglers who travel with multiple tackle systems, electronics, extra rods, camping equipment, or hunting gear.
If you routinely load up for all-day expeditions, the StarShip offers significantly more usable space.
Winner: StarShip
Motor Capability
This one's simple.
The Mako is designed to be paddled.
The StarShip is designed to work exceptionally well with an electric trolling motor.
That changes everything.
You can cover large reservoirs, fish all day, and conserve your energy for casting rather than paddling.
If adding a motor is part of your plan, the decision is easy.
Winner: StarShip
Portability
The Mako is easier to transport, inflate, carry, and launch.
Because it's built like a traditional inflatable paddle board, it's an excellent choice for anglers who fish several different locations in a single weekend.
The StarShip is still portable compared to a hard boat, but its larger size means you'll appreciate launching close to the water or using a cart.
Winner: Mako
Which Fishing Style Fits You?
Choose the Mako if you:
- Enjoy paddling as much as fishing.
- Explore lots of shoreline.
- Want a premium inflatable fishing SUP.
- Fish multiple lakes or rivers.
- Value efficiency on the water.
Choose the StarShip if you:
- Want a compact fishing boat experience.
- Plan to install a trolling motor.
- Carry lots of gear.
- Spend full days in one area.
- Value maximum stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stand and fish on both?
Absolutely.
Both platforms are designed specifically for standing and casting.
Which is easier to paddle?
The Mako.
It's designed from the ground up as a paddle board.
Which carries more gear?
The StarShip.
Its larger deck gives you substantially more room for equipment.
Can I add a trolling motor?
Only the StarShip is designed with that use in mind.
Which is better for traveling?
The Mako.
It's lighter, easier to carry, and quicker to launch.
Our Recommendation
Choose the Glide Mako Elite if you want a premium fishing paddle board that combines excellent paddling performance with outstanding stability. It's ideal for anglers who enjoy exploring under paddle power and covering plenty of water throughout the day.
Choose the Glide StarShip if you're looking for a compact, motor-ready fishing platform that behaves more like a micro skiff than a traditional SUP. If your priority is maximum stability, carrying capacity, and spending long days on the water with plenty of gear, the StarShip stands in a class of its own.
Both are exceptional fishing platforms—they simply serve different styles of adventure.