NJ Saltwater Fisherman Forums
Boating => NJ Kayak Fishing => Topic started by: Dalejam on December 25, 2012, 12:03:14 PM
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I want to start fishing from a kayak, problem is there is a lot of variables, so what is a good kayak to purchase and length. i weigh 215 if that helps at all. i can't wait to get out and start fishing and post what i have done and found.
Merry Christmas to all
Dale
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Dale:
Welcome and Merry Christmas! Give it a little time and I'm sure of our 'yakers' will be able to help you out.
This a great group of men and women who are always willing to help out.
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Merry Christmas Dale,
I have a couple of Yaks as do a number of people on here. One of the most important recommendations I can give you is to take your time looking for one. Second go to a place that will let you try before you buy. If you can wait till Jersey Paddler has their show up in Edison area I am sure it will be worth your wait.
This show has many manufacturers there with factory reps that will answer your questions. Plus you can sit in all the models that are there and trust me there are a lot.
I did this and I don't regret it at all. I have 2 artificial hips and wanted to make sure I would be comfortable in the yak and not feel cramped. I tried many different types and the seating in the Hobie Quest was the best for me.
I also went with their fishing package and a roof carrier called the Hulevator that would allow me easy access to loading and unloading. I now also have pontoon outriggers for more stability and looking for a small sail. What can I say I love my creature comforts.
Once Dave Kayak1 gets on he will surely give more incite to buying your first kayak.
Good luck in your hunt and again take your time looking and trying.
Happy Catching
Paul
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Dale.....What Paul said is all 100% true.
Take your time and do some reading up on kayak fishing, Don't rush out and buy a yak that's all made up for fishing.....This may not be the right thing for you.
I for one need a yak that I feel safe while on the water.....I don't care about speed or turning.....But I do care about keeping my big body in the yak and not the water.
You have a good 3-4 months before the fishing gets going again..... Shop around ask questions and read.....Before you buy.
Happy Fishing and Be Safe
Kayak-1
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I have been watching a lot of videos on different styles of yaks. i have come to the conclution that the yaks with a peddle system seem to be less tiring and you seem to be able to fish while peddleing. i have lookd at the Hobie Mirage, any thoughts. i have another 3 months before i actually purchase one. i will purchase a used one first so i dont put to much money into it. Does anyone have any thought if i am barking up the wrong tree, or headed in the right direction.
Dale
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Hi Dale,
I tried the Mirage and for me being 6'2" and the hip problems my legs were in a position that would not work for me. Like I said earlier try it, even if on dry land. I know people that love them and are very satisfied with them but remember there is a draft to the boat especially when the wings are in the down position. With paddles and only inches of draft you can get into shallow flats that other boats, like the Mirage, can't.
Myself, I would love to try putting a sail onto mine for that added comfort as I have just about everything else made for the thing. I just don't want to put a motor on the yak as that would totally defeat the purpose of a craft like that.
Happy Catching
Paul
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Hobie makes a great kayak....But so does Ocean along with a few others.....
I would still hold off on your kayak and maybe take a ride to Jersey Paddler in Bricktown.......
I would try both the Peddle Vs. Paddle in both Hobie and Ocean kayaks......again this is going to be something you will be using......I for one cant stand using my legs for power in the kayak....But Thats me.
Kayak-1
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Paul,
Thank you for writing back. i live right across from a lake Budd Lake. i have owned many gas powerd boats and i agree it takes away from the theroy of a yak.
i see used ones in Craigs list $900.00 and other Yaks that are ocean yaks for 3-5 Hundred. so i have time on my side with winter just stating. so i look foward to spring to fish in the ocean again....
Dale
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I have to agree with Dave. Try the Ocean brand. I mentioned that I have 2 kayaks and the other is an Ocean that my wife loves. It is a bit wider than the Hobie making it a bit more stable.
One thing I will mention is that you look carefully into the seats. I have upgraded both to a higher back seat and have not regretted the difference in the price not to mention the comfort factor.
Will you be doing a lot of kayaking at Budd Lake (I'm sure), it should be great to roll the yak across the street and begin to have fun.
Paul
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Paul you are correct i will be going across the street to go fishing and yaking. but i spend alot of time in the streams where a yak would be great, also being in the water means i dont have to deal with the bears as much. but since i was a little kid my father always took me fishing at Sandy hook, know i take my boys with me, but i look foward to going to horeshoe cove in sandy hook and go salt water fishing..
Cant wait till winter ends....
Ps after i get a yak do people get together from here to plan a trip out with other yakers. if so how do you find one? please
Dale
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That sounds great Dale. Well not as I know we have not had a gathering of kayakers from the site. But that just might change as more are getting into the sport on here.
Paul
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<------ this guy fngr too fat to yak t^
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2012 Hobie Mirage Revolution 11ft new. comes with seat, paddle, tackle containers, water bottle, warranty and cart. Revolution 11
any one have any ideas what it is worth. again i am going to wait till the show next month to see what feels comfortable.
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Hey Dale.
THe Hobie Revo 11 is a really nice buy, if thats the one on craigs list. I think he was asking 1200 for it. I just did a build with that boat if you want to check it out on youtube. I cover some things you may want to research. Namely space. It's one of the smaller Hobies, so its a wet ride if you go out in salt. Bottom line though, very kewl little ride, and the price is a right. If you do go the Hobie route You may wish to look at the revo 13 or an outback if you carry alot of stuff. The 11 can hold 300 pounds, the 13 is 350. the outback is 400. The one thing you may want to invest in, is the AMA kit, which are pontoons. THeres other makes and models, but they really offer a better stabilization platform. Don't really think its gonna help in the weight though. So just keep that in your mind when your shopping. Take care.
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Thank you for replying back, i did notrealise it till i looked at your name i have seen 3 of your videos, what a small world. yes i look forward to go stripper fishing and fluke and Blue fishing in the ocean, bay. so i will take your advise and look for a little bit bigger yak.
i have time so i will wait, you are correct that was on Craig's list.
any other words of great wisdom.
Dale
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Hey Dale.....That's a great Kayak and now a lot of other Yakers who have the same one as you have posted.
The one thing you need to think about is those peddles in the center..... They cost a good penny and cost a good amount to replace when lost......
They drop in the floor easy and come out just as easy when the yak flips over in the surf...... I have many times heard guys who have flipped and lost those peddles.....
Again great kayak and you should have a blast using it for fishing.....
Have a great New Year.....
Kayak-1
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Thanks for writing back. from what i have seen it is very easy to take them out and paddle if you have too correct. I just want to make sure that if i am going to spend that much time on the ocean i dont get so tired from paddling that i cant cast. so i figured using the peddle system when needed to it would be alot easyier and i could fish while doing so.
If i stick with Hobie what is the best size to get to stay dry but be easy to get around, not like a anchor. so iam willing to learn from people with experience. thanks Dale
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How is the adventure 16 footer. is that a good one or way to long to use.
asking because i am getting some replys back on kayaks, not really sure what is wrong or right. except what is posted above to look at.
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I have the Ocean Kayak Big Game that is 12.9 ft and 34" W. This is a very heavy kayak that holds a lot of weight and gear.....The nice thing about this tank of a kayak is that its hard to tip it over..... I'm sure not going to get some place fast.....But its a safe kayak for fishing some rough water.
Kayak-1
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Specifications
2 molded-in rod holders
New "Twist-and-Stow" rudder system
Two 8" storage hatches; Large cargo hatch w/ bungee tie-downs
Length: 16'
Width: 27 1/2"
Weight: 75.5 lbs
Capacity: 350 lbs
it is on craigs is this a good fishing kayak or to long if to long what should a good length be kayak that is.
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IMO may be a little long if your hooked up with a fish and it decides to take a ring around the yak the line may hit the front and break off unless your using a 9'rod. Maybe the yak guys have a better answer that just seems to be a logical problem.
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Well one thing to keep in mind when you buy a kayak is length & width....Then we need to know what kind of water we are using the kayak.
A Kayak that is longer & narrower is going to give you more speed and you can cut through water better.....Keep in mind the width of the kayak if its narrow its not going to be as stable in the water.
Then you need to think about you sitting in the kayak and how much room your going to have...... I'm 6 3" and 225 pounds so I just feel better being in something wide that if I lean over while pulling in a big fish I don't need to worry about going in the water.
My first kayak ever was a Hobie and it came with everthing I wanted..... when I asked the sales guy about fishing from the kayak he said....That's what its made for..... So I had my first fishing Kayak which I paid $800.00.
This was a great looking kayak on land....I spent more time looking at it from in the water.....There was no way that this big body could stay in this kayak.....every boat that past would just cause me to roll over.....Then in order for me to get back into the kayak I had to swim to land or a dock......I also lost a lot of gear with that kayak.
So for me short and wide was my best choice for a kayak.....I can fish any water around and be high and dry.....But most of all feel safe in my kayak while fishing.
Kayak-1
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Well i am back at it again this morning. i got a responce on a hobie outback 2004. According to the person in "GREAT SHAPE". He said it comes with aanchor system, a fish finder with GPS. i am waiting to find out the length and width of it still. ball park price $1,200.00
My question is (what is it worth) color is brown.
Dale
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Buy the time i purchase one i will have a plethora of information, so that one day i may be able to help someone else.
I hope to slt see a HOBIE in the horizon. cfzd
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If your going to spend $1,200.00 then buy new..... You can get a brand new Ocean Kayak for $700.00 and the fish finder,anchor for another $120.00 so you spent $820.00 for a great fishing kayak and saved $380.00.
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I understand what you are saying, but i am looking for a yak that will allow me to peddle then Constantly paddle. i want to spend more time fishing then working to go fishing. i am new to this and maybe my eyes are set to high. so since i am the new Guy, i ask should i stick to the peddle system or go with paddle.
Dale
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I think that is going to be up to the person in the kayak.....Dale
Some will tell you paddle and some will say peddle....But if you have the money to spend then go with the Hobie Peddle power.
Kayak-1
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ok here we go again, 5hrug the hobie kayak outback 2004 in great shape wanted $1,300.00. to much for such a older model.
going to visit some shore places this weekend, anyone have any good places for me to visit. or for me to drop a name. hopefully will find one soon.
DALE rgmn
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Theres a place by me called dosils but may be a little far for you. Dicks has some dont know much about them though, If you see something there you like i know someone that may be able to help get you a deal
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I agree .....Dosils on Rt.36 is a great place to check out if heading down from the North......Great bunch of people who will help....They also have some great winter sales.
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What would be the chances of a used hobie?
guess I'll call and take a ride tomorrow. Any other places members can recommended. msfsh
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Jersey Paddler is South in Brick Town....Also keep in mind that PADDLE SPORT 2013 is March 22-24 at the Garden State Expo Center in Somerset New Jersey.
This way you can see what your getting in both used & new
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Is that getting to close to the fishing season also i would think the price of Yaks would be going up by then versus winter, when most people are hibernating.
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Dale, you can do what you want but, waiting till March is not going to break the bank so to speak. When I bought my kayak I waited and I am glad I did. Paddle Sport is a fantastic venue to try different yaks, and ask question with all major manufactures all in one place. There are tons of deals that are all under one roof.
Just for the fact that you can ask factory reps any thing that you want is a plus in of itself. I saved money an a full package when I bought my Hobie there.
Another thing not to worry about is the up and coming season. Unless you are going to fish the cold waters and risk the possibilities of going over in frigged water I would wait till you get some paddle time in or buy a suit that will keep you dry and warm.
I know you are itching at the bit to get going but patience is key here. Dave is a seasoned kayaker and I would advise you to listen to his input. Hobies are great boats but expensive. Like I mentioned before I have the Quest but learned that yes the boat is a great fishing platform there are drawbacks to us older and less agile guys.
I had to add outriggers to my boat to make it a stable platform for me to out of with out worries of going over (as I did a lot)in the beginning. I love fishing but I also love photography and my equipment is very expensive. I could not chance taking my equipment out and so the added expense of the outriggers were a necessity.
It is up to you but I am glad I waited for this show.
Paul
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The best thing you can do is look find a yak that you like then shop around for a deal.
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http://www.freedomhawkkayaks.com/
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After taking in all the info the final decision has been made i will go to the show and stay off Craigs list, i will shop at the show and see what kind of deal i can find. is it better to go to the show on the last day so the vendors don't have to take back their stock. Or is it that you place the order there and they get it in and you have to pick it up from there shop later. or you get it that day while at the show?
Thanks to all for writing back to me.
Dale
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It does not matter too much. I know when I bought my kayak they had to put some things on it at the Jersey Paddler so for me it was not a problem. If you are buying a bare bones boat you can take it home right from there ans I guess many deals can be made but when it was all said and done I figured I saved close to 30% off retail price on my whole package. I went the first day.
Good Luck
Paul
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I used to own a Malibu Kayak. These units are generally a little more pricey but have some great features, larger load capacity, and are very stable. Be sure to get something with a good rudder system as it not only aids in navigation, very important in windy conditions, but also allows you to place the yak in a sideways position when fighting larger fish so they tire quicker and don't drag you miles down the beach before you land them. If you own a pick up I also have a mirage truck rack which is perfect for hauling yaks that I no longer have a use for that I will let go for $100.00. It fits a full sized truck with a 6 1/2' bed.
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Thanks for the Info,
I don't have a pickup, i have a Honda accord and i will be looking to get a rack system for the Honda, any suggestions who is better then who cost also.
So i can't wait for the show in Feb for purchasing my first YAK, Wife is not keen on the idea of going into the ocean fishing from a yak, so i promised her i would always go out with another person, So if anyone wants to meet me there one day for the show you can I,M ME or E-mail me and we can get the specifics off line. i was looking for someone with Knowledge to point out the good from the bad choices, Back to the other thing, so how do we get together to go out yaking, just post on here who ever shows shows?
PS i live across Budd Lake and i am filled with sorrow for the 2 kids who died in my town, please be safe everyone.
From a fathers perspective and Friend.
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When I first read the story about the tragic incident at Budd Lake my thoughts went right to you. It is a sad thing and my heart go out to the parents if the kids.
But to answer your question the best carrier in my mind would be the Thule brand. I have one that actually lifts the boat up and makes it easier. It is called the hulevator I believe.
They are not cheap but when the boat weighs a lot like the Hobies do it helps a lot.
Paul
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After taking in all the info the final decision has been made i will go to the show and stay off Craigs list, i will shop at the show and see what kind of deal i can find. is it better to go to the show on the last day so the vendors don't have to take back their stock. Or is it that you place the order there and they get it in and you have to pick it up from there shop later. or you get it that day while at the show?
Thanks to all for writing back to me.
Dale
I wouldn't stay off craigslist though or the internet just browsing. You can get some descent idea's and prices. The show would will let you check out all the yaks out there (or a majority). Plus there's really not too much of a rush considering where coming into the colder months now.
PS very sorry hear about the loss by you. Tragidy.
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cfzd ok, so i have more Questions, if iwas to spend we will say about $1,200.00 on a Hobie, what should i beable to get with it, any electronics, rod holders, etc...
Ayone want to give me some insight?
DALE
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Your really gonna have to shop around for that. That outback you listed before I thought was'nt that bad of a price. The age of a yak IMHO should'nt be too much of an issue as long as its been well kept, and minor scratches. 2004 though is gonna be a little out of date with finding some spare parts for that mirage drive. They changed the setup in 2012 I believe to make it easier to get in and out of the boat. Also the drive mechanism was upgraded. Bottom line, Hobies are an expensive boat. There are a TON of mods you can do a yak though. My friend has a little electric trolling motor he uses. Then theres some I saw on youtube with 5 hp 4 stroke. But keep searching around. If you don't mind road trips, expand your search. You may even wish to get some roof racks now, if your very serious about finding one a bit out of the way. This way you can just pop out, and grab it if its all its claimed to be. Good luck with your quest though, and again the show is coming up. Its a new year dealers want to get some old stock out.
Cheers M8
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clp I have looking for a roof top carrier for my honda accord. trying to get that done too. so when i go to the show if i get one i can take it that day. thanks for the info on the drive system, was not aware of the change in 2012. i dont want to be looking for parts that may be harder to find.
getting itchy can't wait till next month's SHOW.
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;D ok found another one on Craigslist anyone want to give me some feedback on what they think.
13 feet and I believe 33 inches wide