Buying First Kayak

[Dalejam]

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

[fellinger]

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.

[ped579]

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

[kayak1]

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

[Dalejam]

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

[ped579]

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

[kayak1]

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

[Dalejam]

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

[ped579]

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

[Dalejam]

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

[ped579]

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

[BigAl13]

<------ this guy  too fat to yak 

[Dalejam]

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.

[Floatsup]

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.

[Dalejam]

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

[kayak1]

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

[Dalejam]

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

[Dalejam]

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.

[kayak1]

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

[Dalejam]

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.