Kayaks-advice for a newby

[Rupestris]

I have two Perception Sport Blasts that are very stable and great for inland lakes and calmer rivers. My third is an old, well used Old Town Otter and my go-to most of the time. A little less stable and a bit heavier than the Perceptions but I've grown attached to it.

The Perceptions were around $300 each but I found a chain store that had two left and they were on sale for $200 ea.

We bought the inexpensive boats with the intention of learning then upgrading. So far, we've no reason to upgrade. They aren't fast or super manuverable but for trips that go from one hour to maybe six with stops for recreation, they are fine.

 

[trevytrev]

Just wanted to put out there that I appreciate the hep and info you guys came in and gave me. I did decide to go with the Emotion Stealth Angler 11 and was able to get it with shipping and tax under $500. I'll need to pick up a decent PFD and paddle still but the kayak should be here is a couple of weeks! I'll post some pics and impressions when I get it in the water for the first time! See some of you guys over in the Paddeling 2015 thread!

 

[Mannlicher]

I use a Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140, and find it marginal for kayak camping, if the trip is going to be more than two or three days. I take a canoe for longer trips.

 

[G.Moll]

Kayak fishing is my favorite thing to do. I started out with an Ascend FS12T and am currently saving up for an Old Town Predator mx. I found that Ascend kayaks are good introductory kayaks because they bridge the gap between high end, performance fishing kayaks and the run of the mill stuff. Ascend offers sit in and on top kayaks for cruising to fighting fish standing up. I'd give that brand a look. My only gripe with my Ascend FS12T is that the deck flexes when I'm sitting in my seat, not allowing water directly under me to exit through the scupper holes. The elevated seat keeps me dry regardless but this is worth noting. For a couple hundred more dollars one can have an Ocean Kayak or an Old Town. Both great companies. I'm saving for the Old town predator mx which as been described as a great river boat for its weight distribution, sturdy hull, and manuverable size. It's going to be my next boat. Good luck hunting for a kayak! It's addicting. I warn ya.

 

[22-rimfire]

One thing that is useful if you fish out of a kayak in lakes or big rivers is a depth/fish finder.