I want a Kayak.....

[mandolindave]

First, think about protective head gear and personal floatation device. VERY IMPORTANT

#1 initial stability ( how much it rocks )
#2 final stability ( how easy it is to flip over )
#3 tracking ( how easy it is to go straight )
#4 weight
#5 cost
#6 sinkability ( Is that a word, no it is not, sorry )

There are so many hull shapes to choose from. I guess first decision is
sit in or sit on top. Sit on top types may be safer but you usually get wet.
Kids have fun with the standard plastic Camptown sit in kayaks. They are very difficult to sink, inexpensive, light, and durable.

[w7ts]

Originally Posted by Denis4x4

We have a Hobie Outfitter and I've found that it's just as easy to peddle single handed as it is as a tandem rig.

For those who mentioned the Hobie Kayaks, I just ran across this new Hobie Accessory.
Hobie Kayak Accessories Detail
Maybe, I'll want one of these in another 10 years.
Regards,
Ken

[flakeyjake]

Originally Posted by halimer

I also have been using Kleppers(both in the military and as a civilian),a folder with a wooden frame for over 20 years. ......
mark

We, too, have a Klepper tandem that we are enjoying, though we have only had it a couple of months. Since we are at Padre as well, and you know where to find us, stop by, and we can show you our set-up.

Hugh

[Chasmorgan]

This website will help! Canoe and Kayak Product Reviews - Canoes, Kayaks, and Accessories

[wjpjump]

i actually have an inflatable kayak i bought at REI . light,easy to paddle, easy to set up / deflate. folds into a bag about 2ftx 2ft. cost about $250

[79nTOW]

My mother wanted me to post on this topic, and I did the other night but she says some kind of catastrophe occurred and my reply was lost in the vastness of the internet, sooo I am going to try again.


My wife purchased a Pelican Castaway 116 DLX for me this past September for my birthday, I'm not sure if she is trying to cash in on my life insurance, or just wants me out of her hair for a few hours every weekend. Now this Pelican is on the low end of the price scale, it only cost $379 before taxes at Academy. It is a sit on top fishing kayak, which means it has two rod holders behind the seat, and a removable holder between your knees and you sit on top of it, not in it. Some others have mentioned other manufacturers such as Hobie and Native, and there are others like Heritage and Wilderness that are all great kayaks, but the prices of these are at least twice what my Pelican cost and INEXPENSIVE was mentioned in the original post. I'm going to add some obligatory pictures that I have taken of my kayak and some fish I have caught. If anybody wants to talk kayaks, fishing, or fishing from a kayak please email me at: bgartman5@yahoo.com

I have thoroughly enjoyed my kayak since I got it and I have been out every weekend fishing in it. I am 6' 4" tall and weigh between 240 and 250, depending on how good supper was the night before, and my Pelican handles me, my fishing poles, anchor, tackle box, anchor, cooler, stake out pole, paddle with no problems.

pics follow:

my kayak and kayak transporter



ready to go in the morning



rod holders behind the seat



rear view



me, my son, and a 22" redfish



me and my 35" 20+ lb. bluecat



a days catch



a stingray that I released



my left hand



ready to launch

[DaveFL]

Best pictures I have seen here, size, quality and subject
Now I know I have to use my pickup as toad rather than a small car.

[pmclemore]

Rodney, I have an 11.6 Wilderness Dagger and Page has a Critter that is slightly shorter. They are pretty much indestructable and light enough that I can place them on my roof racks by myself. And cheap.

They are not exotic beauties like Doorgunner's or Zepp's - but they will be a lot more forgiving where rocks and gravel shores are concerned.

Happy hunting - Pat