Kayaks

[CHARLES A. VINSON, JR.]

I plan on stepping my game up and buy a Kayak in May. Any suggestions on what type and what manufacturer ? Also is there anyone in the Md. , and D.C. area who can take me out for some Kayak 101? Lunch is on me.

[Steve Crowder]

My advise to you Charles is try every possible kayak you can. No matter what anybody tells you, each person will have their likes and don't likes in every kayak. It is a personal chioce in buying a kayak. You don't sit in a kayak, you FIT in a kayak.

[CHARLES A. VINSON, JR.]

Thanks Steve.

[Dave Bausano]

I would definitely go with a sit-on-top (which most fishing kayaks are) kayak. They generally offer more storage and stability than other varieties.

I have used both the Drifter and Caper models offered by Ocean Kayak and would recommend either, but I would choose the larger Drifter if forced to make a decision. They both have plenty of room for rods and tackle storage with space for add-ons and upgrades. Whatever kayak you eventually get, I would advise you to spend money on a good seat.

I have heard good thinks about Wilderness kayaks as well but have never used one myself.

[CHARLES A. VINSON, JR.]

Thanks Dave.

[Steve Crowder]

Good advise by Dave. A good seat is a must. I have a Surf to Summit seat and love it. The comfort gives me longer time in the kayak.

[Charles Singleton]

Most dealers occasionally have "demo days". Talk to the dealers in your area, and find out when they're doing that, then GO! Try 'em ALL, and pick the one that works for you! Then buy the best seat and paddle you can afford. Get some help from an experienced hand for the rigging (anchor trolley, etc.). Then go yakkin'! You'll probably never go back to PBs unless it's to use one as a mother ship. :-) Welcome to the Fan Club of Long-haired Bovines!

[CHARLES A. VINSON, JR.]

Thanks Chuck.

[Eric]

I'm seriously considering this myself and have been doing some research. My research has yielded two in particular that I wanted to mention.

1) W500 made by Wavewalk. http://www.wavewalk.com
2) Ultimate or Mariner by Native Kayaks. http://www.nativewatercraft.com

If you find anymore please post them. There are so many out there. My goal is to find one that's stable while standing. If that's possible.