Getting Ready To Make A Kayak Purchase.

[AustrianAmrein]

Getting tired of just fishing on ground. So i thought kayak would be great. I've gone through rapids before so i know my way around the kayak. Its been awhile though.

 

Want a sit inside Kayak, doesn't have to have all the goodies.

 

I want something that can take me down some faster moving rivers, as well as calm lake fishing without a problem. Most of all the kayak has to have comfortable seating, not something that hurts your back.

 

Also needs to be very durable and long lasting.

 

 

 

Maximum price I have to spend is $700

 

 

Suggestions?

 

[AustrianAmrein]

6'3 and I weigh 220lbs

[flyfisher]

Can I ask why you want a SINK instead of a SOT?  From what you are describing i would think a SOT would better suit your needs.

 

I am not familiar with all of the SINKs out there so i cannot recommend one boat over another

[AustrianAmrein]

Can I ask why you want a SINK instead of a SOT?  From what you are describing i would think a SOT would better suit your needs.

 

I am not familiar with all of the SINKs out there so i cannot recommend one boat over another

They just feel better for me, little smoother easier to paddle. But that's just my view Sir

 

I know the sit-ons are absolutely wonderful for fishing, and alot of people enjoy them.

[Darren.]

I have no idea where to start for SINKs, unfortunately. I have only used SoTs and hybrids. SINKs are a different animal, so-to-speak. Functional, and I'm sure there are some that will fit your needs. Hopefully there are some on the forums here who can give you more advice.

[hoosierbass07]

I would start with - how you going to transport it. Sit in kayaks are usually a lot lighter which means easier to load and transport. If you have the right transportation for a heavier kayak I would check out a sit on top. Still, get what you want. Wilderness Systems makes some nice sit in side kayaks.

[Jim Mac]

I would ask at Paddling.net

Have you tried a SOT kayak before? If not, you should try one before deciding.

[odell015]

I just did some research on kayaks and purchased a Feel Free Moken 10 Lite angler, SOT absolutely love it. Has a wheel in the keel for easy transport....

 

While researching and trying some out, came across the Wilderness Systems Pungo, I believe that was it. You could probably do well there as a first kayak. It is a sit in. Also, dicks sporting goods offers a decent option for entry level sit in kayak, less than 700 dollars. It is an old town trip angler.

 

Just know that typically the SOT kayaks are much more comfy than the sit in kayaks. For someone your size I would recommend looking into that.

 

Good luck.

[buzzed bait]

i agree with doing some more research, especially on the sit on tops.  That said, i have a sit in Ascend FS10 from Bass Pro and overall it is a great yak for getting out on the water.  Although it does have some serious drawbacks: size, speed, getting blown around in the wind.  But for the price and features, it's a great option.  good luck, but remember these are not purchases that can be returned!

[kjfishman]

 If you get lucky you could find a used Loon 138.  They have a large cockpit. I am 6'1" over 200 lbs and have tons of room.  Easy to add rod holders and an anchor trolly yourself. Thses are very durable boats.

Getting tired of just fishing on ground. So i thought kayak would be great. I've gone through rapids before so i know my way around the kayak. Its been awhile though.

 

Want a sit inside Kayak, doesn't have to have all the goodies.

 

I want something that can take me down some faster moving rivers, as well as calm lake fishing without a problem. Most of all the kayak has to have comfortable seating, not something that hurts your back.

 

Also needs to be very durable and long lasting.

 

 

 

Maximum price I have to spend is $700

 

 

Suggestions?

[FrogFreak]

My suggestion is to look for a used yak in your price range. Jackson, Wilderness Systems, Native are all good. I have a Sit In and I will be buying a SOT next just for something different.

 

Just remember that the yak is just the beginning of the spending. Rigging the yak can add hundreds easy.

[michang5]

I had been doing a lot of research on kayaks before I bought a used Mariner Propel recently.

One suggestion I would offer is to allocate a significant amount of cash for accessories, too.

Paddle, PFD, paddle leash, whistle, anchor and rope are mandatories. I would highly recommend an Onyx inflatable PFD from Academy ($80) or you'll have a thick layer of foam getting between you and the seat back.

If you're going to fish at night, you'll need a 360 light. I think mine cost $20 from Walmart. According to YouTube and Google, you can also make your own for cheaper.

I don't know how you're planning on transporting your kayak, but I bought Yakima bars cushioned wraps for the top of my car. And you'll need straps and tie downs. Those were the second largest investment behind the boat itself. Obviously ignore if you have a pickup.

Then there are the optional accessories that you really should have for an enjoyable experience: rod holder(s), crate, anchor trolley, kayak cart, waterproof case for your phone/wallet.

When I was renting kayaks from a local place, I "borrowed" a crate from a nearby restaurant and zip tied a piece of PVC for a rod holder. And I made my own trolley using $20 worth of hardware and rope. But again... these things still cost some amount of money.

I'm not saying you can't have a good setup for a few hundred bucks, but you might have to adjust your expectations to match. Good luck.