Kayaks vs. canoes: Stability, agility, balance

[Andy Taylor]

Do you need to have exceptional balance and agility to fish out of a sit-on-top kayak?

Is it possible for someone with back problems to fish out of a sit-on-top kayak? (Seating comfort, getting off and on, etc).

Generally, are kayaks or canoes more stable?

Thanks.

 

[bilgerat]

A sit on top kayak is VERY stable and does not require exceptional balance or agility. I'm about 215 lbs and fish from one of these:

http://www.sierratradingpost.com/i/1448E,,_Perception-Caster-125-Fishing-Kayak-Sit-on-Top.html

I have no trouble getting in or out, and I can sit on it like a bench with both feet in the water if I choose. Like any small boat or canoe, it can be tipped but the kayak will usually self right itself.

Sit on tops are generally easier to get in/out of as opposed to getting yourself inside the hull of a sit in. Most fishermen by far prefer the sit on tops.

There are many seating options. As you can see in the pic, the stock seat provides wrap around lower back support. I can fish 8 -10 hours no problem (of course occasionally getting out to stretch and water the bushes). As far as someone with back problems being comfortable, that would probably vary with each individual.

[Andy Taylor]

Thanks bilgerat. What's the oval shaped gray thing in the front?

[bilgerat]

That's a rubber hatch cover. Removing it accesses the inside of the hull for storage. Lots of room in there. Also note the two black circles, one in front of the seat and one behind it. They're screw on lids for two smaller compartments, each with a nylon mesh bag.

Just a side note, this particular kayak is rated for 400 lbs.

[QUAKEnSHAKE]

For sure try one out if you can. I have a not so great back with 2 herniated discs. I wanted a kayak but wasnt for me with the leg position. I lasted about 1/2hr in one then the ole left foot started getting numb. I wound-up bought an inflatable boat for the what I felt was the better sitting position and able to get up move around and cast. Plus it deflates goes in the back of my suv.

[Taylor Fishin 4 life]

I also have a caster kayak, there great for the money & very stable. I can even stand in it to stretch my legs

[Marty]

I don't know if a general statement can be made about whether canoes or kayaks are more stable. I've never been in a kayak but I own a canoe. Canoes can range from extremely tippy to extremely stable. My canoe is more in the latter category, made for fishing. It's short (14') and wide (39"), making for a relatively flat bottom.

The big advantage for me is that the flat bottom allows me to have a lot of stuff on the bottom that is easily accessible. The price to pay for that width and stability is a reduction in paddling efficiency, which is fine by me because I don't have to go very far from the launch in the places I fish.