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View Full Version : Entry level yak reccs.



stevej00
09-02-2005, 09:07 PM
I'm assuming (and see) this is a some what common post. However, I'm looking for a best recommendation on the lower cost entry level kayaks.

I remember going to springriver in Eastport a ton of times and getting recommendations on a entry level yak around $1300....That's way too much for my entry level blood...

I'm looking towards the BPS yaks, dicks, sports authority etc.

I've done a lot of canoe paddling and for a long time have waited to get into paddling a kayak in our creek, river, and putzing on the shore lines of the bay and maybe even in the surf or heavy waves ????

I'd like to be able to pull a 7 line spread , 9 including down riggers. What outriggers do you recommend ???

Just kidding....

In all seriousness this is something I definitely want to get into and have had the desire to try it for over 10 years !! Well now with the rise in petro and my ever growing belly too many things are pointing towards Just Do-it Finally !!

So to the group I only lurk through....what are your recommendations.....

I weight approx 200#, would want to be able to have two rods, small cooler, and something that can move at a swifter pace ???

I'd love some recommendations.....

(BTW....I've got mallard canoe and alum. jon boat I'd trade if anyone is interested...both need TLC)

Thanks Guys...[smile]

YakandSurf
09-03-2005, 02:46 AM
A lot of kayak dealers have some sort of demo day in the spring and fall. Check your local dealer for there next demo day. The fall demo day they tend to sell off some of there demo fleet at a reduced price. While at the demo try some Sit in kayaks (SIK). A SIK will do ok in creeks and rivers but are more diffacult to launch through heavy surf. Much easier to find used SIK for sale in the paper.

Most kayak fisherman do prefer a sit on top kayak (SOT) and the more popular kayaks start new in the $700 to $1000 range.
A lot of kayak fisherman start with a cheap model then upgrade into a tarpon or prowler and a few other models. IF you start with a SIK or a low end SOT (mainstream $300 - $400) you will more then likely upgrade in a year and spend another $700 - $1000. total cost will end up at $1300 plus.

Bottom line, any kayak can be rigged and fished from.
The longer the kayak, the straighter it will track and faster it will go.
The shorter the kayak, the easier it is to turn.
Don't go cheap on safety items. You may need them to save your life one day.
Don't get caught up a creek with out a paddle buy a good paddle to start with and carry one of your paddles from your canoe as a backup.
SOT for a dryer ride don't ecceed 60% of total weight of kayak.

Look at the Tarpon 140 or the prowler 13'

Robert

FishingRod
09-03-2005, 10:43 AM
$1,300 is alot for a entry level.

My Prowler 15 is for sale for $900. I have only used it about 10 times and it has all the bells and whistles. Click on this link to check out the details.

http://www.tidalfish.com/boards2/viewthread.asp?forum=AMB_AP704966386&id=5676

The Prowler 15 is probably one of the best all around fishing kayaks.
Check out this chart.

http://www.kayakfishingstuff.com/kayak_fishing_comparison_chart.html

Send me a bmail if you are interested in my Prowler 15.

Rod

fred zellman
09-03-2005, 01:04 PM
I recently bought my father-in-law a used/demo Pungo from Autumn Sky Outfitters in Darlington, MD. It is a sit-in-kayak. I believe it was a 2003 or 2004. With a nice life jacket, anchor system w/ 3lb. anchor, paddle holder etc., it came to about $525. It has some minor scrapes, but over all is in really good condition. I have an older pungo that I fish out of, and I love it. I have never tried the SOT's, so I am no help there. You can check Autumn Sky out on the internet, before you drive to Darlington. Call them to see if they have any demo boats, if that is what you are interested in. Good luck!

stevej00
09-05-2005, 08:55 AM
I tried my neighbors 2 person SOT Saturday afternoon. I took out my son into the creek and with the stiff breeze we had a nice cruise.

I really have to give to you who go striper fishing and more in the kayaks.....it has got to be one heck of a challenge to get one in.

Anyway....I'm now not quite as encouraged about a kayak....I'll give it another shot in a few days maybe...this time with a rod ??

Uturn
09-05-2005, 06:02 PM
Steve, You really need to get with someone who has a yak rigged out for fishing and generally knows what they're doing to introduce you into this sport. Too bad you're not close enough to these folks Tidewater. But, if you wanta take a road trip, I'm sure we can accomodate you here in VABCH. We've even got a Kayak Tournament (Fly or Conventional) scheduled Oct 8. See www.tkaa.org for details. You could even carry a new yak home with you. It's possible!!!!! Best of luck. MIKE aka Uturn

FishingRod
09-05-2005, 08:57 PM
Steve, my Prowler15 that I have for sale has 2 flush rod holders in back and a ram rod tube up front. It also rigged with a Humminbird Matrix 17 fish finder (my Tarpon140 is rigged the same way). The only real negative thing about the Prowler 15 is that there is not a lot of leg room if you are taller than 6ft.

I would be more than happy to take you out and you can try out my Prowler. We have been catching some nice Stripers in the Patapsco lately, before the cold front came through.

Here is a pic of a patapsco striper from a couple weeks ago.
http://marylandkayakfishing.com/pics/Patapsco_08-20-05/RodStriper9.JPG

stevej00
09-06-2005, 06:10 PM
I greatly appreciate the offer but it's way too high for me.....I'm bottom feeing 400-500 level as an extreme max

Thanks though

Capt.Nick
09-16-2005, 12:43 AM
I bought a 10ft.sot 'Blast" from dicks this summer $400 w/paddle also received $25 gift certificate back..It weighs 39# Needless to say it's easy to carry.There's not alot of room for fishing gear like 13-14 ftrs.Enough room for 1 rod and a pocket for some fishing gear.I could fit a plastic milk crate on the stern.For keeping fish,a chum bag should work or a stringer.The sot's are much more stable.I tried the sinkers and that's what they are.I use it alot.There's a good pic.on the md's DNR site this week of a sot with a guy holding a brace of nice stripers below the Bay Bridge.When you get to the site,click on Chesapeake Bay report.

Linstad
09-16-2005, 05:45 PM
Go to http://www.kayakfishingstuff.com ...

Look in the forums for used yaks...i got a darn near new tarpon rigged with rod holders and a fishfinder for 500. There are deals out there, one with your name on it i am sure of it. Dont be discouraged by your experience with the 2 seater. Get out and try a yak if you can... once you yak....you never go back![grin]

Chris from ND....

Linstad
09-16-2005, 05:47 PM
the exact link for the used yak threads at kayakfishingstuff.com is
http://kfs.infopop.cc/groupee/forums/a/frm/f/458607442

Hope this helps...

Chris from ND...

Sandtiger
09-16-2005, 07:20 PM
Also, check out http://www.paddleva.com and look for their used canoes and kayaks page. They have some good deals once in a while. They are not too bad on their retail prices either on the new ones.

Sandtiger
09-16-2005, 08:50 PM
Steve,

Check your b-mail.[excited]

Capt.Nick
09-17-2005, 04:58 AM
Linstad originally wrote:
Go to http://www.kayakfishingstuff.com ...

Look in the forums for used yaks...i got a darn near new tarpon rigged with rod holders and a fishfinder for 500. There are deals out there, one with your name on it i am sure of it. Dont be discouraged by your experience with the 2 seater. Get out and try a yak if you can... once you yak....you never go back![grin]

Chris from ND....
That sounds like the way to go.i'd like to have a Tarpon also..for all day excursions.How12-14ft. much does a Tarpon weigh?

Capt.Nick
09-17-2005, 05:01 AM
fred zellman originally wrote:
I recently bought my father-in-law a used/demo Pungo from Autumn Sky Outfitters in Darlington, MD. It is a sit-in-kayak. I believe it was a 2003 or 2004. With a nice life jacket, anchor system w/ 3lb. anchor, paddle holder etc., it came to about $525. It has some minor scrapes, but over all is in really good condition. I have an older pungo that I fish out of, and I love it. I have never tried the SOT's, so I am no help there. You can check Autumn Sky out on the internet, before you drive to Darlington. Call them to see if they have any demo boats, if that is what you are interested in. Good luck!
I've called AS several times and have driven by.They never seem to be there?I didn't see any Tarpons on display in the window?They must special order them?

Capt.Nick
09-17-2005, 05:04 AM
stevej00 originally wrote:
I tried my neighbors 2 person SOT Saturday afternoon. I took out my son into the creek and with the stiff breeze we had a nice cruise.

I really have to give to you who go striper fishing and more in the kayaks.....it has got to be one heck of a challenge to get one in.

Anyway....I'm now not quite as encouraged about a kayak....I'll give it another shot in a few days maybe...this time with a rod ??
There's one thing I don't like about a Kayak...They're very difficult to get into without a beaching them first...Like in deeper water or a pier.They're very tippy.

Sandtiger
09-17-2005, 07:21 AM
Capt.Nick originally wrote:
There's one thing I don't like about a Kayak...They're very difficult to get into without a beaching them first...Like in deeper water or a pier.They're very tippy.

You are correct in that they are "....very tippy..." or at least they are tippier than my power boat with its 8 foot beam and such. However, I have been on the bay in a Tarpon 120 in 15 to 18 knot winds along with a friend in his Old Town kayak (his is a sit in) and neither of us did not feel threatened. The kayaks handled it fine.

Getting back in the yak in deep water takes some know how. If it's a sit in yak, there is a very definite technique that if you don't know how to do you will stay in the water. SOTs are a bit different, but there's still a way in which to get in. In my estimation, kayaking in a sit in kayak without knowing or having practiced the recovery method could be very dangerous if not life threatening in some instances.

stevej00
09-17-2005, 08:57 AM
Thanks for all of teh posts guys, I'm keeping up to speed with them and have not closed the book on a kayak at all.

Capt.Nick
09-17-2005, 10:38 AM
Sandtiger originally wrote:
Capt.Nick originally wrote:
There's one thing I don't like about a Kayak...They're very difficult to get into without a beaching them first...Like in deeper water or a pier.They're very tippy.

You are correct in that they are "....very tippy..." or at least they are tippier than my power boat with its 8 foot beam and such. However, I have been on the bay in a Tarpon 120 in 15 to 18 knot winds along with a friend in his Old Town kayak (his is a sit in) and neither of us did not feel threatened. The kayaks handled it fine.

Getting back in the yak in deep water takes some know how. If it's a sit in yak, there is a very definite technique that if you don't know how to do you will stay in the water. SOTs are a bit different, but there's still a way in which to get in. In my estimation, kayaking in a sit in kayak without knowing or having practiced the recovery method could be very dangerous if not life threatening in some instances.
I have a sit 11ft.Loon by olde town Has to be beached to get in.My Mainstream twist 10ftr.is easy.They are a good entry level fishing Kayak IMO 300 lb.cap..They sell them at Sunny's,Costco,West marine.It can be mounted in knee deep water.I use neopreme waders in cool water.i plan on using it a good bit this fall for Bass & pickerel fishing in rivers,lakes & ponds.I also have a 22ft.wa,&16ft.Carolina Skiff for runnning the bay & rivers.It's just alot less hasle to fish from a kayak.Throw it in the back of a truck & throw it in the water.What I need now is a Dolly to haul it back through the woods at a few places that I go.I never thought that I'd like this that much,after detoxing myself from offshore fishing,you can't beat it for going it alone fishing.It's the most practical boat fishing you can do.

Sandtiger
09-17-2005, 05:19 PM
Steve,

Were you able to get a hold of that contact I sent to you?? Are you going for it? It's in the price range you were looking for.

stevej00
09-18-2005, 04:00 AM
I appreciate the heads up but it's a little too small I think. As much as I want to be lighter I'm in the 215 range. A little more length and capacity is needed I think.

Thanks again though....It's definately not out of my mind now....funny how things work in your mind.

The link was one that I needed to be checking out though...good website.


I'mgoing to revisit all of these posts again this afternoon....You guys have givenme a lot of good reccomendations and suggestions. I'm goign to re-evaluate everything.

Capt.Nick
09-18-2005, 05:31 AM
From all the Kayak reviews I've read,if I were going to get another Kayak for fishing Rivers,Ponds,Lakes and even venture into the Bay,I'd get the 12 ft.Tarpon sot.The shorter size is easy to handle by yourself,it weighs 60lb.and can be shoved in a pickup.It will hold 350# Angler&gear etc.It also has ample room for fishing equiptment etc.A pair of snug fitting neopreme waders from wallmart $70 will keep you dry & warm in the cool season(pickerel,stripers & perch in the Severn).The longer 14-16 have more room,are faster(6mph.vs.4+mph) that's only important if you're going to cover some water in open (low current water)you wouldn't want to fight a strong current for 5-10mi.On the down side..a bit more trouble to handle,load & unload by yourself,more difficult to manuever in tight spots.The 16ftr,is popular in the Va.Beach,CBBT area in the middle of the Bay where big seas are encountered and a longer,faster vessel is needed to cover more distance and cross the waves.A new 12ftr.costs $675 no frills-$825+ fish rigged.Anybody have a used 12 tarpon for sale?

Capt.Nick
09-18-2005, 05:39 AM
PS You won't be able to take a stand up squirt on one.

stevej00
09-18-2005, 11:42 AM
Capt.Nick originally wrote:
PS You won't be able to take a stand up squirt on one.


Thanks for mentioning...I had not thought about that one yet...

Uturn
09-18-2005, 12:22 PM
Call over to Fly Fish The World in Richmond. They have quit carrying the yaks in stock. They had one I think its complete with paddle, seat etc.
Don't know the model, but I have the Emotion Fisherman from them and it is a great boat. Best of luck in your search.

MIKE

Uturn
09-18-2005, 12:22 PM
Double entry...sorry.

Linstad
09-19-2005, 08:51 PM
I fish from a tarpon 120....i am a big guy (230) and with my gear i manage to at least keep my crotch dry, with scupper stoppers out i get 1-2 inches of water in the bottom, my center hatch stays closed for fear of swamping. (they are in a awkward place on a t120) but it fairs well for me, it is slower than say a 15 foot prowler, but i keep up. (stay in shape that way) it is rougher out in not so calm water, but never scary. I love it, would i like a bigger one?...Yes.... do i regret buying the 12 foot? No. Would i reccomend it, yes. It handles the inlets nicely, bridges are a snap to manuver around, it loads easily in truck bed, it fits in my back yard...16 footer wouldnt...small yard :( ... Yes it is hard to stand and pee, but you can kneel. Foot room is good, and nice mounting areas for rod holders, fishfinder, etc.

Chris from ND...

Russ498
09-21-2005, 09:07 AM
Try Coastal Kayak in Fenwick Delaware at http://c-kayak.com/ . They sell there boats at the end of the season. Also try Sunny Surplus in Rehobeth. The sell of a bunch of demos this time of year. Pretty good prices for both.

bassmanpete
09-24-2005, 11:14 AM
You get what you pay for in yaks. The cheap knockoffs in big box stores are just that: cheap. Many come without foot braces or deck loops, which you will quickly want.

A quick rundown of boats I have fished from.

OK Caper: stable as heck. Short and slow though. Great small water boat. Ask UTurn, he now owns one though he swore when he bought mine it was for the wife[grin]

Tarpon 120: My current boat. Usable anywhere. I fish mainly smallmouth on flowing rivers with class II & III rapids. It handles these fine. Wavetrains get ya wet but I pull the scuppers and most of the water drains right out. What's left I can sponge out. It's fast enough to keep up with longer boats on shorter paddles, though if you plan to go long distances on flat water with regularity you would be better of with a longer boat. The T120 is the do it all SUV of yaks right now. Could be better designed on the hatches, but it works decently for most types of fishing.

Hobie Quest 130: Great flatwater boat. Very stable and faster than the other two. Love the storage pockets. Front hatch is da bomb to get in and out of. Not the boat for rivers or flowing water. There is a new 16 foot version coming that incorporates the Mirage drive.

SOT is better than SINK boat for safety reasons, as already stated. Don't buy the argument that a SINK will keep you warmer. You need to dress for the water temperature and possible immersion in any yak you paddle, and if properly layered in the right clothes, why limit yourself to a SINK style boat. I fished all winter last year from a SOT, including several days with 38 degree water temps and was comfortable each time, though my feet did get cold a couple of times after getting out to wade adn then being back in the boat with a breeze blowing over the boots.

Uturn
09-24-2005, 01:36 PM
Pete...I swear the Caper is for the wife or anybody needing a boat to go out with me.

It's just like you said " Stable but Slow" but the Bay is doable.

WPV (Tom) is selling his Caper for a Good Price. I think a lot of people believe its not a good boat since it is only 11 foot and too small. It is rated for 275-325 lbs. I'm 225# and growing... the Caper is OKAY for my weight without the extra hole you let me have (GRIN). I know you used MY WIFE's a lot and Tom and Goby used the heck out of theirs. When water gets in the cockpit, it is the best draining boat I've used. The only one where I haven't needed scupper plugs is a SIK or my Emotion Fisherman. Just my 2 cent opinion and post.

MIKE aka Uturn

Capt.Nick
09-25-2005, 05:15 AM
Do they make flapper scupper plugs for yaks like on boats that would fit in the scupper holes?This would keep the yak dry but drain out if water gets in.

Cory ruthless Routh
09-25-2005, 09:21 PM
Those things only work above the water line, being scuppers are half under water, they would never let the water out.

Capt.Nick
09-26-2005, 03:55 AM
I realize that.I was thinking about installing them on the top of the hole.There might be enough space between the top of the hole and the water line for the flap to operate in.They would need a screen over the top to stop them from clogging with debris.But then again,the weight of the water after it's inside might push the flapper closed,keeping it from opening?It seems like there's got to be a way to remedy this problem.Sitting in icewater this winter,even with insulsted waders on is what I want to avoid.The Kayak says it will hold 300#. My total wt.in the the kayak including clothes & gear might be 200#,yet some water still comes in.

Russ498
09-27-2005, 07:37 AM
I stopped in Sunny Surplus in Rehobeth yesterday. They are getting in 40 or so demos on either 9/30/05 or 10/3/05. They are 20% off plus they include a seat and paddle. Some are like new. All are in good shape.

Sea Gristle
09-27-2005, 07:59 AM
There's a new place in Richmond that rents Dimension Typhoons. I had one out this weekend. 12' 39 lbs, 250lb cap. It's definitely not a Wilderness or a Heritage but it was pretty sweet. I think the guy said they go for about $300 or so.

http://www.sit-on-topkayaking.com/KayakData/Reviews/Typhoon.html

wpvboat
09-27-2005, 08:16 AM
Mike, Pete, etc.

My Caper is still for sale for $400. If I hadn't told my wife I would sell it, I'd keep it. There are things I won't be able to do very well in my T160i. The New River would be hard, but I may never go there again. The Nottoway i can do but it would be better in the Caper. The Caper is an awsome boat. I never used a scupper plug but I never minded having water in the cocpit. It is not a fast boat but it got Calvin out to the first island at CBBT. I just wanted something more substantial under me considering most of what I do is open water saltwater fishing. I figured I'd go for the fastest ride. I'm going to take it out for it's maiden voyage tommorrow evening.

Tom

Russ498
09-27-2005, 08:39 AM
Is anything included with the yak such as seats, rod holders or paddles?

wpvboat
09-27-2005, 01:13 PM
Yes, it has a Scotty rod holder and padded seat. Give me a call if you are interested. Cell # is (757)328-9943.

Tom

Capt.Nick
09-27-2005, 01:26 PM
Russ498 originally wrote:
I stopped in Sunny Surplus in Rehobeth yesterday. They are getting in 40 or so demos on either 9/30/05 or 10/3/05. They are 20% off plus they include a seat and paddle. Some are like new. All are in good shape.
Will they have any 12ft.Tarpons?

HJS
09-27-2005, 03:33 PM
Heck... give your canoe a second thought. Thats all I've been using in the Patapsco for the past 5 years, maybe 75 launches there during the past 5 years, at least 1000 launches over my lifetime at a zillion different locations... never fallen out while fishing, not even close. Right now I'm using a 16' Oldtown Camper, 60#, with a 35# thrust trolling motor mounted on a side bracket and 2 batteries. I can go from the Harbor Hospital to McHenry and back on 2 batteries @ 4+mph, although generally don't go near that far. If I paddle at the same time I think I hit 5+mph. You can carry a lot more stuff but still can't stand up to take a pee. Wind is much more of a problem in a canoe than a kayak. But I pick my days very carefully.

I'm launching from Boston Street tomorrow28, at dawn. Calling for light winds.

Russ498
09-27-2005, 03:59 PM
Capt.Nick originally wrote:
Russ498 originally wrote:
I stopped in Sunny Surplus in Rehobeth yesterday. They are getting in 40 or so demos on either 9/30/05 or 10/3/05. They are 20% off plus they include a seat and paddle. Some are like new. All are in good shape.
Will they have any 12ft.Tarpons?
I'm afraid I can't answer that. Try calling the store. I think they have a list of what is due.

Capt.Nick
09-27-2005, 04:53 PM
I was thinking of getting one.Now that I've got my 10ft.Mainstream sot Twist rigged up with a milk crate with 2 pipe rod holders,scotty rod holder in front,folding anchor,I don't feel that I need any more room.I have a few places that I want to try that require atleast 1,000 ft.haul and the extra wt.of the 12ftr.will make the trek a little harder with gear in tow.I got a set of those strap on tow wheels last week ..they work good.You just grab the yak by one hand & wheel it along.After fishing offshore & in the Bay for many years and owning a 24&25ft.twin engine Grady,I never thought I'd like the simplicity of a Kayak.I still have a Carolina Skiff & a seldom used 22ft.wa cabin.No gas,trailer,tags,registration,extra toll fees slip,ramp fees,you can go alone anytime,it's almost like cheating.It's a win win situation.Good upper body workout to boot.I wish I would have got one a long time ago.

BBCroaker
09-27-2005, 08:58 PM
Capt Nick I'm wonderng how old you are because I'm 61 and after reading this board and reading about all the fun these guys have I'm getting the urge to try one. Just around calm waters not in the bay.

Capt.Nick
09-28-2005, 04:23 AM
I'm 56.5'9" 175#I've seen guys in their late 60s in them.I use mine in calm to slightly windy water with little chop but have been in choppy water.I fish it on Susky Flats & River,Gunpowder back waters(I live on the Tidal Quarry)mostly bass & Crappie,some shad in spring and an occasional striper & Pickerel. Middle River,Pickerel, Bass,Y.perch & Crappie.Going to give Millers island a shot this week,probably launch there from Bill's if the wind dies down.I've been catching nice Stripers there and don't see any reason to have to trailer my skiff down to Rocky Point right now.Next season I'll get a pass for Lochraven.It's less hassle than dragging electric mtrs.,batteries etc.I also have a smart cast fish finder.it's a small, wireless,remote controlled unit made by humming bird.You tie the small hocky puck sized transducer to a string & just hang it over the side.The sreen is a watch sized unit that you can attach to a rod or wear like a watch.If' any of you guys want,I'd be happy to let you try mine out in my back yard in the quarry.The Hull capacity is 350#.B-mail me if you're interested.If you buy one and don't like it,they may not let you take it back.

wpvboat
09-28-2005, 07:42 AM
Capt.Nick originally wrote:
No gas,trailer,tags,registration,extra toll fees slip,ramp fees,you can go alone anytime,it's almost like cheating.It's a win win situation.Good upper body workout to boot.I wish I would have got one a long time ago.


I totally agree! We have guys in our club (TKAA) that are pushing 60. I'm not going to speculate on whether they are older for fear of insulting someone! These guys are not triathelete types but are in pretty good shape for their age. I've seen some people my age (32) who wouldn't be able to paddle away from the dock so it's all relative. If you are in decent shape, don't have severe back problems, and are familiar with the water, you can probably do it. It's hard for me to relate because I'm still young and have been on the water my whole life an feel very comfortable with it. It seems like the prevailing body type in our group is 'well fed but very physically active'.

Tom

Capt.Nick
09-28-2005, 03:13 PM
Dito ...on total agreement.If you''re in shape...good.If you want to get in shape...this will help.It really isn't strenuous at all.I would guess it takes 5# of pressure to make a stroke.. this is variable more or less.You control the amount of pressure unless you're in a head wind or bucking current,which you should avoid.you should still carry an anchor in case this happen so you can rest.This would be a good light to moderte excercise for anyone any age.It will also help with balance.If you get tired...fish.In the beginging,if you start getting tired ,you've gone far enough.. you still have to get back.This could be a mile, half mile or less.It dosen't matter ,you're not in any contest.Let your body tell you when you've had enough.You're there to have fun not exhaust yourself.

bassmanpete
10-10-2005, 03:16 PM
The combination of light to moderate exercise while paddling and fishing is hard to beat. Unfortunately I cheat and fish by floating flowing rivers, so I only have to paddle to avoid rocks and big waves and holes in the rapids.

I've honestly wondered just how much cardiovascular benefits we get from yakfishing, as I know by far most of my time in the boat is spent fishing and not paddling. Docs recently started saying though that the 30 minutes a day of exercise we need can come in small chunks and still help though.

bassmanpete
10-10-2005, 03:21 PM
Uturn originally wrote:
Pete...I swear the Caper is for the wife or anybody needing a boat to go out with me.

It's just like you said " Stable but Slow" but the Bay is doable.

I think a lot of people believe its not a good boat since it is only 11 foot and too small. It is rated for 275-325 lbs. I'm 225# and growing... the Caper is OKAY for my weight without the extra hole you let me have (GRIN).



Yea, and by giving them the shorter boat you insure you can outpaddle them to the fish[grin]

Its a great boat. I loved the heck outta mine and put 75 trips on it in less than a year. It just doesn't like rocks in flowing water when the paddler pushes the weight capacity.

I did the CBBT and HRBT for stripers in it several times last year and never felt anything but safe in my Caper. It can handle wakes and swells ok, though it will be a wet ride. I always plugged the scuppers under the seat to get a drier ride, but I weigh 260 minus the fishing gear so I was pushing the capacity of the boat.

After lifting my Tarpon 120 a few times on portages I'm missing that 45lb Caper even more.[grin]

Uturn
10-10-2005, 03:45 PM
Hey Pete!!! You're right about one thing, that Caper is a lot lighter than my 14 footer. I run in, change and hit the water in no time. Who-ever buys Tom's is getting a deal. I'm telling guys to check it out. They can use my wife's Caper for a demo and it don't leak - NOW. (Thanks to Cory the Welder - Boy he knows his S#&T)

MIKE aka Uturn

stevej00
12-19-2005, 11:43 AM
Well opportunity knocked and a I bit the bullet. Dick's had a black Friday special on Blast kayaks. I got it for around $180.00..

http://www.noyopacific.com/critter%2520%2520blast%2520kayak.jpg

I got the blue one and still need the accessories, paddle, paddle jacket.

Where, or What, do you guys recommend for a rod holder or two ?? I was hoping to use the fly rod from this occasionally too and maybe float some local streams for fun and go up to western Md. for bass-in...

Thanks to everyone who gave their recommendations and offers when I fist made my post. All of the info was very valuable, but although this kayak may not seem like I listened it was perfect for me to get my feet wet and still not spend a ton of cash.

BBCroaker
12-19-2005, 04:38 PM
Please post a picture doing the same thing off of the front of the yak that you did on the boat

FishingRod
12-19-2005, 04:44 PM
I like the RAM Rod Tube rod holder for a spinning rod. I'm not sure what rod holder works best for a fly-rod.

stevej00
12-19-2005, 07:21 PM
bbcroaker originally wrote:
Please post a picture doing the same thing off of the front of the yak that you did on the boat


I'm not sure I follow you....Do you mean to provide a couple more pics closer from a different view or am I missing something ??

Thanks !!