ok you experinced Kyakers...what would a new kyaker look for in a Fishing Kyak?
Fetmo
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ok you experinced Kyakers...what would a new kyaker look for in a Fishing Kyak?
Fetmo
I'd say first thing to look for would be a good lifejacket!!! Lol!!
:hesaid
I suppose a wide bottom and deep sides are out of the question.Quote:
Originally Posted by Fetmo
And a trolling motor... :biggrin
Wilderness systems , tarpon 140 angler edition
I love my commander 120. But in my opinion the 2 best kayaks for lake/ river rishing on the market right now are the Jackson cuda and big tuna. Both are extremely stable and comfortable. The big tuna is the Cadillac of kayaks. You want confort, stability, maneuverability, storage and able to add accessories.
I don't have any Experience with kayaks, but have spent a little time looking and dreaming. I liked what I saw when I looked at the Jackson coosa. I like the idea of the high-low seat.
The cuda is the more "fishable" version of the coosa and the big tuna is a little blend of both.Quote:
Originally Posted by Deezer
I spent the better part of last year fishing out of a kayak while I was working on acquiring/gearing my flat bottom. I plan to use it this summer too. I like to kayak fish, especially on smaller waters. I love the Jackson models, and if there is no limit on price tag, that is probably the way to go. But if you rather not spend 1200+ on a kayak, there are other alternatives. I got a smaller Moken 10 angler from Ouachita Outdoor Outfitters | Paddle Sports and Outdoor Apparel in Hot Springs, Arkansas in the ~$600 range. If you go Jackson, they are awesome, but be prepared for a price tag double that or more.
You have two concepts with a kayak: a sit-in version, much like a small canoe, or a sit-on-top version with drainage holes as a part of the frame. A sit-in, you may get a little wet.. a sit-on-top, you will have a bigger chance of getting wet so I wouldn't recommend as a platform except when the water temp is 60s+. Sit-ins are more confined in space; sit-on-top you can stack and stack and stack as there is no vertical limit.
I'd recommend a sit-on-top (which most angler versions are).. I'd also recommend to have full access storage areas both fore and aft. Some models will have a "dry" cargo area.. that's fine but it limits what you can carry. I like to have storage space fore and aft with no ceiling... much like the model I have: FEELFREE KAYAK ::: THE BEST FEELING ON WATER You can take that front cover off, put your mid-size cooler up front for fish, and keep a smaller cooler in the rear with your tackle for water bottles, sodas, etc. I just think the sit-on-tops are much more conducive to fishing, although I have seen folks fish out of a sit-in.
Most angler versions come with built-in rod-holders that hold rods vertically, which makes life easier. I'd also recommend to get a small or a collapsible paddle to complement the double-bladed kayak paddle to help with one-handed positioning. Yes.. a crappie will drag you down a river in a 60 lb kayak! Or in my case.. a catfish will drag you into the bush and bumfuzzle you as he cuts off your line. A small, one-handed paddle is a life saver to keep some boat control as you get dragged around by a fish!
The sit on tops are easier to get into when launching, and get out of when loading up, cooler in warmer weather but cooler in cooler weather as you don't have the hul protecting/shielding your lower body. The new WS Ride models have a "high/low" seat option, at an additional cost, but are stable enough to stand up in. I have a Ride 115 and like it alot for the seat (very comfy) and stable for drifting/trolling for crappie. Test paddle anything that interests you as what you think you like in the store may not work on the water. Lots of outdoor places have demo days, take advantage of those to find a yak that suits you.
Thanks for the info it was very helpful!!!
I looked at the Jackson Big Tuna....it is cool and you can put 2 seats in it.
I wonder how long it Would take Toni Mae to dump us??
I know they can me turtled but it'd take a lot. The main reason I'm looking to buy a BT is I want to troll for stripers in the main lake of beaver lake. And I take 2 or 3 trips to gulf shores every yr, actually going on the 7th, and I want to take it with me to fishing in the ocean. If it can hold up out there I'm sure it'll be fine in a lake. I really like the bubult in livewell and rod storage inside the yakQuote:
Originally Posted by Fetmo