Hello there-
Remember this, we've all stood where you stand now. Honestly, it's one of the best places to be as you get ready to begin the great journey into a sport that will bring you a lifetime of enjoyment. You'll discover a "Brotherhood" that exists amongst those that have chosen this path and many hands that will extend out to you to help bring you along and to offer guidance and support as well as opportunities to build friendships and new partners to fish with you.
Steps to Choosing the right Kayak, gear and accessories :
I recommend renting the Kayaks (2-3) that you're considering as this approach will prevent you from what you foresee as going down the wrong path. Plan an outing on familiar waters. I'd suggest freshwater or an inner bay for a full day of fishing. Take time to feel the "Real Estate" you have around you, envision where you'd place Rod Holder/Electronic mounts and accessories, fish, paddle, hatch accessibility and pay attention to the stability and maneuverability. If you have a Tall frame, different fishing Kayaks will have unique cockpit (Where you sit) designs that will fit you better than others. Pay attention to this and if you have a long torso, a Kayak that has a deeper seating contour will fit and feel best to you. Renting will save you from making a visual purchase and a functional mistake, and, when you've made a decision, you'll know it's qualified. It's like trying on clothes/shoes. They look good on the rack but, then you try them on and the look and feel influences your decision and you may realize they're not for you.
Seat Selection>>check out seats:
Next, Select a Proper seat and not a "low-line/inexpensive" option unless budget is in play. Your comfort and physical health are important and a seat will be a comfort factor out on the water and can be the difference between a full, comfortable day or a short and uncomfortable experience with residual discomfort for days following.
Mounts/Leashes>>check out mounts/eashes:
Leaders in this product market area, Scotty and Ram. Both are functional and have diverse selections to choose from based upon your type of Reels as well as electronics mounts. Different sizes and extension options will allow you to create the "Right" environment that will provide you the ultimate level of accessibility and functionality. Protect and save your investments by leashing/securing your rods/reels by attaching leashes to each for security if/when one or all decide to take a swim. Many Kayak Anglers have "Sacrificed" gear and accessories to the "Water Tackle Shop".
Paddle:
This is another important investment in comfort. Choose a 230-240 Centimeter length. Look for a light weight, composite paddle around the $100 mark and upwards. Bending Branches, Carlisle, Werner. Light weight composite means less stress and fatigue on your shoulders, back and arms. Leash this as well or you'll "Be up a Creek with out a paddle" should it decide ( and it will) to go swimming.
Kayak Cart>>check out carts:
75 to 100 lbs plus is what your future Kayak might weigh once you rig it and load it up each time you go out to fish. A Kayak Cart is a MUST and will allow you access to and from natural launch sites, off the beaten path freshwater sites, as well as public launches where you'll have to park your car and wheel your Kayak to the ramp/waters edge. Scupper Cart-2 posts that insert into the Scupper holes ( self drainage holes) or a Cradle type Cart-one that you place the Kayak on top of and near center hull position.
Safety >>check out safety gear:
First, always try to fish with a buddy, especially Ocean and River fishing where currents are present. Select a orange Flag with mount for the rear of your Kayak. This provides other boaters a visual on you because your profile is very low on the water and will disguise you at times to boat traffic. Select a Marine VHF radio to monitor conditions/reports, chat with other Kayak Anglers and most importantly, for emergency situations-
Channel #9. Always where your PFD and research Dry tops/bottoms and other cold/wet weather gear for added safety and comfort during cold water seasons. Look into "Re-entry" videos and practice this technique during the summer and in warm, fresh or salt water. This is a skill you MUST Practice and HAVE because it is likely you'll roll at some point and being prepared will save your life. Teach and communicate this to others as well.
Well, that's the "Skinny". Below is my shop and my contact info. Email/Call me for advice and or suggestions on choosing gear and accessories. Email me and I'll send you a
Discount Coupon Code for you to use on gear and accessories you'll need to rig out your near future ride. Kayak Anglers Pro Shop is a dedicated shop to the Kayak Fisherman.
Lastly, introduce others into your world and this incredible sport.
Take Care and stay in touch-Send me your Address and I'll mail out the Latest Kayak Anglers Magazine's "Buyers Guide Issue" along with Scotty Catalog, a Sticker from my shop, and some other useful goodies.
Tight Lines!
Don
Don@kaproshop.com
