What size kayak do i need? I am 6’5” and around 175lbs. i’m going to mostly be fishing creeks and rivers, but will probably go out to a lake sometimes. -- by PhonezDead...

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What size kayak do i need?

Dec 9, 2020 09:47:15 #

FS Digest

I am 6’5” and around 175lbs. i’m going to mostly be fishing creeks and rivers, but will probably go out to a lake sometimes.

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by PhonezDead

Dec 9, 2020 09:47:21 #

FS Digest

For fishing kayaks, unless you have a specific need for a small kayak due to storage or transportation limitations, always go for 12 foot or larger. They track better, are faster, more stable, higher weight capacity, and just better to fish out of.

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by _fnt_

Dec 9, 2020 09:47:26 #

FS Digest

I own a big fish 108. While I’m no where near 6ft tall it is very roomy and stable. Would be great for someone of your height.

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by Project_Reel

Dec 9, 2020 09:47:32 #

FS Digest

I agree with _fnt_. I haven't fished that much from my kayak yet, but at 6 foot one, I'd say the Longer-the-better rule applies as much as your budget allows.

I found shopping for kayaks online helped me research the right size for me.

Good luck.

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by barkbangquiet

Dec 9, 2020 10:19:30 #

Fish Dancer Loc: Guntersville, Alabama

FS Digest wrote:

I am 6’5” and around 175lbs. i’m going to mostly be fishing creeks and rivers, but will probably go out to a lake sometimes.

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by PhonezDead

I agree with fnt. At your height, 12’ minimum. Check Craigslist and Facebook marketplace for good deals. Also if you live near a kayak dealer they often have demo days where you can try different models. And they sell last year demo’s at a pretty good discount. Good luck and tight lines.

Dec 9, 2020 10:43:04 #

RuffplayOR57 Loc: Klamath Falls, OR

FS Digest wrote:

I am 6’5” and around 175lbs. i’m going to mostly be fishing creeks and rivers, but will probably go out to a lake sometimes.

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by PhonezDead

I am about 6’ and weigh more than 175lb. I got my 1st yak last year, it was a 10ft starter yak and had been working just fine. The only thing I want now is extra room for the gear I take. When I get my next one this coming year it will be a 12’ with at least a 34” width for stability. I don’t believe I’ll ever be interested in standing in a yak but if I do the stability is a Must!

Dec 9, 2020 15:01:36 #

Robert J Samples Loc: Round Rock, Texas

Phonezdead: One thing I have not seen addressed, at least not very much, is the handling of a kayack getting it on top of your car, or however you are going to transport it. Being over 6 ft and 175 lbs. it appears you are in great shape to handle a larger kayack, there fore I would look at the larger ones. I believe I would recommend a peddle powered one, to free your hands for other chores. Just Sayin...RJS

Dec 10, 2020 06:43:31 #

Doc1005 Loc: Mission,Tx

If you are young and strong..go big ! If you are old...older like me I’d start small. I have a ten footer that I use a lot around south Padre island. Weight is a big factor for me. The amount of equipment you will have with you also needs to be considered.

Dec 10, 2020 12:21:21 #

Elefantdude Loc: Oxnard, CA

Like other members said, look for something 12' or longer. Also the wider the better for stability. Since you are taller, your center of gravity is higher, so with a tendency to lean over to net or grab a fish, you will want a wide kayak. The Hobie Outback is a stable and sturdy kayak. It is on the high priced side, but definitely worth it.
If you can find a used one that would work as well. They retain their value very well too. I have 3 Hobie Revolutions (2009, 2010 and 2017 models) All 13'. The Revolutions are fast and light. But they are narrower than the Outbacks. Shop around, there are other peddle powered kayaks out there that would fit your needs. And don't feel you need to get a peddle powered kayak. There are some awesome standard fishing kayaks out there as well to suit your needs :-) Bottom line - try before you buy! Ensure the kayak will have the features you need and want.

Dec 10, 2020 13:42:28 #

RuffplayOR57 Loc: Klamath Falls, OR

FS Digest wrote:

I am 6’5” and around 175lbs. i’m going to mostly be fishing creeks and rivers, but will probably go out to a lake sometimes.

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by PhonezDead

Also just checking into a new one for me and found the SeaStream 12 angler w/peddle drive. Good reviews from what I’ve seen and under $1600 msrp. Looks like most sales are at $1300 +/- reviews state should be good for an angler up to 240/250 lb with nice mobility. Has forward and reverse in the peddle drive. It’s fairly new so don’t know about availability, but does come in a competitive price point. Good luck finding what will work for you

Dec 10, 2020 15:07:32 #

dec341

A different suggestion please. I have had the kayak then about 25 years ago discovered the Gheenoe and like it much better. Got a 15 and 13 footer. Use the big one for 2 and the 13 for just me. Use the smallest trolling motor you can find. I use a Minkota Pony. Fish backwards. The motor control is in front of you. Put the battery in the front and use a long jumper cable. That will balance the boat. Easiest and most comfortable way to fish I have ever found. I'm 79 and must consider Arthur, the worst of the Ritus brothers.

Dec 10, 2020 21:01:03 #

kfsrmn Loc: Lake Havasu AZ

Fishing kayaks tend to be heavy. How will you be transporting the kayak? Makes a difference in what size you can handle. I am an old guy and mine is transported on a trailer. If you have to roof rack it there are loading tricks that make it a lot easier. If you have to move it any distance after unloading it you will need a tail dragger.(set of wheels)

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