Looking at Getting Into Kayak Fishing
Hi all, I am looking at getting into kayak fishing. Getting tired of being stuck to the bank or friends' boats. I have somewhat of a list boiled down and would love some feedback. I'm looking at spending no more than $800. Also would love to be able to stand sometimes while fishing. Let me know what you guys think as well as any other suggestions you have! Thank you!
Edit: I will be fishing in a mix of lakes and slower rivers, nothing too big. I’m 5’9 160 lbs and pretty athletic so my balance is pretty good. Just a little background to help out.
Pelican "The Catch 100"
Vibe "Yellowfin 120"
Vibe "Yellowfin 100"
Vibe "Sea Ghost 110" (A little out of budget but I'm a fan)
3 Waters "Big Fish 105" (Again, a little out of budget)
FeelFree "Moken 10 Standard V2"
FeelFree "Moken 10 Lite"
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by EDev03
That $ 800 is your deterent for a quality yak. I just spent $ 1,200 for a Big Rig Propel and works great. Being able to stand is a must for me.
For standing you will need the width. I had a Bonafide that was 36" last 4 years and had to sell it with the house deal. The new yak is 32" wide and i can tell the difference.
Plumbob is right when it comes to quality and longevity of your rig. If you really like it, and intend to keep your unit for many years of enjoyment, then if possible try to spend that extra to get into a good line of product. Your use on the water each time will be more rewarding and you'll have no regrets.
While buying new can be a fun experience, I would suggest trying the used market too. If your timing is right, you may discover somebody that is changing or upgrading somehow and you might find a great rig on the second hand market. I am a big advocate of saving money and I don't mind being the next owner of a decent kayak, which I have done many times over the years!
Best regards in your search. By the way, if you could get a unit that has the peddle option I think you would be pleased with the diversity it could offer in addition to just paddling.
Go as wide as you can. We have an older Sundolpin 10 footer that I wouldn't recomend. A pelican Rebel 100xl not fond of it either. They are fairly tippy. I would suggest spending extra to purchase for a retailer who will let you try before you buy.
Go as wide as you can. We have an older Sundolpin 10 footer that I wouldn't recomend. A pelican Rebel 100xl not fond of it either. They are fairly tippy. I would suggest spending extra to purchase from a retailer who will let you try before you buy.
FS Digest wrote:
Hi all, I am looking at getting into kayak fishing. Getting tired of being stuck to the bank or friends' boats. I have somewhat of a list boiled down and would love some feedback. I'm looking at spending no more than $800. Also would love to be able to stand sometimes while fishing. Let me know what you guys think as well as any other suggestions you have! Thank you!
Edit: I will be fishing in a mix of lakes and slower rivers, nothing too big. I’m 5’9 160 lbs and pretty athletic so my balance is pretty good. Just a little background to help out.
Pelican "The Catch 100"
Vibe "Yellowfin 120"
Vibe "Yellowfin 100"
Vibe "Sea Ghost 110" (A little out of budget but I'm a fan)
3 Waters "Big Fish 105" (Again, a little out of budget)
FeelFree "Moken 10 Standard V2"
FeelFree "Moken 10 Lite"
--
by EDev03
Hi all, I am looking at getting into kayak fishing... (
show quote)
Watch videos on youtube for Headwaters Kayaks. Your choices are all good for paddle kayaks.
Mike
Saw an ad online last night for a 2 piece pedal drive fishing kayak that you could transport in the back of a mini van. Looked like a cool setup but I bet I don't want to know the price.
Ken Bauer wrote:
Saw an ad online last night for a 2 piece pedal drive fishing kayak that you could transport in the back of a mini van. Looked like a cool setup but I bet I don't want to know the price.
I wouldn't trust anything i would have to put together to float. SNAP!!!!!
For your $800 limit, I suggest a used Kayak. I bought a 14 Ft. tandem OCEAN Kayak (the brand),Malibu XLS (model) for $500. I can use as Tanden with wife for kayaking. For Fishing, move one seat into the center,remove other seat. Got a Scott Rod Holder (that's removable), and I have used it for 4 years now. It has great stability but I don't stand up in the Kayak, fish seated only.
I bought a Big Fish 105 used for $600 and i love it. its a little heavy 74 lbs but a trolley makes getting to and from the water easy
I agree on buying used. Just need to put in water to test first.
Wider is better if you are planning on fishing.
Vibe!! I have been fishing for Vibes for a long time and camping out of my sea ghost excellent choice. The vibes are strong and tough also track really well.
Not to long ago I was in the same boat ( no pun intended). After doing some research and lots of working and saving money I purchased a.Field and Stream Shadow caster 123. It's 12 feet long , 36 inches wide and stable as you can get. I am a big guy at 6"2 almost 300 pounds and I feel very comfortable standing in mine. The kayak cost me $850 dollars so it's pretty close to your budget. The only down side is it's is a slightly heavier kayak weighing in at 95 pounds. But it is very durable and we'll made. Not sure if it helps any but that's my two cents worth. Good luck on your search, looking forward to hearing what you end up with.
Did you get the leak fixed?
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