FS Digest

I’m trying to stay as close to 10 ft since I’m limited on space and my gf wants to get a kayak at some point as well which give us even less space. I’m 250 so I want the most stable kayak I can afford as it’s my first and I’m not looking to upgrade at any point. I’ve been looking at the Bonafide SS107 which is a bit outside my budget but doable, if I could find one that’s highly recommended and cheaper that would be great. I’m just looking into other options for stable kayaks that I can stand on if I want and around the $1K range.

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by darkodraven

FS Digest

Old Town Agler Kayaks are great. Any sit-in agler kayak will be rock solid.

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by Deviled_Spam

FS Digest

I personnaly like standing while fishing, i recommend the frontier 12 from nucanoe. really stable.

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by iTzMaThPr0

FS Digest

I understand the tight on space restriction, but I have yet to be in a 10 footer that doesn’t track like my drunk grandma with a busted wheel on her walker. There are stable 10 footers that should suit your needs, but just be prepared for a lot of correctional paddling on longer trips. And if the main use is going to be fishing then I recommend a sit on top for ease of casting and a little more sight into the water.

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by X-cel-Woodworks

FS Digest

I just found out a local kayak store is doing a demo event next month, should be very helpful in narrowing my options down. They don’t carry some of the brands I’ve seen mentioned but at least I will be able to feel the difference between a 10-12 footer.

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by darkodraven

akfisher Loc: Anchorage

You can get a lot of real good sit on top kayaks for $1000. Even though many claim that you can stand, with your weight and experience, not very comfortably or stable even for a smaller guy! 10-11 ‘ are really plentiful! Make sure you know their gross weight capacity! Check out Jackson and Perception!

Fish Dancer Loc: Guntersville, Alabama

I agree with X-cel-Woodworks. A 10’ won’t track worth a darn. I have a Jackson 12’ cruise that I love but unfortunately I have to sell. I was crabbing on it last year when I had a stroke and now my wife says I have to sell it and get a motor boat and a fishing buddy. No more solo trips. I’m back to 100 percent by the way. Check Craigslist in your area for a used kayak.

sumcatone Loc: Salem VA

Check out the Vibe Yellowfin 100 & 120. Both well under 1k$.

EvilPopTarts Loc: Memphis Tennessee

I bought a kayak, fished it once for an hour and sold it. Small winds blew me around. Was hard on my back, too cumbersome and tight. It just didn't fit me.. Others like them. I bought a pond prowler and put a trolling motor on it. It fits me better. Just some things to take into consideration before buying. You may not be susceptible to my situation. Either easy, good luck! Hope you catch a lot of fish.

Gtrman

Sorry for length, but here goes.
Imho it's tough to give you a straightforward answer bc there's several things to consider. This is a great place to start but you really might want to research the dozens of articles online, AND, if at all possible go to a local dealer that might let you demo.
That said, a few things to keep in mind.
Considering your size, the first thing to look at is capacity. You probably need a boat rated at least 350 to account for gear and have wiggle room.
For length. That depends.
1. what is comfy for you to sit in?.
2., what kind of water are you paddling in most of the time? Covering distance? Paddling around small lake?Still water? Swift rivers?
As stated, a longer yak will track better and paddle faster, but they're harder to turn. But That also depends on the design of the boat and the manufacturer. E.g., a 12 ft boat designed to stand in will be stable and tracks well, but they're wider, heavier and slower AND harder to turn than other 12 footers.
And then there's.... yeah, I'll stop there. But if I may...
As this is your first boat, do some research, paddle some boats, make your best guess and go for it. Labor day should have great deals going on bc it's end of season. Some places have demos for sale. Buying used is an option.
That all said, Try not to get wrapped up in getting it "perfect" for first boat. I think a lot of folks here would agree when you're starting out, the main thing is to get on the water and have fun. You'll figure out what works for you in time. Peace and tight lines!

Golfish1951 Loc: North Carolina

No competition. Vibe, I own 3 and could buy whatever i wanted. Got my 14 year old grandson in one and he stands up and fishes out of it.

plumbob Loc: New Windsor Maryland

I have the Bonafide SS 127 which is 12' 9". Handles well and a little more muscle needed to spin it around against the current compared to a 10' yak. Raised seat was the selling point along with being able to stand. My 210 lbs plus gear has no problem with stability. When you go to compare a 10' against a 12' each day the water conditions could be different. The only thing I will alter in years down the road is to put a motor on it to get from one shore line to another. 69 now and still got the muscle Lord willing. But some days that crossing the river is quite tedious.

plumbob

Jellyfish

What is right for me May not be right for you try them all like buying a car