FS Digest

I’ve really been wanting to get a kayak but unfortunately I don’t have a lot of space to store it. I’ve been considering an inflatable one but it kind of worries me. Anyone have any recommendations?

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by Jettylyfe

FS Digest

They make some pretty sturdy ones, but there’s always the fear of a puncture. I’ve seen some three piece solid kayaks that snap together and are hard plastic. Might be worth checking into.

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by GoVagabondGo

FS Digest

Been there, done that.

More cons than pros unfortunately... wind blows you around, lots of drag in the water, unable to mount/secure gear, sags when trying to drag/carry down loaded with gear, can get moldy if not dried completely before storage. I'm sure there's more.

I ended up using it to get cross the lake and get to areas that would take me longer to walk to. It was a complete pain to fish from (for me). Storing it and the associated gear takes up a lot of space for how little it gets used.

Pros: cheap enough to try it out and experiment if it works for you! :)

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by HookedAZ

FS Digest

I’d stay away from them for fishing purposes. Wind is a factor on a hard kayak imagine trying to fish from a balloon. Look for used kayaks to save money

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by robok_w

Pickle Loc: Duplin co, NC

If you have a garage they make a neat sling that's raises the kayak up to the ceiling and you can still park a car underneath. Space problems solved , and you can have a much more reliable and useable kayak.

plumbob Loc: New Windsor Maryland

If you don't have a garage same process like Pickle mentions under a deck if you have one.

No deck or garage maybe one of those storage units that you rent by the month. And definitely stay away from the inflatables.

FixorFish Loc: SW Oregon

Rather than a kayak, consider a personal pontoon. Comes with a seat and oars and some have a transom for a trolling motor. Most all have good tackle storage, some even have rod holders. Pricing is comparable to kayaks, in that you can spend less than $250 (like a Classic Accessories), or get a top-of-the-line for $1500-2000 (like a Dave Scadden). Storage is a breeze. (Not sure about HookedAZ's storage thoughts...a paddle, a PFD, and a bundle the size of a laundry basket ! "amount of space it took up"...????.... guess he's looking for a "Skidbladnir".... Google it !)
I have a Sea Eagle 330 and it's fine for the river for class lll+or less,or a "splash and giggles" afternoon at the lake, but even though the SE330 is quite heavy-duty layered-pvc and has 3 air chambers, I would NOT want it for a fishing boat. Even with the upgraded seats I have, you sit too low for casting well and as mentioned, no practical gear accommodation.
Another alternative is the Sea Eagle 285fpb, less than $1000 (depending on amenities). A 9' inflatable with a floor to stand, transom, pedestal seat, oars, built in rod holders.. extremely stable, tracks well..and fits in the trunk of a small car, or in my case, a plastic bin 20"x 22"x40"... even the Minnkota ! Check it out, starting third season with mine and have absolutely no concerns. I will say that the above mention of DRYING PROPERLY BEFORE STORING TO PREVENT MOLD GROWTH is possibly the only drawback, but that's true for waders, or boots, or jackets, or anything you get wet, anyway.

Az Bob Loc: Phoenix, AZ

I have an FS285 and have used it for 4 years (with t-motor and LCR) when going to small lakes in N. AZ. Works great for fishing but a little heavy for launching. Got, and customized a small utility trailer (Harbor Freight) with rollers and guides which took care of that problem (I’m an active 76). I’d definitely check out different SeaEagle products. A little pricey, but with their great customer service and durability you can buy with confidence.

Olddawg Loc: Citrus Springs, Fl

Live in FL on Gulf but also have house in Md on Chesapeake feader. Bought 3 Hobie inflatable 12 ft. Inflated you would think you were in hard kayak and 500lb weight capable. Only used circle hooks and never worried about puncture. Could carry 2 in back of Çhevy HHR, 90lb mastiff mix, my wife and I with luggage for a week to drive back and fourth from FL to Md 2-3 times a year. Ran over oyster bars and rocks in Florida and heavy current and waves and wakes from barges, lrg boats and idiots in Md rivers. Never cut or punctured. Plus the packs that come with have wheels and ready to be loaded as luggage for flying. They do have some draw backs and are costly. Best go to a dealer and some may rent for a day and some may have shows where they have multiple yaks lined up to try. Get what fits your needs and comfort. It may not be what ours is.