kayak or boat??
Aug 17, 2019 16:17:51 #
FixorFish
Loc: SW Oregon
For a compromise, check out the Sea Eagle 285fpb. $899, so high-end inflatable, but a floor so you can stand, transom so you can motorize, oars so you can even go down the river (up to class lll, beyond that... your choice !) 9' long, about 4' wide, with a pedestal seat. Looks like a baby Zodiac turned backwards.Transport is simple, since it packs small enough that I have taken it in my Audi TT's trunk. I am not sure about the wind comment , kayak-yes,... jon boat...huh ? If you have a problem with wind in a Jon boat, you are simply not wind-tolerent...period. Can't think of a boat (except.... a kayak !) with less of a wind-catching profile. Wind can definitely determine how and what part of the lake I fish, rarely determining, IF, I fish.
I like the advice of renting to determine a preference, that includes renting a Jon boat, though that would probably be at a lake marina, denying you the trailering-launching-loading experience, a definitely important aspect of owning a boat vs. kayak.
Whatever you choose, be a safe boater, for sure. Good luck !
I like the advice of renting to determine a preference, that includes renting a Jon boat, though that would probably be at a lake marina, denying you the trailering-launching-loading experience, a definitely important aspect of owning a boat vs. kayak.
Whatever you choose, be a safe boater, for sure. Good luck !
Aug 17, 2019 16:20:15 #
FS Digest wrote:
I have been fishing the bank for a few years now. I have a job and have been saving up and am not sure if i should get just a kayak or save big and get a jon boat. thing is, jon boat would take me a long time to save for cuz of trailer and the boat itself plus motors etc thatd go in the thousands. I can get a nice kayak for under 1k though so im not really sure which way i should go. I feel like a kayak would be a better option but im not sure
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by AaronW08
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by AaronW08
It depends on what you want it for. If you want ease of carrying, get a kayak. If you want ease of fishing, get a jon boat. It pretty much boils down to that.
Aug 17, 2019 16:25:10 #
Consensus looks like to this point its a kayak for you. For me I purchases brand name ( Bonafide ) which enables me to stand and best part is out fishing any power or jon boat. Getting to the out of way places in creeks its a major plus. Big difference in a kayak and a fishing kayak you get what you pay for. In total $1,600 but that includes vest which is a must, rod holders, paddle, and a cooler to fit in the back section. However in a few years getting a pedal power kayak because my neighbor can go where I go and he out fishes me because he can fish while moving.
plumbob
plumbob
Aug 17, 2019 18:12:46 #
hankmitchell313
Loc: Conyers Ga.
i fished half the day today in my kayak i love it it has to be paddled but once you learn the how toos its not that hard and i and so at peace when I'm out there in it.
Aug 17, 2019 23:58:05 #
Cak124
Loc: Sacramento, CA area
I fished from the bank for years. I then discovered the belly boat (Caddis II) has lasted me for years with plenty of storage and I can manage 4 rods. What I like about the belly boat is you have fins on which keeps you in place while fishing. Watched many people on kayaks and pontoon boats struggle with the wind while I was catching fish.
Took me 45 years but I now have a bass boat, but still like to fish small waters on the belly boat.
Took me 45 years but I now have a bass boat, but still like to fish small waters on the belly boat.
Aug 18, 2019 00:47:07 #
DeanK1
Loc: Lincoln City, OR
Kayak! Wish I would have bought mine sooner. It is different and the wind can be challenging. I bought a drift sock and attached a yakgear anchor trolley. Gives me lots of options. Probably will buy an actual anchor too eventually. Boats are great and I have owned a couple but, kayaks are more versatile and you can access water where a lot of boats can’t go. Not dealing with the extra costs (gas, maintenance etc.) is nice too. Your choice should have some basis on type of fish you target and where you are located. For example mine is a paddleler and will make it tougher to target Salmon in the rivers of Oregon. Either way you choose, both catch fish!
Aug 18, 2019 01:39:15 #
I would suggest getting the kayak and then start saving for the Jon boat. If you really like the kayak to fish from then think of all the extra money you will have saved. You would be wise to get a carbon fiber paddle, they are a lot lighter than the inexpensive ones. Good luck in your decision and be safe. Wear that life jacket!
Aug 18, 2019 09:01:18 #
you can get a decent new kayak for $200 but be limited to being alone on the craft and warmer weather. you can probably find a used jon boat w/ motor for 1,000 dollars and find a roof top carrier for your car within that thousand or for only 100 more. a 10' jon boat (or preferably bigger) will keep you dry in the winter. start looking at craigslist, yard sells and pawn shops.
Aug 18, 2019 09:27:09 #
You may want to check out some Pack canoes. You can use a double paddle like a Kayak but it is much easier to get in & out. Your fishing tackle and other items are easier to get at because you are not confined to a cockpit hole and accessory hatch. They cost more than a big box store Kayak, but the difference is an investment you will appreciate every time you go fishing. The smaller ones will fit in the back of a pick up but you will need a rack or foam blocks for a car. The foam blocks work as long as you tie it on well, including fore & aft lines to minimize side sway.
Aug 18, 2019 09:50:33 #
HawkOBX
Loc: eastern Pennsylvania
Definitely kayak. Reasons: Closer to the water so much easier to grab the fish you catch. Better bait presentations as your are closer to the water. Kayaks can get into the skinny water that boats can't touch. Good workout. Much more comfortable than a Jon boat or standard row boat. Dozens of setup options(check the You Tube videos). More and quicker maneuvering. Would recommend a sit on top kayak as they are more comfortable and many have stand up options. Loading and unloading much quicker than any boat. Many more launch point options than boats have. Can fish in moderately windy days with minimal issues using anchors/wind socks or even drifting a 2 gallon bucket. Just a much more enjoyable experience than a boat and I have fished in many boats and have access to several but never use as I catch way more fish in my kayaks.
Aug 18, 2019 16:08:50 #
I agree, i have a 12' aluminum roe boat i use just a 50lb thrust trolling motor my boat is a semi v bottom, need room for tackle box, poles, not much room in a kayac, i paid more for the trolling motor and battery than the total cost of boat& trailor combined, good deals are out there
Aug 18, 2019 16:38:47 #
Get the kayak. Get an angling kayak with transom on the stern. Save up and buy a trolling motor and marine battery - off you go. No gas and much more mobile, and you're on the water for less than $1000.
Aug 18, 2019 16:43:10 #
One more thing - I learned years ago while canoeing that you need to tether everything to the boat thatyou don't want to loose. You are going to go in. Not a question of if, just when. Plan for the worst. And invest in a dry bag and put what you can in there - your cell phone, camera, lunch, water bottle.
Aug 18, 2019 17:15:39 #
There is so many options, and opinions most inportant is what you are comfortable with and enjoy fishing!! Stay safe and good 🎣
Aug 18, 2019 18:23:10 #
Look into a Vibe kayak. My opinion it's the best fishing kayak for the price. Also, very comfortable. Love mine!
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