Kayak Purchase

[natchezdawg]

I am looking to get a kayak for myself, and perhaps my wife. I would appreciate any insight on what direction I should go. Sit on top or not? Size? If I got a double, can it still be used effectively buy just one person?

Starting out, I see it being used on some of the oxbow lakes and slow moving bayous in east-central Louisiana, and perhaps some of the faster moving creeks/rivers in South Mississippi...(Bogue Chitto and Homochitto Rivers). I would also use it for fishing if I could equip it.

[SpeckleDawg]

I would definitely recommend a sit on top. Sit in's can get very hot and are much more difficult to use for fishing. I have had everything from 10' to 14' and can say that 12' seems to be the best length. The 10' is easy to transport, maneuver, etc. and the 14' tracks much better and is heavier and more cumbersome. 12' kayaks kinda split the best of each. I have never paddled a 2-person kayak, but it sure doesn't look like a lot of fun, with 1 or 2 people in it. I personally think you would enjoy two separate kayaks much much more. I don't know what your budget is, but there's a huge range of prices/features. Most will tell you to test several out, but that can be tough to do. If you can find a place like Everything Kayak in Gulfport that has a test pool, that could be helpful. Also, there are always some great deals on used kayaks on craigslist.

[BeastMan]

Everything Speck said.

Another thing I'd add is you get what you pay for so determine how much you're going to use it. If you're going to be using it heavily spend a little more scratch and get something you know will hold up. If it's an occasional deal, there are numerous great layouts in the $700-$800 range. I have a kayak in that range. Great for me. If it was my main fishing vessel, I'd upgrade no doubt.