Kayaks

[NickB]

I have poured throught the old threads regarding yaks types pro's and con's and believe I have a good idea what I would like. Obviously I am planning on trying several before the investment. I am curious if there are any places still open or willing to let you test them in the winter. I am heading to the cape this weekend and will try Goose Hummock to see. From most of the threads do any of you have a preference of where you buy your yaks and accesories. I would prefer to support local retailers and those frequented by reel - timers.

Thanks

Nick

[kayaker]

New England Small Craft in Rowley has always been good to me; ditto Essex River Basin Adventures in Essex. Like the well-run Discovery Adventures Sea Kayaking in the Lanesville section Gloucester (might be closed for the winter) and North Shore Kayak Outdoor Center in Rockport, they nearly always have some used boats in stock. Joel at New England Small Craft is a nice guy to do business with (i.e., he can be flexible with pricing). I have never done business with Charles River Canoe and Kayak, but I understand that it's a good place to try out kayaks in winter during years when the river is ice-free. -- dc

[ruge13]

North Shore is a good one. They do have lots of used boats listed on their web site. They are open this time of year by apointment only so call ahead as they keep their inventory off location.

Charlse rives is a good one as well, they have a large rental and class program so they always have boats around to try.

Another option is to wait until the spring sale/show season starts. North shore will have a spring show and discount boats. Also look for Collinsville Canoe and Kayak in CT. They have a show each spring and will let you demo just about anything from the Reps.

Most stores carry accessories of all kinds with the exception of rod holders. Those you may have to hunt around for and are better off looking at Marine boating sources like West Marine, Bass Pro, etc. If you are going to the Goose, they have a decent selection but keep in mind you can probably do better price wise hunting around. Although they carry a lot of good paddling gear in the annex, you tend to get the tourist inflation rate (might be different this time of year).

REI is a good one too. You can play with the stuff in the stores, or get it through RT since they are an affiliate.

Also keep in mind RI does not have a sales tax on boats.

[joev]

Most places wont let you try them out in winter for fear of hypothermia and other cold water problems.Others let there insurance drop out for those months too.
Wait till spring or buy a proven fishing kayak.

JoeV