Kayakers

[DaveK]

I was just wondering if anyone had any tips as to a good affordable kayak. I have been looking at the WS Pungo and the WS Ride Angler. I like the Ride a lot better but there is a significant difference in price. Anyone want to plug one over the other. I have only yaked a handful of times but am really interested in getting into it. Any suggestions would be appreciated. thanks in advance
DaveK

[ekg]

What do you plan to fish for. Where do you plan to do your fishing? I can almost guarantee that either boat will be fun. That being said, tou pay your money and take your chances. I currently fish from a sit-in, but either this year or next I want to get an sot as well. Different conditions different solutions. 2 kayaks are still cheaper than one decent outboard. That is without the boat. EKG

[PeteV]

from past posts a lot of people have been talking up another Wilderness System's Sit on Top (Tarpon).

[ruge13]

check out the "choosing a fishing kayak" thread in this forum. There is alot of usefull info regarding the WS yaks in this thread. The choise reall depends on what kind of fishing you will be doing, preference for "SINK's" (I shake my head every time I write that) or SOT's, and where you wil be fishing like EKG said. The best advice to start when buying a new boat, try them all, and when you thin kyou tried enough and are comfortable with a couple, try them again. This will be invaluable. You can listen to us all day yapping about whats best for hat conditions buy besides some common beliefs regarding stability and water types the majority of your decision is personal preference. After all, you are going to be in the boat, not us. As far as inexpensive.....the WS boats are great boats and very popular. Check the classifieds in the newspaper and also on web sites like www.paddling.net. Keep looking untill you find a price you are happy with. There are alot of places selling alot of boats...don't settle on a boat you might think is second best because of price. You will be sorry in the long run.

[Wes]

I have a SINK and a Tarpon, both are terrific in different situations. Decide where and what kind of fishing you will do. If I had only one it would be the Tarpon, there are many suitable boats though.

[kalamaiofly]

What about fast SOT? I'm trying some here in Italy. Two models seems to fit the need: florida and australian, with the second at 15'2".

[DaveK]

I have two really good prices on either a ride or a tarpon. i think i am goin to pick out one or the other tommorrow. any suggestions as to which one. i want to be versatile doing both fresh and salt water and i am set on getting a SOT. Also since i am new to the sport of yakin' I was wondering if there are any clubs or groups which i could tag along with so I can find some fish and not get myself into trouble in the process. this board is great. thanks for all the help

[FLYRODER]

If your choice is between the Tarpon or the Ride get the Tarpon.
As for kayaking with others why don't you try hooking up with some of the kayakers on this board or other boards. Just post on the board where and when you plan on kayak fishing and I'm sure you will get some reply's. Not many of us like to fish alone on a kayak.

[DaveK]

Thanks everyone for all the help. It came down to a question of being able to transport with my short bed pick up and the tarpon was just too long. can't wait to get out on the water. I work around the North Shore MA and get out of work around 330 everyday. If anyone wants to hit the water one evening this week let me know. You can reach me at either HCLion02@aol.com or dakwajew@holycross.edu I fly and spin and am willing to drive. thanks again
DaveK

[WeeHooker]

Go to www.harborfreight.com and search 'bed extender". I've got one and can haul my 15' canoe in a toyota short bed w no trouble ( Just watch the traffic.) hth