For the love of Kayaking

[Blaze]

For the love of Kayaking...
For the well seasoned, the intermediate, and the amature yakers, or the one's that are thinking about getting one.
A place to share Idea's.
Ask questions.
Share place's you have been to.
Be you a recreational kayaker. A sports fisherperson, racing yaker, bird watcher yaker, touring, white water, sea or fresh water kayaking.
No matter what you like, it's all an addiction.
There are so many options to choose from. SIS which are sit inside.
SOTS which are sit on top. Chosing the right one is a task in itself.
Then comes the accessories. What type of PFD personal floating device. Which paddle is right for you. Anchors, Floating anchors, floats.
Bungies, straps. Rod holders,leashes,clamps,lights, fish finders, GPS, ropes, emergency kits, what type of roof carriers, buy versus make your own.
Stability, fast tracking, skirts, rudders. Yes so many options, so much choices. All in all, it's the matter of comfort, cost, and what your planning to do.
My main choice of information is, if your not sure what kind of kayak your wanting to buy; don't just buy because it looks pretty, rugged or you like the color. Don't buy out of desperation. Go to places that let you test paddle, try as many as you can. Ask question to the dealership, if there are courses, consider taking a basic class on paddling. And always wear you PFD it could save your life!
* There are many kayaks for sale online that are used, but if you don't know what your buying you could be buying someone elses problems. Know what your looking for, look for leaks, soft hulls, rotted seals. Ask to try before you buy.
* You can actually save a lot of money making your own accessories. And you really shouldn't over pack your yak to begin with, though I am very guilty of packing like im going to camp for 2 days. I am not one that likes name brands, I like basics, some of the low end brands actually work just as well as the expensive.
*PFD are the only expensive item that you need to spend money on, like I said earlier, it will save your life.

[Just_G]

I absolutely LOVE kayaking! When we float the spring-fed rivers here in Missouri, I use an SOT. I have always wanted to hit some faster rivers, but the ones here in the spring are pretty good...it's just cold because of the "spring fed" thing. BRRRRR!!

I would love to try some other places that are not too far of a drive, but will have to wait until after I finish school to be able to do so.

[DapperButch]

I have done white water rafting and have always wanted to do white water kayaking, but never have. The closest place is a few hours away, so it really isn't possible for it to become a sport for me.

I have considered looking into ocean kayaking, as I go to the beach in the summer regularly. Now I know where to go for information this summer, if I decide to get into it.

Thanks, Blaze!

[Blaze]

Originally Posted by Just_G

I absolutely LOVE kayaking! When we float the spring-fed rivers here in Missouri, I use an SOT. I have always wanted to hit some faster rivers, but the ones here in the spring are pretty good...it's just cold because of the "spring fed" thing. BRRRRR!!

I would love to try some other places that are not too far of a drive, but will have to wait until after I finish school to be able to do so.

Ahhh speaking of the cold...
You can wear wadders, or you can purchase a neoprene body suit. For me, lol, cheap way, get a rain jacket suit, I use the pants, put on a neoprene wadder boot. A hoodie and I am ready!
Yes, I prefer the sit on tops, only cause I fish and I like to hang my legs off the side. I have yet to white water. Perhaps one day we can hook up and you teach me how to hit the rivers!

[turasultana]

I've kayaked for many years (some years more than others), almost exclusively in the Hudson river around Manhattan & Brooklyn. The river is brackish and tidal so it's more like sea-kayaking. Lots of boat traffic as well ( just try to outrun the Staten island ferry sometime!). I've played in sit on tops when i wanted to get some sun on my legs, but normally it's all sit inside. Lately I've used a Cape horn 15, but i've also liked a 17 foot.

Once it warms up I'll be back, too much hassle to deal with full dry suit in the winter for me.

I don't own a boat. I've owned a PFD (because the one's the outfitter has are not made to accommodate breasts - so you either can't breathe or they ride up!

I do however have my own paddle. Best investment you can make I think. Mine is a good 10 years old - Epic carbon fiber. Love it, light as hell, esp important for long distance paddle.

[Blaze]

I give you credit for trying to out run a ferry! The boaters here in Texas, they like to try and turtle you. SO I usually have my fishing rod in one hand while saluting the middle bird with my left. ~shakes head~ to much salutes cuts my fishing time in half!
Wonderful choice in paddle I must say! Because I use my paddle for everything, I have always used the Day tripper from Academy. It's not good in the cold weather, but I love the blade on it, and it's a good second paddle back up if something happens to your favorite paddle. I am now looking into the Bending Branches Whisper AS paddle.

[Blaze]

What to Carry on Board
Kayak Fishing With Jeff McGovern

A kayak is not a bass boat, bay boat, or a flats boat when it comes to hauling equipment. While a kayak can fill most boating roles, space is limited-- so serious thought is needed as to what to carry. You outfit your boat according to the needs you have in your own fishing area. My fishing time is split between saltwater and freshwater in Florida. The gear is similar, except for the tackle changes normally associated between the two types of fishing.

Safety gear is first. You need to be safe in the water and there are some things that are mandatory and might be required by law. A PFD or personal floatation device is very important and should be worn at all times while in the kayak. A whistle is required as a signaling device and should be carried on board. Hat and sunglasses add protection and comfort from the sun. Proper clothing, either rain suit or sun protection, needs to be accessible for when the need arises. Fishing gloves protect the hands from sunburn and can aid in the landing of fish. Sun block should be worn at all times to protect the skin. I prefer at least SPF 30 or higher. Foot wear needs to be nonskid and of a type that can be worn in the water. Here in Florida, shoes with a sturdy sole help prevent cuts and slashes from oyster beds and shells. I also carry a sponge or towel to wipe my hands after a fish, as well as to soak up any water I get into the boat.

You need some way to secure your kayak while still fishing. An anchor or stake out pole is ideal for this. My preference is to use a small folding anchor on an anchor trolley rigged to the side of the kayak. If the water is shallow enough, in the W you can simply change your position on the seat to pin the hulls to the bottom--a great method for stop and go style flats fishing. In deeper water, a drift sock or small bucket can be used to slow down your drift. In addition to securing the kayak at times, you'll also need a place to keep the paddle out of the way. You can either place it across the cockpit, resting on the cockpit noodles or on paddle hooks (as seen on the W website.)

Fishing tackle needs a place to be kept out of the way until needed. A fishing vest with multiple pockets is fine for small terminal tackle and packages of plastic baits. It also gives you a place to carry a small camera, line clippers, dehookers, and other small fishing tools. I use small gear reels or lanyards to keep the gear close at hand but out of the way while fishing. Larger lures in tackle packs and other tools can be placed in a small plastic trashcan and slid under the deck on whichever side is most convenient. A net is handy and a small one can be kept under the front deck opposite the side with the trash can. Another great tool for landing and controlling fishing at the boat is a pair of fish grabbers.

I keep drinks and snacks in a small soft cooler behind me in one of the hull spaces. If fish are to be kept for dinner, they can be stored in a cooler bag in a hull space as well.

Rods and reels are placed in the flush mount holders, if the W model you have is equipped with them. My F2 has two holders, while my standard W boat has a three-tube crate rig mounted on the deck behind me. If I need extra rods, I use multi-piece pack rods stored below the decks. Some folks like to troll while paddling and the new Ram rod holders are ideal for this purpose.
Remember that, even though space is limited compared to a powerboat, there is more than enough room for a day of fishing in a kayak. It just takes a bit of thought and planning.

[SnackTime]

Thanks for starting this thread Blaze!

[Blaze]

Originally Posted by turasultana

I've kayaked for many years (some years more than others), almost exclusively in the Hudson river around Manhattan & Brooklyn. The river is brackish and tidal so it's more like sea-kayaking. Lots of boat traffic as well ( just try to outrun the Staten island ferry sometime!). I've played in sit on tops when i wanted to get some sun on my legs, but normally it's all sit inside. Lately I've used a Cape horn 15, but i've also liked a 17 foot.

Once it warms up I'll be back, too much hassle to deal with full dry suit in the winter for me.

I don't own a boat. I've owned a PFD (because the one's the outfitter has are not made to accommodate breasts - so you either can't breathe or they ride up!

I do however have my own paddle. Best investment you can make I think. Mine is a good 10 years old - Epic carbon fiber. Love it, light as hell, esp important for long distance paddle.

Stohlquist Wedge-e Personal Flotation Device

see more products
by MTI MTI PFDiva Womens Kayak Life Jacket 2010: The PFDiva is the only Life Vest you can custom fit for different cup sizes. Inspired by the latest fashion & sports bra design trends, the PFDiva comes with the *Adjust-A-Bust* Fit Kit. Four ultra-soft Memory Foam pads can be inserted inside interior pockets to support the bust, improving the vest-to-body connection. PFDiva moves with you. Other women-friendly features are the Racer-Back shape, a front entry zipper, easy-to-use adjustment straps, pockets, reflective tape for visibility, and pretty Butterfly Tattoos.
http://www.thefind.com/apparel/browse-womens-kayak-life-jacket
There are PFD's in so many more choices for women now.

[Blaze]

How to Find the Best Kayak Life Vest for Women





kayak 9 image by Jerome Dancette from Fotolia.com

How to Find the Best Kayak Life Vest for Women



Overview

A kayak life vest, or a personal flotation device (PFD), is a necessary piece of kayaking safety gear that provides buoyancy should you fall into the water. Regardless of type and size of watercraft, the U.S. Coast Guard requires each person carry a PFD on board. Women-specific PFD's are customized for a better fit and improve their effectiveness as a life preserver.


Step 1

Torso length of the PFD should be short. To maximize mobility while paddling, women's PFDs will be shorter in length and have a racer cut on the back of the vest. The shortened length allows for a versatile and snug fit across the waist and chest, will prevent the PFD from riding up above the shoulders and will not interfere with the kayak seat back.
Step 2

The PFD should have built-in contoured cups. Built-in contoured cups wrap and support the bust line rather than crush or flatten.
PFDs for whitewater Great selection of PFDs from Astral Lotus and Kokatat zoaroutdoor.com/catalog
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Step 3

The PFD should have adjustable shoulder and waist straps with side-release buckles. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit of your PFD for comfort and maximum safety. A vest that fits snugly will keep you afloat should you fall into the water.
Step 4

Over the head or side-zip design prevents the PFD from coming undone during use. Life vests with a center-zip closure can unzip during a wet re-entry into your kayak. An over-the-head design or side-zip closure prevents the zipper from pulling down when getting back into the kayak in the event of capsize.
Step 5

The PFD should have storage for safety gear. Two front cargo pockets are essential for carrying safety gear such as a whistle, a knife and food. The vest should also have reflective tape on the front and back to allow for visibility in low light.

Inflatable PFD Life Vest Mustang & SOSpenders Life jackets infant, children's & adult vests! www.LandfallNavigation.com
Life Vests at SwimOutlet Low Price Guarantee, Free Shipping, The Web's Most Popular Swim Shop! www.SwimOutlet.com
TX Kayak Paddle Quality, Lightweight Kayak Paddles. Call Our Store To Buy Today! www.GullwingPaddles.com/PaddleStore
Hi-Vis Clothing ANSI Coats, Hats, Vests, Leather, Radio Straps, Suspenders www.firstoutrescue.com
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Tips and Warnings

• To care for your PFD, rinse after each use and let the vest dry before storing.

References

• REI: Gear for Kayak Trips
• Water Outfitters: Kayak Life Jackets vs. Traditional Life Jackets

Photo Credit

kayak 9 image by Jerome Dancette from Fotolia.com

About this Author

Cathleen Calkins is a writer and photographer specializing in writing about travel, adventure, lifestyle, health, fitness and brand identity since 1998. Her work has appeared in "Backcountry," "Telemark Skier" and "The Rotarian" magazines, as well as "LA Weekly," "Las Vegas Review Journal" and a number of adventure travel and marketing websites. She holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality management from Rochester Institute of Technology.




Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/12...#ixzz19uTjXPrH

[katsarecool]

Would it be too much to ask if the person who will take me kayaking also be able to take me fishing as well?

[katsarecool]

I have never been but always wanted to!!! If there is anyone in GA near Atlanta that would like to take a femme for her first kayaking adventure just let me know. I am still waiting for my first ride on the back of a Harley too! Maybe this is my year!!!