Rookie questions?!?!

OK here goes!
I'm trying to gear up for the new hobby I'm venturing into to The PFD I'm still trying on different ones to see which one feels the most comfortable for me but how about keeping my self dry or warm during the early spring on the ocean or lakes. I would think waders would be a no no because if I fall in they are going to fill up. so do I need a wet suit or is there something else to keep me warm and dry?

Also the paddle I got with the yak looks to be carbon fiber and it has a # of 230cm on it so I'm assuming that means there is a size chart for the paddles. I'm 6'6 so what size paddle do I need to be looking for or will this one work for me?

and last is there any of you in the central valley that would be interested in taking a newbe out on the lake before ocean rockies season started to give me a few pointers. I'm willing to drive to any lake in the valley from Fresno south to Bakersfield!!

Jeff

This has been often covered, so use of the search function will turn up lots of information.

For me, I like a wetsuit with a rashguard and a thermal layer, topped with a nice paddling jacket if it is windy. My fav products come from NRS, Mysterioso, and Stohlquist.

If you are 6'6" a 230cm paddle is probably going to feel narrow to you. It will depend on your boat a little, and your paddling style a lot, but you would probably enjoy a 240cm. Best thing to do is try out a few different paddles.

Good recommendations there. As for keeping warm and dry you also have the option of a dry suit which is more expensive but from what I hear it's the bomb. Personally I use wetsuit/rash guard/water proof paddling jacket when in the ocean. When fishing lakes and reservoirs I mainly use my waders.

-FF

Welcome aboard Jeff.  Just stop by the Fisherman's Warehouse in Manteca and ask for Eric, you'll be in good hands!

Welcome aboard Jeff.  Just stop by the Fisherman's Warehouse in Manteca and ask for Eric, you'll be in good hands!

Don't you mean Fresno?

By all means Jeff,
If you're in the area, stop by the shop and say hi. I'll be glad to give you all the help I can.
I'm usually off on Sun. & Mon. So of you want to hit some water, send me a pm or give me a call.

See ya soon,
Eric / Yakhopper
(559) 2884-4299

Sent from my phone cause I can

Welcome aboard Jeff.  Just stop by the Fisherman's Warehouse in Manteca and ask for Eric, you'll be in good hands!

Don't you mean Fresno?

Oop you're right.  I stand corrected! 

Eric
I live in Bako but have family and friends in Fresno and I'm up there at least once a month. I'd love to come in and pick your brain and maybe hit Pine flat or Millerton. I understand FW has a new location from the last time I lived there 8 yrs ago? Ill give you a call next month when I head up that way.