First time

Going out for the first time this weekend.
Hitting the local lake to get used to the new yak.
Getting my ore's and PFD tomorrow.
Any advise on the ore's? Looking to spend about 100.
Any tips for a newbie?
Thanks in advance!

GS

Here's my advice:  Wear the pfd.

(Pssssst.....we call them paddles)  You can get a decent paddle for 100.  the better the paddle, the higher the price of course.  Maybe get a chap one to start out, and see if you can score a medium or good paddle used, later on.

If you plan on going out in the ocean eventually, take a surf class with MBK or Kayak Connection or other legit kayak retailer.

Also, use the search function on this board for "newbie" or similar descriptors,  there's tons of info for you and other beginners on these pages.  Have safe and be fun!

Allen

For sure I'll wear a PFD!
Thanks for the name on paddle....wasn't sure what they were called.
Yeah.....just want to get a decent paddle to start out with.
Hopfully I can upgrade to a better one in the future!
Was thinking about taking a Kayak class.....definatly look into that before going into the ocean.
Thanks for the tip on the search function!
Thanks for the reply!

I've been using the BB's angler paddle for about 2 years now and really like it.  It's not a "pwer" paddle but good overall.  I bought it at Clavey in Petaluma for around $100.  If you sign-up with them, you'll get a 20% discount for the first time purchase.  Below is the link for its descriptions:

http://www.cabelas.com/watersport-accessories-bending-branches-angler-kayak-paddle-1.shtml?WT.tsrc=CSE&WT.mc_id=nextag&WT.z_mc_id1=737558&rid=40&mr:referralID=0eee2feb-ce60-11e0-891e-001b2166c2c0

Thanks for the tip on the paddle SailFish!
I will definatly check it out!
I appreciate the input!

GS

Good luck GS, sounds like you have the right game plan...just remember that you are a kayaker first, a fisherman second.  Tons of guys get into the sport, outfit their yaks w/ all the gizmo's they can pile on, head out to catch the big one and end up getting into trouble.  Keep it simple, build your yak/tackle arsenal as you go along...experience will tell you what you need.

If you are going out in the ocean, always bring a VHF, in case you need to reach the coast guard or other kayakers. Beside the PDF, the VHF is probably the second most important thing. Welcome to the board, be safe and have fun.

Like LA said, bring a VHF radio and never go out alone.  I recommend the safety classes, or I would practice self rescue on that lake you're goin on.  Either way, safety is top priority.  I would also try Sports Chalet for paddles, you might get lucky and get a decent paddle there for less than $100.  Good luck GS and again, welcome aboard.

Pern

Thanks guys!
I have not had a chance to get my paddle (code for: I have not had the funds to get my paddle =)
I should be picking it up late next week.
I'm pretty sure I'll be getting the BB Slice Angler.
I'll let you guys know how it goes when I go out......hopefully sometime soon!
Thanks for the warm welcome!
Hope to see you guys on the water someday!
Tight lines,

GS

GhostSlayer, for a recreational to mid level paddle (mainly those that have nylon or polypropylene blades) you can't go wrong with Werner.  In fact, for this category of paddles, they are our shop's favorite.  They don't make aluminum shaft paddles because they like to focus on higher quality, but their carbon shaft, fiberglass reinforced nylon blades are really nice.  These paddles sell for only $130 and if you get one you won't be disappointed.  They make a carbon reinforced nylon blade for a little more, but since you are starting out, the standard nylon one is perfect.  We believe that Werner has the cleanest and tightest ferrule design (2 piece paddle joint) on the market. There is no slop and you can easily adjust the feather angle to various degrees.  Werner is also really good with any warranties should anything happen.  Made in the USA.  We also sell some aluminum shaft paddles for a lot less.  The aluminum ones are not nearly as nice as the Werner, but they are still a really good value.  NCKA members get 10% off, but how about you mention this post and we'll make it 15% off for Werner Paddles for a limited time.  It's a Newbie Special!   Welcome aboard.

  NCKA members get 10% off, but how about you mention this post and we'll make it 15% off for Werner Paddles for a limited time.  It's a Newbie Special!   Welcome aboard.

"Welcome To The Madness" to you too outback!!   thats a sweet dealeo!!   

I would practice self rescue on that lake you're goin on.  Either way, safety is top priority.  I Pern

+1

WTTM!

Welcome to our Madness and u might consider a second one for times like these... it was either the hammered guy on the PB or CG and use a wetsuit/drysuit, you'll thank yourself later!!!

*warning* partial nudity/language  and pay no attention to my smack talking of CA...I love to visit

what's not funny is being out on the Big Blue and being unprepared...did a lot of that till I found NCKA!!!

Have fun and I hear an "Echo" Be Safe... Hope to see you OTW sometime soon...


oops wasn't any worse than larry the cable guy...still Besafe

Thanks guys!
I really appreciate all the tips and tricks!
Outback....Sounds like a great deal! I just might have to take you up on that real soon! One of the stores is in Fremont right?
Do I have to mention something?
Once again....thanks to all for your input!
Tight lines,

GS

I just might have to take you up on that real soon! One of the stores is in Fremont right?

Yes, the shop closest to you is Outback Adventures in Fremont off of Automall and Fremont Blvd next to Home Depot and REI.  All you have to do is say you are from NCKA and remind us about the extra discount offer.  We can always look up this thread if needed.  Hope to see you soon.