The same dilemma (to AI or TI) was weighing on my mind heavily last year.  I ended up going with the TI because wanted my lady and other friend to be able to join me.  After connecting with other kayak fishermen since then, can see how there's other ways to enjoy company.  All things considered though I'm very happy having a TI - no looking back.

Everyone has given a good assessment of the pros/cons.  The major disadvantage of the TI is certainly the weight and transport.  I got a trailer for my TI and it's really not bad to launch and move around - especially if someone else is around.  About 70% of the time I'm sailing or fishing solo and still do not have issues moving it - but it takes some energy.

In the water the TI can handle some wild seas, assuming AI can as well.  The bigger size is nice to have for me personally.  Especially for camping trips from SF to Angel Island loaded with gear (600+ lb weight limit is nice).  Guess it's mostly personal preference which route you go - just make sure it's an island!!! And life will be good

Signed up for ARW 2019 today, can't wait!  At least two butts in the kayak (it's a tandem) - hopefully many more of the other variety

See you all there!

Mike

Welcome! 

Quote from: TiMike on April 23, 2019, 10:21:44 AM

Fun video Eddie.  I take my tandem island over to Raccoon straight and Tiburon a couple times before, when the waters ebbing like that, it's wild!

I'm in ft Mason SF and yesterday trolled for halis along pier 39 down to Giants ballpark and back, no luck.  Was thinking Racoon straight for my next troll but after your video I don't know what do you think? Any suggestions for where to troll leaving SF or up around you in Marin side of bay?  Depths are crazy around SF so far

Mike

I'm glad you are familiar with these areas.  I'll certainly be at Crissy when it goes off, and i like to explore the shelf at Richardson bay launching out of sausalito.  i do want to attempt Ft. Knox shoal if the weather calls.  The cool thing about that sea lion was that he gave away the trail of the incoming salmon when the time comes.  I am gonna stick to Richmond, paradise and Tomales when it seems appropriate.  My region is still a bit early but there are a few bigguns in the shaker mix if it's your day.  i'm sure we'll fish someday...

I'll join you at Crissy sometime, only fished there on the pier so far but this year it's all from the yak.  Ahh man Richardson Bay is beautiful I've sailed over there for leisure but haven't trolled it yet.  Glad to know there's a shelf.  Point Knox shoal is news to me - have sailed there but didn't know the name.  Still haven't made it up to Paradise Cay yet but have some buddies that go over there.  True on the sea lion - I haven't been out for salmon yet but it's a matter of time.  Looking forward to hooking up sometime/somewhere in the bay!

Welcome Sean! 

Welcome! 

Thanks all for the warm welcome to the community. 
@NowhereMan, is there a meet-up of AI and TI owners?