Wow, after checking out some yaks at Sunrise Mountain Sports in Livermore yesterday and doing some reading, I am thinking of getting the Revo 13 instead. Unfortunately, a Sunrise said they are no longer allowed to do demos in Lake Del Valle. I will prob check out California Canoe and Kayak in Oakland instead. Looks like they have some good sea kayaking courses too. Is it safe to assume that if you can paddle in the sea, the skills transfer over to lakes?

Excellent. Thanks for the info guys. My reasoning for the Hobie would be in case I wanted to get into fishing in the future, I have the ability to pedal AND paddle correct? If I get the Raptor wouldn't my options be limited in the future?

Hi everyone. This forum looks awesome with tons of information I can't wait to get immersed in!

I live in the tri-valley area of the SF east bay and looking to get into kayaking primarily for crabbing. Hopefully fishing down the line. I am tired of paying $150 per trip for rock cod/crab combo on a boat because it adds up after a while lol. I just got approval from the wife to buy a kayak and deciding between Santa Cruz Kayak Raptor SOT or a pedal kayak like the Hobie Mirage Outback. I would primarily be crabbing out of HMB by the jetty as I am familiar with the area. Can anyone steer me in the right direction? I don't have any gear at the moment other than a car and willingness to learn. I will be making purchases as I learn more. I am the type that doesn't like to make an investment unless I have done my research and know what works. Thanks!