Greetings

 
Hi everyone,  I'm a total newbie at this kayak fishing deal.   I'm getting a Sea Eagle explorer to start and thinking of hitting the water.  I see the "Hook Ups" section and tempting to participate but not sure what level do you guys expect people to be at.  I'd love to tag a long and learn a thing or two but I don't want anyone to have to babysit my ass.  Another thing, are you guys mostly using dry suit or wet suit? 

Welcome aboard!  You should consider the kayaks mentioned here:

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?board=21.0

You'll probably rule out the Sea Eagle Explorer after you check out and demo the other brands.

Welcome to the Madness!!!

I would highly recommend checking that link and take some kayaks out on demos before you make a decision. There are way, way, way better options available.

More and more people seem to be buying dry suits these days but I'd still say that wetsuits are still more common as they are more affordable.

As for taking your kayak out in the salt I would say give it a go in freshwater first and get your bearings. Make sure you feel comfortable getting back in your kayak from the water in case you fall out (just a matter of time).

Many people here will recommend taking a kayak safety class. They are not too expensive and it just might save your life.

Make sure you have all the necessary safety equipment:
PFD
marine radio
compass
safety whistle
hand pump
wetsuit/dry suit
flares

I'm sure I missed a few items but you get the point. Please be safe.

Check this list of safety topics:

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?board=47.0

When you are all decked out with your gear check out the hookups section and pick a hookup. Most people here are willing to show a newb the way. I mostly fish in Santa Cruz and you are welcome to join me anytime you want. Be prepared to be able to paddle a 3-5 miles with and against the wind.

Hope that helps.

-FF

WTTM don't care what your fishing level is, only what you kayak skill level and preparedness is. Be safe have fun


Sent from my iPod touch because my computer is crap

thanks so much for the tips guys.  yeah I have a kayak class coming up on the weekend.  found a used drysuit for $100.  I'm looking get the last few safety things, marine radio, flares and pump.  The reason I opted for the inflatable over hardshell is mainly storage.  Won't be fast but I'll make it work.  Will take your advice on hitting a calm lake first.    know of any boating/kayak/fishing shows around the SF area?  I haven't been here very long. 

See you guys some sunny day.

Practice self rescues... can't be stress enough.  I bought my yak before I ever joined NCKA, and learned so so much by just reading this and that.  This is an amazing resource... use it, and, WELCOME TO THE MADNESS!!!

Welcome aboard mate
Here is my 2 cents,
Return the inflatable ( if possible )
the first hook or fish spine that penetrates it will have you wishing you'd bought plastic and swimming to shore
and the wind will blow you to kingdom come.
Didn't want to spoil your coming out party, just my opinion
Tad
 

NoFish mentioned the inflatable is for storage... keep in mind he may simply not have anywhere to put a plastic battleship.

Welcome bro! This place is a huge source of information. +1 on the safety class.

Welcome!
I live in a one bedroom apartment and my only vehicle right now  is a Toyota corolla.
Point being is I not only had a storage issue but a roof weight limit of 120 lbs (including the rack).  We have a tiny fenced patio in back so I store both the wife's  WS T100 and my OK T11 on end up against the upper neighbors balcony and we have to lift the yaks over the 6 foot fence and through a 3 foot wide "alley" to the front of the building.  My car roof is carrying right at the 120 lb limit (hence the model selections).  Our #1 place to kayak is the ocean and we are very comfortable on our boats but, I would not be in an inflatable myself.
"Where there is a will there is a way" 
Best of luck to you whatever you decide.  I took a lot of the safety advice from these guys and I am glad I did.

When I met GF back in SC (South Carolina) she used to store her boats upright locked to a Telephone pole.  Laugh all you want, she had it down with a white water boat, rec boat, and sea kayak all strapped and locked to each other.  For tight places it can't be beat.