Getting Started

Hi,

I came across this site by accident and am very excited about trying out kayak fishing.  I have always fished in the comfort of boats; now that I think about it, the extra challenge of kayak fishing makes it more fun.

I'm wondering if there is a comprehensive piece somewhere about how to get started with the sport.  I see some discussion about which kayak to use; as a newbie I'd also like to find out what ocean conditions are too dangerous to go out; how to launch the kayak; how to arrange all the gears; what are some of the safety rules out on the water; how to deal with a load of 10-15 rock fish and halibuts; etc.  Can anyone point me to the right direction?  Thanks a lot.

First and foremost go to your local Kayak dealer and try out some fishing Kayaks. Most of which are the sit on top variety. I just started in July and had my first real ocean trip out of HMB, loads of fun. I am also taking a safety/fishing guided lessons this sunday w/ scallen.
 My Kayak is the Hobie Mirage w/ the peddle system but their all types of choices.Read the many post on Kayak stores and how too's that you'll find in the forum. Also once you choose a yak just chime in with anyone in hookups and they will lead you in the right direction. This is a fun bunch, just ask.
Frankfishing

http://www.kayakfishing.com/ a great intro to Kayak fishing

Most of us learned gradually by trial and error... as a consequence, there is a ton of information on this board if you use the advanced search feature.

With that said, FrankFishing's advice is good.  Paddle lots of boats until you find the one that's right for you.  Taking one of SCAllen's (Allen Bushnell) clinics is a great way to jump start yourself into this sport and get started right and safely.  You'll be learning from one of the best.  

There's lots of kayaks worth paddling, depending on your preferences.  The most popular models seem to be Ocean Kayak Prowler 15, Prowler 13, Prowler Big Game, Malibu X-Factor, Cobra Marauder, Cobra Fish-n-Dive, Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140, and Wilderness Systems Tarpon 160, plus the Hobie Mirage line of pedal powered kayaks (outback, adventure, and revolution).  

Allen Bushnell can teach you the rest in one of his clinics.

Erik