Beginner on a budget

So, besides my day job, I'm also a guitar teacher. When new students come to me, I never refer them to expensive guitars, amps, etc. I also make sure they avoid low quality stuff that will make it harder for them to learn (guitars that won't stay in tune for example). So this is the approach I'm taking as a beginner to kayak fishing and I could use some help.

Looking through the forums and various places online, it's easy to see lots of stuff that I would love to have, but are more "luxury", but I don't want to be like the beginning student who comes to me with a custom built  LP that they spent $4K on and then let it sit in their closet because they gave up on guitar.

So, all that to lead up to a few questions;

1. Are there good beginner kayaks that can be had for less than $1000? New or used doesn't really matter to me.

2. Would my surfing wetsuit work to get started? I know it won't be very comfortable, but I could upgrade later.

3. Are the foam block roof racks safe? My car doesn't have a roof rack, but a local store has a Yakima kit that can be used with a naked roof. Basically just foam blocks and straps. I live in Santa Cruz and am within a few miles of the harbor, so I wouldn't need to drive over 25-30mph and would only be on the road for 10-15 minutes. I'm hoping to find a way to transport without spending $600 on a roof rack system, at least in the beginning.

Also, the main area I don't want to penny pinch is safety. So, is it reasonable to stick to pfd's in the $100 range and a VHF in the $100-200 range?

Sorry for the long post and all the questions, there's just so much to consider that it can be overwhelming.

Welcome to our community Brian    You should have no problem finding a nice kayak in the $1000 range.  I'm sure others will chime in.

A good kayak can be had for under $1000 no problem.  Consider used too.  Wetsuit is OK or for $100 & less you could find a farmer john.  VHF - Standard Horizon HX300 is $100 right now & get a $20 rebate.  Great VHF for the money.  Foam blocks are fine for your needs.

Bill

Headwaters kayak up in lodi just took on vibe kayaks. They look like a great deal at $799. For a 13' boat with rudder. I would most definitely look into vibe kayaks.

Wow Bill & Mike thanks for the quick replies and advice! I'll take a look at the VHF, sounds like a good deal. If definitely be interested in a farmer John if I can one for around $100. Guess I'm used to my surfing wetsuit that I paid $350 for so $100 sounds like a great price.

Is the $799 for a new one? If so, that sounds like something I'll have to look in to.

Thanks again!

Yes 799. Brand new here's a pick I screen shot.

local kayak rental shops sometimes sell used farmer john wetsuits. i got one from monterey bay kayaks in moss landing for 20 bucks and it was in great shape