Kayak Storage and Transportation

Hi!

I'm looking to get started in Kayak fishing, so I was excited to find this forum filled with such great info, and local to Norcal.  I've learned quite a bit from searching the forum, but I've got a ways to go before I'm ready to hit the water!  I've encountered a few obstacles to Kayak ownership that I was hoping some of you could help me out with; perhaps you've got some better ideas/options I might look into. 

The first problem is that I live in a small apartment in Walnut Creek, and so have nowhere to store a Kayak.  For those of you in a similar position, do you rent a regular storage unit?  Or is there somewhere in the bay area that offers kayak-specific storage, hopefully at a lower cost than a storage unit? 

Second, I drive a 2-Door older model Honda Civic coupe, not exactly the ideal kayak transport.   So even if I can tackle the storage problem, I've got to figure out how to haul the Kayak around.  I saw a few smaller (not sure if they were 2-door or 4-door) cars rigged to carry a Kayak pictured in the “This is how we roll” thread, so it must be possible.  If so, what rack systems do you recommend?  I’d like to spend as little as possible, but don’t want to launch a torpedo on the freeway either.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.   

Hopefully I’ll be seeing you on the water soon!

Mike

Hey Mike D and Welcome to the Madness!!!   

I feel you on the space issue, as was when I started out too.  I frankly had to keep it at my dads house in his garage until I got my own place for it. 

As far as the civic goes, it should be fine.  I used my Honda Accord 2-door coupe with Yakima rollers and saddles until just recently and it served me well.  I started out with just the foam blocks and straps and it was inexpensive but very cumbersome. 

ORS (http://www.orsracksdirect.com/yakima-8004019.html) has a 20% off Yakima sale right now with free shipping, but the setup is still a bit pricey.  Thule has a similar clip on system as well.  You may find a good deal on craigslist even, but gotta search for it.

I've even been able to fit two kayaks for short distance trips to Del Valle!

Good Luck!

ORS (http://www.orsracksdirect.com/yakima-8004019.html) has a 20% off Yakima sale right now with free shipping, but the setup is still a bit pricey.  Thule has a similar clip on system as well.  You may find a good deal on craigslist even, but gotta search for it.

Hi!
Thanks for the link to ORS! I'm in the process of getting rigged up as well, and was going to pick up a rack this weekend! Just ordered from ORS and got 25% off (20% off Yakima, and another 5% if you enter BONUS5 in the coupon code), plus no tax or shipping! 

I'm stoked. Now, all I need is a kayak...safety equipment...and more tackle...It's a good thing my WAF account is full, though quickly depleting.

keep an eye on craigslist for yakima racks, they go up all the time.  got my yakima bars + mounts for $100 off there, love them.  so much better than my old foam blocks used to be.

Check the classifieds thread. I just saw a sweet pimped Trident 13 for $850 from stormscrambler.

You would be hard pressed to find a better deal than that.

Wow, is this right, 2 newbies in one thread? That's awesome, WELCOME & thanks for introducing yourselves!   

Looks like you're already getting some good advice. If you can, try out several different kayaks before buying to find what works for you. There are some shops that have different models you can try or a lot of people here will help out & let you paddle one (or more) of theirs.

Regarding the storage issue, I have the same problem. Probably the best solution is to store it at a friend or relative's place if possible, like AlsHobie- mentioned.

Right now, I keep the kayak on my truck with a cable lock, but thieves are a constant concern. Fortunately, I've got a "neighborhood watch" that keeps an eye on it! You might want to check around (probably Craigs List) to see if anyone is renting out a garage space near you.

One more thing I'd suggest is to take a safety/intro paddling course. I can personally highly recommend SBD's Kayak Fishing University (KFU), with classes happening soon: http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php/topic,17503.0.html You'll get a major head start on the game.

Another esteemed NCKA member & instructor is scallen (Allen Bushnell) out of Santa Cruz. He can also get you set up & on your way.

there are places around to store a yak...paddle clubs, etc...the only issue is that you have to figure out which one will be closest to the place you are likely to launch. I don't know what the costs are either.

Wow, is this right, 2 newbies in one thread? That's awesome, WELCOME & thanks for introducing yourselves!   

Thanks! I've been researching the boards for almost a year building a gear list and getting great info from everyone.

The missus has finally given the go ahead to get set up, so I'm looking forward to becoming a full-fledged, kayak-owning member of the community.

My rack gets here next week, so I may be able to get my kayak next weekend. Leaning towards a Hobie Revolution at this point. I've convinced the missus that it's "safer." 

The missus has finally given the go ahead to get set up, so I'm looking forward to becoming a full-fledged, kayak-owning member of the community.

My rack gets here next week, so I may be able to get my kayak next weekend. Leaning towards a Hobie Revolution at this point. I've convinced the missus that it's "safer." 

Haha! I think that's a new one for The Madness!  Buying your rack, before the kayak!  CLASSIC!   

Where do you live?  I think Mel Cottons has the Revo as a demo/rental.  When your rack comes in, go give it a try and I bet you will be hooked  

I wish I could fit in a Revo but too for that ride 

My yak won't fit in my apartment either. I rent a space at the Kayak Hotel at the 5th avenue marina in Oakland for $35 a month. Send me a PM if you want contact info.

I just got a new Revo and love it. It's my second Hobie but the Revo is really a sweet ride.  If you can find a friend with a garage, it's pretty easy to sling the yak above the cars with wide nylon straps and ratcheting handles.  Mine takes up no space at all and it's really easy to load on my Yakima racks on my Accord.  I can hang it upsidedown to drain when it's wet or turn it over to be ready to transport car-top.  Here's a picture.

Where do you live?  I think Mel Cottons has the Revo as a demo/rental.  When your rack comes in, go give it a try and I bet you will be hooked  

Thanks for the heads up on Mel Cottons. I'm in San Jose, so I'll definitely have to check them out next weekend.

Sorry, Mike, for hijacking your post. I just wanted to thank Alshobie for the info on ORS...

As far as the civic goes, it should be fine.  I used my Honda Accord 2-door coupe with Yakima rollers and saddles until just recently and it served me well.  I started out with just the foam blocks and straps and it was inexpensive but very cumbersome. 

Thanks for the tips.  Those are some good deals, but I think I'll try the foam blocks and straps for now, and upgrade a bit later. 

My yak won't fit in my apartment either. I rent a space at the Kayak Hotel at the 5th avenue marina in Oakland for $35 a month. Send me a PM if you want contact info.

That sounds like a good option.  Pretty cheap, too!  I'll PM ya.

Sorry, Mike, for hijacking your post. I just wanted to thank Alshobie for the info on ORS...

No problem Algie, I don't consider it hijacking.  The more the merrier!  Plenty of information to go around.