Please help - addiction forming, need first yak input

Hi NCKA, thanks for the invite to the site, I just joined the forums today.  I have enjoyed fishing for some time now, still learning a lot, mostly trout and some bass, all urban lakes and reservoirs etc around the South and East Bay near San Jose/Fremont.  I have decided I am tired of walking in goose poop and want to get out and be on the water, fish, take pictures, bird watch (the feathered kind) etc.  It seems the me that "yaking" is by far the coolest and most enjoyable way to do this.  Having loved rowing for a long time (not much water time but love it) and grew up deep sea fishing in Ireland, off the North Atlantic.  Also seems like a great way to exercise naturally (hate the gym).  Hoping to build a website/blog to share the adventure.  Now to my problem - what on earth to buy to get started.  I am considering the 2011 OK T13/T15 series or the Hobie Outback.  I am open to anything, but really thought these looked solid and would serve the need.  Some details/questions directly:

1. I am 5'7" and 170lbs, pretty densely built after years of rugby.  My legs are usually a 30'-31' leg. 
2. I have not done much kayaking and will be limited to lakes/reservoirs mostly urban areas, small water, short range for now - Bay Area.
3. Budget is approx $2500, including roof rack solution for my VW min-van.
4. Do I 100% need to get a system like the Thule roof rack (approx - $500) or does the makeshift through window strap on work?  Can I fit a Thule myself without drilling my van?
5. How wet am I really going to get?  Are some yaks more "dry" - referring to SOT, I rule out SINK style.
6. Mostly trout and bass fishing, maybe some summer catfish.
7. Storage - could stand it upright in my garage, but need to know what options are recommended, prefer upright storage.
8. Mostly solo outings, loading and handling etc. - would love to change that but don't know anyone into fishing/yaks right now.
9. New or demo used version from a retailer?  Was considering buying local demo 2nd or new online order.
10. Thank you deeply for any and all help - I really don't have anyone trustworthy to ask.

Again, thank you for any and all help and useful input, I feel a bit lost and am excited to get on the water.  Please feel free to recommend any additional input.  I did talk to Karen at Hook1 today, she pointed me here, thanks Karen.  Mentioned Mooch might have some input if he's around, since I am South Bay, San Jose based.

Looking forward to hearing from you all, and to getting on the water and maybe seeing you there.

Cheers.   


 

Welcome to the madness!

demo, demo demo is the only way to figure out what kayak will suite your needs.

Check out this thread for a demo:
http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php/topic,28843.0.html

Unfortunately, Aquan only sells Ocean Kayaks and Wilderness Systems. You can try other shops that offer demos for Hobie and the other kayak brands as well. But demo-ing is definitely the best way. Don't let anyone talk you into buying a certain kayak cause it may be the best kayak for them but not for you.

Good luck!

WTTM like Joel said whole diff. world when you sit in one and put it to use.Also try falling out and getting back in.

What Mooch said + try a Tarpon.

How wet the ride is isn't the issue. You need to dress as though you will end up in the water.

Don't scrimp on the paddle if you choose a paddle yak. Lighter is better.

WTTM!!

Ben

Welcome to the madness!!!
There are many of us in the south bay/fremont area.

All my yaks, past and present, have been gently used, with lot's of fishblood.  It's tough plastic, so unless you like the new yak smell, you might benefit from buying used, which is cheaper and will likely come rigged, and maybe even some other goodies thrown in.
As for storage, if you do a search, lot's of posts on that- shelves, pulleys, racks and bunch more options.  I store 3 yaks using 2 plastic shelves from Home Depot that serve as columns- I just store a kayak in each shelf, with the shelves being 5 feet apart.  Cost only $80.

I've only used a Yakima system, so I don't know.  I"m sure others will chime in though.  You can start by using pool noodles on your roof and strapping it through your windows until you decide on a system.

Have fun shopping and see you OTW.

Btw, if you are considering a T13, you can try mine to test it out.  The yak is located in San Ramon, and I work in Santa Clara.

I can already sense the strong addiction coming on from you brother. If
I may suggest since you like lake fishing, keep an eye out on some fresh water hookup. Ask if you can borrow a loaner yak this way it is
already rigged and see if you like that particular kayak. I have the Hobie
Revolution and a T13. You are more than welcome to try either one and
can fish from them too. Looking forward to fishing with you soon and
good luck. About the rack, there are so many options to choose from
again you can see everybody's setup once you come in one of the hookup. Do some research on How Do You Roll and you can how people
have their kayak straps on their vehicles.

Jedmo

don't know anyone into fishing/yaks right now.

That all just changed.  Welcome!

What they said.  Especially the part about getting wet.

WTTM! I would think twice about buying online. If you have a problem with your boat you might have a problem getting your local shop to repair or replace your new boat under warranty if you didn't buy it from them. I bought mine locally and I'm sure glad that I did for just that reason.

I wouldn't risk running straps thru your windows to secure your yak to the roof of your van. That can work for surfboards but I don't think it would be safe with a yak. Could you fold your rear seats down and shove the yak in thru your rear doors or hatchback and then strap it to your floor and strap your hatch down to the bumper until you get a Thule or Yakima rack?

I'm kind of glad I started off with a lower cost kayak to start with. It got me out on the water and that helped me learn what I really wanted in a kayak. Then when I sold it I didn't lose much money and bought the kayak that I really wanted after learning a little more. jim

WTTMadness,,,,,,you have just found a new family and you'll never need another friend as long as you have NCKA with you.......now go test paddle/peddal a few and get your butt&line wet. 

I am considering the 2011 OK T13/T15 series or the Hobie Outback. 
As Mooch said do demos.  I took the basic Kayak SOT class at Aquan Sports.  I learned a lot and was the only person in the class to volunteer for self rescue training and got wet.  Everybody else was not interested. During the class I had the chance to try out both the OK 13 and 15.  2 birds with one stone.
I demo'd Hobie's at CA Canoe and Kayak several times.  My first yak purchase was a Hobie Revo with CCK and was given a great discount I could not refuse.  Then I got a new OK Trident 13 at Aquan and was again given a sweet deal I could not turn down.  I personally would not buy a yak online.

Do I 100% need to get a system like the Thule roof rack (approx - $500) or does the makeshift through window strap on work?  Can I fit a Thule myself without drilling my van?
Both Thule and Yakima have base rack systems that does not require drilling. Aquan gave me deep discounts on my Thule system and would say a good roof rack system is worth the investment.  I started with the Thule Glide and Set which attached directly to my factory racks.  When I bought a second yak I bought Thule base racks and 65 inch bars and took out my factory racks.  Now I can load 2 yaks and offer carpooling to save gas. 

How wet am I really going to get?  Are some yaks more "dry" - referring to SOT, I rule out SINK style.
Use the right outer wear. Invest in a good waterproof paddling jacket and pants.  Check out the Kokatat Tempest Paddle Pants.
Getting wet is no fun in the winter time but not too bad in the warm months in freshwater.  Saltwater is different story.

Storage - could stand it upright in my garage, but need to know what options are recommended, prefer upright storage.
Its pretty unlikely you can store a 13 or 15ft yak upright in your garage.  I initially used 2 patio seats (w/o backrests )with cushions and laid my yak on top.  NCKA bro Lucky13 then built a custom 2 yak rack for me.

Mostly solo outings, loading and handling etc.
Get a yak that's around 60 lbs.  The heavier the more its hard to handle and you most likely will be using it less and less.  Wheelez are a must have IMO.
It takes practice and technique to get your loading and unloading system down.

Don't get intimated by all this.  You have a set budget.  I suggest creating a short list of must have's that you can fit in your budget.  Add other stuff later. This sport is a work in progress but a lot of fun.

Hey guys - thanks for all the warm welcomes and awesome advice.  It means a lot.  I have been continuing borderline obsessive research on a lot of the details while reading here also.  Saw some epic videos and talked to a few guys in local shops.  All really helpful.  I am also now heading in the direction of buying local - a. to support to local guys, and b. to have a "connection point" with a real person in the business. 

I am going to go out and demo a couple yaks over the next couple weeks, but I am really getting a good vibe from the Hobie Revo, and I might buy a new one in papaya.  I don't see too many drawbacks. 

My garage is a bit odd, in that it has a specific section that has high 40 feet or so ceilings, so I am confident I could store a yak up in there, but typically a garage would of course be too low.  If that ends up not working, I can store it horizontal in there. 

Still not clear on the roof rack decision, as I will be buying a new SUV/4x4 soon, and I want to be sure I get it with a rack, so I am reluctant to buy a new rack now that has to be specific to my van.  The van is really the wife's car, just using it until I get my new one.  Lot's of new toys coming, and it's not even Christmas!

I also found out the wet clothing is a great idea, and I plan to buy a good set of suitable clothes for going out in.  I don't mind getting a bit wet, as long as I can find a way to stay warm - wet suit, paddle clothes, or whatever.

I guess I am down to a few questions now.

1. Is the Hobie Revo really worth the extra $1,000 over the alternative - say an OK T13 2011 or similar?  People have tried to sell me on the fact the Hobie comes with a rudder, paddle, pre-moulded rod holders, peddles, well made, durable, speed, etc as a way to justify the price.

2. I was going to look into "Stolquist" (sp?) PFD - any recommendations, I really want to wear one and know I will float.

3. What about an anchor - anyone use them, useful?

4. What kind of "box/bag/crate" do you guys keep your fishing tackle in?  I usually have a typical backpack for shore fishing, but it would not be easy to work with on yak and would not get wet well.  If you want to change lures, add bait etc, what way you setting it up or would recommend without lots of drilling and rigging?   

Again, thanks a ton for the welcome and offers, and it's great to be part of the community.

1. Is the Hobie Revo really worth the extra $1,000 over the alternative

This is pretty subjective. Only you can answer that question after demos. Objectively, you won't need to spend a couple hundred $$ on a good paddle, and Hobies have pretty good resale values.

2. I was going to look into "Stolquist" (sp?) PFD

Make sure it fits well, avoid a lot of pockets, get a kayaking model.

3. What about an anchor - anyone use them, useful?

In freshwater, yes sometimes, not the ocean.  A necessity for the bay (sturg fishing), but that's a whole different animal.

4. What kind of "box/bag/crate" do you guys keep your fishing tackle in

I use something like these for small stuff:
http://www.basspro.com/Plano-Waterproof-Stowaway-Utility-Boxes/product/10210352/-1747932

plus a screw top plastic jug for bulky stuff