New to kayaking, what do you think of this kayak?

I'm just getting into the sport and I'm looking for a kayak that would be suitable for Half Moon Bay. I'm 6', 175lbs, what do you guys think of a Islander Reggae Expedition? It's 11'7", 27" wide. I want to fish for rock fish/ halibut and maybe troll for some larger fish in the HMB area. Please let me know what you think, all the knowledge would be greatly appreciated!

IMHO its too small for ocean use...for the ocean I think 12.5 is a minimum and 13-15 is best.  Also if your on a budget look for a good used boat vs. new lower end unit.

Yeah, that seems a little small to me, especially for a 6ft guy. I'm 5'10" 190lbs and I've been very happy with my 14.5ft tarpon.
Once you start dealing with wind, waves, and fish (sometimes all at once) you will appreciate the extra room.

Thanks for the advice! I'm looking on craigslist for used ones but they get snatched up pretty quick. I'll keep looking.

Hello Rayray

I would have to question the stability of the Islander Reggae Expedition at 11'7", 27" wide for ocean fishing. IMO would be OK for lake or pond use. If your planning on going out in the big blue, I would have to agree that you would be better off with a 13-15 foot (sit on top). Safety being your first priority

Are you looking to buy new or used? You can get very good deals on used kayaks. Check this one out http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php/topic,12419.msg116584.html#msg116584. Invest wisely and you will be much happier in the long run.

Your in the right spot for information. Good luck to you and hope to see you out there soon. - Ben

Rayray,

I echo the rest of the guys. I've paddled my wife's Ocean Kayak Venus (11'.5) and at 6"5" tall it was not stable enough for the waters off Santa Cruz. But she just had to try my Prowler13. Its just a good thing she bought a Blue Venus instead of the pink one, cuz I would have refused to paddle that one and then I would have no experienced feedback to give you. And WTTM!!!!