Could I go wrong?

OK, so I have paddled a couple different kayaks now, but I am still a rank amateur when it comes to kayaking. I have paddled the Prowler 13 and the Tarpon 130, and I liked both, but thought the Tarpon was a little more comfortable. I am also considering the Cobra Marauder but haven't paddled it yet. I plan on trying a few more boats, hopefully at the Bay Area Paddlefest.

My question is, would any of these kayaks be a terrible choice? I plan on fishing and camping from my kayak, including limited ocean fishing. As I try out each of these boats, I find that I'm still too much of a noob to really tell a huge difference. Can I go wrong with any of these choices?

BTW, although I haven't paddled it yet, the Marauder seems to fit my needs the best based upon its features. That choice however, is the most expensive and may be out of my reach!

IMO: The tarpon and the Prowler 13 may not have the Dry hatches (inside storage) that the Marauder has to offer but you can always store your camping stuff on a large dry bag and store it on the rear tank well. The only problem that I can see with that is the weight your putting ontop of your yak instead of below may affect the balance. Maybe do a test paddle with your camping stuff on board might make you decision easier.

...just my two cents / good luck!

If you are going to be camping by yak... storage will be huge. The more, the better. Unless, you like to rough it and go bare bones, the P-13 or tarpon should suit your needs. If you are looking hard at the marauder, you may want to look at other options that offer more storage underneathe. If you aren't going to do that much camping right away or aren't in a hurry, try to find a used yak that will hold you over for the time being. Most likely, it won't be the last yak you buy. It's pretty hard to get the perfect yak for your needs right off the bat.

Good  luck with your search.

Freddie

My girlfriend and I paddle a Prowler 13 and 15 respectively. Regularly we have ice chests in the tank well LOADED with beer and ice. The only noticible difference is launching. Sliding them into the water is difficult because of the uneven weight in the back. Once they are in the water, no problemo!

Tote = thanks for the intel.

in my opinion, the x-factor can carry the MOST beer,  and the MOST beer drinker.

in my opinion, the x-factor can carry the MOST beer,  and the MOST beer drinker.

....and here's proof 

I too are in the market for a fishing yak along with the makes and models you are inquiring about. Let me know what you decide on.

Greg

I looked up the X-factor and I've added it to my list of boats to try out. It looks like it may be a couple months before I can afford a yak, but I'll keep you posted.

-Jay