in need of a yak

i went kayak fishing for the first time ever at moss in Martin's rig last Friday; i have to say it was awesome!  it looks like the wife   is a go for letting me get my own kayak, i just need to find one i like.  i've been checking around on craig's list and stuff, but i can't say i've found a lot of good deals.  i'm looking for something for around $300 that would work for a beginning paddler.  I'm 6' and 165 pounds, so doesn't need to be very big.  anybody know of a good boat for sale?  i'm also very interested in going out again anytime i can, although currently i don't have a kayak.  so if anyone has a loaner and are heading out shoot me an email.  

-Greg

Most sit on top kayaks will work fine.  I would recommend one with a tank well in the back vs hatch as it is easy to store fish, place a milk crate for storage, ect.  Brands and models that are popular for fishing include:  Ocean Kayak - Prowler, Scupper Pro TW, Drifer, Caper (you might be too tall, though), Malibu Kayaks - Pro Explorer, Extreme, and Cobra Kayaks - Fish n' Dive, Navigator, Explorer (found this one tippy).

You probably should test paddle many different kayaks before buying which can be difficult when buying used.  Kayak Connection in Santa Cruz is great dealer where you can try many brands and REI is having a "Paddle Day" soon (don't know when).  You might be able to pick up a used kayak or a demo at reduced price.  Good luck.

Hey Greg.  Good to meet you last Friday.  I'm glad you and Martin had fun despite the lack of fish.  You'll enjoy it even more when you get your own kayak.

I'd follow Kevin's advice... and then ask your buddy Martin to help you keep an eye out for used kayaks online.  If you'll let me know which kayak(s) you're interested in, I'll be happy to help you find one too.

SoCal has a much bigger selection of used kayaks and lower prices than up North.  Have Martin check 'em out for you...

thanks for the leads guys.  REI is having the paddle day thing this weekend in mountain view, about 3 miles from my house!  i'll have to go  and demo a few.

I went to the REI paddle days today and tried out a lot of kayaks.  the two that i liked best were the tarpon 120 and the prowler13.  i liked the prowler the best, anybody here had one in the past or know of one for sale?

Kevin paddles a Tarpon 120.  As for the Prowler 13,  I doubt you'll find a used one for sale, they're just too new.  However, you can't go wrong with either.