Noob from Modesto

Hi everyone,

My name is Bernie Lee. I just got back into fishing last year and have been completely obsessed since.
I spent most of last year fishing the slough's in Stockton.
Just walking the levee's for miles.
Obviously there was alot I did not have access to fishing from shore.
I contemplated getting a boat, and decided against it. Just too much of a hassle and possible money pit that I can not afford right now.
So I went to the kayak shop in lodi. Looked at a few boats and a rack for my car.
The guy also turned me on to this forum and some other tournament sites...
So, here I am.. I dont even own a kayak yet lol..
However I am looking to buy 2.. One as an angling kayak for myself and another for the kids and misses to use on family outing's.
Anyhow, any advice would be great.
Thanks.

B. Lee

Welcome, Bernie. 

 .  Welcome to NCKA Bernie. I was a member for close to seven years before I picked up my first yak and actually just went out on it for the first time this past Friday. Great people, info and knowledge here! Also from my experience, Headwaters is an awesome shop. It's a good shop to see a good variety and demo different yaks. Welcome to the madness! See you on the water.      Bert

Welcome...I'm close to you in riverbank and Headwaters is a great place to learn and make a decision...email or pm me if you have any questions or you wanna fish...

deltahawghunters@gmail.com


Bryant

welcome noob from modesto 

Welcome to NCKA Bernie 

Welcome from just up the hill.

Thanks guys, and yes I would like to go fishing Brent. I will probably need some experienced yakers to show me good spots to launch from and how to properly use my yak.
Also I was looking at the "feel free" lure yaks. The 13.5 was what they had at the shop. I think thats a bit much though. I am 6'-4" and about 260lbs. I was thinking that the 11.5 would be fine. What do you guys think?

I'm 6-2 250lbs and love my lure 11.5...more than stable enough

Welcome, Bernie.

You'll hear this often... Before buying a kayak, demo it! Some will feel awkward and uncomfortable, some will feel comfortable and stable. The only way to know is to try them.

If you plan to venture out in the Bay or saltwater at some point in the future, I would recommend something bigger than 11.5 feet. If you just plan to fish lakes, rivers, delta, etc, size will be less important.

Indeed I will. I will be there on Saturday at Lodi Lake.. Probably rent the lure 11.5 and get some fishing in... Should be fun.

11 ft seems a bit small for your height. I feel cramped at 6' in some 13' yaks. Try out a few!

Welcome to the forum. There is not a perfect kayak for all waters. A boat that tracks well on the open ocean is not ideal for fishing small creeks. You either compromise, or get more boats!

I like your enthusiasm Bernie! Welcome to the madness and good luck on the yak hunt. You'll get a couple good ones

welcome bro