Kayak "fishing" paddles

 Are fishing specific kayak paddles better for kayak fishing?

After some careful thought and light research, I would say,   sometimes.

I believe that the most critical and helpful change is offering longer paddles. 240-260
The SOTs for fishing are getting bigger and the chairs are getting higher.

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=60375.msg678853#msg678853

I can also see the value of the interchangeable kayak/SUP/push-pole paddles for those multifunction boats/boards that have gained some popularity.

The negatives that will turn me away from fishing paddles are strong.
First is the limited blade selection. Kayak fishing paddle blades should be offered in mens sizes.
My second is that some of the companies don't offer a bent shaft in their longer paddles.
In my case ,  =customer dissatisfaction.

Im not a pro, but I still hope that I can offer some advice for those who might be considering a paddle upgrade.
Please don't let fishermen devalue how important a high functioning paddle is.
Lighter is better.
This is a significant purchase. Do some research and test.
If you are testing paddles, make sure that you are testing it with same boat that you will be fishing on. Crucial for that perfect fit.
Make sure you love it! There are too many choices out there to ever settle.

Hope this helps someone.


Before I make a decision on my purchase, I have some factors to consider.
I can buy 1 paddle this year.
I need a 250+ for my river boat.
I need a 4 piece travel paddle.
I don't have too many more years of using big blades so I need to enjoy them while I can.
Do I want to get a greenland???? maybe

One of the reasons that Werner might be my next choice is their 4 piece paddle. (Like the Lendals)
A 4 piece is a must for destination adventures. The paddles at the resort will be disappointing.
BUT
Adventure Tech has a paddle that I believe would be perfect for me on the Coosa lawn chair.
It just needs to come in a 250+

 Eddyline is on board.
http://eddyline.com/paddles/angler-paddles/

Im not a pro, but I still hope that I can offer some advice for those who might be considering a paddle upgrade.
Please don't let fishermen devalue how important a high functioning paddle is.
Lighter is better.

Yes, you are. (In my book, anyway)

Bushy

For kayak fishing, I want a paddle with a built in switchblade. That way, if a shark attacks, I'll have a chance to poke its eye out before it devours me...

For kayak fishing, I want a paddle with a built in switchblade. That way, if a shark attacks, I'll have a chance to poke its eye out before it devours me...

LOL

The alternative
http://www.rapidmedia.com/adventurekayak/categories/departments/5390-stickin-it-to-em-in-defense-of-greenland-paddles.html

cool article spidey.
are greenland style paddles feathered?
one pc. only?
I want to try one, the stealth factor would be cool.
might be cool to try and make one.
do you think they are useless for the plastic barges we paddle?

Werner forever!  I have a good buddy you can out pedal me when he paddles with his Werner Kalliste. 

Good read and good advice in this thread! I'm in the middle of trying to decide on a new paddle and this has helped everything but my wallet!

I'm battling some tendinitis in my right elbow, and the cheap/heavy paddle that came with my boat can't be helping. I would imagine my paddle angle is pretty high, but I'm scared the high angle blades are going to hurt my elbows more. I went out today and worked on paddling technique, but I'm curious to know how a new paddle could help to?

Werner forever!  I have a good buddy you can out pedal me when he paddles with his Werner Kalliste. 

Werner are good paddles, but it is not only the paddle beating you on the water. Boat design is probably more his advantage. I out run plenty of Hobies on my Tarpon 160. I could do that with just about any paddle.

Good read and good advice in this thread! I'm in the middle of trying to decide on a new paddle and this has helped everything but my wallet!

I'm battling some tendinitis in my right elbow, and the cheap/heavy paddle that came with my boat can't be helping. I would imagine my paddle angle is pretty high, but I'm scared the high angle blades are going to hurt my elbows more. I went out today and worked on paddling technique, but I'm curious to know how a new paddle could help to?

I think an Ergo, bent, shaft paddle will help with that regardless of blade design. Less movement of your arms to get paddle in the correct position. High or low.

cool article spidey.
are greenland style paddles feathered?
one pc. only?
I want to try one, the stealth factor would be cool.
might be cool to try and make one.
do you think they are useless for the plastic barges we paddle?

Glad you enjoyed it.
Ive never spotted a greenland paddle feathered and I don't know enough about the style to know why they aren't.
They do make 2 piece and I have seen a 3 piece. A multi-peice greenland seems like it might be a good back-up paddle that doesn't take much hull space. I have read some negative reviews about some of the connection points being sloppy. Homework required.

I have a friend that will let me try his, but I don't think that it will be something that I can figure out in one day. I would need to buy one and put in the time on the water.
I don't know if they are a good fit for a fishing SOT but Im curious enough to try.
It might come down to paddle length for compatibility.

As much as I would like a greenland, its tough to justify the cost when I need the paddle that will provide the most fun and function. I need a 250+ for my river boat.

I've always thought the greenland style paddles were quite interesting in design.  What is the main reason behind the 'stir stick' design of these?

I've always thought the greenland style paddles were quite interesting in design.  What is the main reason behind the 'stir stick' design of these?

Did you read the article?
It would be tough to explain it any better.

I've always thought the greenland style paddles were quite interesting in design.  What is the main reason behind the 'stir stick' design of these?

Did you read the article?
It would be tough to explain it any better.

Doh!  Didn't look backwards ... started at the last post    My bad....