Interested in Learning ocean kayaking

Hey, I don't know squat about kayaking, but I'm an avid angler both fresh and salt. I would like to check-out a trip to our N. coast (anywhere from Bodega to Ft. Bragg). Is there any body or guide services that could rent some time and/or equipment. I ultimately want to rock and salmon fish. I've got all my own primo tackle.
Thanx, Rich McConkie.
Middletown, Ca.
(707) 477-6820
[email protected]

Dear Newbe Yaker:

             SCALLEN is the  Man. My Halibutt was caught shortly after  SCALLEN took me under his wing.
Allen told me what tools, where, how and, let me use his "OLD BLUE". His rates are more than fair and, he's a good friend.
                                                                                                                                       Welcome and good luck!
                                                                                                                                        Ernie

My advise = Take a class. IMO: When you're out there, you must think like a kayaker first and a fisherman second 

Kayak Connection in Santa Cruz and Moss Landing, Aquan Sports in San Carlos, Half Moon Bay Kayak Company in Half Moon Bay - all offer classes. Learn how to self-rescue (and practice it) learn how to paddle properly, how to launch and land on surf, what safety devices you should have, what to wear.....and the list goes on.

Welcome to the madness 

Another vote for SCALLEN.  He took me on my first trip and, per my request, it was a cross between a class and a guided trip. 

I was an inexperienced paddler and inexperienced fisherman to boot and I think it was money well spent.

You might want to also shoot a PM to swellrider who is a regular on the North Coast, a certified kayak instructor, and a heck of a nice guy and good fisherman.

Have fun!

Wow, thanks guys......

I PM'd Richie with my email address

ps-good to hear from you Ernie, you gota get out fishing, my man!

allen

Personally I bought a kayak and just got out there. My comfort level increased dramatically from the first time out through about the third or fourth.
I still don't feel comfortable enough to go out after salmon without a partner but I've caught plenty of crab, rockfish and lingcod just off shore. I even caught a salmon and a shark trying to figure out how to catch halibut in Humboldt bay. Experience is an awesome teacher.

Is there some sort of SC Allen correllary on the North Coast? Look at his address and area code. Santa Cruz is going to be a hike.

Regards,
Scott

I have a trial set for 5/14/07 in a matter that is venued in Mendocino County.  I fully expect to squeeze in some fishing time in between witness/ doc prep.  Would not mind in the least to take you out for some local in-shore stuff. 

Hi Allen:

           I'm  glad to hear your going to work in Alaska. What a job! I'm about to finish my Contract in Sac. , the
middle of April. I''m going to Ft. Bragg to visit my Mom and hopefully get wet April 1.

                                                                                                               I  Miss you all

                                                                                                                       Ernie