Introduction/Getting ready for retirement

I thought of buying a boat but did not have the storage space at home and did not want to add monthly cost to my budget on a fixed income for offsite storage so a Kayak just made sense.  My criteria for a  kayak was storage, stability, cost, and additional method of propulsion besides paddling. I just bought a Freedom Pathfinder 14 that was already set-up for fishing with fish finder, lifted seat, factory motor mount with a gas motor and an electric trolling motor with battery, anchor system, and a few other things.  It stores well in three pieces (kayak and 2 platoons), it is stable with platoons deployed, it was priced right, and it has motor options. I am officially kayak owner!  I initially had buyer's remorse thinking I am in over my head but figured with a vast kayak community here in the Bay area, I can find the information and the support I need to safely enter and fish our local waters.     I obviously still gotta buy several more things like safety and communication gear, appropriate clothing, and I am sure other things that will become more clear as a member of this great site.  I am also looking for a local kayak course to learn "Self Rescue" and other essential topics.  I am in no hurry to put her on the water and will err on the side of caution although I must confess that I have been tempted to launch her in calm water.  I just read in the forum about the ARW Tourney on June 1 that I will attend as a spectator with the hope of meeting fellow kayakers to gather more valuable information prior to my maiden voyage.  I am a sponge with an open mind so please enlighten me on the "Do's and Do Not's" of kayak fishing in the SF Bay and eventually along the coast.  Look forwarded to this new adventure.     

Welcome there’s a lot of people with plenty of experience here
Safe adventures


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Welcome to the madness!

Practice self rescue right in front of Monterrey Bay Kayak rental. It's a protected area where you can swim with your kayak back to shore should you have any trouble getting back on.

No need to even go that far.  He can practice inside HMB jetty or several of the protected coves in SF bay. 

Welcome to NCKA Keoki