Advice on Kayak Purchase

Hi There!

I'm ready to buy a fishing kayak for fishing primarily in and around SF Bay.  Looking for something that's motorized with higher-end electronics (need all the help I can get!) with a budget of $5K. 

I've had two fishing boats with Minn Kota trolling motors with Spot Lock -- and I love the convenience of autopilot and GPS anchoring since I often fish in conditions with wind and serious current. So I'm thinking about the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 136 (https://oldtowncanoe.johnsonoutdoors.com/old-town-sportsman/fishing/sportsman-autopilot-136).

Or do you recommend another brand (new or used) accessorized with a something like a Torqeedo?

Thanks in advance for your help -- tight lines!

Ed



Thanks in advance for your help!

Ed

Sounds like you're still looking for a boat!
;0)

Sounds like you're still looking for a boat!
;0)

Very funny... And very true!  Sadly don't have the budget/time for a center console docked at an SF marina -- and when the wind is up I'll be windsurfing/windfoiling, so trying to keep it simple...

There are some reasonably priced hybrid motorized kayak/skiffs out there. Wavewalk is one.  I looked into them briefly. Owner was kind of a tool but the product looks nice. Just don’t by the guys hype it’s over the top.

To busy to look up the one Ariel was using. He was definitely skipping across the water in one of his videos. Wouldn't mind it if i had the room.

 Curious if anyone has fished of a jetski in the ocean.    Well, that would be a different thread.

Alex

To busy to look up the one Ariel was using. He was definitely skipping across the water in one of his videos. Wouldn't mind it if i had the room.

 Curious if anyone has fished of a jetski in the ocean.    Well, that would be a different thread.

Alex

Ariel has a Stealth Skiff, there are purpose built jet skis just for fishing: https://www.sea-doo.com/watercraft/sport-fishing/fish-pro.html?ds_rl=1278245&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsNTZyfrA6AIViJyzCh2mHQcVEAAYASAAEgJZMPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

To busy to look up the one Ariel was using. He was definitely skipping across the water in one of his videos. Wouldn't mind it if i had the room.

 Curious if anyone has fished of a jetski in the ocean.    Well, that would be a different thread.

Alex

Ariel has a Stealth Skiff, there are purpose built jet skis just for fishing: https://www.sea-doo.com/watercraft/sport-fishing/fish-pro.html?ds_rl=1278245&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsNTZyfrA6AIViJyzCh2mHQcVEAAYASAAEgJZMPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds


Yeah I looked into jetskis (PWC) prior to purchasing my outback. It’s seemed like a lot of the offshore waters had limitations for PWC use. So I went with the kayak.

There are some who put on a small outboard onto their AI or modified Outback/ revo with a AMA/AKA.

I think this is what you're looking for...a Bote Microskiff

https://www.boteboard.com/collections/skiffs/products/rover?variant=21882486292598

Blue Sky Boatworks angler?
Honestly though, based on your info, might be better off with a 12ft Livingston instead of a traditional kayak. Its nearly as light but safer and more comfortable. Still fits in the bed of a pickup.

With a budget of 5K, I'd go with a used 2019 Hobie Outback and a Torqueedo.  Good luck on your search!

I wouldn't mind skipping this across the water. Ariel's ride, if he still has it. I dont know the details.

I wouldn't mind skipping this across the water. Ariel's ride, if he still has it. I dont know the details.

He still has it, I saw him Sunday a week and a day ago South Hampton Shoals.

Dude, just get a tarpon 140 and a paddle. The silence and purity of paddling will set you free. Don't forget the weed and the earbuds. Bait is optional.

Hi There!

I'm ready to buy a fishing kayak for fishing primarily in and around SF Bay.  Looking for something that's motorized with higher-end electronics (need all the help I can get!) with a budget of $5K. 

I've had two fishing boats with Minn Kota trolling motors with Spot Lock -- and I love the convenience of autopilot and GPS anchoring since I often fish in conditions with wind and serious current. So I'm thinking about the Old Town Sportsman Autopilot 136 (https://oldtowncanoe.johnsonoutdoors.com/old-town-sportsman/fishing/sportsman-autopilot-136).

Or do you recommend another brand (new or used) accessorized with a something like a Torqeedo?

Thanks in advance for your help -- tight lines!

Ed



Thanks in advance for your help!

Ed

I don’t think you’re going to get a different brand with spot lock. If all you want is an electric kayak you have more choices. Whatever you get I recommend one with a motor you can reach if needed and one that allows any battery you choose.

That solo skiff is pretty neat. I spent the morning researching them and daydreaming.

That old town looks pretty neat, but IMO motors are for boats and not kayaks.