Total newbie, looking for some helpful advice | Introduction

Hello folks!!

My name is Oscar Quiroz-Medrano, and I am a newbie from San Jose. I picked up a Hobie Rev 13’ to tackle the waves while trying to catch my next PB/dinner. I want to learn as much as possible about ocean kayak fishing and meet some awesome folks while doing it ! 

Before heading out on the water for a day of fishing, I’d like to familiarize myself with kayak re-entry. I have all my gear; I need someone who would be willing to join me to ensure I am doing this correctly and offer any other helpful advice . I am thinking of heading out to Capitola (by the wharf) since waves are pretty calm and consistent there. If there are any other recommendations, I am all ears. 

Thank you for the help, and I look forward to our next sea adventure . 

Saludos, 
Oscar  

Welcome to NCKA Oscar 

Welcome Oscar to NCKA. 

Don't do it at Capitola, there are plenty of juvenile Great White.  Go to Calero Reservoir for a starter.  You should consider taking a self rescue class.  Monterey Bay Kayak or California Canoe &  Kayak.

Welcome Oscar! 

Check out this thread if you haven't already:

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=27534.0

Capitola wharf is a fine place to practice, all the sharks are at New Brighton.

Hi Oscar, welcome 

Hey Oscar, welcome to NCKA!

Capitola wharf is a fine place to practice, all the sharks are at New Brighton.

Yes, I think you should be fine at Capitola. People on the beach are likely to be more of an obstacle than sharks...

Helpful advice: Don't do it!   
Just kidding. Welcome!
Sounds like you know that self rescue/re-entry is a necessary skill. If you can, practice in a reservoir/lake first. It's easier to start in flat water but a fairly calm beach is fine if you're ready to jump right in.

And this:

Welcome Oscar! 

Check out this thread if you haven't already:

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=27534.0

if you are in san jose go practice at the Alviso boat launch.  do it on an incoming tide.  i think the launch is free as well as the parking

When I got my kayak I went solo to Pacifica and exercised surf launch, landing, cruising at the surf, and reentry. It’s good that you’re thinking about those things.
Don’t forget to get the right gear (full wetsuit 4.0 is my recommendation) to keep you warm.
Your next step is learning how to do the same with a fully loaded kayak: fishing rods, nets, tackle boxes, etc.

This advice is coming from someone who has broken a rod, lost a rod+reel, and lost a go pro because of the above 
Good luck