What Kayak is Right For Me?

Question

Hi all! I am new to the kayaking sport. I am looking to purchase my first Kayak. I prefer sit in but I am also open to your advice. I need a kayak. I am looking to spend about 600. I know theres not that much to choose from but enough to confuse me.

Heres what I would like to do with it.

Lots of half day trips maybe up and back down the river. Most bodies of water will be calm.

However, I would like the option to get through minor rapids , tight places, and I may like to give it a shot on the ocean on a VERY calm day and just along the shore.

I like to fish, photograph, and record lots of things. Wildlife will have to be either deaf or I need a quiet kayak.

My personal liking (looks & comfort wise) has landed me looking at the Loon 100 due to price and also the perception montour. I hear a lot of complaints about the little thing on the back (oops forgot what it was called.)

Weight I am okay with 55 ish..

All advice MUCH appreciated...

Thanks,

Charlie

Answer 1

A sit-on-top kayak is great for lakes, calm water, and even the ocean (with a pfd, and other knowledgeable paddlers).

Sit-on-tops are built for stability, and often track well (go in a straight line) which are the opposite of what you usually want to do in a river with rapids where you want to be able to react quickly. You could use a sit-on-top in wide open areas that have baby rapids, otherwise, you'll probably get stuck in a tight area.

Good luck!

Answer 2

you could check out an old town mallard .it has deck rigging to hold your gear and there is storage behind the seat as well.they have a large cockpit opening and are comfy easy to paddle .

Answer 3

you perverts make me sick