I have always wanted to get a Kayak. I wet wade the Delaware river near Trenton for bass but would like to get into the sit on top kayak world. Is there a sit on top Yak that would be good for back bay South Jersey fishing and Delaware river fishing? I am guessing a minimum 12 foot would be required but if 10 will due that is fine. I would guess in the 700 dollar range would be my top water mark. Any input would be appreciated. I have never Kayaked before.
Ok Kayak folks. Need some education.
- Thread starter SEPATOPTEN
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If there is a place nearby that rents kayaks, you might get a good deal on a used one this time of year. How much maneuverability do you want? Shorter is easier to turn in tighter spaces, but longer is less "wiggly" when paddling.
I started with a 10’ Tarpon for fishing PA lakes and local streams. It is easy to maneuver but is slow and tracks poorly on straight line paddles. It also was bare bones
I upgraded to an 11.5” Jackson which is more rigged for fishing. It is also heavier and I load it myself and occasionally drag it 100 yard to a launch. It also has a more comfortable seat. I find 3-4 hours is my max without standing
A lot depends on your circumstances. I would think you would want 12” for the river and bay because you will need to cover some distance. Also check into all the fishing features available like rod holder and an anchor system
Longer is going to be more stable and faster paddling. But it's also going to be heavier. Just make sure it's something you are capable of heaving up onto the roof of whatever you are driving. I wouldn't go shorter than 10.
For fishing, I wish I would have spent the extra money and got a pedal powered like the Hobie....hands free propulsion. But that's going to be out of your price range.
I highly recommend getting something with a raised, more comfortable seat like the Native kayaks do. Those soft fabric seats that kinda just sit on top of the kayak always made my back hurt.
My Jackson has a raised seat. I like it but it does make you slightly less stable
How about an Mokai ES-Kape or Aquanami? More money, but you will be the talk of the river!
In al seriousness, I can not believe the prices on fishing kayaks. Truly unbelievable prices for what they actually are. However, they seem to sell well and are now like fleas on the water. Tried it twice and my back can’t take it.
In al seriousness, I can not believe the prices on fishing kayaks. Truly unbelievable prices for what they actually are. However, they seem to sell well and are now like fleas on the water. Tried it twice and my back can’t take it.
Talk to this guy. As you may know he's one of the best sticks on the Delaware. He's active and pretty responsive on social media.
Check FB Marketplace. They're all over the place for sale here in SoFla anyway.
Ike is awesome and really represents the mid-Atlantic well with off season stuff. Did some stupid stuff early in his career, or he would be at the KVD level of money. He grew up n NJ and continues to show his love of the area even after his successes. Ish is another of my favorites and they are both very humble and great dudes in person. (Don’t go for a meal with Ish during the season)
I had dinner with Gluzek and Mansue at Champlain a few years back. Also great guys that represent as well.
Hey man, welcome to the kayaking world! Trust me, you won't regret it. I practiced canoeing for many years, and while I enjoyed it a lot, it all changed when I experienced kayaking for the first time. As a big fan of fishing myself, I can assure you that it bonds perfectly with kayaking. However, you definitely need to do some research before proceeding, and choosing the right kayak is an absolute must. In my case, I opted for the best inflatable kayak on the market. Besides being quite reliable and easy to transport, it's very affordable (cheaper than 700), which is always a big advantage. Good luck!
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