[616271]

Its not exactly Joey's forum, but its close.

I agree, always wear a lifevest especially if you don't swim. Also I would buddy up with another kayak fisherman when on the water. Its easy to hook up as so many guys are joining the sport.

There are lots of kayaks to choose from but obviously a wider more stable model would also be a good idea. There are some models that are virtually impossible to tip unless you're in the surf.

 

[616271]

SOTs are easier to learn on and use. They're also more versatile. they're essentially a big surf board that you ride. A SINK you sit in.

 

[616271]

Jetties are much more dangerous than a kayak but learning to swim is a good idea and isn't hard to learn.

Tobay - The ride is a very stable kayak. Others to consider are the Cobra Fish in Dive and the Ocean Kayak Drifter and Malibu 2. All are SOTs which you sit on not in. So if you fall off its relatively easy to get back on. Other than the surf these types of kayaks are almost impossible to dump.

 

[616271]

SB, there really isn't a learning curve on an SOT. I'm not sure which model you were in. They're alot like a bike with training wheels, hop on and paddle. Some SITs are very beginner freindly also. I know a lot of guys, in the Sound especially love the Pungo, which is a SIT. A SOT you never have to deal with water flooding the kayak. If you tip you fall off and just get back on. A SIT you're in. There are so many choices in kayaks now and many from both types fish well. If you're considering fishing the ocean at all a SOT is much easier and safer to launch through the surf.

I noticed that a question about clothing was asked. There are a lot of options. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. The only perfect system is when the water is very warm and you wear shorts.

Wetsuits are good for this time of year. the farmer john style is the best way to go as it allows freedom of movement of the arms. Most guys wear a form of dry top over the wetsuit.

Some of us wear breathable waders with a dry top. Some oeople don't think that this is safe and the waders will sink you. Last mopnth ESPN2 did a demostration that waders completely filled with water will not sink you. However bootfoot waders have the capability to take on too much water and prevent you from getting back on your kayak should you dump. I often use stockingfoot breathables with some type of bootie. The bootie depends upon what I'm doing. For sandy bottoms I wear a light one. For the north shore I like a very substantial sole. I wear a dry top and it has an excellent seal at the waste and wrists. the model I have only has a velcro seal at the neck. With a PFD on its impossible to get my head under water. The breathables actually trap air and my legs balloon up.

Very soon the water will be warm enough that the setup to wear is a dry top and a pair of splash pants. I like ones that are breathable and waterproof. I'm getting a model next week that has detachable legs so I can start off with long pants in the AM and as things warm up I'll unzip the lower part. Same thing in the evening except in reverse. I also carry a breathable, waterproof top that is very light and packs into a very small pouch. ITs perfect for summer nights.

I always carry a dry bag with me in which I put extra layers and spare clothing, just in case. I can also shed clothing and keep it dry for when things warm up.