What Kind Of Kayak Do You Need?
Kayaking has become increasingly common as a sport and pastime, but if you are thinking of joining the kayaking revolution, you first need to decide what kind of kayak you need. They are not all the same. In fact, there are several basic varieties, each with its own characteristics that make it suited to a somewhat different type of experience.
Fishing Kayaks
If you will be fishing from your kayak, then you definitely want to purchase one sold as a fishing kayak. This type of boat won't roll over as easily, so you can juggle your fishing gear -- and hopefully fish -- without feeling unstable. It's also outfitted with accessories like rod holders and tackle hatches to make fishing more convenient.
There are a few variable options to consider in a fishing kayak. If you want the ability to have your hands free for fishing, look for a kayak that has a foot pedal system you can use alternatively to the paddles. If you will be fishing on a lake, look for a longer kayak, or if you'll be fishing in rivers, look for a shorter one.
White Water Kayaks
If you imagine yourself navigating rough waters and choppy white water in rushing streams, then you need to buy a white water kayak. These boats are quite short, which makes them easier to navigate in rougher waters. They're durable enough to survive banging on the rocks and waves. If you're new to white water kayaking, look for a boat with thigh braces, which make it easier to stabilize yourself in the boat. You also want one with adjustable foot braces so you can adjust the fit to the length of your legs.
Sea Kayaks
Sea kayaks are long kayaks with very narrow, pointed front ends. You can find both single and tandem sea kayaks. They are made for rowing out on flat waters, such as along the oceanfront or in a lake. Sea kayaks are made for a more relaxed voyage and greater comfort. You may find ones with drink holders, compartments for picnic baskets, and so forth. Or if you are thinking of entering sea kayak races or going for long, endurance paddles, you can find stripped-down versions without these features.
Sea kayaks can have a cockpit with a spray deck (a piece that fits around your body to keep you dry), or they can have a more shallow opening. The shallow-opening style is known as a sit-on-top kayak.
Canadian Canoe
Another option is a Canadian canoe, which is really a wide and carefully outfitted kayak made for family outings and relaxed days on a lake or beach front. The entire inside of a canoe is hollowed out, whereas a sea, fishing, or white water kayak only has a small, hollow seating portion. Some Canadian canoes have bench-like seats inside them. They are a good choice if you have kids you want to take out on the water.
Canadian canoes are a nice versatile choice if you want to do some paddling but may also want to fish or picnic on your boat. Look for ones with nylon straps in the interior; you can use the straps to tie down items like your food and extra clothes so they don't tip out of the boat.
Shopping for a kayak is a very individualized process. Once you find the basic style that is best for you, then you need to try sitting in various kayaks to figure out where the foot pedals should be placed and what fit you prefer. A knowledgeable salesperson should be able to help you find the perfect fit.