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Posted by Ted on 00:19:42 04/12/02
In Reply to: Tarpon posted by Megaladon
Where do you live? If you are closer to Newport that Jason's sugesstion is good. If you are close to Channel Island Harbor (Oxnard), Channel Island Kayak Center is a great place because they are right in the harbor and you can rent one for half a day and really shake it down. The paddle from their place to the open ocean is short and easy. You can test it in the surf just outside the harbor. Bring some fishing equipment and you can fish for butts out by the breakwall.
Make sure you understand the difference between a boat like a Tarpon and the Pro Explorer. Tarpons (and Scupper Pros) are touring style kayaks and touring style kayaks have a low weight capacity and are wet rides. The trade off (for a wet ass)is speed and distance. Kayaking is a wet sport, but some boats are drier than others. This is important because you need to consider the biggest factor that will put you in harms way this time of year and that is exposure. Exposure to the elements will shorten your fishing day and could get you in trouble if the wind picks up and you have a hard time paddling in. I have a Scupper Pro TW and a Pro 2 Tandem. While my Scupper Pro is a great boat, I am much better protected in my tandem since I sit high and dry. During the summer this is not an issue, but this time of year forces you to purchase a long john wetsuit and diving boots. My tandem, I still can use my spring suit and water shoes. The Pro Explorer (non touring style kayak) from what I understand is dry like it's big brother the Pro 2 tandem.
You are on the right track testing out as many different kayaks as possible. Make sure to bring along fishing equipment. You can make a crate for the tank well for under five bucks with pole holders (send me an email for instructions). Sometimes I still rent for half a day if bringing my kayak somewhere is not feasible and that way I can try out other models with my fishing gear.
-Ted
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