And needing a little guidance. Where could I go to test paddle a Slayer 13 propel and a Hobie Pro Angler 12? I think these are going to be my 2 choices as I REALLY want something I can propel with my feet instead of my arms and actually be able to enjoy fishing a lake and not have to be stuck in the rivers all the time. Also looking for something I could possibly stand up in. Im a big guy at 6'3" 245lbs. Standing is not a huge issue but it would be nice. Id like to try the new Slayer 10 propel when it comes out too just to see. Im just not sure where I could go to test paddle all the different models without having to drive to a few different places. Do these 2 kayaks sound like a good choice for what I want? I'll be coming from a 10ft SINK Ascend kayak so anything will be a HUGE upgrade over that. Trying to keep the budget below $3000 if I can. And I will be paying CASH. Thanks in advance for any input you guys can offer!

Well, if you're wanting to go to a pedal drive system those are your only two choices; Hobie or Native Watercraft.

Mariner Sails is the only Hobie dealer in the Metroplex and they'll also be able to get you into at Native Slayer Propel too; so I'd start with them.

I'll also add that I do prefer the kicking motion of the Hobie Mirage Drive over the bicycle motion of the Native Propel System. However, if I were looking for a kayak that could also paddle then I would lean towards the Slayer 13, it actually paddles really nice. The Pro Angler would be too cumbersome on rivers with its weight. Now, the 2015 Outback with upgraded the seat my also suit your needs and be a little more versatile than a Pro Angler.

Nathan, if you really want to test the Slayer Propel you should hit up Shaun Russel and schedule a trip with him. He's offering to take anyone fishing in his Slayer Propel's (he has 2). I think to get the full experience of the kayak, you have to really fish in it. I got into my Slayer Propel after a Pescadore 12. Needless to say I love my slayer.

Backwoods Equipment Company in Ft worth also has Hobie. They'll rent them too.

I have a propel and will probably be on the water this weekend. You are welcome to join if you like.

D'oh, I always forget about Backwoods.

They are more expensive. But, they do have a program that gives you $50 for every $500 you spend. So it evens out if your gonna by some accessories.

There's a brand new Hobie Outback in the classifieds for sale.

Mariner Sails Nathan. They are a Hobie and Native dealer. They are your one stop shop and will let you demo them both during the same visit so you'll know which one you like.

I know you mentioned pedal drives. But if you decide you wanna save a buck or two you can demo one of my diablo paddlesports boats.

g.a.gonzales let me use one of his diablos. It's an awesome yak. Very stable. I wss very impressed with it.

There are a couple Native dealers in DFW Mariner Sails and Angler Pro Tackle. They both do demos. What I'm trying to offer is to take someone out fishing for the day in a Slayer Propel 13. I do think demo's are extremely important. Spending the day out fishing in a relaxed setting allows a person to really see the features of the kayak, and what they will be using it for. Fishing! If you are intreasted in spending the day out on Ray Roberts just give me a shout.

Thanks for all the input guys! Shaun the best time for me to try it would be Aug 29th - Sep 2nd as I am taking a few days off of work that weekend (labor day weekend though so lake may be crowded) So if you can do one of those days around that time that would be great!

As for the offer on the Diablo Im going to have to pass. I REALLY want some kind of pedal drive kayak for my next purchase. I've fished out of my buddies Mariner several times and it is sooooo much easier to concentrate on actual casting and fishing when you arent constantly having to make corrections with your paddle. I do appreciate the offer though.

Im also kind of set of buying the kayak from Rick at Angler's Pro (unless I decide on Hobie it will be Mariner's) becuase he said he would work a good deal with me when Im ready to buy. Again thanks for all the input guys! Does anyone have a link with more info on that 2015 Hobie Outback? Id be interested in learning more about that kayak.

A little info on the 2015 Outback I am thinking that I will have to add that to my fleet now that it is not a swamp a$$ kayak.