I have for a very long time wanted a Kayak I have lurked outside of this kayak forum Read all the post and learned a great deal from you folks.
Now I am ready to buy a Kayak (used or new) but in my area there are only two big box stores. I would appreciate a dealer recommandation as I have never paddled or sat in a kayak so a dealer that would allow me a demo would be awesome.
I do have a boat but I enjoy the exploring of the back waters of the lakes, I think paddling down the Sabine river would be a great way to spend a Saturday.
Thank you
wild bill

If you are willing to drive to Dallas then Mariner Sails Wind and Water Sports is the place to visit. Mariner stocks a wide assortment of kayaks from eight different manufacturers, including Hobie. Wilderness Systems, Native Watercraft, Malibu, NuCanoe, and others There is also a big selection of both fishing, safety, and general accessories. All in-stock 2011 and older kayaks are on sale at good closeout prices.

The huge new store is conveniently located on I-35E between Royal and Walnut Hill Lanes. Store hours are weekdays 9-6 and Saturdays 10-4. Everyone on staff is very friendly, courteous, knowledgable about their products, patient, and low pressure. You can also get a good direction map on the website www.mariner-sails.com or call the store at 972/241-1498 for directions.

Hope to see or hear from you soon.

WildBill,
It's always great to see someone new to kayaking. I've only been kayaking now for a couple years but am addicted. My advise is to go to a place like Mariner Sales to start off with. They can listen to what type of kayaking you are intreasted in and point you in the right direction for kayak selection. In the summer I know they take kayaks out on white rock lake for people to demo the different types of kayaks. I highly advise you to take a few out before you buy. I live up by Ray Roberts and if you want to try out mine just give me a pm and we can set up a time and place to meet.
Shaun

Sent ya a PM Wild Bill!

Take a look at a Heritage Redfish. I upgraded to a Redfish 12 from a Pelican about six months ago, and it has been great. The Redfish is a great fishing platform.

Welcome to the addiction.

wild bill. I have a kayak you are welcome to try out. I've yet to get in it but I'm sure it's a good one.

academy in tyler has what you need. either pescador or scrambler get in at 500 or less. good yaks. to demo i dont know any out there but the 2 i mentioned are great yaks for a small price

Thank for the great info

I would like a 'sit on' kayak will take a look at the recommendations. I do have a 'big' boat but the ramps at palestine are going away. Have found a Jackson that I am going to look at this weekend. can not wait to pull that first fish into the kayak.

looking forward to meeting other kayak-ers on the lake

wild bill

There are deals to be had buying a kayak and having it shipped to your door. Might be a good option for you since you live 100 miles outside of DFW. I had my kayak shipped from http://www.austinkayak.com/ . They are doing a free shipping deal right now. The free shipping alone could save you a ton of money in gas and time.

Sign up Here and get an additional discount. The free shipping and TKF discount is probably the best price you can find and you dont have to drive anywhere. I think you have to be a member at TKF though which isnt a bad thing.