My birthday is comming up in October and i think i am going to treat myself to a Kayak !.
I'm trying to keep the costs down and have come up with 3 viable options so far.
The perception Pescador 10ft, the emotion stealth 11 ft, or hoping to find something on craigslist closer to the time.
I'm 5'9 and weigh about 200 lbs. Any other kayaks that i should start looking into?
I will mostly be on lakes/ ponds but want something i can also take on a river.
Where are some places that i can go to try them out? (i am just north of Dallas ).
Are there shops that sell used kayaks that you would reccomend?
I am trying to keep this under $800 all in. No need for a trailer.
Any advice is grealy appreciated.
Thanks

Have you thought about getting a used yak? Try to demo and find a yak you love regardless of price. Then try to find a used one in your price range. If you would like to try a santa cruz raptor id be happy to put ya on some catfish too. Mariner sails has a ton of great rides including sck.

I would try to find a 12 foot or better kayak. Mariner Sails has demos they might sell soon and they might have something in or close to your price range new. If you are thinking of getting one you should stop by the store and have a look. So much cool stuff you'll want to add later!

I'm definately ok with a used Kayak. I definately need to check out Mariner Sales when i get a chance. The Kayaks o nthe website are bit too high end for me, but maybe with a good sale i might be able to swing it.

The angler version of the tarpon 120 with a nice paddle and pfd is on sale at austin conoe and kayak for around $900 right now if you would buy now, and go up $100 on your price range

I'd try to find a used tarpon 120!

I will likley be selling my old raptor well below your limit.

I hope that you will come by soon and check us out.

We can easily assist you in a perfect match up in a brand new fishin' machine and still be able to stay within your budget.

You should definitely look in to this!

Buy used and you can probably sell for near what you paid and upgrade to exactly what you want later.

That's always my selling point to my wife.... And its the truth. Buy Used

For my first kayak, cost was very important. I chose the eagle talon by field and stream and couldn't be happier. It tracks well, easy to paddle. I am 6'2" and weigh 265 and it handles me and all my gear very well. Comes with 3 rod holders, tons of storage, and an anchor. I got the whole setup, yak, paddle, and life vest for under 500 bucks. Yak was on sale for 399 and 10% off that if you open a Dick's sporting goods account. You can get yellow or camo. I know a lot of guys on here prefer all of the high end kayaks and they may be much better kayaks, but for the price I paid and this being my first, I could not be happier. Just think you could almost buy 2 and stay under your price range or 1 and some new gear. Just my thoughts never hurts to take a look.

Forgot to share in my earlier post that Mariner Sails is having a huge Customer Appreciation sale next Monday, August 25th through Saturday, august 30th. Aris wants to show his appreciation to all of our fine customers and has really sharpened his pencil. Be prepared for some great values on almost every in-stock item in the store. Z2, your $800.00 budget will be plenty to pick up that perfect kayak, paddle, and PFD.

Store hours are weekdays 9-6 and 10-4 on Saturdays. Don't bother calling for pricing or hints...you must come to the store to take advantage of this great sale!