Can someone tell me if its even still possible to get an Ultimate 12 Basic new any more? I thought I had heard that Native was discontinuing all the other Ultimate models after they came out with the FX.

Also, I will go a little against the grain here ...

although I would never discount the value of demo'ing before you buy, in your case, I would suspect that it would be of just as much value to demo "any" kayak just to see if kayaking and yak fishing in general are right for you and not even worry about it being the particular kayak you are interested in. Once you determine that you are going to enjoy kayaking and fishing from one, then research and if possible demo the yak or yaks you are interested in.

I guess I'm one of the lucky ones. Although I demo'd several kayaks before I bought, every kayak I have actually purchased has been bought without ever having that model on the water, and I've been extremely happy and satisfied with every kayak I've had. But, although I hadn't paddled them, I had done my homework which will increase your odds of being satisfied (but not guarantee) with your purchase.

Understand what you guys are saying. Now that I have a little better understanding of what to look for, I probably need to visit a local place or two that sells kayaks and see what they sell and see if they arrange try outs.

Sounds like a plan, thanks.

They still list them on the Native site so I would say, yes.

Don't forget to budget for a paddle and a PFD.

Right. I have a PFD, but will have to buy a paddle.

Another option for you since you are in Austin is to go by Austin Kayak they usually have some killer deals on used boats and some blemished boats might not hurt to look at them and see what they have

have found a ton of decent pre owned on craigslist and other forums. might have to drive a bit but...

An older handicapped friend of mine has an Tarpon 120 Ultralite. yak has good stats but might be a little pricey..