Ok I am looking at other options. I was thinking the 12� ascend, now I am having doubts.

Would a 10� sea ghost be better? Little more money but the 12 in a vibe sea ghost is not on the table at this point.

I spoke to a retail adventure shop and the guy on the phone said size does not matter except for space if you buy the �right� kayak. Mainly for,3-4 days of camping if needed. Otherwise the 10� Is fine for fishing and maybe 1 day of camping.

What say you?

A short kayak is fine if it has a rudder. Shorter kayaks don't usually track very well but if they have a rudder they are fine especially if you're talking about the difference being only 2'.

I think the design of the Kayak is what is most important. I am 72 years old and my first Kayak was a Feel Free Lure 11.5'. Great Kayak. easy to stand, stable as all get out. Paddled like a barge. I bought a second kayak (still had the Feel Free). It is an OLD 16' Tarpon, really stable seated, I can't stand in it at all. Paddles like a rocket. Tough to maneuver in tight spots. Still have it for a buddy Yak.

Sold the Feel Free and Bought a 2013 Hobie Outback that has an aftermarket lawn chair type seat like the one that is standard on them now. Great Kayak, hands free to fish, stable as all get out., I can stand but don't. Peddles pretty quickly. One thing I don't like about it is the hull slap in light chop. That probably spooks a lot of fish. It is heavy. I can't load and unload it into my truck by myself now. I probably could have 20 years ago. If I go by myself, I put it on a homemade trailer. Easy enough.

I probably should trade my Tarpon for a 10" Sit In that weighs 40 lbs to make it easier to fish by myself.

The best fishing Kayak is one that you will fish out of. It is worthless hanging on the wall.

It makes a difference also in weight capacity.
If you are 6' or over and weigh over 180# you might find a 10' kayak at it's weight limit including all your gear.
If you are less than that in stature a 10' might be just fine.
I've had a couple of 10' kayaks and I could tell I was pushing the limit.
A 12' kayak for me would be my limit after my experience with those 10' kayaks.
I'm ancient also, and one reason I won't get rid of the kayak I have. (12' 62#)
Most of the new kayaks they have come out with weigh in at 100# or close to it even a 10 footer.
Back several years ago, I could have thrown that kayak onto a roof rack and not even thought twice about it, but those days are long gone.

Shop somewhere else. Longer is faster, wider is more stable. You must find the balance point of characteristics that fits your budget. Your primary consideration should be your weight. Look at the stated weight capacity of a kayak and do not exceed 70% of that for you and all of your gear (tackle, cooler, anchor, sonar, battery, etc.).

5�11 � 210.

Thank you all, now looking at a pescador pro 12.

Better choice!

Or a Jackson Cuda 12.

What about this? I like it....but what do I know?

https://brooklynkayakcompany.com/products/uh-ra220

You did mention that a Vibe 12 would not be on the table so assume you are talking price.
You might get sticker shock then if you consider the Cuda 12 in that case.
The other in the link I've never heard of.

Found one.

I thought maybe you were looking new.
Jackson Kayaks are some top of the line brands and if you found one in your price range jump on it.
Be sure to inspect for damage such as cracks or repairs especially around scupper holes and seat areas, as usually those areas tend to be where damage can occur.
Don't go by photos alone.

Buying used can save you a lot of money and a great way to pick up a quality kayak for a reasonable price, but be aware that a price that sounds too good to be true can be a red flag, as there are some crooks out there peddling stolen kayaks on some of those classifieds.

Shane if you are ever up in my neck of the wood's your more than welcome to borrow my yak. 10 footer. No rudder. It may help with your decision. Offer stands.

Thank you Janie, difficult to get up that way.

Really do appreciate it.

This causes doubts,...

Could not hear your voice but enjoyed the video.
Enjoyed watching you do stupid things in your kayak in rough conditions.
Pretty stable craft.