I took the plunge and bought a kayak 2 weeks ago but have not taken it out yet. I was wondering where should I start with equipment? I bought the necessities PFD and Paddle but unsure where to go from here? Also does the community here post when people are going out as a group? I want to get out there and get used to my boat but the gentleman at the kayak shop stressed I should try and get out with other seasoned kayakers and no go out alone especially being new to the sport. All help is appreciated!

The paddle you choose is very important. I started with a metric paddle but found my standard American hands needed a paddle measured in inches rather than centimeters. The seat cushion is the next most important thing. Make sure your day isn’t cut short because your bottom hurts, get a good seat cushion. If you choose to get a fish finder, make sure you route the wiring so it stays out of the way when fishing. If there is something that can get tangled in a line, it will get tangled in a line, typically at the farthest away point in the kayak. I also recommend using lures with single hooks until you get the hang of it, especially if you are fishing by yourself. Nothing sucks worse than trying to paddle with a rattle trap stuck in you hand. Coat the tops of you legs, all the way up past the edge of your shorts with good sun protection. Going to work with sunburned thighs isn’t any fun. Lastly, just because you can stand up in a kayak, doesn’t mean you should stand up, especially after a few beers.