Hi im new to fishing out of a kayak, i just bought my first one today and i am looking for advice on a paddle to use, what do i look for and how do i tell a good one from a crappy one, thanks for any advice given

You can pay from about 25 bucks up to 500 bucks for a paddle.

You should find a paddle of appropriate length.
If you are average height you will need a paddle of about 230 CM or about 90 inches. I am 5'10" and I prefer a 240 CM paddle but that would be just a little long for most folks.

Bending Branches offers the following sizing recommendations.

http://www.bendingbranches.com/kayak-sizing.html

If you can afford it you should get a paddle that weighs 30 ounces or less. Generally the lighter the better and the more expensive it will be.

You need to consider whether or not you need a 2 piece paddle. One piece paddles are lighter but much more difficult to transport. One advantage to a 2 piece paddle is that they usually offer a variable feather angle. I don't use feather, so I have a 1 piece.

The best paddles are all carbon fiber but just because it is carbon fiber doesn't make it any good.

If you want the best paddle money can buy it will be a custom made ONNO, but they are not cheap. I have a 230 CM ONNO that weighs 23 ounces. The ONNO is light stiff and strong. Just talking to Patric will improve you knowledge on paddles.

http://www.onnopaddles.com/

Werner makes various grades of paddles, some of the higher priced paddles are pretty decent.

Bending branches makes some of the "best bang for buck" paddles.

http://www.bendingbranches.com/performance-touring-kayak-paddles.php

The touring Hybrids either Slice or Glide are very good paddles at a reasonable price. Weight is down around 30 oz and they are available in proper lengths.

I haven't seen a Carlisle paddle that I would care to own.

All of the better paddles have curvature. That is they curve towards the tip perpendicular to water.

As a beginner you will want a paddle with dihedral. Paddle dihedral is when the blade bends back on a line perpendicular to the shaft. Dihedral makes a paddle easier to control. Flat blades are more difficult to control and winged blades more still.

Here is an excellent article on paddle blade shape

http://www.touringkayaks.com/paddle_shape.htm

Another option that you may want to consider is the bent shaft. Some people find them more comfortable.

For your first paddle I would suggest that you not pay less than 100 bucks, or you will be replacing the paddle in short order. Then you will probably want something different as you skills progress.
None of the sports stores carry a paddle that I would own with the exception of REI and they are more expensive than other sources. You will probably need to go to a kayak dealer to get a decent paddle.
Would be good to try before you buy. Just a few ounces difference in paddle weight can make a big difference in how long you will be able to stay on the water.

thats some good info thanks alot

getcha a carlisle day tripper. its all u need and cheap but good quality

http://www.outdoorpros.com/Prod/Carlisle-Day-Tripper-2-Piece-Kayak-Paddle-230cm-(01-2557-0830)/70278/Cat/1660?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=googlebase&cvsfa=1184&cvsfe=2&cvsfhu=3730323738

academy has good prices on these. and if u fish in lakes then get a 80 dollar fishfinder/ eagle cuda or humminbird pirahna max.

or a carlisle magic is a little more expensive if u paddle alot. i paddle a lil then fish

if your under 6 ft i'd get a 220 cm paddle. over 6 ft a 230 cm.

and get a pfd and whistle. required

agree w/ most everything said above.
check this out:
http://texasfishingforum.com/forums/ubbt...NFO#Post4787087

Whatever you do, DONT BUY AN AZUL KAYAK PADDLE. I'VE OWNED TWO THIS YEAR & THEY BOTH BROKE ON ME!