Just recently I�ve been thinking about getting a kayak. I�ve read a lot of info on the net about them, but I want to make sure I�m getting the best one for me considering my size and experience level. I�m 6�5� 200lbs, so I want to make sure I can comfortably fit in it. I realize I may have to squeeze into even the largest kayaks, but I�m kinda used to it so no biggie. Also I have no experience other than being in a canoe. I�m thinking about using the kayak for mostly fishing, but I also plan on just paddling around for exercise. It could be used in saltwater, but will probably be used mostly in fresh since I live in DFW. Finally I would like to keep cost down as much as possible since I�m such a newbie.

Any specific product suggestions? I plan on looking for a used kayak first or keeping my eye open for sales.

Thanks,

Fatcat

Visit kayakfishingstuff.com and there is a wealth of info in the forum and lots of good pictures of rigged kayaks. Use their comparison guide to select kayaks. We bought two Malibu kayaks from Joey. Malibu are very stable but also heavy. Lots of storage and roomy I am 6'1" and 275 and the X-Factor does a good job for me.

A nice one is the Mainstream Patriot. It is a sit inside model and not too good in surf, but I use mine in fresh just fine

I have a neighbor about your size. He fishes from a Prism & a Tarpon 160. The Wilderness Systems Ride is also a good Yak for large people.

I have both a Malibue Xtreame and a FND.
They are both great but both a very different.
I just moved out here to Fort Worth area so if you want to fish shoot me and Ill let you try both if your willing to show me the area!

I would throw a vote to the Prowler series by OK for long leged dudes, too!
Lots of room in the well in the back for gear, and totlal capacity is 400#s!

I'm 200 lb, but 5' 9". I find that my Ocean Prowler 15 (15 footer), although a foot longer and 8 lb lighter than my Tarpon 140 (14 footer) lets in water up to my butt, while the Tarpon keeps my butt dry. Not sure why.

Both let water through the scupper holes in around your feet. Of course, if you're not paddling in wind and waves (where you'd get water splashed over the sides), you can plug up the scupper holes to keep totally dry. I do that in calm water. Scupper plugs have a string loop on them so you can pull them out easily and quickly.

Whatever you do, GET A RUDDER to go on it. If you'e in the DFW area, you can get a rudder installed by Mountain Sports (Arlington, TX) on the Tarpon (they don't deal with the Oceans) or at Mariner Sails (Indian Trail, Irving, TX -- or is it Dallas?, off Royal Ln, east of I-35E).

Mariner Sails also will let you try out kayaks on White Rock Lake on Thursday nights. You have to call them and make a reservation.

I'd also recommend getting an automatically inflatable PFD (life vest), since its normal size is much smaller and will be cooler to wear in our hot, Texas weather. I just ordered one from BassPro (on sale), because I find myself taking my regular life vest off when it gets warm. Then, of course, you have to stow it behind you in the yak, because law requires a PDF to be on board and available.