I like the yakattack anchor trolley.

Is everyone in agreeance that we just need the 360 light on the back? The state website reads like we need the red and green lights too PLUS a lantern. Any law enforcement reading this?

I compiled this list awhile back. The TPWD code references are up to date as of Sept 1st 2017. I think the federal regulations are still correct as well.

PFD (aka Lifevest) Requirements

• You must have a Type I, II, III, or V PFD for each person on the kayak [TWSA Title 4 � 31.066(a)][CFR Title 33 � 175.15]
• Children under the age of 13 must always wear their PFD [TWSA Title 4 � 31.066(b)][CFR Title 33 � 175.15(c)]
• Type V PFDs must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's label to be legal [CFR Title 33 � 175.17(a)]
• Inflatable PFDs may only be worn by adults over the age of 16 and weighing more than 80lbs [CFR Title 46 � 160.076]
• All PFDs must be in good, serviceable condition without any cuts, tears, rotten material, etc [CFR Title 33 � 175.23]
• All PFDs must fit each person properly [CFR Title 33 � 175.21]
• Each PFD must be readily accessible to each person [CFR Title 33 � 175.19]

Distress Signaling Devices - Audible & Visual

• On inland waters you are not required to have an audible signaling device [TWSA Title 4 � 31.073(a)]
• On coastal waters you must have an audible signaling device capable of making efficient sound [USC Title 33 Chapter 34 � 2033(b)]
• You are not required to have visual distress signaling devices on inland waters [TWSA Title 4 � 31.073(a)][CFR Title 33 � 175.5]
• You are required to have USCG approved visual distress signaling devices suitable for night use when kayaking between sunset and sunrise on coastal waters [CFR Title 33 � 175.115]
• Visual distress signaling devices must be readily accessible [CFR Title 33 � 175.120]
• Visual distress signaling devices must be in serviceable condition [CFR Title 33 � 175.125]

Light Requirements

• You must exhibit at least one bright light, lantern or flashlight visible all around the horizon from sunset to sunrise in all weather [TWSA Title 4 � 31.064]
• All-around white lights must be visible for 2 miles [USC Title 33 Chapter 34 � 2022(c)]

Registration and Numbering

• Kayaks, regardless of length, do not have to be registered [TWSA Title 4 � 31.022(c)]
• Kayaks, 14 feet or longer, equipped as a sailboat have to be registered and numbered [TWSA Title 4 � 31.022(c)]
• Kayaks, regardless of length, equipped with a motor (electric or gas) have to be registered and numbered [TWSA Title 4 � 31.021(a)]
• If you register and number your kayak know that there are more minimum requirements that apply than listed above

Minimum Requirements Summary:
Lakes and Rivers: PFD and 360 light between sunset and sunrise
Bays and Gulf: PFD, 360 light between sunset and sunrise, sound signaling device, and visual signaling device suitable for night time use between sunset and sunrise

I'm sure this is a dumb question, but as I haven't bought a kayak yet i'm gonna ask anyway. When throwing one in the back of a truck, what do you do to tie it down? A pic would be very helpful as I'm a bit slow and a visual learner.

I don't have any pictures but I use 3 small ratchet straps to tie mine down. Be VERY careful to not over tighten them. you can stress the plastic and warp or even crack the hull on your kayak. Depending on the length and weight of your kayak, you might consider a tailgate extender. Just a bar that goes into your receiver hitch and T's at the end for extra support.

I would avoid ratchet straps like the plague. Snug is good, too tight and the boat is damaged. I personally use these which are a cam strap style strap that also has a locking feature. I found a very good deal on them on clearance and snapped up a couple of sets. They have been working great on the trailer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVmtomwdrG8

In Fish ZoMbiE's posts I see some rather large bodies of water. Are they of a lake or the ocean? Y'all mention ocean kayaks, how far out do you take them? I'm not interested in the ocean per se, but would that be the rough equivalent of Amistad or Falcon?

Also, since there is no canoe section here, I'm actually more interested in a canoe. I had one years ago that was made by Meyers and since I'm going back to the vicinity of Amistad am considering getting another one. I know that you can actually stand up in these and not spill. Not impossible to capsize it, but you really have to work at it.

I'm assuming the regs mentioned above for kayaks will also apply to canoes.

Oh for you plus size guys, the 15 footer is good for 705 lbs.and weighs 67 lbs. https://www.meyersboat.com/#/sportspal/models/S-15
The 14' weighs 58 lbs and is good for 650lbs.


Standing starts at 5:59 in the video.

So for you experienced folks, would this be viable for Amistad or Falcon, especially if the wind is up.

Thanks.

Haven't read every single word in each thread (though everything I've read is 100% great advice) - but, for novices, learn how to use your paddle. No joke. Not just a "kayak" stroke, but as a tool to navigate different scenarios. Especially in a SOT, and double especially (shall we go triple?) if you fish / paddle in rivers & current. Invest in an appropriate paddle for your type of kayak, and ensure you maintain it as much as the vessel itself.

Thank you guys for all the time and effort you put into this. I am totally new to kayaking and there is so much here to learn and things I had never thought of. Great job and thank you.

Great information, especially for a person who is new to fishing and kayaking. Would anyone advise a person new to both to try fishing from a kayak? I'm also, considering the kayak for exercise/fun on the water.

I'm new to kayaking. Been fishing all my life. I'm having a great time so yes, fish and kayak!

I would advise someone new to both fishing and kayaking to do one at a time at first... maybe fish from the bank or off a dock a few times while paddling the kayak without your fishing gear. Too many things can go wrong if you try to do both without experience with either... lots of good videos of how to paddle..

One of the main reasons I like a pedal kayak is to get rid of the registration requirement. What a bunch of bunk! Any boat using an electric motor should be exempt. Just the government nibbling more of my income. Almost as bad as asking $7 to launch at a boat ramp at state parks.