Hey,

I'm thinking about picking up a cheap used yak just to have soem fun with. Are there any that I should stay away from? I intend to use it in small bays and ponds so not white water or the ocean or something but still would like a decently seaworthy yak. I don't really like the sit on top type but I don't have enough experience with kayaks to really know what I'm talking about. I've done a lot of canoeing and boating for a long time but never really tried the kayak. Anyway just wondering if there's anything to stay away from. Thanks!

you could take a cruise to the King Cove marina
In Stonnington Ct. and see NilsC

and talk it over....

they'll let you try some out there...

then let experience be your guide....

I've been wondering about a good place to try out some yaks before buying. Would prefer something in the SE Mass or Cape area.

If you're going in the ocean, I'd stay away from a SIK. I don't know what you don't like about SOTs, but one thing to appreciate is the ability to get back in the thing if you ever tip. SIKs are a little more stable and a little faster, but you may not be able to get back in and in cold water that could kill you. I use a SOT, and if it's choppy, I'm completely soaked from paddling. I don't know how you could use a SIK without a skirt. With a skirt, you have far less options for storage and now you've got one more thing that's going to try to drown you. With SOTs, storage is easy and abundant.

I have a few of the Wilderness Systems Tarpons and have no complaints. The 140 gets a little water in the footwell, but nothing to worry about. I've had it for a while and over the years have added stuff. Most recently a FF/GPS.

Once you get it, you'll need to install a trolley system for your anchor and drift sock so you're not hitting the waves sideways. There will be a bunch of other stuff too, so don't blow your whole budget on the yak itself.

Don't bother with those 2 pound kayak anchors. Just go to Wal mart and get a 5lb river anchor. They're cheaper and work better in wind.

Guys like rudders.

That's about it for tips. Good luck.

I've been wondering about a good place to try out some yaks before buying. Would prefer something in the SE Mass or Cape area.

Head on down to Billington Sea Kayak in Plymouth on a weekend day. They're right inside Morton Park. They'll listen to your needs and set you up with several kayaks to test out right there on the lake. Good people.

The Goose Hummock in Orleans has a bunch of boats for sale or rent. The may still be selling last years rentals for cheap money. They also have plenty of accessories.