Hey All-

I have been a surf rat my entire life and am DYING to get into fishing from a yak. Quick question for you. Aside from rod holders, is there much of a difference between a an ocean kayak manufacturer's angler editions and say surf editions for example? Also, if there isnt much of a difference couldn't I just make my own rod holders behind my seat with a drill and a rod holder insert??

Thank you in advance for your help.

If all you want is rod holders, I would suppose you could add them easily enough. However, some of the new fishing oriented kayaks make special provisions in the hull for fishing such as easy to reach tackle storage, place for depth finder, pre-installed bag for a battery etc. (See Ocean Kayak's Trident Angler). Increasingly the "angler" versions have some pre-installed and/or hull-molded features that you might like...not sure about the diff in $$$ though.

I am not that familar with Ocean Kayaks models but you should mount your rodholders in front of you (out of paddling interference) if possible. It is much better for trolling purposes and just plain easier to remove a rod from the holder with a fish on than reaching behind you. Storing spare rods behind you is another matter and can be done with the addition of a milk crate or one of the newer Crate-Mate style tackle storage systems. Before you drill any holes or mount anything permanently make sure it won't be in your way when paddling or casting from your normal seated position.