Background:
I had back surgery a few years ago, L4-L5 damage. Ended up with rods and screws in pelvis and vertebrae. Back is much better now, but have slight range of motion limitations.
I recently had a heart stent placed to relieve a blockage.
I have finished cardio rehab and am doing much much better.
I need to continue my exercise program and am considering kayaking.
( will also be a good excuse to pack a fishing rod at the same time… )
Questions :
Will kayaking be good or harmful for my back?
If good, what type / size kayak should I be looking for?
I am a big rascal at 6’ and 280 lbs, but the weight is on the way down ( 40 lbs since October)
I am very comfortable in 1 man boats. Fished out of these for years when younger. No experience with yaks, other than an occasional River trip.
If possible to use a yak with my back condition, I will also be fishing from the yak as well
Predominately in a small river behind my house.
Kayaking is one thing,loading /unloading is another. That said,I’d go see the pros at Time Out sports in Mt. Pleasant to steer you in right direction.
Best of luck~
Have you asked your physician about limitations on physical activity? Your back issues might play into what kind of kayak you can get…definitely one with a comfortable seat!
Kayaks can be pretty heavy and difficult to load and off load from a vehicle…but you could probably get a trailer for the kayak. The kind with peddles would probably be best for a guy with a busted back (I’ve had a herniated disk) and would probably be better for cardio as well.
Some things to consider:
*Are you going to drag the kayak around or tow it on a trailer?
*Can you store it on a trailer?
*Can you get in and out of the kayak without hurting your back…do you mind getting your feet/shoes wet at the ramp? Can you bend, stoop, twist to get in a kayak?
*Do you have a buddy that want’s to kayak fish - it’s not a deal breaker but a buddy system is good to have.
*Are you healthy enough to fight a strong current and wind fighting against you at the same time?
“I am constantly amazed at the stupidity of the general public.”
~my dad
Equipment:
190cc Sea Pro w/130 Johnson
1- 19 year old (boy of leisure)
1 - 1 year old (fishing maniac)
1 - wife (The Warden)
Lots of good points already made but you should probably rent one from Time Out Sports to see how it goes. Yaks to consider are Hobie Pro Anglers, Predator 13 and 13 xl as these are very stable yaks that you can stand up in which will give your back a break.
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