I found this site by google searching for advice on inshore fishing in the Charleston area. I grew up fishing in fresh water lakes and rivers, but I am learning quickly that inshore fishing definitely has its differences.
After seeing kayaks while at the beach and dock fishing, I started thinking about getting a fishing kayak. That being said, I have zero kayak experience. I have spent the past week looking at different types and reading the reviews. I don’t have much money to invest in a kayak at the moment, but I do have about $600. I have found plenty of angler kayaks that meet that budget, but I am still not sure which one I should get. I am petite at 5’ 1" and 90-95 lbs. A lot of the kayaks advertise that they are great for the 200 lbs guys, but none of them really advertise being great for petite women. I was wondering if any of the ladies on the forum kayak fish and if so, what type of kayak do you have? Do any of the guys have wives who kayak fish? If so, do any of you have any advice on what I should look for in a kayak?
My non-fishing husband also wants a kayak. I want him to get a fishing kayak so that visiting family and friends can go fishing with me. He is really wide and gets really close to the 200 lbs mark when “bulking.” I won’t be getting him a kayak for a few months though.
Welcome! Once you get in a kayak, you’ll be hooked!
You might want to look at a smaller kayak that you’d be comfortable in. Stop by Time Out Sports in Mt. Pleasant and talk to Dolphin Dave. Try to test paddle whatever catches your eye, if possible.
Willkommen, another vote for Dave. He will set you up with a yak that fits your needs. Might be a good idea to sign up for a basic kayaking skills class. Good luck and be safe.
Chris
Wilderness Systems Ride 135 “Sauer Trout”
Hobie Adventure Island “Rogue Wave”</font id=“size1”>
Sarah, Glad you found the site. I’m the guy with the buddy kayak. My offer stands. You are welcome to join me for a fishing/paddling trip and use my extra kayak. It’s a fully rigged 12’ with rod holders, paddle, stake out pole, life vest etc. Basically everything you need to fish. If you can get your husband on the water, I suggest renting one from Dave at Time Out sports. His daily rental rate is reasonable ($45 per day or something in that ballpark) That way you can test out three different kayaks(my 2 and the rental) and get a feel for what works best for you. I wouldnt buy something until you’ve tried it first. There are pro’s and cons to every kayak.
Welcome, pinkfisher. You should take JP up on his offer. He is a great guy and has taught me a thing or three about kayaks and fishing salt water. His ‘spare’ kayak is awesome, and he has customized both the personal yak and the spare. I am not sure too many of the ladies post to this kayak site. My wife (petite but best not post vital stats here or I’m in trouble) and I both have 12 foot Hobie kayaks, because we prefer peddle action and cover more ground than just paddling). However, even used this would be out of your budget. The Hobies are heavy and run in the 85 pound range. I got tired of heaving it up on the vehicle and got a small trailer (harbor freight) that will fit either one or two kayaks. Most of the guys here seem to prefer the 14 foot yaks, but I like my 12 footer just fine. However, I do not stand in it much at all, and certainly not for long.
Welcome pinkfisher…there are a lot of great fishing kayaks out there. I’m not too sure how many women are on this site but I would like to suggest yakangler.com.
There are several lady yak anglers on that site that share their experiences.
I second the vote for Time Out Sports to help you in a selection of great kayaks for fishing.
Thank you guys! I went to Time Out today and bought an orange Redfish 10. The staff were very helpful and one of them even mounted a fishing rod holder for me. The one that worked with us the most helped us put the kayak on our tiny prius using straps and pads. Next month we will get a metal rack to attach to the car and a kayak for my husband will be in the near future as well!
Immediately after leaving Time Out we took the new kayak to Sullivan’s Island. It rained the whole way to Sullivan’s Island and as we got closer the traffic going away from Sullivan’s Island was insane. Everyone was leaving the beach. By the time we parked the car, the rain stopped. It was perfect! My husband and I both tried the kayak out and I was dumped over 3 times by the strong waves. It was amazing though! I know my arms and legs (from walking around in the strong current) will be sore tomorrow. I am the happiest that I have been in a long time today! I can’t wait to get back on the water with my rod, as long as I don’t have to battle the type of waves I battled today!
