Trying to determine if i should go with a used kayak and try to save a few $$ or go with a new model. I know with a new model you have a the luxury of the warranty and convience of taking back to a local dealer if a problem should arrise. However saving a few bucks is always nice too. Seems people are including few accessories (paddle, pfd, anchor, stake out pole, etc) when buying a used kayak that you have to spend an easy couple of hundered bucks when purchasing a new. Any recommendations of what to look for when purchasing a used yak? Also opinions of used vs. new? Thanks
I have two yaks, both of which I bought used. Total cost for two is the same as I would have paid for 1 new. They both had oyster scuffs, etc, but as long as they are not too bad it matters not at all IMO. This way you can get a top of the line yak for about half price, plus get some extra stuff thrown in usually. I don’t regret buying used whatsoever…
That being said, there are a number of newer designs that are pretty awesome that you won’t find used, such as the new Jackson yaks, the new Wilderness systems, etc that have raised really comfy seats and a bunch of angler friendly features, and most are made for standing in. Some of these yaks I am really envious of! 
Thats my 2c anyway…
2000 SeaPro 180CC w/ Yammy 115 2 stroke
1966 13’ Boston Whaler w/ Merc 25 4 stroke “Flatty”
www.ralphphillipsinshore.com | www.summervillesaltwateranglers.com
I did the same thing as Optiker. If you scan craigslist and some other sites, you’re sure to get a steal.
There are a lot of great kayaks around new + used
I only deal with new kayaks - but be sure to paddle a # of Diff manufacture/models kayaks before you purchase
There some major differences
Capt Dave
I want to get another kayak that’s a bit longer for better tracking but I’m looking for a demo model or used. There’s a company I found called Feel Free that makes the Moken 10 angler. Looks killer- http://www.paddleva.com/Kayaks-Fishing/APP00021-Feel-Free-Moken-10-Angler-Kayak-CLOSEOUT
I’m also considering a used tarpon 100 or 120 for my next ride b/c I have had nothing but great times with my Ripper the I converted into a fishyak.
http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg227/fishindaddyo/PICT0001.jpg
I own 6 kayaks and I bought them all used.
As Optiker said there’s new models that have better designs and if the money doesn’t matter, it might make more sense to buy new. OTOH, if you’re one of the 99% you can probably make yourself quite happy with a used yak. One advantage, is that you can try a yak out, and if it turns out it doesn’t fit your fishing style, you can sell it with little or no loss and end up more knowledgeable about what to buy next.
A search for “what to look for in a used kayak” turned up this page:
http://www.gobananaskayaks.com/page.htm?PG=used_kayaks
ReelDaddyo,
I’ve never paddled a Ripper or Moken 10 but usually a longer kayak will track better. I think there’s a noticeable difference between the Tarpon 100 vs 120 vs 140 vs 160 for instance. If you’re looking for better tracking, you might want to test some longer yaks.
Also, if you see a yak for sale, get the make, model and year and do a search for that yak. You’ll likely find reviews. paddling.net is one good source.
SuckerPunch,
If you you want a test paddle on the 135 just PM and we can set something up. I’ve got an '09 and a '12 you can fish from to get an idea of what they are like. Try to test paddle as much as you can whenever you can.
TB2
TimBuck2
Wilderness Systems Ride 135