So I’d like to get started in kayaking with a rigid single-passanger kayak. I’ve read multiple articles but all the “cheap” kayaks were around 500-700$. The only one im interseted in buying is Bic sport’s Ouassou, as I’ve found it on second hand for around 200$. Could someone please recommend me any rigid sit-on-top kayaks that are good quality for a reasonable price, or at least tell me if my choice is a good idea?
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Much of it depends on the type of paddling you want to do. What does the water look like where you would paddle? Pond, small lake, large lake, calm river, moving river, fast moving white water river, protected bay, open ocean, etc?
You may want to read an article in issue #10 of California Kayaker Magazine about different types of kayaks. PDF version can be read online for free.
There are a couple of things you need to answer when getting into kayaking.
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What do You Want to Do with the Boat?
Long distance exploring, leisurely paddling, photography, nature viewing, camping, fishing, etc. -
Where do you want to use it?
Big open water, water protected from wind & waves, rocky rivers and streams, etc.
Answering these two things will go a long way in determining what you are looking for.
Remember, all boats are a compromise!
No one boat does everything perfectly.
To save money, seriously consider the used market.
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Once that new kayak hits the water it can lose up to 50% of its value. You can often find great deals on a used boat.
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You can generally sell a used boat for about what you paid for it.
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After a year or two few people still use their first boat as their primary boat. They may still keep it for certain uses or sell it.
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With minimal care a kayak can last for decades.
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Unlike cars, kayaks made in the last 15 years change little from year to year.
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I’m only going to use in an usually calm beach, and thanks for the help!
Under $350 I would definitely advise you to buy used. Many people sell perfectly good kayaks for 1/2 or even 1/4 of retail value. Where do you live? Some areas there are a ton of good used kayaks. I’ve bought and sold many and my first couple were around your price point - then I resold them later for what I paid or even more. The other advantage of buying used is that if you decide you don’t like it, you can usually do the same. You’ll be able to get a much better quality boat for the same amount of money. Take a look at your local craigslist and Facebook marketplace and post ads for feedback.
You ma want to check out the Youtube videos by Dan at Headwaters Kayaks. Among other things, he reviews inexpensive kayaks. Here is a recent one where he reviewed 5 big box store kayaks for under $300:
General channel link: https://www.youtube.com/@HeadwatersKayak
I agree with others that used likely would be better for you. You can get more kayak for your budget.
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Still, be careful. The weather can change quickly and conditions can be dramatically different a little ways off a beach that is protected from wind and waves where you launch.
Learn how to do a self rescue and choose a boat with enough inherent floatation that will enable a self rescue if paddling on open water.
Bic Sport Ouassou’s a great choice, esp at $200! If you wanna explore other options, Perception Spark, Wilderness Systems Pamlico 100, and Necky Manitou 10 are solid choices. But honestly, at that price, Ouassou’s a steal!
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A kayak that was purchased new for $1,000 is going to be found on Craigslist selling for less than $500. You may need to drive a little but you can save a great deal. Often the used kayak includes extras like a PFD and cart that the seller will no longer need.