JAY-IT WOULD HELP IF YOU POSTED
– Last Updated: Apr-06-10 1:23 AM EST –
your profile, and included not only your size, and the generic waters you're interested in, as you've indicated, but your general state and city locale, and the waters you'd likely be paddling, and other data which might be helpful. There aren't TOO many axe murderers or computer hackers here, so you're in pretty safe, maybe even danm fine company, if I say so myself...
As to the Squamish, if you can paddle it fairly comfortably, and you're running calm rivers, it just might be a good boat for you. You'll need to check its condition, ask its age and how it was stored. Look for things like whether there are cracks (not the usual scratches -they're OK), if (a) part(s) of the the hull are(is) overly flexible, if the hatches are pretty well-sealed, and if the skeg works easily.
The latter is something you should do a little research on, tho', being a newcomer... Skegs aren't for everyone, and that might be the case for you. Or not. I went from a shorter (14'-9") unruddered to a longer (17'-2:) ruddered, and now paddle a 17-7 skeg boat, and I like the way the progression ended up.
But if it doesn't work out, you can keep looking, but don't necessarily limit yourself to a 'big-box special'; rather continue to check Craigslist, eBay, or local paddling shops as well as right here at P-Net's classifieds.
Now you're talking a boat, but you understand there's a bit more, right...?
Whatever you want to spend, you DO need to take all the following into account:
You'll need a paddle -and not a 'cheap', slab-sided oar-like one. A decent -around $85-150 new, $50-100 used -medium-weight (say 30oz., more or less) paddle will do you well. A 2-piece will probably work well as it will fit in most trunks/storage areas OK. Lighter is good, but significantly lighter usually equates to more expensive. And don't buy too long -220-225 should be more than enough for a boat like the Squamish -unless it's a really good deal.
You'll need a PFD -a life jacket. You can get a decent one for around $25-30 at a big box, but a good PFD will fit you, provide you with adequate flotation, allow you to sit in your boat and not have it ride up because it's hitting the seat back, and be comfortable. It's important to have a comfortable one because that's one you'll wear, and as a newcomer, you really should be wearing one out on the water.
And you'll need some sort of transportation system, too... You can get away with a $35-$60 "quick" temporary stiff foam block and lines 'rack in a bag' kirt, and that might be a good way to go if you're really not really sure you'll want to follow the sport. Be sure to also get bow & stern tie-downs as well if they're not included in the kit. If you do make that commitment, a 'regular' roof rack system ir eally the way to go -Yakima, Thule, Saris -the big three -all have systems to fit most vehicles. They'll run in the neighborhood of $200-$300 new.
A couple other items are usually considered as part of a kayak gear set -a paddle float & pump.
Then there are things like dry bags. Don't think you need one? You have any sort of electronic key for you car? You need one. You have a wallet? You need one. A large peanut butter jar, washed, will work just fine if you don't want to spend the $10-$35 for a 'regular' dry bag...
And perhaps as important -you can buy every thing used -and still get quality gear -and save a bundle. Looking at the ads here, on eBay, and on Craigslist is a start. Check oit local padling shops for used equipment, or consignment items, as a way to save some money.
But one of the best things you can invest in is some sort of introductory instruction -either meeting up with some experienced paddlers, in or out of a club, or by taking a course at a local paddling shop or perhaps a county park & recreation department.
At any rate, set up a profile, keep on researching, check out that Squamish, and have fun as you begin your journey on the water as you start to
PADDLE ON!
-Frank in Miami