I’m looking to buy my first kayak but am lost in thousands of options. I’m looking for something for mainly recreational use, but I also want to be able to use it for light touring. Maybe a few overnight camping/paddling trips. I’m in IL, so I’ll mainly be in rivers, streams, and flat water, but I do plan to eventually venture out and paddle in other locations. I’m about 5’9" and 150 lbs, if that info helps. I recently had a great experience renting a Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120, but I’m not sure if it will be able to completely suit my needs.
I’ve also looked at the Tsunami
http://www.wildernesssystems.com/kayaks/tsunami/tsunami-120
The Pungo
http://www.wildernesssystems.com/kayaks/pungo/pungo-120
And the Riot Edge 13
http://www.riotkayaks.com/flatwater-2/day-touring/edge-13/
Still very open to suggestions. Thanks for any help!
At this stage in what will hopefully
be years of enjoyment, find one , by paddling it, that feels good and go for it.
I have had Tarpons for years and they are great boats if the weight isn’t an issue for you. Ultra stable, but not very fast.
I also have a Pungo 140. It is lighter and fast for it’s length among rec boats.
Both have the most comfortable seats of any kayak.WS makes a quality boat.
More importantly, buy the best paddle you can afford. Best meaning a good brand and light. IMO, no aluminum shafts. Preferably a fiberglass shaft with plastic blades on the low end.
Finally, although there never is a finally, get a comfortable PFD that is still comfortable when you sit in the boat
Happy hunting!
PS: A Tarpon will take you anywhere
you want to go and will not sink unless you leave the hatch open and swamp.I doubt it would sink then. I have taken mine down class 2 whiewater and into some ugly ocean. The latter not intentional but the boat handled it better than I did.