Choosing the Right Kayak & Gear For Your Kayak Adventures

Posted July 20, 2010 by kayakman in Kayaking Tips | No comments yet

In the beginning kayaks were used originally by people who lived in the far north. They were made from animal skins, and used in hunting and for transportation of both passengers and goods. The traditional kayak was made to custom fit the individual hunter.

A skin jacket called Tuilik was attached to the kayak after the rest of the skins this meant that the hunter could perform an Eskimo roll to right the kayak after tipping it upside down without getting wet. The waters of the Arctic are far too cold for an individual to survive in for very long so staying dry was very important.

What Are Sea Kayaks?

This style is used when traveling on open water. Available in styles for one or two paddlers and are designed with stability and storage capacity in mind. The also can be outfitted with spray skirts to keep the inside of the kayak dry.

What about Whitewater Kayaks?

For white water navigation, a kayak must have both a low hull in front with a stable flared upper hull in the back. You won’t find rudders, but the kayak still gives the operator the same level of maneuverability as a kayak made for flat water.

Going A Little Faster: Racing Kayaks

As you would guess, a racing kayak is designed for speed. A skilled operator can achieve stability with this type of boat, but only after he or she has spent some time in the craft. This is probably not the place to start for a beginning kayaker.

A Little Slower Paced: Recreational Kayaks

Perhaps you want to take an easy paced journey through flat water then you should look for a recreational kayak. This model differs from other varieties due to the large cockpit – often a “sit-on” style with a wider beam (which gives greater stability) and makes it easier to enter and exit the kayak.

A recreational kayak is relatively inexpensive compared to other styles, which makes it a good choice for the casual paddler. Users do need to be aware it has a limited storage capacity.

What about the Waterproof Cases for Your Kayak

When taking a trip by kayak, you will want to make sure that items you are taking are packed without adding extra bulk. Ways to keep your map, compass, and GPS device dry will be a priority, and the right waterproof case or two are perfect choices to keep these necessary items protected and functional.

Even choosing a kayak bag for the hull can protect your gear if you’re planning a longer or overnight adventure and would like to have dry clothes when you takeout.

Thinking of taking pictures? Then a waterproof camera cases can be used for them as well. The cases are fully functional, allowing the user to operate the buttons and zooms through the covers.

In case an emergency situation arises. It makes sense to take your cell phone with you when you venture out into the water and keeping it dry and ready can be achieved with a waterproof phone case.

Choosing the right style of kayak is essential to getting the most from your excursion. Once you have made that decision, you can then turn your attention to selecting the right waterproof cases to keep all of your equipment safe.

By Michelle Chance-Sangthong

How to Choose a Kayak

Posted July 20, 2010 by kayakman in Kayaking Tips | No comments yet

There are two general types of kayaks. When I say this, I mean that the types you sit on, and the kind you sit in. They both maneuver well in the water, but you need to figure out which would suit you best.

Kayaks and Scuba Diving

Let’s talk about the type you sit on. The sit on kayaks are generally used for fishing, and carrying extra equipment. These types of kayaks have tie downs and spaces to carry any extra you need to bring along.

If you are a scuba diver or snorkeler, the sit on type will suit you well. You can carry your scuba equipment and use it as a base while you are underwater. Placing divers’ flags will alert other people that you are diving. You can also use it as a resting platform between dives. Check with your local dive shops to make sure you are following the regulations for diving from a kayak. Since scuba diving requires a friend, then you will want the two-seater.

Kayaks and Sightseeing

If you like to explore and camp along rivers or lakes, then a sit upon kayak is your ticket. The tie down straps and cords will help you carry your camping gear.

If you haven’t ever taken a trip along a river, you are really missing out on a wonderful experience. Kayaks are excellent for maneuvering and are easier to learn how to paddle. They balance well and catch less wind than a canoe. While there is nothing wrong with a canoe, kayaking is easier to learn to control, especially in the wind and in rough water.

Kayaks and Fly Fishing

If you are a fly fisherman, sit upon kayaks are great. You can get in and out of the kayak easier if necessary to land that big old granddaddy fish. If you really want control while you are fishing, there are sit upons that come with underwater paddles that can be paddled with your feet.

Kayaks for White Water

Sit in kayaks are used to control rough water and experiencing the thrill of challenging nature. They are also used to keep you warm when kayaking in cold water. The down side to sit in kayaks is that they roll over a lot easier. For people who like white water rafting, the roll is essential and is what causes the excitement. As you can imagine, white water kayaking is not a sport for the squeamish or faint-hearted.

Choosing between a sit in or a sit on greatly depends on what you wish to do. If you are in it for the adventure, then go for the sit it. If you want to enjoy the lake and scenery, then go for the sit on.

By Robert Joe Wallace

Kayak Fishing Tips

Posted July 20, 2010 by kayakman in Kayaking Tips | No comments yet

Kayak fishing has gained popularity in recent years, mostly due to the relatively minor cost of the equipment. Kayaks are small, usually single person, watercraft that can be propelled without the means of a motor. There are some tips to consider when investigating entering the sport of kayak fishing. A few of these tips include safety and stability of the watercraft, the fishing equipment itself and the comfort of the fisherman. Some kayak manufacturers offer models specifically geared toward kayak fishing tips, which may cost a bit more than a traditional kayak but will, in the end, provide the comfort and stability needed for fishing.

Safety and stability should be the first things to look for when investigating the purchase of a kayak specifically for fishing. Some of the kayaks specially designed for fishing offer stability features such as twin hull, wide beam and outrigger designs to offer the maximum safety in the water while fishing. Some of the twin hull models on the market today are even stable enough to paddle and fish while standing in the craft. Wide beam style kayaks offer a wider stance in the water, often up to three feet wide, to provide the fisherman with more side-to-side stability. Kayaks with outriggers look much like native islander fishing vessels, with beams and fins to one side to stabilize the vessel in choppy water.

The fishing techniques and equipment used when fishing from a kayak are very similar to standard fishing. The major differences are found in the way the equipment is carried aboard the kayak and how the equipment is used in the smaller craft. Many currently popular fishing kayaks can be equipped with modern devices such as rod holders, electronic fish-finders and live bait containers. Anglers who fish from kayaks often include large game fish such as tarpon, tuna, king mackerel and even marlin, in their targets.

The ultimate comfort of the fisherman is determined by his equipment, his choice of watercraft and how the equipment and craft come together. With modern kayak production techniques, it is relatively inexpensive to join in the sport of kayak fishing. Even though it was long assumed that speed was required for effective trolling of large game fish, modern kayak fishermen have found sport in launching their kayaks from larger boats further offshore in order to experience the exhilaration of being pulled through the water by large game fish as they chase their dreams.

Interested in learning more? Read more detailed writings about Kayak Fishing Tips right now. Visit our site for lots of great Kayak Fishing Tips Information.
By Ray B Spencer