THE KAYAK
BUYING GUIDE

Fishing kayaks are designed with lots of primary stability, making it easy to stand and fish. Many fishing kayaks offer pedal or motorized propulsion, which anglers love for the hands-free control. Deck them out with fish finders, rod holders, and more if you're looking to take your fishing game to the next level. 

Day touring kayaks are perfect for paddlers who want to go a little farther and faster than their recreational kayak offers. These kayaks are more efficient to paddle thanks to longer, narrower hulls, and offer more storage to keep a full day's worth of gear handy. 

Sit-in kayaks offer their own unique advantages. The cockpit provides a closer connection between your thighs, hips, and the boat, allowing for better control of its movements using your body. Many sit-in kayaks feature thigh braces for enhanced control. Additionally, the enclosed cockpit helps keep you warmer, and by adding a skirt, you can stay even drier.

Kayaking on large lakes and rivers can offer more exciting adventures but may have stronger currents or winds to navigate. These bodies of water present a thrilling and often challenging experience, combining vast open waters with the dynamic flow of mighty currents.

Unlike their smaller counterparts, large lakes can feature powerful winds and waves, making paddling a test of skill and endurance. Similarly, large rivers often have stronger currents, unpredictable eddies to navigate, and potential obstacles such as rapids or boat traffic.

Coastal ocean waters are best suited for experienced kayakers as they involve dealing navigating tidal currents, waves, and unpredictable weather conditions. Kayaking these waters offer an exhilarating experience blending the thrill of open water with the allure of coastal exploration can reveal breathtaking views and access to unique marine ecosystems.

Although coastal oceans provide to be more challenging to navigate, the rewards are immense. Imagine spotting dolphins, seals, or exotic sea birds, exploring hidden sea caves, and feeling the invigorating energy of the ocean. It’s an adventure that immerses you in the pure beauty of the natural world.

Offshore waters are best suited for experienced kayakers, as they involve exploring vast open waters, offering exciting adventures and an immersive connection to the ocean. Venturing far from the coastline, kayakers often encounter larger swells, powerful currents, and ever-changing weather conditions, demanding both skill and preparation.

The experience however, is equally rewarding. Expansive views of the horizon, encounters with marine life such as whales and sea turtles, unlimited opportunity to fish rare species, and a deep sense of solitude surrounded by the boundless sea all make offshore kayaking well worth the adventure.

A great fishing kayak should fit an anglers many needs. Prioritize stability, storage, and a wide and flat hull to ensure steadiness while casting or reeling in fish. Features like built-in rod holders, accessory tracks, and ample storage compartments for tackle boxes and bait are essential. 

Adjustable seating and footrests provide comfort during long hours on the water, while motorized, pedal drive or ePDL+ kayaks offer hands-free mobility, keeping you focused on the catch. Always ensure the kayak weight capacity accommodates yourself, gear and any other accessories for fishing.

Spending long hours out on the water while touring requires a comfortable kayak with the right features to fit you on the journey. When choosing a touring kayak, prioritize stability, speed, and comfort. Look for a design that balances maneuverability with tracking, ensuring it glides straight yet handles turns with ease. Opt for a kayak with ample storage compartments and a higher load capacity to accommodate gear for long trips.

For hunting kayaks prioritize stealth and stability. A kayak with a camouflaged design or muted colors will help blend into the environment. Pay close attention to the maximum weight capacity and search for a wide hull which ensures stability for shooting or retrieving game.

A few features to look for will be ample storage essential for carrying hunting gear, adjustable seating and footrests for comfort during long periods of waiting, and accessory tracks for mounting handy accessories you may need.

Kayak seats vary in design, comfort, and adjustability to suit different needs. Here's a breakdown of their differences:

• Contoured Seating: Provides ergonomic support by conforming to the paddler’s body featuring molded padding, lumbar support, and cushioning to reduce pressure points.
• Comfort Flex: Great for casual outings, these seats offer moderate padding and adjustable back support.
• Active Comfort System 2.0 (ACS2): Exclusive to Old Town, offering top-tier premium padding, under-leg support, and flow-through ventilation.
• Element Seating System: Built for fishing with breathable quick-drying material, an anodized aluminum frame, and adjustable backrest support. The Beach Seat is its lighter, recreational version.

A rudder or skeg is vital for improving a kayak's tracking and stability in more challenging conditions. Both help keep the kayak moving in a straight line, preventing it from being affected by wind, currents, or waves that can push it off course.

Rudders offer greater steering control which is ideal for open water and strong winds. These are usually foot-pedal operated. 

Skegs are simpler than a rudder. These are fixed blades that add stability in rough or crosswind conditions and are less likely to malfunction.

Accessory tracks are versatile mounting systems that allow you to attach and customize various accessories for convenience and functionality. These tracks are typically rails built into the kayak's design, usually along the sides, at the stern or in front of the seat.

With accessory tracks items like rod holders, fish finders, cupholders, cameras, or GPS devices can be mounted. These are designed to be adjustable so accessories can slide to your preferred position without the need for permanent installation or drilling.

You'll want to be where the fish are and be ready. When choosing a kayak for fishing some of these specific features can enhance your experience:

• Rod Holders: Built-in or adjustable holders to secure fishing rods while paddling or waiting for a catch.
• Thru-Hull Wiring: Necessary for running electrical wires or cables through the kayak hull.
• Accessory Tracks: Rails for attaching accessories like fish finders, GPS, or action cameras.
• Stern & Bow Mounts: Designed to secure equipment such as a trolling motor to either the kayak stern or bow.
• Standing Platform: Non-slip surfaces that allow anglers to stand for better casting and visibility.
• Anchor & Rudder Systems: A built-in anchor or anchor trolley to keep the kayak stationary in the water.

Kayak materials impact durability, weight, and performance on the water. Old town kayaks are primarily constructed of two types of material— Single Layer Polyethylene and Three Layer Polyethylene.

Single-layer polyethylene: The hull is made from a single, solid sheet of polyethylene plastic. This is molded into the hull shape, creating a durable and impact-resistant kayak that is relatively lightweight.

Three-layer polyethylene: The hull is made from three distinct layers of polyethylene plastic. The inner layer is a foam core enhancing buoyancy, middle layer provides rigidity and strength, and the outer layer offers impact resistance and durability.

Having the right essentials ensures safety, comfort, and efficiency. With these essentials you'll be prepared for a smooth and enjoyable kayaking trip:

• Paddles: Essential for maneuverability, choose one to match your kayak and paddling style
• Life Jacket: A critical safety item that keeps you afloat during unexpected situations
• Anchor: Useful for stability when fishing or resting in calm waters
• Scupper Plugs: Keeps water out of the cockpit and provides a drier ride
• Transportation: Necessary to get your boat to and from the water safely while traveling