Bass boat, or kayak? 2024
Kyle S reply :
I’m in search of advice on what you think I should eventually purchase for my love affair that is bass fishing. I’ve thought about this decision for months however I find myself continually bouncing back and forth only to wish that I could have both vessels. Obviously there are many pro’s and con’s of each, however I’m curious to see if any of you all have spent some time on both platforms and prefer one over the other. If you could only have one of these platforms to fish out of, which one would it be, and why?! Thank you????????????
MN Fisher reply :
I'm going to offer a third alternative - modified canoe. Here's my rig.
Scott F reply :
This another one of those questions where other peoples advise may not be helpful to you. There is such a huge difference between a kayak and a bass boat that your circumstances have to dictate your decision. What is your budget for the initial purchase and for years down the road. Where do you plan on storing your craft? How frequently will you be able to use it? What kinds of water will you be fishing? Will you want to take others with you? Answer these questions and see which boat fits your needs best. What works for me and which I like better doesn't matter if my choices don't fit your situation.
K1500 reply :
If you have the scratch to buy a bass boat, a kayak is cheap enough you can add it on later if wanted. I have both and strongly prefer the bass boat. Heck, you can get a kayak for a couple hundred at academy.
Allen Der reply :
I have both and use them for different waters. Kayak for small rivers and no motor and carry in lakes. I don't like kayak fishing on busy lakes with power boaters. Maybe if I had a big stable Hobie pro angler or similar with pedals or torqueedo motor it would be ok
clh121787 reply :
if i only fished farm ponds it be a kayak. but i fish big public lakes. so for me bass boat hands down
Rodney Smith reply :
I would recommend a Gheenoe or Riverhawk. You can fish ponds, rivers, reservoirs, and lakes too. Find you a good used one and have some fun.
Way north bass guy reply :
This seems like a bit of an odd question, it’s kind of like comparing a truck to a bicycle for price. Honestly, if you can afford a bassboat, I’m pretty sure you can shell out a couple hundred more for a kayak as well and call it done.
Brad Reid reply :
Wests Pond in Virginia? I looked it up. Looks like a great candidate for a kayak to me owing to its small size. If you plan to fish this place, your listed favorite, often, you'll get on the water a lot more often in a kayak.
Brad
jakkbauer reply :
On 7/7/2019 at 10:50 PM, Brad Reid said:Wests Pond in Virginia? I looked it up. Looks like a great candidate for a kayak to me owing to its small size. If you plan to fish this place, your listed favorite, often, you'll get on the water a lot more often in a kayak.
Brad
Brad says it best. Where do you plan to fish the most and what would suit that water for you to get out without a hassle. Does that mean loading up the bass boat with all your gear in it or throwing the yak and a few rods with some tackle in the truck to make a day of it that way. Only you can answer this question.
On another note as another poster mentioned, bass boat is more expensive and you could always get a kayak later which is cheap comparatively.
flyfisher reply :
I went through this same question 15+ years ago. I decided on a kayak for a few reasons:
-majority of lakes around me are HP restricted or electric only
-storage
-cost to operate
-expense both up front and maintenance
-can always motorize it later
-transportation of boat
Kayaks can fish anywhere a larger boat can but the real limitations are storage on the boat, distance covered in a day, number of people fishing with you and comfort depending on your preference.
I have no concerns fishing where there is boat traffic and have done it a lot but it isn't really needed where I live. Since that decision I have bought many different kayaks and the market for fishing specific kayaks is so great right now. There are so many options in all price ranges.
Ultimately it becomes your preference on which one you want to fish from. There is a learning curve involved with fishing from a kayak but there is also one in a boat as well.
JediAmoeba reply :
Something everyone is disregarding here is upkeep costs and additional costs that come with a boat. Those are the questions I think are the most important. Are you going to use a boat enough to account for the cost of upkeep, storage and maintenance?
You can get an OK boat for a relatively low price but upkeep is expensive. And when a boat breaks down, you have to remember the acronym.
B.ust
O.ut
A.nother
T.housand
Mikeltee reply :
Kayaking is great excercise. A bass boat is a never ending payment. It will break on you quite often and its not cheap to feed and launch it. A kayak can go anywhere a bass boat can go and then some at the expense of 5mph. Get a yak first off craigslist fully rigged and save up for a good bass boat.
LCG reply :
I have debated this for a couple of years as well. Decided to buy a kayak because I fish small lakes, rivers, and ponds mainly. I can store the kayak easily, load it on the car in 5 minutes, launch it almost anywhere, and the overall price can't be beat.
This is my fist year with it and I absolutely love it. Just went for five hours this morning. Great exercise and very relaxing. There is a learning curve like everything but it opens up so much more areas that aren't accessible.
Have to pack light and come up with some creative solutions, but that's part of the fun. For a few hundred dollars I wish I would have done it sooner.
I just have to learn how to enter and exit without looking like a beached walrus 
Kyle S reply :
Thank you all for your opinions! I ended up going with an entry level kayak, more specifically a lifetime teton 10' angler. By no means is it a fancy kayak, but it will certainly allow me to get out more often which is very important to me. The bass boat will come one day...
On 7/8/2019 at 12:51 AM, flyfisher said:I went through this same question 15+ years ago. I decided on a kayak for a few reasons:
-majority of lakes around me are HP restricted or electric only
-storage
-cost to operate
-expense both up front and maintenance
-can always motorize it later
-transportation of boat
Kayaks can fish anywhere a larger boat can but the real limitations are storage on the boat, distance covered in a day, number of people fishing with you and comfort depending on your preference.
I have no concerns fishing where there is boat traffic and have done it a lot but it isn't really needed where I live. Since that decision I have bought many different kayaks and the market for fishing specific kayaks is so great right now. There are so many options in all price ranges.
Ultimately it becomes your preference on which one you want to fish from. There is a learning curve involved with fishing from a kayak but there is also one in a boat as well.
I couldn't help but notice you and I are from the same small town @flyfisher Love me some Mechanicsville???? do you mind if I ask of any local spots you could recommend to get my kayak wet and a line in the water?? Thanks! Also, any beginner kayaking tips you or anyone could recommend?
Kyle S reply :
If I could figure out how to easily post a picture of the kayak, I certainly would. Any tips on posting pics easily would also be greatly appreciated!!????
flyfisher reply :
On 7/8/2019 at 6:03 AM, Kyle S said:Thank you all for your opinions! I ended up going with an entry level kayak, more specifically a lifetime teton 10' angler. By no means is it a fancy kayak, but it will certainly allow me to get out more often which is very important to me. The bass boat will come one day...
I couldn't help but notice you and I are from the same small town @flyfisher Love me some Mechanicsville???? do you mind if I ask of any local spots you could recommend to get my kayak wet and a line in the water?? Thanks! Also, any beginner kayaking tips you or anyone could recommend?
I'll send a PM....
Kyle S reply :
On 7/8/2019 at 8:17 AM, flyfisher said:I'll send a PM....
Thank you!!
jaimeastin reply :
I am a kayak fishermen first. There is nothing like it. I paddle, not pedal. I currently have 4 kayaks. Secondly, I am a float tube guy. Very different, but it is very comfortable and perfect for some locations. Third, I fish our of my bass boat. The bass boat gets me to bigger water that I would not want to take my kayak or tube into.
I currently fish out of my boat the most due to recovering from back surgery. The kayak and tube are uncomfortable enough to really hurt me, and that hurts me ????. You can launch a kayaks in minutes and fish just about any body if water. Similarly with the tube. The downside is you cannot cover as much water, which may not be a big deal.
No doubt a bass boat is good... So the cons for me are I have to drive and hour back and forth to fish at my closet lake. Gas is expensive in CA at $4. Driving a truck, towing a boat, gasing the boat, etc adds up really fast. That's my biggest con. On another note, I get very little exercise with boat in comparison to kayak and tubing. Yeah, when I was able, the yak and tube were apart of my weekly workouts so I mixed fishing with it. I was in excellent shape
Truth is, if my back was better, I would be in my kayak or tube 3 days out of the week and boat maybe once. I have some nice smaller bodies if water that I love to be in with my smaller vessels. The boat is just more a burden that is WORTH IT if you use it. I was determined to not do what I see too many people do, let the boat sit.
I use my boat about 3 times a week. It's the most expensive, but do to health it's the only way I can fish... Very worth it for me. That why my wife wanted me to get it... I couldn't fish at all pre surgery.
My questions would be... How often would you fish?, How close is your go-to body of water, and how much time/resources you have to get the craft used as much as you can? That can help determine what you go with. Ultimately, I see you with both... I didn't really want a boat as the kayak is just great.... But it's a bout having fun the right kayak too!
BassWhole! reply :
How is this even a question? I can see bass boat vs jon boat maybe, but a kayak is "more fun, gets you places you can't with a boat, and puts you closer to the water" is an euphemism for "I can't afford to own, keep, and run a boat"
MN Fisher reply :
On 7/9/2019 at 2:23 AM, BassWhole! said:euphemism for "I can't afford to own, keep and run a boat"
Which is exactly the reason I went with a canoe this time. I've owned a boat in the past and it was more trouble than it was worth to me.
jaimeastin reply :
On 7/9/2019 at 2:23 AM, BassWhole! said:How is this even a question? I can see bass boat vs jon boat maybe, but a kayak is "more fun, gets you places you can't with a boat, and puts you closer to the water" is an euphemism for "I can't afford to own, keep and run a boat"
Some people just do not need a boat as much as they want them. We have been taught for a long time how important a bass boat is... Yet Kayak fishing is becoming more and more popular as well as profitable. It is not because people are "poor" and cannot afford to run a boat. Sometimes it is storage. People who are renting, living in condos, or city dwelling were parking/storage is limited is a big deal. Even more getting a boat in and out of a location. The hassle to store a boat is a real hassle people in some locations. Many people just want to get on the water and grabbing a kayak, putting it on a car, in a truck or on top of an SUV is easy.
No need to try to shame a person for logically declining to purchase a boat. If it does not fit them, that's them. A fisherman is just that. It does not matter what they fish out of or not. I love how fishermen who are so caught up on materials forget its all about fishing.
What is more the questions and is more personal to the purchaser like where and how he plans to fish. It is obvious he can have either or... And another thing, he just wanted opinions that many other people ask.
HookInMouth reply :
It's nonsense to say that people who prefer kayak fishing just can't afford a boat. I had a boat and sold it. I now have a kayak because I enjoy it more (I mainly fish shallow rivers). I'm sure the affordability is a draw to some, but that blanket statement is just false. There's something about the kayak that I just love. And I can afford a boat.
Paul Roberts reply :
Two different animals in my mind.
Big water and adequate time and $ budget: bass boat.
Smaller water, or range needed to cover, less $ and hassle: kayak, but... properly set up to fish.
Minimal hassle: kayak out of the box and a fishing pole.
Choporoz reply :
On 7/9/2019 at 3:44 AM, jaimeastin said:Sometimes it is storage. People who are renting, living in condos, or city dwelling were parking/storage is limited is a big deal. Even more getting a boat in and out of a location. The hassle to store a boat is a real hassle people in some locations. Many people just want to get on the water and grabbing a kayak, putting it on a car, in a truck or on top of an SUV is easy.
On 7/9/2019 at 3:54 AM, Paul Roberts said:adequate time ..... and hassle
Good points, both.
I live in a townhouse with zero on-site boat parking options. Nearest 24hr access storage with electric outlet is over five miles away and $120/mo. Even the most basic cleaning and maintenance challenges would be compounded immensely comared to garaging a boat at home.
The time/hassle point is another reason I have a kayak and not a boat. The time that I spend upgrading, cleaning, maintaining my Hobie, cart, roof racks, etc....amounts to a few hours a year. I expect that a boat would require ten times that, if not more....hours stolen from being on the water....or spent with the family.
flyfisher reply :
On 7/9/2019 at 2:23 AM, BassWhole! said:How is this even a question? I can see bass boat vs jon boat maybe, but a kayak is "more fun, gets you places you can't with a boat, and puts you closer to the water" is an euphemism for "I can't afford to own, keep, and run a boat"
And I think that many people who get boats are just fat and/or out of shape and don't have ability to fish out of a kayak.
BoatSquirrel reply :
On 7/9/2019 at 5:17 AM, flyfisher said:And I think that many people who get boats are just fat and/or out of shape and don't have ability to fish out of a kayak.
Then there is also the possibility that folks with bass boats want to cover a lot of water, fish big water-safely, fish big tournaments, and go fast.
gimruis reply :
The upkeep on a boat is significantly more than a kayak. Maintaining a boat is kinda like maintaining another car to be honest. Plus you gotta have space for it too. A canoe or kayak works well on skinny water and in small rivers. I have one and that’s exactly what I use it for. Given the choice between a bass boat and a kayak, I would choose the bass boat though.
jaimeastin reply :
On 7/9/2019 at 9:00 AM, BoatSquirrel said:Then there is also the possibility that folks with bass boats want to cover a lot of water, fish big water-safely, fish big tournaments, and go fast.
Or the waters around them just aren't kayak friendly.
Rip_lipz reply :
Last 5 years I have really gotten into bass fishing. I started bank fishing ponds early 2013-2015. 2016 I purchased a ascend kayak from BPS. Then in 2017 upgraded to a 1985 bass tracker that I found to small. Then 2018 to present I bought a 97 ranger 518dvs. I love having a bigger boat, I got a really good deal on it in the winter. Moral of the story is you'll eventually buy a boat, So just do it now. Start up is a little costly, but the wife loves sun bathing in the back while I fish, Win win for me.
J Francho reply :
I've run both for years. Thinking about a pond prowler or small jon as well. They all have their purpose, though lately, I've preferred my Hobie Compass over all.
PAbasser927 reply :
I have a boat and a kayak. The boat is great if I am going out with the family or someone else, but when fishing solo I take the kayak 100% of the time. I will actually bank fish/wade my local river before going out solo in the boat. I enjoy the minimalist approach to the sport.
Allen Der reply :
On 7/9/2019 at 5:17 AM, flyfisher said:And I think that many people who get boats are just fat and/or out of shape and don't have ability to fish out of a kayak.
I'd say it's almost the opposite. A lot of big boys buying kayaks and wanting to stand in them. Probably why all the newer boats are barges and set up for motors or pedals.
On 7/9/2019 at 7:52 PM, Rip_lipz said:Last 5 years I have really gotten into bass fishing. I started bank fishing ponds early 2013-2015. 2016 I purchased a ascend kayak from BPS. Then in 2017 upgraded to a 1985 bass tracker that I found to small. Then 2018 to present I bought a 97 ranger 518dvs. I love having a bigger boat, I got a really good deal on it in the winter. Moral of the story is you'll eventually buy a boat, So just do it now. Start up is a little costly, but the wife loves sun bathing in the back while I fish, Win win for me.
I'd rather have a nice kayak than a 20+ year old glitter rocket with a crappy two stroke carbed motor.
flyfisher reply :
On 7/9/2019 at 9:00 AM, BoatSquirrel said:Then there is also the possibility that folks with bass boats want to cover a lot of water, fish big water-safely, fish big tournaments, and go fast.
I said this tongue in cheek to show how pointless of a comment he made. I don't even care what people fish out of as long as you have fun out there.
Choporoz reply :
I fished out of a 10' kayak with a lousy seat for a couple of years and often wished I was in a boat. I loved kayak fishing, but never really preferred it to being in a boat; except for a getting on some small waters. This year, I'm in a larger yak with pedals and much better seat. I rarely consider going out in a boat any more.
Boomstick reply :
I am facing the very same dilemma. I really do want a bass boat, which would be enough to fish with my kids and friends off of but with all of the medical bills I've been hit with, it might be a little difficult, where I can buy a rigged out fishing kayak for myself and a couple of cheaper ones for the boys and that's not too expensive. There's a couple of motorless lakes I could use the kayaks on that I could not use a bass boat on, but for the most part I'd be fishing many of the same lakes.
I could burn some calories with kayaks as well, which is always a plus.
jaimeastin reply :
On 7/10/2019 at 12:30 AM, Boomstick said:
I could burn some calories with kayaks as well, which is always a plus.
You can't beat getting exercise doing something you love. Kayak fishing is so rewarding. When I am able to, I will be back in my yak and will leave the boat at home more often. We have 4 kayaks and only purchased a boat due to my back issues.
I love my boat for just what it is and does. I did not buy too much boat or too little. My heritage is decked out... I will soont have more gear on it that what I paid for the boat, bit that's okay. My kayaks are rigged up too! That's the fun part of the kayak, making it a better fishing machine.
Find one you are comfortable with and have fun.
LadiMopar reply :
On 7/8/2019 at 6:03 AM, Kyle S said:Also, any beginner kayaking tips you or anyone could recommend?
Congrats on the new yak, may it bring you many years of joy...as for beginner tips...always wear your PFD, never paddle water above your skill level, and if you're going out alone let someone know the where/when of your trip.
Maybe this sounds a little like a "mother hen" but having had a few too many close calls (and it only takes one) deciding what your life is worth makes doing those things a whole lot easier.
I'm a disabled angler/kayaker and maybe these things are a little more to the forefront of my mind, but safety on the water should imho be everyone's concern.
MN Fisher reply :
On 7/10/2019 at 7:48 AM, LadiMopar said:always wear your PFD
This cannot be stressed enough - whether it's a Yak, canoe or full boat. You never know what's going to happen on the water and a PFD is the only thing between you getting home or you drowning.
haggard reply :
On 7/7/2019 at 9:14 AM, Kyle S said:I’m curious to see if any of you all have spent some time on both platforms and prefer one over the other. If you could only have one of these platforms to fish out of, which one would it be, and why?! Thank you????????????
The obvious answer is: it depends. On where you're located, what bodies of water you have access to, how you like to fish, who you like to fish with, etc., your philosophies and your finances, and your physical abilities.
In my experience (or opinion) the biggest difference between bass boat and yak is the time it takes to cover long spans of water. Second is how many people are on the boat (see-also: comfort) - do you usually fish alone, or with others? And third, cost and maintenance.
To answer your specific question, if I had to choose one, currently it would be a fishing oriented yak. Ultimately, for simplicity and versatility.
Rip_lipz reply :
On 7/10/2019 at 12:07 AM, Allen Der said:I'd say it's almost the opposite. A lot of big boys buying kayaks and wanting to stand in them. Probably why all the newer boats are barges and set up for motors or pedals.
I'd rather have a nice kayak than a 20+ year old glitter rocket with a crappy two stroke carbed motor.
20 year old boat that does 60 miles an hour with power poles mega imaging minn kota ultrex… ill take that over a kayak any day.
r83srock reply :
I have been in glitter rockets all my life, and have owned my current one for over a decade, thankfully it’s paid for , which allows me to use it a whole lot more! ???? I love it, however, there are issues with bass boats, especially older ones like mine with a not so crappy but sometimes stubborn two stroke. They can be maintenance heavy if neglected or maintenance light if taken care of, but you will always be investing money into it. Every year something needs to get fixed or replaced. It’s to the point where I budget for it and expect those costs. Just last night a guy in my Tuesday nighter asked when I’m getting a new boat, I replied, no time soon. Nothing wrong with a new one, heck I’d love to have a new one, but it doesn’t fit my budget, for some, it may! Now, about a month ago I purchased two fishing kayaks for my girlfriend and me, and so far I am having a blast out of it! I’m learning way more about kayaks than I ever thought I could. It’s a different experience, it reminds me of when I would fish out of my uncles 10’ jon for smallies as a kid. I’m honestly hooked! I’d say, gets kayak first! Pay cash for it, and it’s something you can keep for the rest of your life with no regrets, pretty easy on gas too! I still recommend a bass boat too, but I’d get the kayak first.
drscholl14 reply :
Before I bought my bass boat (used) I was thinking about buying a kayak just to get out on the water. The only one I felt that I would want to fish out of would be a pedal drive kayak which were around a couple grand. I thought about it and decided that if I spent that kind of money on a kayak eventually I was still going to want to buy a bass boat. So I kept the $2k and stayed patient and a year later I bought my bass boat.
Couldn't be happier with my decision.
jaimeastin reply :
This thread made me get my favorite kayak out... I have been it it in almost two years prior and after back surgery. I have been feeling the itch to go kayak fishing, but not in my smaller one. I missed this one as it is fast and stable in almost all conditions. I took it out last night and did some night fishing. That old feeling is still the same. Once it is loaded up, I usually use a few days. I will go out to a different lake this evening.
You don't need a $2k yak to fish out of. This one was much less than $1k. I have never felt the need for a pedal drive. I can go over logs and in brush easily. My least expensive was $150. They all catch fish and are fully rigged with trolly, fish finders, etc. The one in the photo, I was originally going to chop up a trolling motor for it and make a rudder. I truely enjoy paddling and the upper body I exercise I get.
Allen Der reply :
On 7/10/2019 at 7:45 PM, Rip_lipz said:20 year old boat that does 60 miles an hour with power poles mega imaging minn kota ultrex… ill take that over a kayak any day.
Can't go 60 if it doesn't start. I'll stick with my 5yr old Lund with a 4 stroke and terrova ipilot. Plus my kayaks
928JLH reply :
Get a yak. Your significant other will appreciate the extra endurance and stamina from the exercise LOL.
Rip_lipz reply :
On 7/12/2019 at 11:16 AM, Allen Der said:Can't go 60 if it doesn't start. I'll stick with my 5yr old Lund with a 4 stroke and terrova ipilot. Plus my kayaks
98 Johnson starts everytime rebuilt and machined powerhead myself. Some people actually work/maintain our equipment. Dont need a brand new boat when you know how to turn a wrench.
Allen Der reply :
On 7/12/2019 at 9:31 PM, Rip_lipz said:98 Johnson starts everytime rebuilt and machined powerhead myself. Some people actually work/maintain our equipment. Dont need a brand new boat when you know how to turn a wrench.
going back to the OP's question, a kayak = zero maintenance. just saying, dont need to be a mechanic to get out on the water
Mikeltee reply :
On 7/9/2019 at 2:23 AM, BassWhole! said:How is this even a question? I can see bass boat vs jon boat maybe, but a kayak is "more fun, gets you places you can't with a boat, and puts you closer to the water" is an euphemism for "I can't afford to own, keep, and run a boat"
Most likely can afford... But do you want to afford it. Most guys here are married to women. A kayak is one and done. A bass boat is a constant reason to complain. Some don't like to give them another excuse. To others its worth it. Of course you can always tell yourself that's not my wife. If that's you give it a few years... There are many reasons to own a kayak and I bet at least 75% of kayakers also have a boat. 20% of them are saving for a boat. The smart 5% just don't want to hear it. To allude to kayak promoters being poor is just plain silly.
jaimeastin reply :
On 7/13/2019 at 9:31 AM, Mikeltee said:Most likely can afford... But do you want to afford it. Most guys here are married to women. A kayak is one and done. A bass boat is a constant reason to complain. Some don't like to give them another excuse. To others its worth it. Of course you can always tell yourself that's not my wife. If that's you give it a few years... There are many reasons to own a kayak and I bet at least 75% of kayakers also have a boat. 20% of them are saving for a boat. The smart 5% just don't want to hear it. To allude to kayak promoters being poor is just plain silly.
My wife is 50/50... She wants me to sell one of my kayaks, I have 4. She is always complaining that I am modifying my boat or kayak. She asks why can't I just buy something and be done, that I am always adding more and more to it.
At the same time, she encouraged me to get livescope, she is encouraging me to get the the Garmin trolling motor, and today when I went to buy some gun targets, she asked if I was going to get a new kayak.
She knows I want to buy anything kayak or small boat to love out of state at my mom's... But now I just sprung on her that I want a deuce and a half! Now... I can't have it all and we don't have kids, but I do take care of her.
Some of use just prefer kayaks and they are excellent fishing platforms. I was doing some frog fishing last nigh in my kayak. It was stealthy and fun!
jaimeastin reply :
Oh and... I was at Sheels a little while ago and saw a Hobie 14' kayak that was quite Amazing. I don't think it is a kayak, more an alternative fishing boat. It was also $4k.
For a person who does not want to deal with boat maintenance, boat cost, but want to have a super stable and very capablw fishing vessel, I can see putting down the money for it and it being their fishing boat.
LadiMopar reply :
On 7/14/2019 at 9:07 AM, jaimeastin said:For a person who does not want to deal with boat maintenance, boat cost, but want to have a super stable and very capablw fishing vessel, I can see putting down the money for it and it being their fishing boat.
I know this probably wasn't exactly the point you were trying to make, but I thank you.
Don't have a Hobie, but my Feelfree Dorado (same $$$ point) with integrated electrical/battery box, retractable transducer arm, and unified peddle/motor drive (and a million other features) is absolutely the best of both worlds for me.
As a disabled angler paddling has become an issue so this gives me the freedom to still get on the water by myself, with many of the perks of a big boat and the quiet enjoyment I got from my paddle only yak. Motor drive is optional in this model, but very important to someone like me when getting back to the ramp at days end.
Just my two cents. ????
jaimeastin reply :
On 7/14/2019 at 11:21 PM, LadiMopar said:As a disabled angler paddling has become an issue so this gives me the freedom to still get on the water by myself, with many of the perks of a big boat and the quiet enjoyment I got from my paddle only yak. Motor drive is optional in this model, but very important to someone like me when getting back to the ramp at days end.
Just my two cents. ????
That was why I checked this boat out. I love kayak fishing. When I back was in very bad condition, I couldn't fish from my kayak, float tube or hardly walk from time to time. My wife knew I had to fish and used to fish 3_4 four times a week. She convinced me to get a boat.
2 years later, here I am feeling better. I have been wanting to kayak fish. We bought a new boat and it is all fine... I have upgraded a lot of stuff and our a lot of money in it. I just miss fishing from a kayak. I don't think some understand how great of a feeling kayak fishing is. I just took my favorite kayak out the other night for the first time in over two years.
Thankfully my kayak didn't hurt me so bad... But paddling did irritate my back if I did not watch my technique. The sales person showed me this kayak... I got in it and tested it out. It was amazing. The pedal drive system did not hurt my back. The kayak was very well thought out.
I completely understand why you love your yak and how it was a life changer. Every dime was worth it and the experience is just about unparalleled. I used to think these kayaks were just too big or untraditional at wanting to be a boat. I had to remember that anything that gets you fishing is what it is all about. Secondly the boat is addressing needs that can specially help people who need certain attributes.
J Francho reply :
@jaimeastin You saw a Hobie Pro Angler, top of the line boat from them. I have a Hobie Compass Mirage Drive and love it.
https://www.hobie.com/kayaks/mirage-pro-angler-14-360/
the reel ess reply :
I've owned both. They each have their place. I just sold my fish/ski and haven't missed it because I was getting no use out of it. It just sat under a shed, mocking me. You know what they say about the first and last days you own a boat being the best. In terms of getting into places where the bass are not pressured, nothing comes close to the kayak.
Kayak Pros:
Light, no trailer and very little maintenance required. Much easier to transport.
No registration required almost everywhere if it's not powered
Cheaper in pretty much every way
Good exercise. I try to get some cardio almost every day. I skip my usual cardio on days that I fish.
Allows access to paces a boat can't be easily launched
Allows you to get closer to fish without spooking them. It will actually surprise you how many big fish can be very shallow that you didn't notice before because you used to spook them out with the big boat and trolling motor.
Kayak Cons:
Not motorized so getting from Pt A to Pt B takes time and energy
Limited storage space. Not easy to carry a lot of gear and be prepared for every eventuality. I have a rigged crate and can carry 7 rods and some extra tackle.
You can't paddle and cast and reel at the same time. You can get peddle kayaks or rig a trolling motor, but those still require a hand to steer and they start to negate the cost savings over a big boat.
It's more primitive as electronics don't come with it. You need to rig your own. Electronics are necessary if you're going to fish deep structure, so you're a little confined to shallower lakes/ponds. Electronics push that cost back up. I mostly fish private, shallower places, so that's fine. I do have a fish finder on one of my kayaks, but mostly use it as a water temp gauge. LOL.
The older I get, the more I start to see that a big boat is more comfy to fish from. After 5 hours in a kayak, I'm tired and I feel it a little the next day. I think the Ghenoe with a gas and rolling motor looks like a good compromise. But I'd still keep the kayaks.
On 7/7/2019 at 8:21 PM, Rodney Smith said:I would recommend a Gheenoe or Riverhawk. You can fish ponds, rivers, reservoirs, and lakes too. Find you a good used one and have some fun.
I want this! Take my money now! The wife and I plan to retire to somewhere coastal and this would be about exactly what I'd want. I have little desire to go offshore and if I do, I can pay someone to put me on fish way cheaper than I can do it myself. Being a bass fisherman, I like inshore much better.
Skunkd reply :
Congrats on your yak purchase. The obsession begins! Tons of great info on here already, a couple other things to gnaw on. You will no doubt be thinking about how to rig your yak soon. Rod holders, fish finders, gopro mounts, livewells, depth charges, it can get overwhelming ( and expensive) fast. Take your time rigging your yak. Sometimes the most important thing is where Not to put something. Leave a section of gunwale open for landing fish/ reentry should you go swimming accidentally. Half the fun of owning a yak is making it your own but it takes time on the water to figure out what works best for you.
Tight Lines T
jaimeastin reply :
On 7/15/2019 at 8:09 PM, J Francho said:@jaimeastin You saw a Hobie Pro Angler, top of the line boat from them. I have a Hobie Compass Mirage Drive and love it.
https://www.hobie.com/kayaks/mirage-pro-angler-14-360/
Hey, I look looked that the top of the line, another one below it which was nice and then a smaller one that still had the pedal drive. I was just impressed.
I have been considering the garmin trolling motor, ultrex or the new motor guide as my next big fishing purchase, but a hobie is so nice. My wife brought home some brochures, so I know I kinda have approval, lol! Now I just need to sell body parts and fluid to buy it 
Skunkd reply :
Another vote for Hobie. They're pricey but still the best made pedal kayaks available ( my.02).Only wish they had a better warranty. Lots of other companies are catching up fast so there's plenty of good options out there. I bought my 2017 Outback last year NOS. About 6 months later they came out with the new 2019 OB. No regrets. Try to pedal as many boats as you can before pulling the trigger. Mirage drive pedaling feels very different than prop style drives. Some people really prefer it (me), others like the prop.
LadiMopar reply :
On 7/15/2019 at 9:49 AM, jaimeastin said:2 years later, here I am feeling better. I have been wanting to kayak fish. We bought a new boat and it is all fine... I have upgraded a lot of stuff and our a lot of money in it. I just miss fishing from a kayak. I don't think some understand how great of a feeling kayak fishing is. I just took my favorite kayak out the other night for the first time in over two years.
So happy to hear you are doing better, and really glad you are able enough now to get back in the yak. I wish you many, many more years of continued good health so you can enjoy every minute in your yak. I know my time in the kayak, even with the motor drive is limited. Not complaining, just stating a fact that my health issues will never improve, so I am going for it now with everything I've got. I don't believe in mourning what will be, I'm just grateful everyday for what I have now.
But, that being said, I will absolutely miss being out in the yak one day, and imho you're right, some folks don't quite understand the allure of being in a kayak. As I like to say...it's an acquired taste and probably not for everyone.
Like your wife, hubby would happily buy me anything I needed to keep doing what I love, including a bass boat, but its just not for me. Maybe that will change one day; never say never...right? But for the moment, I'm not ready to give up all that I get from my time out there...and really glad you aren't either. Paddle On!
schplurg reply :
Some of my more negative thoughts after kayak fishing 4 times now. Just bought a used WS Ride 115 that came with a nice AirPro Max seat. I debated for a long time between a yak and a 14 foot or so aluminum fishing boat.
It's not that light - my kayak is 75 pounds empty. I'm 51. I have back issues that come and go as well as tendinitis. Sometimes putting the yak in my truck before and after fishing exacerbates these issues, even if just a little. I try to do it carefully, but it does take some strength. Coming up with a good technique is important.
You also have to drag it around the ramp sometimes when it's full of gear.
I feel that I miss out on a lot of fishing due to long paddling sessions, and due to the exertion while doing so. Depends where you fish though. Also constantly picking up the paddle to reposition the boat. I want to add a trolling motor, but now I think maybe I should just have a boat?
I feel like I would change baits more often if I had a boat. It would just be more comfortable and easier to move and reach around in.
I sometimes feel like I need to get out of the yak just to "get out". It's confining, obviously. It is a good idea to get out and stretch anyways.
No escape from the hot sun.
I spun around in my seat the other day and almost got tipped out of it. It's supposed to be stable but standing has been a little wobbly for me. I can, but I don't find myself doing it yet.
It's generally more cumbersome. Grabbing a sandwich, getting into your milk crate and being stuck sitting in one spot can get frustrating.
I do love kayak fishing. It's a great feeling and slipping into strange new areas in the trees is pretty cool. I'm just listing some negatives since there are so many positives in the thread already 
I may buy a cheap aluminum boat for next year and do a casting deck and all that. I only paid $500 for the yak with the seat so I will probably keep it, storage space permitting.
Putting a trolling motor on the yak will require me to register it, and pay the same amount for inspection and launch fees as a boat.
I don't find loading the yak in the truck any easier than hooking a trailer to my truck (opposite I'd say), so as for "more likely to get on the water with a yak than a boat" - eh, not too sure about that.
Our electric-only lakes allow boats with gas motors as long as they are not used. I saw a full-on bass boat on the lake one day and asked about it. Was surprised.
After using a yak 4 times I'm still not sure what I want. Both would be ideal!
I'm still unsure as to what I will do. I need to use it more and I definitely will. I do love it, don't get me wrong, but now that I have one I see the good and bad about it, for me personally. I'm leaning towards getting the boat though.
On 7/9/2019 at 5:17 AM, flyfisher said:And I think that many people who get boats are just fat and/or out of shape and don't have ability to fish out of a kayak.
Haha many reviews I read when looking for a yak said something like, "I'm 5'10 and 350 pounds and this yak just isn't stable!" Being out of shape ain't stoppin' many people from kayaking
jaimeastin reply :
On 7/18/2019 at 7:45 AM, schplurg said:Haha many reviews I read when looking for a yak said something like, "I'm 5'10 and 350 pounds and this yak just isn't stable!" Being out of shape ain't stoppin' many people from kayaking
Its all about the right kayak and what works for you.
Hook2Jaw reply :
Had a boat, got a Hobie, sold the boat, upgraded to another Hobie. Then, Hobie decided to hump prices for tariffs so I've decided I'm getting myself into an Old Town Predator PDL.
Brad Reid reply :
On 7/19/2019 at 2:39 AM, Hook2Jaw said:Had a boat, got a Hobie, sold the boat, upgraded to another Hobie. Then, Hobie decided to hump prices for tariffs so I've decided I'm getting myself into an Old Town Predator PDL.
That's a great kayak, the Predator PDL. I have several friends who fish out of them with great success. And, I believe they made some improvements for this model year and dropped prices a bit.
The new Hobie PA 12 or 14 with the new 360 Drive? For anyone fishing with a heavy emphasis on working around boathouses, docks, marinas, really hard? Or, pulling along long shorelines and casting parallel to the edge? These expensive new Hobies, likely $5,000 with taxes, will be very hard to beat. They will go forward and backward, like PDLs, Natives and others, but also allow the angler to sidle over left or right. Someone mastering its movements will be able to get in great position to make great casts to difficult spots where bass hang out.
Brad
Hook2Jaw reply :
On 7/19/2019 at 3:52 AM, Brad Reid said:That's a great kayak, the Predator PDL. I have several friends who fish out of them with great success. And, I believe they made some improvements for this model year and dropped prices a bit.
The new Hobie PA 12 or 14 with the new 360 Drive? For anyone fishing with a heavy emphasis on working around boathouses, docks, marinas, really hard? Or, pulling along long shorelines and casting parallel to the edge? These expensive new Hobies, likely $5,000 with taxes, will be very hard to beat. They will go forward and backward, like PDLs, Natives and others, but also allow the angler to sidle over left or right. Someone mastering its movements will be able to get in great position to make great casts to difficult spots where bass hang out.
Brad
I agree about the Old Town. One thing I do like about the boat is they're reported to be speed machines and with my top end at 7 in the PA14 in short bursts, I believe I can hit 8 in the Predator from all the reports I see. The cruising speed is supposed to be phenomenal.
As for the new Hobie Pro Angler 14 360, I think it'll be an amazing boat for exactly what you said. I have an addiction to banging squarebills off cover at the moment, so I'm hoping the foot only access to reverse with the Predator will up my game in that regard. Hands free reverse is still something firmly in the realm of propellers, and I think Old Town has the premier propeller driven kayak.
Five thousand dollars is too rich for my blood, I plan to put myself in the Predator, grab a Topwater 120 for the future wife, and a Topwater 106 for the son as soon as he can walk.
I just wish Old Town would release a pedal drive tandem.
LadiMopar reply :
On 7/19/2019 at 4:12 AM, Hook2Jaw said:just wish Old Town would release a pedal drive tandem.
Feelfree has a tandem with peddle drive. A guy my hubby works with bought one this year and absolutely loved it.
BassWhole! reply :
[Pearl Jam's Can't find a better man playing in the background]
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