Think Before You Sit-on Your Personal Kayak

By: Thomas Christopher

Home | Sports-and-Recreation

Exploring kayaking as a family entertainment? Below are several things to look for in sit-on-top kayaks.

The most important thing to know before you buy is how you will use the kayak. The second most important is who will use said kayak. When these are clear, the decisions will be easy.

To make things concrete, we will refer to products by Ocean Kayak, a top manufacturer of sit-on kayaks.

Look to start with at "who". Kayaks come in two basic configurations: sit-on-tops like the Ocean Kayak Frenzy model and sit-insides like what you see every Boy Scout paddling. Both types are made for one or two (tandem) people. If you are going to travel as a couple anyway, with or without a small child, then a tandem kayak is cheaper than two singles, but less maneuverable.

You can paddle a tandem alone by sitting in the back (stern) and carrying weight in the front (bow) seating space. It can be fairly awkward to paddle a tandem alone. See why this is a critical decision point? By the way, Ocean Kayak has the Malibu Two and Zest Two models for two passengers, or two and a small child.

Okay, back to "how will you use it". Flat water lakes, whitewater rivers, ocean surfing, serious angling, or water polo are all kayak possibilities. Each calls for something different. Most families will paddle around lakes or placid rivers, swimming, relaxing. You should have a recreational kayak. If you plan week-long excursions, surfing off Vanua Levu in Fiji, or capturing kayak polo trophies you need specialized kayaks. Ocean Kayaks has 16 models specifically for anglers.

Shorter kayaks are slower than long ones, but more maneuverable. Recreational kayaks should really be relatively short. Similarly, they should be rather wide for more stability and maneuverability (which is also related to hull shape, see below). Think teapots--short and stout.

If you or the kids plan to be in and out of the kayak to swim, snorkel, or just cool off, you definitely want a sit-on-top style. These "surfboards with paddles" have a short learning curve--recall your trip where the kids got the hang of paddling in around 10 minutes? Sit-on-tops are much easier to handle. If you do fall off, they are easy to remount. Sit-on-top kayaks are self-bailing, should you succeed in turning it over--close to impossible according to the Frenzy kayak reviews. Shorter also means easier transport on top of your car and easier storing in your garage or basement.

Ocean Kayaks, in particular, designs some of their hulls for stability. Primary stability comes from a "V" shaped "keeled" hull. Secondary stability comes from having a "U" shape which creates sponson-like stability--think float plane pontoons. The tri-hulled Ocean Kayak Frenzy provides both a keel and explicit sponsons--bulges along the sides of the bottom--a great safety feature.

For specialized kayaks you will need terms like "tracking" and "rocker" in relation to the hull design. Good tracking is improves long distance, flat-water paddling. High rocker allows maneuverability in white water or surf. Check further before you specialize--please.

Everyone ought to check out the kayak videos on gear, techniques, and travelogues at the YouTube "Paddling TV" channel. Once you know, then you can try out--do both before you buy.

---

About the Author:
For extra information, consult a Ocean Kayak Frenzy review and a summary of published Frenzy kayak reviews. The Frenzy is one of the most in demand sit-on kayaks. Thomas Christopher is a Colorado public speaker.

Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Think-Before-You-Sit-on-Your-Personal-Kayak/4025819#ixzz20klR7J00
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives

Kayak Fishing Benefits - Top Five Advantages

By: Jhon ford

Home | Sports-and-Recreation | Fishing

Today, kayak fishing has gained a high level of attention from anglers worldwide and the fan base is growing massively. As a well-liked activity, fishermen across the globe appreciate the ambition. The adventure entices many nationals, including professional and inexperienced kayak fishing enthusiasts; because persons also enjoy kayak fishing as a hobby. Fundamentally, fishing in a kayak benefits the users in many ways. The evident advantages include the possibility of persons maintaining a healthy lifestyle, because kayak fishing is an excellent workout method. Furthermore, it is a money-saving fishing activity and embraces the natural essences of life. Below are some of the primary advantages a kayaker treasures.

Accessibility Kayaks are versatile and fits well with several activities. This is indicative that launching a kayak at a deserving location is achievable. The need to use a boat ramp and carrier for the kayak is unnecessary, because of the advanced portability. Therefore, a kayak is transportable on any vehicle of choice. It fits on the top with ease and is light in weight, limiting the pressure on the owner.

Affordability In comparison to what conventional water vessels cost, kayak boats are low-cost and delivers ROI (Return on Investment). Therefore, assuming that a fishing kayak is within the budget is self-asserting and customizing kayaks to suit a persons interest requires minimal effort. The fact that kayaks fulfill the necessities of fishing, the investment is of worth and boost satisfactory outcomes.

Health Benefits Prospectively, kayaking involves nominal effort to exercise the muscles and feel rejuvenated, when enjoying a fishing trip or other recreational ambitions. Basically, kayaking boost a persons ability to flexibly function and increases endurance. The limbs surely benefit from the strategic strokes, when paddling, strengthening the arms, chest, back, shoulders and arms. This is an excellent way to workout, given the health prospects of absorbing the suns nourishing rays, possibly improving vitamin D production and sleep.

Stealth - Kayak fishing is quite enjoyable, because fishermen have the privilege to fish directly from the kayak in a peaceful setting, restricting interference from noise pollution. As such, kayakers usually catch many fishes on fishing trips, without spooking the seawater inhabitants. Moreover, a person possibly adores the intimacy with the exquisite ruins of the land.

Maintenance The likelihood of requiring consistent maintenance is low, when using kayaks, as the materials are durable and guarantees quality results. The maintenance needs are often minimal. Kayaks require zero oil refills and other requisites traditional water boats need to survive. The chief requirement involves proper storage of the kayak to prevent unnecessary damage by other objects.

---

About the Author:
Jhon Ford is the author of this article. For more information about Sit on Top Kayaks for Sale please visit http://shop.kckayaks.com/products/category/10090.0.1.1.25071.0.0.0.0

Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Kayak-Fishing-Benefits---Top-Five-Advantages/4038486#ixzz20kl7mi5i
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives

Outfitting A Kayak

By: Mark Snow

Home | Sports-and-Recreation

photogirl7.1

Ever try skiing without your boots buckled? You try to turn and nothing
happens. Or you try to correct your balance and again nothing happens. And when
it happens it's too late. Well, that's exactly what you're doing in an
improperly fit kayak. About 80% of control comes from the waist down. So, if
you're not fitting well you're not paddling well.
There are a lot of different types of boats out there. Whitewater,
Recreational and Touring are the three main categories (There's also
Sit-On-Top's. We're ignoring this style for now. Sorry) White water boats are
typically the most technical fitting and tend to require the most
personalization. Therefore we're going to focus on this niche. As we do know
that all of the techniques used are applicable to Touring and Recreational
kayaks.
"Most first time kayakers borrow a friend's boat, or slip into a boat that
feels comfortable, and then go kayaking," says Todd Anderson head instructor for
the Kayakshed. "Loose, comfortable boats feel good in the store and on flat
water, but they can make leaning and bracing very difficult. Once the boat is
outfitted to provide a close, snug fit that still allows for easy wet exits, on
water performance can dramatically improve." This rule applies to all levels of
kayakers, from paddling easy whitewater, big water runs or creeks. Customized
outfitting helps transfer the river's current through the kayak's hull to your
body, helping you sense your surroundings, make essential maneuvers and keep
your balance.
To get the best performance you need to have good contact wherever possible
with your boat. This includes hips, lower back, butt, thigh, knees, and feet.
Addition to good contact it needs to be comfortable. We're going to focus on
areas of the hips, lower back, butt and, feet
Hips:
If you can fit a hand between your hips and the seat of your kayak, you'll
probably need to customize your boat's fit. Many of the new boats out there have
adjustable hip pads and come with directions on how to do this. However, if they
don't you have to do-it-yourself. How? Well you can buy preshaped minicell foam
hip pads - customize them to your hips and glue them into place, or you can buy
preshaped hip pads and simply strap them into your boat. When you are done your
boat should fit comfortably - not painfully.
Lower back:
Back bands and seat backs set against the lower back, preventing you from
sliding backward off your seat and holding you forward against your foot
outfitting. They can also provide lumbar support. There are a lot of
after-market back bands out there. The newest and most functional I have found
is from Jackson Kayak. This back band replaces the old ratchet system with the
ultimate in simplicity, strength, and ease of use. Figure out which back band is
best for you by sitting in a couple of boats already outfitted with them.
Butt:
Seat pads have dramatically changed over the past years. Jackson Kayak has
come out with their Sweet Cheeks Outfitting seat system. Done right they are
the best thing you can do to customize your kayak. Historically a seat pad was
simply a piece of minicell foam glued to the hard plastic seat. Sweet Cheeks
form fits around your rear end to make a perfect bucket seat. No pressure
points. No more sliding around on your seat.
The average kayak seat is designed to fit the largest rear end that would
likely fit in the boat, otherwise that kayak would be useless to those with a
big rear end. The Sweet Cheeks allows your rear end to form a butt imprint down
deep, creating a bucket that surrounds you in back, to the sides, and on both
sides of your legs. Low spots are filled in, high spots are taken down, and all
of the areas that aren't normally supported are suddenly supported.
One of my favorite parts is that where the hip pads end the Sweet Cheeks
picks up, offering side to side support perfectly. I hate leaning back in my
boat and having my rear end slide forward. The Sweet Cheeks offers a comfortable
wedge in the front, made by your legs and crotch that prevent forward slippage.
The other part that is huge is that the back of the seat meets up with the back
band in the exact right spot, so your tailbone is protected by foam, and the
back of your rear end is firmly supported with the rise behind you.
How? When you are getting into your kayak with the Sweet Cheeks for the first
time, you'll get in after you inflate it about 4 breaths worth. When you sit on
it the air will rush out of the tube, while the beans rush around to find a
place to go until the air is mostly out. To lock it in for as long as you like
your setup, simply suck the remaining air out and viola! It is a perfectly
locked down seat pad that won't slip around on your seat. The bottom of the pad
is made of Velcro hoops and it stays firmly in place on the Velcro in your
kayak.
Feet:
Historically foot pegs and bulkheads were all there was to offer. More
recently customized foam blocks came into play. Now the latest and easiest (and
arguably best) method is the invent of the 'foot bag'. Or Happy Feet as Jackson
Kayak calls them. Tuck your feet into Jackson's bean bag and get them super
comfy, then close the valve and you have your footprint proudly placed in our
Happy Feet Foot bag. Then pump the bulb which inflates the adjustment bladder
and you will tighten up the bag until you have the right amount of pressure to
give you the control you like. Get to the bottom of the rapid, or pull into an
eddy and hit the release valve, now you have excess room again and can lift your
knees out easily to relax. From a technical standpoint it works like this:
1) The Cross linked Polyethylene Beans are compressible but have memory to
expand back to their mini football shapes. When you put get into the kayak and
push on the bag the air is forced out of it and the beans compress to give you a
fit that works perfectly with your leg and foot type. When you close the valve
you have locked the beans in place. This happens because when you get out of
your boat the beans try to expand to their original shape, but there is no space
to spread out because the valve is closed so the beans lock in place. So you
can fiddle around with the bag and it keeps your foot pockets neatly in place.
Now the reality for the bag is that it takes a little practice to get it perfect
in the beginning. For example: When you open the valve the beans are free to
move around. So if you have it open and carry the boat on one shoulder then get
in without making the boat flat and shaking it a little the beans will be off to
one side. So, don't open the valve and carry the boat unless you don't mind
getting the beans evenly spread out again!
2) The Air Bladder is designed to fully fill up the void in the bow of your
kayak when inflated to eliminate as much side to side motion as possible and
still give you up to 9 inches of adjustability. This means you could go from a
29-37 inseam with one sized foot bag. We have two sizes that covers everybody
in every boat, cool. OK, so the air bladder takes about 10 pumps for somebody
that is nearing the end of the boat and about 40 pumps to fully inflate for
somebody who has really short legs for the boat they are in. The impressive part
is that you can pump it until your legs hurt. The bladder is broken into a left
and right compartment. One of the biggest issues with air for support is that it
can so easily move from one side to the other. Jackson Kayak has a special
bleed valve in between the two compartments that makes it so when you push
hard on your left foot all of the air doesn't rush to the right side and visa
versa. The guy helping me on this project figured that out and for it I consider
him a genius, his name is Jeff Reynolds (Genius). The really cool thing is that
when you want to relax you simply push the release button and the air can be
pushed out by pressing on your feet. It is funny how it doesn't seem like it is
going out at first because it goes slowly (10 seconds for a full release) but
when you stop pushing you realized that you have tons of room to move around,
get your legs out, etc.
Now you have the skinny on the new methods of outfitting your kayak. If you
only wanted to go with one of the above options I would have to choose the Happy
Seat. They are amazing and truly make a difference.
If you have any questions or would like to purchase any of the above check
out our site at Kayak Gear and Accessories = The Kayak Shed
Thanks for reading,
John

---

About the Author:
John Hart - Owner of Kayak Shed

Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/Outfitting-A-Kayak/77810#ixzz20kkAOoJr
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives

Tips To Know The Types Of Fishing Rod To Acquire

by: Travis Clemens

Fishing rod holders take the inconvenience out of fishing for a variety of reasons. For one, it is a convenient storage device especially when one is in a kayak. Rather than holding the paddle in between the legs while fishing, a fishing rod holder stores the rod in place therefore enabling anyone to carry multiple rods or (if one insists so) carry multiple paddles. It also makes trolling easy as a holder keeps the fishing rod in place as one travels to a number of fishing spots. Also, when unhooking a caught fish, rod holders keep the rod secure. More importantly, they help one catch more fish at the same time enabling a kayak look versatile and extremely well-designed.

Here are some tips that could prove helpful in order to determine the types of fishing rods one should purchase.

To attach or to not attach

There are basically two types of fishing rod holders, one that could be attached to the exterior of the kayak and one that is put in the flush. Both have different functions and both work well accordingly. The choice all depends on what one prefers to use and how.

To those who prefer the unattached

The unattached type of fishing rod holder comes in two forms, the straight and the angled. Most kayaks use the angled form. When this type is used, one has a good chance of being able to stroll because the rods veer away from the kayak.

To those who prefer the attached

If the straight type is used, one is able to keep the fishing rod in the middle of the kayak and therefore works best in keeping the rod in storage. This straight type of fishing rod holder is good for the Tower and Cobra Navigator model of a kayak.

The home-made fishing rod holder

One could just as make his or her very own personalized fishing rod holder using common PVC. Or one could also start out by getting a milk crate and attaching it to a kayak with the use of straps.

The alternative type of fishing rod

There is another type of fishing rod holder that could be placed just above the kayak. These are usually tubes that are called RAM as well as Titelock. As the latter’s name implies, it locks the rod in place and usually consists of a male and a female part. This part difference allows the two to be separated. Manufacturers that generally make this type of fishing rod are Attwood, Scotty and Roberts.

About The Author

Travis Clemens is a life time fisherman and he knows the ins and outs of gettinem on the hook! You too can gettem on the hook with Travis as your guide! http://www.best-fishing-tips.com.

Enjoy an Anna Maria Island Vacation

Almost everyone knows that Miami is a top destination for many Florida tourists but there are some other outstanding areas to visit in the Sunshine State. Anna Maria Island vacations are extremely popular even though this setting is not as well known as some of the star studded cities such as Orlando, Tampa and Key West.

You might want to set sail for this tiny Florida Island and make it your main destination for an upcoming vacation. Anna Maria Island is located just off the western coast of Florida and it is so convenient that many travelers add this as a day trip when they are heading to a more southern location such as Cocoa Beach or Miami.

The shimmering white sands provide a wonderful contrast to the jewel toned waters that surround Anna Maria Island. Right now this little bit of tropical paradise retains an intimacy and peaceful tranquility that will mesmerize you. Who knows how much longer you can come here and enjoy a quiet respite from the crowds that are usually encountered at most top Florida vacation sites? If you want to leave the cares and worries of your normal day life behind then a trip to Anna Maria Island is the perfect spot to go.

The Gulf of Mexico extends up the western coast of Florida right into the Florida Panhandle; and these warm emerald waters have been enchanting and delighting millions of guests over the years. Now you can enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Gulf as you relax on one of the world's prettiest island beaches.

Anna Maria Island is a small barrier island that lies between the Gulf and the city of Tampa Bay. There are more than 7 miles of white sandy shoreline to explore and the lack of crowds makes this tiny island seem even larger than it actually is.

Boats and trolleys are available to transport you around the island, and most people do not need to use their personal vehicles. You can enjoy a stay at a bed and breakfast, or one of the other premiere lodging accommodations that are found on Anna Maria Island. No matter where you choose to stay there are always plenty of activities to keep you busy. The beaches are a major attraction, but there are also some great shops and boutiques to explore.

Who could possibly resist the wonderful opportunity for fun in the sun when they stay on this inviting little island? The beachfront rentals on Anna Maria Island make it possible for guests to spend the majority of their time enjoying the sandy shores and sparkling waters. You can rent equipment to go snorkeling, biking or sailing. Perhaps you would rather set out on a guided kayak adventure that takes you through the network of island waterways. There are also jet skis available for those that enjoy the thrill of speeding along the water's surface. Walking tours of the city sites are another popular choice of many tourists and the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium are not to be missed.

Kayak Fishing: The Evolution Of Fishing Kayaks And Kayak Fishing Hand Paddles.

Paddle sports, particularly kayak fishing, are the fastest growing water sport today. Kayaking, canoeing and rafting are now destination activities. With all the green and eco friendly activities available, paddle sports have dominated the outdoor adventure scene. Paddle sports are low impact on the environment, inexpensive, thrilling and always memorable.

Not to be left out, the fishing and sporting communities wanted in on this explosion. Kayakers, anglers and sportsmen merged concepts and technologies. Along with diversity came opportunity. New specialty equipment, gear and accessories evolved. Fishing kayaks and kayak fishing hand paddles evolved from this call to action.

With the rapid growth of paddle sports, there has been a definitive diversification of the sport into various disciplines. All the technological and manufacturing advancements have fueled the sudden increase in the sport. Kayak fisherman and kayak sportsman have recently dominated the growth in the paddle sports arena.

Kayak fishermen, also known as kayak anglers, and kayak sportsmen require specialty equipment, gear and accessories to effectively pursuit their sport. Their fishing kayaks and fishing hand paddles are specifically designed to accommodate their dynamic environments and distinctive sporting activities.

Kayak anglers and sportsmen have designed boats for easy access and mobility. Many facets of their kayak design reflect accoutrements that were found only on motorized fishing vessels. Today you can find rod holders, live wells, storage compartments, battery wells, fish finders, anchors, etc. If they can fit a specialty fishing accessory on a twelve to fourteen foot kayak, they will try to get it on there! They even have twin hulled, foot propelled and battery operated kayaks for the hard core anglers.

For ease of access and dismount, the anglers use a modified version of the sit on top kayak, or SOT. SOT’s were a natural conversion platform for kayak anglers. These boats are self bailing, meaning that any water that gets in the kayak will be drained away by gravity. Getting on and off is much easier than a sit in kayak. Turning or sliding around to access tackle or gear behind you is a much simpler evolution.

With this approach to fishing from kayaks, came another conundrum that caused problems in the kayak angling community. How do you paddle and fish at the same time? Think about it. Can you hold your fishing rod and a kayak paddle at the same time?

Paddling your kayak and fishing at the same time became a comedy on the water. It takes two hands to wrangle a seven foot kayak paddle, no matter how you hold it. Throw in a fishing pole, and you soon realize you need three hands!

Kayak fishing hand paddles evolved from pioneering anglers solving this problem with ping pong paddles, Kadema paddles, modified badminton racquets and the sort. They could hold onto their fishing rod and with the other hand paddle their boat stealthily toward their prey.

It soon became apparent that flailing a seven foot paddle is not conducive to shallow water, or skinny water fishing. The fish can see you! The best way to sneak up on your prey is to glide stealthily toward them. While holding your fishing rod, using a little six or seven ounce fishing hand paddle to propel your kayak, about 16” long, is perfect for the task.

As you begin your foray into kayak fishing, do your research. Peruse the internet, talk to local anglers, visit local outfitters and try various kayak platforms and fishing hand paddles. That little effort will certainly make your fishing trip much more rewarding and memorable.

Fish on!!

Published At: Isnare.com Free Articles Directory - http://www.isnare.com/
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=489316&ca=Sports

A Guide To Sit On Top Kayaks

By: Vicki Churchill

Home | UnCategorized

Unrated Your Rating Add a comment to your rating

Sit on top kayaks are not to everybodys taste and they are best suited for coastal paddles and generally having fun in the surf. They do however make good kayak fishing boats as they normally sit very flat in the water which in turn makes them very stable.

The Yak Board is a great all round kayak. It can be fitted with a kayak seat and bungee cords as optional extras. The bungee cords will allow storage for your kayak accessories however like many sit on tops there is little or no other places to stow your kayak accessories away.

I recently purchased a Yak Sport which is a cut down version of the original Yak Board and although this sit on top kayak sells for approximately $100 cheaper than its bigger brother the Yak Board, there does not seem to be any less kayak for your money. To the contrary the Yak Sport has a built in back support which will also allow for a padded kayak seat for extra comfort.

Most sit on top kayaks come in a variety of bright colours including banana yellow, orange and red. However if you intend to go kayak fishing you will find sit on tops in dark green and blue which will assist in attempts to remain camouflaged.

You can buy sit on top kayaks which are as little as eight foot long. Being this short you will be mistaken in thinking these kayaks will be light in weight. However, due to their solid chunky designs it would be uncomfortable for even two people to carry them for any period of time so a kayak trolley would come in handy.

When sitting in the Yak Sport it has a real cockpit feel about it with the three footrests allowing for a truly comfortable and adjustable paddle position. The only drawback is that this particular model has no standard accommodation for thigh straps to be fitted.

Many sit on tops have scupper drain holes normally found in and around the kayak seat allowing the kayak to self bail when underway. Be warned most sit on top kayaks will flood as soon as you sit on them so if you are planning to paddle out during the winter months you will definitely need your wet gear on.

That said these kayaks are primarily designed for beach days and for messing about in the surf. For this purpose it is second to none and can be enjoyed equally by both the beginner and professional paddlers. They make excellent boats to take on family days to the beach and due to there stable designs are suitable for children to paddle.

As with an inflatable kayak, a sit on top would not be the kayak of choice on a straight run but as soon as you start paddling they will bring a smile to anybodys face as they are all about having fun.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

About the Author:
Vicki Churchill writes for a site that specializes in Inflatable Kayak Accessories providing you with excellent resources and products including reviews on the stunning Sevylor Ranger Inflatable Kayak.

Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/A-Guide-To-Sit-On-Top-Kayaks/258352#ixzz0rKnWj7nJ
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives