Kayak options for a large person

[Winterborn]

Good Morning All,

I'm a larger yaker at 320 lbs and 6'3". I've been exploring my next boat and would like some input.

Currently my baby is a Ocean Kayak Prowler 13T. It is a great boat when I am on a lake, pond, fishing, or getting into waterfowl areas. I'm looking for a shorter boat that doesn't track so dang hard, is easy to maneuver, and that can handle 0- Class 2 rapids. I've tried doing the Upper Buffalo with my OKP and realize that that was not my best idea..add to this that I am a relative novice and am just starting to really get serious about kayaking beyond very casual use.

I do prefer a sit-on-top .

I'm exploring the Wilderness Systems Aspire 105, Ride 115Max / 115XMAX, and the Jackson Kayak Coosa 11'2". Anyone have other suggestions? I really want to keep the length to less than 12 ' for river / creek use.

Thanks for the help!

Regards,
Brian

[RiverRummer]

If you can..... paddle them and see which you like better.
Both are fine brands, Most of these "top" brands are so close in performance and durability that it usually comes down to your personal preferences. You might like the seat better in one or like the cockpit size better on the other....
I prefer any Jackson boat ! but won't tell you they are the best, just what I like best. and in this instance I would vote for the sit in style over a sit on top. Many people like sit on tops, this time of year, but in the fall, winter, and early spring you might not like sitting in a puddle of cold water. With a sit in kayak you can comfortably extend your kayaking season. ( nobody likes ending their paddling season sooner)
Don't get swayed over the little stuff like bungee deck cords, paddle holders, drain plugs, rod holders..... get the kayak you like best for you and where your going to take it ( comfort, speed, agility, etc etc ) all those others can easily be added later, and that way, you get what you want and where you want it.
I'm not sure of the cockpit size but A Jackson Karma RG sounds like a boat you might like. 12 ft., agile, drop down skeg for when you want to track good. More of the quick turning hull of their ww boats over other "rec." boats.
and if sit on tops is still on the list Dagger just came out with the "Roam" ( but I would choose the Jackson 1st.)

Hopefully in all that babble above, you found something useful :)

[paddledog]

IRWP and City of Siloam Springs will host the Illinois River Splash, a family-friendly event at the new Siloam Springs Kayak Park.

Enjoy an afternoon of live music, hot-dogs, safe summer fun and appreciation of our Illinois River.

River safety demonstrations will be held to ensure that visitors at the Illinois River Kayak Park are well-equipped with the proper gear and knowledge of the park additions.

Vendors will have booths with water/river information, demos and products for purchase. For more information on participating as a vendor, please send email to contact@irwp.org.

Please, no open fires, but bring your lawn chairs and picnic at this wonderful addition to our community and watershed!

For more information about the Kayak Park or for directions, visit http://www.siloamspringskayakpark.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;.

[Winterborn]

Hi Riverrummer,

Thanks for the advice! Regarding "Hopefully in all that babble above, you found something useful :)" I did indeed.

Regarding Sit-In. Being very tall, rather fluffy (okay fat..call a spade a spade), and a little claustrophobic, the sit-on-top variant accommodates me well. I figure when its cold I can use a wet suit, thermals, etc. I did recently learn that during duck season I WILL be using a wet suit, and putting camo clothes on after I get to the site. (You don't float worth a darn in waders, even with a vest.)

Any suggestions on getting around these issues in a sit-inside?

Regards,
Winterborn

[Winterborn]

Follow up: I went with a Wilderness Systems Ride 115 series.

10.5 ' and 500lb capacity. It handles like a dream compared to my OK.