For many years, I always wanted to be ‘out on the water’ where the fish are and not stuck on the bank or shore. Buying a boat was out of the question. Having a wife and four kids and living in California, it was not happening. I have rented boats at marinas from time to time, but that is different from owning a boat. So, I, finally, was able to purchase a fishing kayak and got a good deal on it. I had researched what ones would be cheap enough for my budget and still carry my heavy frame on it, I weigh 300 pounds. I looked at three different fishing kayaks that I would potentially be satisfied with. The three are Lifetime Stealth and Lifetime Yukon (https://www.lifetime.com/emotion-90514-stealth-132-inch-sit-on-top-angler-kayak-sandstone-with-backrest, https://www.lifetime.com/lifetime-90846-lifetime-yukon-angler-116-fishing-kayak) and these were the ones that could hold my weight. I would still be very close to the maximum weight capacity. However, the two kayaks were very tippy, and I did not want to fall in the water. I, finally, looked at the Pelican brand and their model ‘Catch 120,’ (https://maumeetackle.net/product/pelican-catch-classic-120-2023/, https://www.westmarine.com) it has a weight a capacity of 400lbs. Even with gear on and me on it, I would not come close to overloading the kayak. Also, it seemed solid and not tippy. The Lifetime kayaks, you can get at Wal-Mart and Dick’s sporting goods. All three kayaks, if you shop around, will cost from $400- to $600-. I got my Pelican at West Marine, they had it at a substantial discount and it continues to sell at a reduced price. The only drawback is, it’s 70 lbs., but that is pretty much the standard weight of a kayak. I have been positive and think I will build up some muscle in the long run and probably will go with a ‘buddy’ so we can both help maneuver the craft around in and out of the water. I have been out there on the water with it, and these will be in future blogs. I have built some outriggers to help with me not tipping over because this is a concern of mine. I have purchased required items such as safety flag, kayak cart, and of course, drink holder, I do need my coffee while I am out there. I hope this helps if you would like to get out on the water in an economical fishing kayak to enjoy for years. Below are pics of the Stealth, Yukon, and my Pelican-
Lifetime Stealth
Lifetime Yukon
Pelican the Catch120
