I am 71 and have an Old Town Loon 126 sit in rigged for fishing. The Loon series has large cockpits making it a little easier to get in and out of. Much larger than the perception in his video. The Loon is very easy to paddle compared to any sit on top. Also it has an adjustable seat that is very comfortable. The kayak is made of a 3 layer shell and is more durable than any roto-molded kayak. There is a price to pay for this construction as it adds some weight. Also a sit in kayak is cooler in the summer and warmer in the fall or winter since your legs are out of the sun.
Hey I'm 70 and have owned a Loon 138 since 1995. I also rigged mine for fishing and have used it for years for fresh and salt water fishing. It isn't the perfect yak but it sure has served me well for 30+years. I have other yaks but the loon is my go to yak.
I'm 74, in good shape and only have experience with sit in kayaks. I love the responsiveness of being connected to the boat with my butt, knees and feet. It gives me a lower center of gravity that gives me a sense of security. I guess if you enjoy the paddling part of the activity, a sit in enhances the experience more, if fishing is the intended use, the sit on top allows for more variation of movement and a stable platform for standing if necessary. I agree that the exit movement is the toughest to master, but there are helpful videos on that as well. The weight is a critical consideration if car topping. I put rollers on the rear of my cartop rack so I only have to lift half the weight at a time and roll the hull forward.
Well done. The street end on the Big Davis Canal where my wife and I live attracts a lot of kayakers putting in and taking out or just passing by while fishing or sight seeing. Watching them underlines the truth of your observations and suggestions. Keep up the good work. It should be very helpful to those of any age interested in getting a good kayak for their use.
I have a Old Town Loon that is 12 feet long. I love it, is fast and great ride, but getting out little difficult at times especially if I have spent some time in it. I discovered a machine at the gym that is for dip up exercising and it really strengthens the muscles used to lift my butt out of the seat .
Another Awesome video! I NEVER considered a sit-inside kayak (I was in my 60s when I bought my first kayak -- wish they'd had all these choices when I was younger!); even when young I wasn't comfortable sitting with my legs straight out. That first kayak was a Perception Striker with a 2-height molded seat. My back was killing me! I used the lower one, bought a seat (cost 20+% of the kayak, but it worked), and built a seat extension using large pool noodles cut in half and duct-taped together. I paddled BUT was never real good at that. My second kayak was a Hobie Outback. Great kayak! But I upgraded to the Pro Angler 12 360. The WEIGHT is certainly a huge detail to consider. I have the Boonedox wheels and often there are younger guys (I'm 70 now) who will haul it out of the water. I also have the Dynamic Dolly which REALLY makes it more manageable. But I had to "borrow" my old Outback while the PA was in for repair, and I'm wondering if I should either get an Outback next time OR get me a trailer! I did get a Hobie inflatable kayak. It was light, but I felt it wasn't anywhere near as stable as the Outback or PA. Not sure how the others "stack up." Even though I'm a confirmed Hobie pedal kayak user, I'm REALLY looking forward to your future videos in this series! Plus I'm sure you'll include links or repeats of some of the safety products: you inspired me to buy my SPOT for emergencies. I've never had to use it, but I feel much safer having it at all times.
Thank you for those insights. I know people read the comments and I hope they look at this one. Good point on the safety. I have 8 episodes done and forgot about that topic! Episode #9 coming up!
Brilliant video mate,i,m retiring next year aged 55 & i live by the sea in the north east of england & am looking at getting a sit on top next year,really looking forward to it.
Hi, Steve. I’ve moved from a hobie revolution to a hobie lynx and I think the lynx, though expensive is absolutely the best kayak out there for seniors. At 47 lbs it super easy to care top, its really stable, its pedal driven, and the seat is really comfortable. Again it’s expensive, but I now fish out of more than I did the big heavy hobie revolution and at the end of the day, I guess that’s what it’s all about. Thanks for sharing.
Steve very good information. I would like to add one thing. When you start the day everything might be feeling great. Later on your arm or shoulder could stiffen up. You can always peddle a paddle kayak but you can’t peddle a paddle. It’s a good idea to have two modes of propelling.
I'm 70 years old. I have two sit in kayaks and a couple canoes. I get in and out of my kayaks (both) a easy as pie. You just need to learn the proper methods. I'm not taking shots at you. I like most of your videos, but I don't agree with this one. It doesn't matter how old you are. If you're out of shape, you're out of shape. 😊 Also remember sit in puts you closer to the water= stable. Also drier with a sit in which means a longer season.
I appreciate your video, but I think you make too many generalizations. Many sit ins have flat, stable bottoms, and many sit-on- top models have v hulls. It all depends on the design of the water craft.
I have both and I’m in my mid sixties. It depends on where we are going and what we are doing. For just paddling a sit in will do,for fishing ,sit on top. We try to go places with a kayak launch or at least a dock. What helps me to get out is a four foot stick. I use it as a support to get out of the sit in. I also use it as a anchor in shallow water. Just put it through the ring on the anchor trolley to hold you in place.
Great info. I absolutely love my Lifetime Tamarack kayak. I tried to customize it with a folding stadium seat but being 6'2" , it raised my center of gravity and I felt like I was going to tip. When you get to the transporting segment I have a hack for keeping the kayak cart from sliding off.
@Kayak Hacks Fishing one of the issues I have with using the cart is no matter how tight I make the straps, since the Tamarack narrows, the straps will slide and I've had the kayak slide off the cart. Especially when going over some rough terrain or bumps. What I did was get some mirror mounting hardware and pointed them towards the front of the kayak. Now the straps stay in place, the hardware is low profile and it gives a reference as to where to put the wheels.
I really enjoyed that video. Great summary of the basic types - and I also enjoyed the background bird chirping 😋. I'm not quite an old geezer yet, more of an OGIT (Old Geezer In Training), but the principles still apply. Looking forward to the others. The 1st tandem my wife and I tried was a Hobie Tandem paddle of some type (it looked a lot like your green one). I absolutely hated it because the seat nearly destroyed my back. At the end of day one, we were paddling against an outgoing tide, the seat wouldn't hold its position, and my back was knotting up pretty badly. If I were in that situation now (row back in intense pain or get sucked out into the Gulf) and had to choose what to do, I'd have to think about the options 🤔. We went with sit-on-top pedal and never looked back (well, we look back when a fish hits one of the trolling lines, but that's different 😂🤣😂). It is heavy and we need a trailer and boat ramp to launch it, but it is worth it for us.
William Barron 0 seconds ago Steve, I just found your channel and I am very impressed with your experience and depth of knowledge. We are lucky to have you sharing. You and I are both older (72 for me) but I think that is where the similarity ends. My wife and I (both shorter individuals) have no kayaking experience and are very interested to begin tandem paddling on quiet ponds and lakes in the Sacramento area (we are both quite fit for our age). I am a novice fisherman and very interested to begin solo kayak fishing, again on quiet waters. Your comments about lighter weight, longer, sit-on, all make perfect sense. I was, however, a bit surprised to hear your comments about the safety of inflatables. I have been looking hard at the Aquaglide Blackfoot 160 that can double as a a recreational tandem for my wife and myself. The lighter weight, portability (in and out of storage and to and from water) and storability of this craft are huge positives. It is my understanding that this kayak is extremely stable ( I will not fish in wind over 15mph), has a very firm, drop stitch floor on which one can stand (I doubt that I would), great seats, scupper drains, numerous universal mounts, a fin box for attaching a small battery powered motor, and is constructed of Duratex pvc tough enough to handle the vast majority of encounters with hooks, docks, etc. Will will never be on water with rocks and fast moving water. Admittedly this is a higher end inflatable, but I would be very interested on your thoughts about safety of this particular craft that can double as tandem recreational and fishing vessel. Thanks for putting up with this long-winded query.
I am just nervous about using an inflatable where I fish. There are sharp oyster beds all over the place that might puncture it. Where you are, that is probably not an issue
@@KayakhacksFishing Steve, I really do not wish to be argumentative. I expect many people kayak in areas where there are no hazards such as oyster shells. I t seems to me that we seniors are missing an opportunity be at least not considering a well made inflatable. This type of vessel is much easier to transport from storage to vehicle and from vehicle to the water. Storage is also an advantage. Thanks for considering.
Good review, Steve. I liked how you pointed-out that everyone has their own preferences. I'm 69, and still have good mobility in the joints, although the knees tend to suffer occasionally, depending on what activity I've done (kayaking, ebike riding, walking the dog at the park, etc, etc). I prefer my sit-on style kayak (Feel Free 11.5 Lure), and there's no way I'd use a sit-in type. Hell, there have been days I've spent 4 hrs straight on the lake paddling, and when I returned to the dock basically rolled onto the dock because I had been sitting for 4 hrs. Other days, getting onto the dock was easier. Every outting is different. Looking firward to the subsequent "senior" videos.
I'm 57 soon to be 58. I have a 2015 Future Beach Mariner 10.4 sit-in. it's 123.5" long, 31.75" wide, 13" tall, cockpit is 38.4" x 21.5". I can get in and out some what easy. Super stable and tracks pretty good.
I'm in the market for the purchase of a kayak to learn with. The information you provided is good. I think I'm going with the set inside style as in the future I plan on I'm getting a live aboard for use in the PNW/Puget Sound area so would like to have a touring/sea kayak.
I just remembered that my brother had an inflatable kayak. It was sufficient when it was new, but as it aged it developed micro leaks that caused it to slowly deflate. The biggest issue he had was getting all the air out of it to get it back in the car. He got so fed up with the thing that he built himself a wood kayak complete with inlay. LOL
This is a great idea for an episode. I am part of the grey-haired club. I have been paddling canoes for the last 40 years and just recently bought a sit on top kayak to try out. One of the differences I so far between the canoe and kayak is loading and unloading from the top of the car. The sit on top kayak is bulkier and hard to grab. My Old Town Pack canoe weighs just 33 lbs and I can lift it and carry it straight to the water. I do like the scupper holes in the sit on top kayak to keep the water out and the fact that I can stand up on a sit on top kayak to stretch my legs on those long days out fishing. I cannot wait to view the next episode.
Top notch information. I don’t think there’s 1% of us old people that would be happy with a set in. Simple not an option. I have a bonafide ss127. Stable. Very comfortable.. I think the only downside is the weight. I think 9 4 lbs. I bought a kayak trailer,which I highly recommend, and that ended the loading it on the truck feasco…. Thanks
At 82 yo, and a bad back, weight is important. Would love to get a petal drive but don't see how I could get it on top of my Forester. And I don't want to deal with a trailer because my home street has a lot of traffic and backing the trailer into my driveway would take a lot of practice. Maybe I can run down to the coast and see about a day rental. But dog gone it, I really wanted a petal drive.
I hear you. The pedal drives are all heavy. I am not familiar with all the models. I recommend you look around and see if somebody makes a light one. Would this way to load it work for you? ruclips.net/video/1GrLiLInZEM/видео.html
Great that you suggested Aliex. This series will be the most viewed ever. One other note. If your shoulders or arms are getting tired you’re not paddling correctly. It should be your core stomach muscles and twisting your core that does the paddling, right?
Yes, if you do low angle paddling as I do. I never understood why some adopt the high angle technique that relies on arm strength. That will wear you out!
Tried the sit in and getting out was hard with bad knees. So then I tried the sit on top much easier to get off. . First kayak was a lifetime weber . That got stolen from so the upgraded to a vibe sea ghost 130 rudder in back controlled by foot. But any not too bad for a 66 young ancient fisherman.
I recently bought a kayak for myself. It'd a sit in type that's only ten feet in length. My primary consideration was portability. It had to be light enough that I'd be able to lift it. I use a two wheeled cart to get it from my vehicle to the water and back. I strap the cart to the back of the kayak rather than take it back and fetch to and from the car. A paddle kayak would be out of the question for me because my knees aren't as good as they used to be.
For old folks id recommend to get a sit on top instead of a sit inside , Unless you are a light person and flexible. Sit inside kayaks are also tippy because most are for performance. Sit on top are more stable and you can sit inside much easier.
Are older folk ALL really that stiff and awkward ??? Have you all given up? I’m going to be 77 in two months…just bought a sit in kayak…yes it takes a little getting used to ..but I LOVE IT . Light , paddles easily ( as opposed to the “rafts” you are promoting…feels like a sports car as opposed to a big old truck !
I’ve been kayaking for years with a recent 3-4 yr hiatus. Recently I got to try sit on top. I think sit in kayaks, with their secondary stability are much more stable for young or old esp since you have a lower center of gravity. Sit on top was easier to get out of, however, it was positively lumbering on the lake in terms of paddling. Still wonderful being on the water again.
Thanks for helping out us seniors. I'm 85 with a slightly different perspective. To us, stability is the most important factor. I don't have the agility I once did and getting in an out is very important to me. We just got rid of our sit in kayaks. We now have sit on kayaks. I have learned that standing in the water, sitting, and swinging my legs in and out is the easiest entry and exit for me. 10 ft length has worked out just fine for us since we are transporting the kayaks in a short bed pickup. Storage is also easier. Stability is also dependent on make and model. Ours are designed to track well. Here's a video that's very helpful to me: ruclips.net/user/shorts-OJQ-PoFOUk
Some good points here, but I do not feel you should dismiss inflatables and other portable solutions so quickly. Yes, cheap inflatables may not be much more than pool toys, but that is not the case with more expensive ones. Many inflatables are extremely durable, have multiple air chambers, lightweight, easy to store, easy to transport, and are extremely stable! Think of all the whitewater rafts, portable dinghy’s, etc to name but a few examples. A good inflatable could be an excellent choice for many seniors!
Oh dear, oh dear! While I really like your channel and the information it provides, I have to say, you did sit-in kayaks a serious disservice…and the Perception brand in particular! I’m in my middle 60s, am definitely in the overweight category and stand about 5’6”. I own a Perception sit-in…but it’s their FISHING kayak model which has a flat, wide hull made for, you guessed it, fishing specifically! I’ve fished in some very nasty weather on big lakes in British Columbia, where I had breakers coming over the bow and yet felt as snug as a bug in a rug in my Perception Sound (9.5’) kayak. This thing floats like a cork and is easy to get in/out because the cockpit is wide and the HULL IS FLAT. And just for a bit more help in that department, I use a knotted nylon line attached to the bow handle to pull myself up if needed (imagine the gym rope test in high school). Works like a charm! I would never exit my kayak the way you did…who taught you to do it like that?!? Best of all, because of the low profile a sit-in kayak has, my legs and body stay warm and dry. Gotta feel for the sit-on folks if the wind and waves pick up - They always look soooo coooold! With a sit-on, there’s also more surface area (your body) for the wind to hit, so you’re paddling even harder that necessary! And on summer days, my legs don’t get crispy, either. Lastly, I truly enjoy watching those sit-on folks struggling to put their kayak on their vehicles. I put mine on a VAN roof just fine (and nobody would call me athletic by any measure!). In summary, I agree, the cheapo sit-in kayaks from the big box stores (V HULLED) are, indeed, tippy and not, in my opinion, a good choice for fishing. But you compared a day paddling kayak (V hulled) to a sit-on fishing kayak. That’s not an honest comparison. Please, if you’re going to compare kayaks for seniors, you might want to get a sit-in kayak owner to represent the other side of things. You clearly don’t like them yourself!
Very biased info! Sit in are good for year round use and much more stable. Sit on top you have no protection from sun, wind, and, splash. 10 ft are lighter, easier to car top and store, and fit inside SUVs.
Like your videos. But on this I somewhat disagree. Think you jump a little fast to the conclusions on the SOT vs Sit-inside, and the inflatables here. As you point out, there is much in preference, and the shape/training. The SOT's are easier to get in and out of. I my self, as a younger person, did struggle. But after exercise at the gym, the getting inside a sit-inside was really smooth. The sit-inside feels more tippy, but in reality they are very stable. You control the kayak much better in a sit-inside than in most SOTs. Most SOT's are very stable in the primary stability, but when they tip, they tip. Hence the sit-insides you can tip and control to a much more extent. If you take lessons, you even can straighten them up when they tip. If you practise you even can roll with them. Hence I think you can need much more strength to get back on a SOT if you fall out. Most sit-insides you can get a spray skirt, and then you are totally more dry than you ever can get in any SOT. Sit-insides kayaks tend to bee much faster than SOT's too. If you go for a sea-kayak version of the sit-inside, you get much more storage space with large and dry compartments in front and back. If you load as much equipment on a SOT, it will get more tippy, since all must be stored on deck. And the sit-inside is much more manoeuvrable than most SOTs I use an Old Town Bigwater/Predator SOT, and a Boreal Baffin P3, so experience with both. I follow several users of inflatable kayaks. And if you do not tend to go out on large bodies of open water (the sea), or focus very much on fishing, there is no problems with them. So I think your assumption on inflatable kayaks was more correct for some years ago. There has been a fast and good development on this. I think it is great you make a series of this. Most advices for kayaks is based on younger and often more fit shaped people. And I think it is a real problem. So keep on the good work!
Man, you are not giving an unbiased opinion! I’m 71 and I have a sit in kayak and I have never had any of the problems that you have attributed to sit in kayaks! You should tell your viewers of your bias upfront!!!
I love the idea of a series about seniors and kayaks.
I am 71 and have an Old Town Loon 126 sit in rigged for fishing. The Loon series has large cockpits making it a little easier to get in and out of. Much larger than the perception in his video. The Loon is very easy to paddle compared to any sit on top. Also it has an adjustable seat that is very comfortable. The kayak is made of a 3 layer shell and is more durable than any roto-molded kayak. There is a price to pay for this construction as it adds some weight. Also a sit in kayak is cooler in the summer and warmer in the fall or winter since your legs are out of the sun.
Thank you for those points.
Hey I'm 70 and have owned a Loon 138 since 1995. I also rigged mine for fishing and have used it for years for fresh and salt water fishing. It isn't the perfect yak but it sure has served me well for 30+years. I have other yaks but the loon is my go to yak.
I'm 74, in good shape and only have experience with sit in kayaks. I love the responsiveness of being connected to the boat with my butt, knees and feet. It gives me a lower center of gravity that gives me a sense of security. I guess if you enjoy the paddling part of the activity, a sit in enhances the experience more, if fishing is the intended use, the sit on top allows for more variation of movement and a stable platform for standing if necessary. I agree that the exit movement is the toughest to master, but there are helpful videos on that as well. The weight is a critical consideration if car topping. I put rollers on the rear of my cartop rack so I only have to lift half the weight at a time and roll the hull forward.
You make some good points! It all comes down to preference and intended use
Well done. The street end on the Big Davis Canal where my wife and I live attracts a lot of kayakers putting in and taking out or just passing by while fishing or sight seeing. Watching them underlines the truth of your observations and suggestions. Keep up the good work. It should be very helpful to those of any age interested in getting a good kayak for their use.
lol! It must be humorous to try and watch folks get out of the sit inside kayaks!
Hey Dad, this was a great video. Looking forward to the series. Mom will not like those kayaks sitting in backyard for long.
You got that right!
I have a Old Town Loon that is 12 feet long. I love it, is fast and great ride, but getting out little difficult at times especially if I have spent some time in it. I discovered a machine at the gym that is for dip up exercising and it really strengthens the muscles used to lift my butt out of the seat .
As long as it works for you, no need to change!
great info! I'm about to buy a kayak- just need a buddy to kayak with here in the Atlanta metro area
Another Awesome video!
I NEVER considered a sit-inside kayak (I was in my 60s when I bought my first kayak -- wish they'd had all these choices when I was younger!); even when young I wasn't comfortable sitting with my legs straight out.
That first kayak was a Perception Striker with a 2-height molded seat. My back was killing me! I used the lower one, bought a seat (cost 20+% of the kayak, but it worked), and built a seat extension using large pool noodles cut in half and duct-taped together. I paddled BUT was never real good at that.
My second kayak was a Hobie Outback. Great kayak! But I upgraded to the Pro Angler 12 360. The WEIGHT is certainly a huge detail to consider. I have the Boonedox wheels and often there are younger guys (I'm 70 now) who will haul it out of the water. I also have the Dynamic Dolly which REALLY makes it more manageable. But I had to "borrow" my old Outback while the PA was in for repair, and I'm wondering if I should either get an Outback next time OR get me a trailer!
I did get a Hobie inflatable kayak. It was light, but I felt it wasn't anywhere near as stable as the Outback or PA. Not sure how the others "stack up."
Even though I'm a confirmed Hobie pedal kayak user, I'm REALLY looking forward to your future videos in this series! Plus I'm sure you'll include links or repeats of some of the safety products: you inspired me to buy my SPOT for emergencies. I've never had to use it, but I feel much safer having it at all times.
Thank you for those insights. I know people read the comments and I hope they look at this one. Good point on the safety. I have 8 episodes done and forgot about that topic! Episode #9 coming up!
@@KayakhacksFishing Thanks! I mean, WHO needs safety reminders more than us elders? 😆
Thank you, Steve. I have been looking forward to this series of videos. Excellent information for us seniors.
More to come!
Brilliant video mate,i,m retiring next year aged 55 & i live by the sea in the north east of england & am looking at getting a sit on top next year,really looking forward to it.
Have fun
Hi, Steve. I’ve moved from a hobie revolution to a hobie lynx and I think the lynx, though expensive is absolutely the best kayak out there for seniors. At 47 lbs it super easy to care top, its really stable, its pedal driven, and the seat is really comfortable. Again it’s expensive, but I now fish out of more than I did the big heavy hobie revolution and at the end of the day, I guess that’s what it’s all about.
Thanks for sharing.
I agree Hobie Lynx, I'm 75 and it is so easy to use I also fish with it. Love it.
I appreciate that endorsement! Hopefully, folks look at it as an option
Steve very good information. I would like to add one thing. When you start the day everything might be feeling great. Later on your arm or shoulder could stiffen up. You can always peddle a paddle kayak but you can’t peddle a paddle. It’s a good idea to have two modes of propelling.
Correction:
You can always paddle a peddle but you cannot peddle a paddle
I'm 70 years old. I have two sit in kayaks and a couple canoes. I get in and out of my kayaks (both) a easy as pie. You just need to learn the proper methods. I'm not taking shots at you. I like most of your videos, but I don't agree with this one. It doesn't matter how old you are. If you're out of shape, you're out of shape. 😊 Also remember sit in puts you closer to the water= stable. Also drier with a sit in which means a longer season.
LOL! Shape is everything
I appreciate your video, but I think you make too many generalizations. Many sit ins have flat, stable bottoms, and many sit-on- top models have v hulls. It all depends on the design of the water craft.
I have both and I’m in my mid sixties. It depends on where we are going and what we are doing. For just paddling a sit in will do,for fishing ,sit on top. We try to go places with a kayak launch or at least a dock. What helps me to get out is a four foot stick. I use it as a support to get out of the sit in. I also use it as a anchor in shallow water. Just put it through the ring on the anchor trolley to hold you in place.
Great tip! Thanks
Great info. I absolutely love my Lifetime Tamarack kayak. I tried to customize it with a folding stadium seat but being 6'2" , it raised my center of gravity and I felt like I was going to tip. When you get to the transporting segment I have a hack for keeping the kayak cart from sliding off.
I would love to hear it! Hacks are great!
@Kayak Hacks Fishing one of the issues I have with using the cart is no matter how tight I make the straps, since the Tamarack narrows, the straps will slide and I've had the kayak slide off the cart. Especially when going over some rough terrain or bumps. What I did was get some mirror mounting hardware and pointed them towards the front of the kayak. Now the straps stay in place, the hardware is low profile and it gives a reference as to where to put the wheels.
@@glennrobbins2372 Great solution!
@@KayakhacksFishing It was a flash of brilliance that scared the heck out of me.
Also helpful for those of us in our 50s but with bad arthritis. Thanks for this series!
You bet!
Or those of us in our late 20s that worked our knees and back off early 😅
I really enjoyed that video. Great summary of the basic types - and I also enjoyed the background bird chirping 😋. I'm not quite an old geezer yet, more of an OGIT (Old Geezer In Training), but the principles still apply. Looking forward to the others.
The 1st tandem my wife and I tried was a Hobie Tandem paddle of some type (it looked a lot like your green one). I absolutely hated it because the seat nearly destroyed my back. At the end of day one, we were paddling against an outgoing tide, the seat wouldn't hold its position, and my back was knotting up pretty badly. If I were in that situation now (row back in intense pain or get sucked out into the Gulf) and had to choose what to do, I'd have to think about the options 🤔. We went with sit-on-top pedal and never looked back (well, we look back when a fish hits one of the trolling lines, but that's different 😂🤣😂). It is heavy and we need a trailer and boat ramp to launch it, but it is worth it for us.
Yep. The tandem has bad seats. When I use it as a single, I have an aftermarket seat I use.
William Barron
0 seconds ago
Steve,
I just found your channel and I am very impressed with your experience and depth of knowledge. We are lucky to have you sharing. You and I are both older (72 for me) but I think that is where the similarity ends. My wife and I (both shorter individuals) have no kayaking experience and are very interested to begin tandem paddling on quiet ponds and lakes in the Sacramento area (we are both quite fit for our age). I am a novice fisherman and very interested to begin solo kayak fishing, again on quiet waters.
Your comments about lighter weight, longer, sit-on, all make perfect sense. I was, however, a bit surprised to hear your comments about the safety of inflatables. I have been looking hard at the Aquaglide Blackfoot 160 that can double as a a recreational tandem for my wife and myself. The lighter weight, portability (in and out of storage and to and from water) and storability of this craft are huge positives. It is my understanding that this kayak is extremely stable ( I will not fish in wind over 15mph), has a very firm, drop stitch floor on which one can stand (I doubt that I would), great seats, scupper drains, numerous universal mounts, a fin box for attaching a small battery powered motor, and is constructed of Duratex pvc tough enough to handle the vast majority of encounters with hooks, docks, etc. Will will never be on water with rocks and fast moving water. Admittedly this is a higher end inflatable, but I would be very interested on your thoughts about safety of this particular craft that can double as tandem recreational and fishing vessel. Thanks for putting up with this long-winded query.
I am just nervous about using an inflatable where I fish. There are sharp oyster beds all over the place that might puncture it. Where you are, that is probably not an issue
@@KayakhacksFishing Steve, I really do not wish to be argumentative. I expect many people kayak in areas where there are no hazards such as oyster shells. I t seems to me that we seniors are missing an opportunity be at least not considering a well made inflatable. This type of vessel is much easier to transport from storage to vehicle and from vehicle to the water. Storage is also an advantage. Thanks for considering.
@@WilliamBarron-v5g Point well taken!
Good review, Steve. I liked how you pointed-out that everyone has their own preferences. I'm 69, and still have good mobility in the joints, although the knees tend to suffer occasionally, depending on what activity I've done (kayaking, ebike riding, walking the dog at the park, etc, etc). I prefer my sit-on style kayak (Feel Free 11.5 Lure), and there's no way I'd use a sit-in type. Hell, there have been days I've spent 4 hrs straight on the lake paddling, and when I returned to the dock basically rolled onto the dock because I had been sitting for 4 hrs. Other days, getting onto the dock was easier. Every outting is different. Looking firward to the subsequent "senior" videos.
lol! You and me both! I've got a year on you and am not getting younger. But, as you know, you have to MOVE to stay in shape and young!
@@KayakhacksFishing Absolutely, have to keep moving. 👍
I'm 57 soon to be 58. I have a 2015 Future Beach Mariner 10.4 sit-in. it's 123.5" long, 31.75" wide, 13" tall, cockpit is 38.4" x 21.5". I can get in and out some what easy. Super stable and tracks pretty good.
Sounds great!
Very good information, thanks.
I'm in the market for the purchase of a kayak to learn with. The information you provided is good. I think I'm going with the set inside style as in the future I plan on I'm getting a live aboard for use in the PNW/Puget Sound area so would like to have a touring/sea kayak.
I think inside is best for touring. Be sure you get everything to seal the hatch and learn how to recover it if you tip over.
I just remembered that my brother had an inflatable kayak. It was sufficient when it was new, but as it aged it developed micro leaks that caused it to slowly deflate. The biggest issue he had was getting all the air out of it to get it back in the car. He got so fed up with the thing that he built himself a wood kayak complete with inlay. LOL
Good point!
This is a great idea for an episode. I am part of the grey-haired club. I have been paddling canoes for the last 40 years and just recently bought a sit on top kayak to try out. One of the differences I so far between the canoe and kayak is loading and unloading from the top of the car. The sit on top kayak is bulkier and hard to grab. My Old Town Pack canoe weighs just 33 lbs and I can lift it and carry it straight to the water. I do like the scupper holes in the sit on top kayak to keep the water out and the fact that I can stand up on a sit on top kayak to stretch my legs on those long days out fishing. I cannot wait to view the next episode.
Here is a good tip on loading the kayak on an SUV. I have an episode on kayak carts coming up as well. ruclips.net/video/1GrLiLInZEM/видео.html
Top notch information. I don’t think there’s 1% of us old people that would be happy with a set in. Simple not an option. I have a bonafide ss127. Stable. Very comfortable.. I think the only downside is the weight. I think 9 4 lbs. I bought a kayak trailer,which I highly recommend, and that ended the loading it on the truck feasco…. Thanks
The weight is the big negative on the really stable kayaks - they have to be wide... and that adds weight.
At 82 yo, and a bad back, weight is important. Would love to get a petal drive but don't see how I could get it on top of my Forester. And I don't want to deal with a trailer because my home street has a lot of traffic and backing the trailer into my driveway would take a lot of practice. Maybe I can run down to the coast and see about a day rental. But dog gone it, I really wanted a petal drive.
I hear you. The pedal drives are all heavy. I am not familiar with all the models. I recommend you look around and see if somebody makes a light one. Would this way to load it work for you? ruclips.net/video/1GrLiLInZEM/видео.html
Check out the hobie lynx at 47 lbs. about as like as they come before inflatables.
Great that you suggested Aliex. This series will be the most viewed ever. One other note. If your shoulders or arms are getting tired you’re not paddling correctly. It should be your core stomach muscles and twisting your core that does the paddling, right?
Yes, if you do low angle paddling as I do. I never understood why some adopt the high angle technique that relies on arm strength. That will wear you out!
Great info !! Nice video
Tried the sit in and getting out was hard with bad knees. So then I tried the sit on top much easier to get off. . First kayak was a lifetime weber . That got stolen from so the upgraded to a vibe sea ghost 130 rudder in back controlled by foot. But any not too bad for a 66 young ancient fisherman.
lol! We have to stay active!
I recently bought a kayak for myself. It'd a sit in type that's only ten feet in length. My primary consideration was portability. It had to be light enough that I'd be able to lift it. I use a two wheeled cart to get it from my vehicle to the water and back. I strap the cart to the back of the kayak rather than take it back and fetch to and from the car. A paddle kayak would be out of the question for me because my knees aren't as good as they used to be.
I really wish they would find a lighter material for the larger boats!
Super important video.
Thanks for watching
I have been kayaking since way before I became an old dude........ I paddle for fun and want no part of bothering the fish
Excellent! Ty!
Have you reviewed the Oru folding kayak line?
No, I will have to look at it
For old folks id recommend to get a sit on top instead of a sit inside , Unless you are a light person and flexible. Sit inside kayaks are also tippy because most are for performance. Sit on top are more stable and you can sit inside much easier.
Exactly!
Are older folk ALL really that stiff and awkward ??? Have you all given up? I’m going to be 77 in two months…just bought a sit in kayak…yes it takes a little getting used to ..but I LOVE IT . Light , paddles easily ( as opposed to the “rafts” you are promoting…feels like a sports car as opposed to a big old truck !
lol! Look around. Not many of us in our age bracket could be called fit.
Book your plot mate don't waste your money on a kayak
I’ve been kayaking for years with a recent 3-4 yr hiatus.
Recently I got to try sit on top. I think sit in kayaks, with their secondary stability are much more stable for young or old esp since you have a lower center of gravity. Sit on top was easier to get out of, however, it was positively lumbering on the lake in terms of paddling.
Still wonderful being on the water again.
I’m 66.
66 and still prefer my sit in kayaks. But, I've been using kayaks for 20 years.
Interesting video BUT not all "sit inside" Kayaks have the limitations you pointed out. Most actually have a LOT of storage.
Good point - there are many models
"...some of them even have good information."😂😂😂
I'm 57 and have an H12. It weighs 78lbs.
Sit on top hands down!
Thanks for helping out us seniors. I'm 85 with a slightly different perspective. To us, stability is the most important factor. I don't have the agility I once did and getting in an out is very important to me. We just got rid of our sit in kayaks. We now have sit on kayaks. I have learned that standing in the water, sitting, and swinging my legs in and out is the easiest entry and exit for me. 10 ft length has worked out just fine for us since we are transporting the kayaks in a short bed pickup. Storage is also easier. Stability is also dependent on make and model. Ours are designed to track well. Here's a video that's very helpful to me: ruclips.net/user/shorts-OJQ-PoFOUk
Thanks for the link!
If weight is an issue maybe a canoe would be the way to go. Some of them are under 20 lbs.
I agree - it all depends on where you use the boat.
Some good points here, but I do not feel you should dismiss inflatables and other portable solutions so quickly. Yes, cheap inflatables may not be much more than pool toys, but that is not the case with more expensive ones. Many inflatables are extremely durable, have multiple air chambers, lightweight, easy to store, easy to transport, and are extremely stable! Think of all the whitewater rafts, portable dinghy’s, etc to name but a few examples. A good inflatable could be an excellent choice for many seniors!
Thank you for that insight!
Oh dear, oh dear! While I really like your channel and the information it provides, I have to say, you did sit-in kayaks a serious disservice…and the Perception brand in particular! I’m in my middle 60s, am definitely in the overweight category and stand about 5’6”. I own a Perception sit-in…but it’s their FISHING kayak model which has a flat, wide hull made for, you guessed it, fishing specifically!
I’ve fished in some very nasty weather on big lakes in British Columbia, where I had breakers coming over the bow and yet felt as snug as a bug in a rug in my Perception Sound (9.5’) kayak. This thing floats like a cork and is easy to get in/out because the cockpit is wide and the HULL IS FLAT. And just for a bit more help in that department, I use a knotted nylon line attached to the bow handle to pull myself up if needed (imagine the gym rope test in high school). Works like a charm! I would never exit my kayak the way you did…who taught you to do it like that?!?
Best of all, because of the low profile a sit-in kayak has, my legs and body stay warm and dry. Gotta feel for the sit-on folks if the wind and waves pick up - They always look soooo coooold! With a sit-on, there’s also more surface area (your body) for the wind to hit, so you’re paddling even harder that necessary! And on summer days, my legs don’t get crispy, either.
Lastly, I truly enjoy watching those sit-on folks struggling to put their kayak on their vehicles. I put mine on a VAN roof just fine (and nobody would call me athletic by any measure!).
In summary, I agree, the cheapo sit-in kayaks from the big box stores (V HULLED) are, indeed, tippy and not, in my opinion, a good choice for fishing. But you compared a day paddling kayak (V hulled) to a sit-on fishing kayak. That’s not an honest comparison. Please, if you’re going to compare kayaks for seniors, you might want to get a sit-in kayak owner to represent the other side of things. You clearly don’t like them yourself!
Thank you for those good points!
Very biased info! Sit in are good for year round use and much more stable. Sit on top you have no protection from sun, wind, and, splash. 10 ft are lighter, easier to car top and store, and fit inside SUVs.
It all comes down to preference.
Like your videos. But on this I somewhat disagree. Think you jump a little fast to the conclusions on the SOT vs Sit-inside, and the inflatables here. As you point out, there is much in preference, and the shape/training. The SOT's are easier to get in and out of. I my self, as a younger person, did struggle. But after exercise at the gym, the getting inside a sit-inside was really smooth.
The sit-inside feels more tippy, but in reality they are very stable. You control the kayak much better in a sit-inside than in most SOTs. Most SOT's are very stable in the primary stability, but when they tip, they tip. Hence the sit-insides you can tip and control to a much more extent. If you take lessons, you even can straighten them up when they tip. If you practise you even can roll with them. Hence I think you can need much more strength to get back on a SOT if you fall out.
Most sit-insides you can get a spray skirt, and then you are totally more dry than you ever can get in any SOT. Sit-insides kayaks tend to bee much faster than SOT's too.
If you go for a sea-kayak version of the sit-inside, you get much more storage space with large and dry compartments in front and back. If you load as much equipment on a SOT, it will get more tippy, since all must be stored on deck. And the sit-inside is much more manoeuvrable than most SOTs
I use an Old Town Bigwater/Predator SOT, and a Boreal Baffin P3, so experience with both.
I follow several users of inflatable kayaks. And if you do not tend to go out on large bodies of open water (the sea), or focus very much on fishing, there is no problems with them. So I think your assumption on inflatable kayaks was more correct for some years ago. There has been a fast and good development on this.
I think it is great you make a series of this. Most advices for kayaks is based on younger and often more fit shaped people. And I think it is a real problem. So keep on the good work!
Excellent points! Thank you for the detailed guidance. I guess it all comes down to which model the user is most comfortable with.
Man, you are not giving an unbiased opinion! I’m 71 and I have a sit in kayak and I have never had any of the problems that you have attributed to sit in kayaks! You should tell your viewers of your bias upfront!!!
Actually, I used both. My first fishing was in the red kayak and it was unstable and hard to ge in and out of.
Disappointed in your lack of knowledge about inflatables.
yes, they make me nervous