Skills
Spring into a demo day for a test drive
Story by Tony Narcisse and photos courtesy JaxKayakFishing.com Courtesy Indy-Yaks
From the sandy beaches of California to the rocky shores of the Northeast, you can visit regional kayak fishing websites, forums and local outfitters and see selection-saturated anglers asking the same question: which kayak is best for me?
The anonymity afforded by online forums and chat groups lends itself to well intentioned—if not always accurate—advice from the many denizens of cyberspace. Some posters espouse the virtues of the brand and model that rest comfortably below their backside but offer little to no insight on other options. Others welcome the opportunity to offer their version of the history of kayak design. Quite often the dizzying array of responses—many contradictory—can be overwhelming.
Fortunately, there is an easy solution for befuddled fishermen. Every spring, paddle shops around the country host Demo Days and present shoppers with a chance to test paddle many different makes and models of kayaks. Having the opportunity to “try before you buy” is an excellent chance to gain some knowledge about what works best for you.
To make the most of this opportunity, here are a few tips to make your day at the demo more beneficial.
Know where you want to paddle
Will most of your paddling be on open water, small lakes or rivers? Knowing the type of water you will paddle most frequently makes it easier to determine what boat is best suited to this use.
Be honest about your ability
If you are a new or novice kayak angler, let the retailer or staff know your skill level. The retailers are in the business of making customers happy. An honest assessment of your skill level will help them point you in the right direction.
Size matters
Both your size and the size of the kayak. Boats are like clothing—if you’re comfortable in a large, how happy would you be crammed in a small? Your height and weight play an important role in determining a kayak model that will be safe, comfortable and fun to paddle.
If you don’t know, ask
Many Demo Days have trained staff on hand to help answer questions as well as manufacturer representatives to help you better understand the equipment. These guys and gals are fantastic at explaining the features and benefits of their brands and are eager to share their knowledge with you.
Tony Narcisse is the owner/operator of KayakFishLanier guide service on Lake Lanier, Georgia.
Upcoming Demo Days
San Marcos, TX
Date: April 4th - 5th
Location: Texas Ski Ranch www.texasskiranch.com
Time: Sat 11am - 4pm; Sun Noon-4pm (rain or shine)
Kayaks: Over 50 to choose from
Cost: FREE
Savings: Up to 30% off Selected Kayaks
More Information: 512-396-2386 or 888-828-3828
Houston, TX
Date: April 18th - 19th
Independence Park - Missouri City
Time: Sat 11am - 4pm; Sun Noon-4pm (rain or shine)
Kayaks: Over 50 to choose from
Cost: FREE
Savings: Up to 30% off Selected Kayaks
More Information: 713-660-7000 or 888-828-3828
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