Sea Kayaks vs Recreational Kayaks | Pros and Cons

[@PaddleTV]

Take your FREE online ACA Paddlesports safety course here: americancanoe.org/paddlesports-online-course/

[@KayakingBubblehead]

Unfortunately a sea kayak isn't something I can do due to my disabilities. I use a sit on top and am going to start kayak camping soon. I started kayaking last year and in just a couple of months I was able to stop using my cane, I have a kayak that I can switch the deck from a flat deck to one with storage or use my peddle drive, the Vibe Shearwater 125. This kayak has opened a whole new world of adventure for me and I can get in and out of it without much trouble. I'm a disabled submarine veteran and love the water and kayaking has allowed me to get back on the water, love this sport.

[@slabbyrider8665]

RTM Tempo is pretty much a sot sea kayak Or the Dag Midway, rtm Disco.

[@daxtonkeaton1180]

@Bowen Peyton yea, I've been watching on kaldroStream for since november myself :)

[@dr.froghopper6711]

I’m a 100% disabled vet myself and a SOT is the only type that I’d have a chance of climbing back on. For this reason I chose a kayak (Ascend 128x) with an open deck and more capacity than I will ever load. I don’t take chances on the water.

[@petersmith4974]

As a 40-year sea kayaker, I applaud this summary! It is very difficult to cover the salient points without losing emphasis on the really crucial points, and I think you did a great job. Sea kayaks are safer in rough water once you have developed good skills. Rec boats are never safe on rough water, but are great when used for the designed purpose.

[@PaddleTV]

Well said!

[@mitch9651]

Shouldn't a sit-on-top kayak be the safest of all?? if you fall into the water you get on it, or turn it around and you are ready to go. being wider it should be easier to get on it from the water. it can't sink like the other 2 who have the "hole" for the person ( I am not an expert. mine is just curiosity )

[@wisenber]

@@mitch9651 Believe it or not, it's easier to keep a skinnier sea kayak upright in rough waves than a sit-on-top. A sea kayak lets you lean into an oncoming wave. Sea kayaks aren't very likely to sink as they have two bulkheads leaving to compartments dry.

[@robgerety]

One other thing to remember when kayaking in a rec kayak, (versus a sea kayak with bulkheads), is this: If the water is cold, and you are too far from shore, you may perish from hypothermia if your boat swamps, and sinks. Cold water can take your life very quickly, even if you are wearing a PFD. There is not a lot of time to get out of the water. As emphasized in this video, always stay close to shore in a rec kayak. Otherwise you are asking for serious trouble. Resist the temptation to paddle across the lake, or out to an Island.

[@jlafayet]

@@robgeretytotally agree. I live next to the Puget Sound, which is a great place for a sea kayak, but God help you if you go out offshore in a rec and you swamp or tip over, especially since rec users would almost certainly not be wearing the obligatory wet suit (or dry suit) that would buy them extra time to be rescued. I had a friend who was in a rec kayak in shorts and a t-shirt maybe 50 yards off shore with an ebbing tide a little north of Seattle. He had a mishap and ended up in the water. A companion was able to tow him to shore, but he thought he was going to die, and may have had he not had a companion with him to help (he quickly became weak). Had he not had a life vest on, 100% he would have drowned, companion or not.

[@facedown9754]

I have both and use them for the different type of paddling I do..love them both..still water and nature photography the recreational boat rules with its room and stability for my dog is so nice ...touring and sea paddling is way different! Plus you need skills and knowledge...Rec kayaks are like a day at the Spa!

[@NorthPaddle]

I’ve been paddling canoes for 50 years, but am new to kayaks. Some useful info here. Thanks.

[@PaddleTV]

Glad it was helpful!

[@wilwilliford7788]

Such a great, informative clip. You answered so well a few questions I had. Thank you! Really enjoying your channel from over here in Germany! 😉

[@PaddleTV]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@58singleman]

I started kayaks with an inexpensive Recreational boat that was 10 ft. long. I soon learned that 8 or 10 foot Kayaks will work you more than a longer boat. The problem is the short kayaks turn away from your paddle stroke. One reason a 17 ft. sea kayak is fast is a 17 ft. boat will "track" better. I have switched to a 12 foot recreational kayak and it is much easier to make it go. The 12 ft. kayak will still turn away from your paddle stroke , but not nearly as bad. I recommend getting at least a 12 ft. "rec." boat.

[@BigDaddy-je2nq]

I use my 10ft’ er for the sea, it has so much drag that the nose lifts up like a speed boat when I paddle fast

[@EspenFrafalne]

Just in case someone thinks sea kayaks are very unstable, mine is "beginner friendly", and stable enough that a normal person should feel pretty confident in it. It is the only kayak i have tried, and i have never tipped over - even when i was so drunk that i could barely walk, and went for a 4-5km paddle in the middle of the night, LOL! This being said, i have only used it in my local river, and never in any serious waves. Want to try to get it to the ocean next summer, and pack my tent and stuff for a week or 2 😊

[@DB-cx6cb]

😎Well I’m 70 and gave up being a drunk in 1975. I just moved from Florida to Alabama on the Bankhead Lake on the Black Warrior River. The water is calm except when pontoon and bass boats create waves.other than these boats the water is like glass. I’m new to the kayak world and wanted to know could I flip in the kayak and get out safely using a skirt? My daughter had a kayak she would use skirts and go in very rough waters in Tennessee and they required her to demonstrate roll over technique prior to her trip. I just wanted to know in a touring kayak is rollover technique required? Thanks for sharing your kayak experience. And stay safe on your next adventure!

[@EspenFrafalne]

@@DB-cx6cb With a skirt, you probably have to release the skirt from the kayak before you can get out easily. I almost never use a skirt, as it can get really hot and damp under there, and i dont really see a reason for using a skirt in calm waters. I cant do a roll, but with some practice, and the right technique - in calm waters - it is not especially difficult getting back into the kayak from the back. Just gotta get up on the back, and lay low (not sit up) when dragging yourself forward to the opening (at least thats how i did it). Im guessing it would be considerably more difficult in waves, but i have not tried this...

[@MsCurrion]

This is a great summary and I find all your videos very useful. I think it is extremely difficult to categorize some of these boats cleanly because boat builders are constantly blurring the lines between boat types by trying to come up with boats that do it all. So we now have light touring or day touring boats. And some of them look like very nice compact touring or sea kayaks but you probably wouldn't want to take all of them off shore. And now we have some great ocean playboats like the Valley Gemini or the P&H Virgo that can also do double duty as really nice 3-4 day trip touring boats. There are differences between some of these boats in terms of build quality and outfitting that do make a difference as to how one might use them. I had to compromise on my most recent boat because I have limited covered storage, so I could not really go over 15 feet. Plus I am mainly doing day trips on coastal waters. It was a Virgo for me and I love her. She is fast, seaworthy, responsive and easy to reenter. But she's not going to keep up with a 17 foot boat. Maybe you could consider a future look at some of those hybrid or light touring boats and go through what makes them seaworthy? That might be useful.

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks for the good words. The lines are getting blurry, aren't they. It's hard to differentiate between pack boats and kayaks now too!

[@michaelhoffman1165]

Nice video - BTW you put " wrecked kayaks" in the navigation tip on the progress bar :)

[@Vylkeer]

Sea Kayaks are generally 14' - 18' in length, that's true but there are a few exceptions like my Delta 12.10 which, as the name implies, it's 12'10" and it's still very much a sea kayak. Being shorter and wider it has a better primary and secondary stability even though it's not as fast and doesn't track as well (but it's still great in these two aspects). Also, it has more maneuverability over the longer brothers and of course less cargo capacity. I've esteemed that the 12.10 is absolutely fine for a 2-day trip, which is all I need anyways. Another advantage is that by being lighter and more compact, it's easier to manage on land, which to me was also a factor. It all comes down to personal preference and necessities, as for most things :)

[@FrankLadd]

In most clubs any kayak 14 feet or less is a rec boat, not a sea kayak. Most groups will not want someone in a 14 foot or less boat along unless they know for certain they can keep up. Often trip descriptions say they are for boats longer than 14 feet and 22 inches or less wide. Many can easily keep in the right 14 foot boat, but the group will want to see how you do on a 10 miler before you can come on a 20 plus mile day trip.

[@Vylkeer]

@@FrankLadd Sorry but I don't frankly care about clubs as I paddle alone anyway but even if I wanted to participate in a tour I could as this "rule" is not necessarily applied. Also, you sound like someone who is judging something they don't know that much about and definitely haven't even tried. Have you ever seen the kayak I mentioned? Because, you know, I've paddled it quite a few times, in almost any water condition and it's a proper sea kayak. It's actually way more stable than those longer kayaks which are tippy af. As you said, they'll still accept someone with a kayak shorter than 14' as long as they can "keep up" and I for sure could. I don't get why I should be limited in a group trip (even though I'm not really that interested at the moment as I said earlier), it's up to the paddler to use their kayak of choice, given of course that they can get through whatever the trip is. Longer kayaks, as I explained in the original comment, come with disadvantages too like less maneuverability, less stability and since you can fill them with more stuff, I bet they can get quite heavy too (they're also heavier to begin with) and it's easier for someone not being able to "keep up". I can still fill mine with plenty of stuff for a 1 or even 2-day trip without having too much weight to deal with. I also have a carbon fiber high angle paddle and planning to get a wing paddle in the near future, so believe me, I don't go slow in my kayak.

[@FrankLadd]

@@Vylkeer I'm not judging you or your ability to keep up. I'm just sharing what I've seen. I've also seen paddlers in short boats keep up. I often paddle a 14 footer and have gotten the talk about bringing too slow of a boat.

[@flatheadfletch]

Well your kidding yourself if you think you can go for long trip in a 12’ yak in big water. The wind will blow it all over The current will steer that 12’ yak. You will fight that yak all day. I’m 63 and have paddled them all. I own several. 14’ is the minimum length in open water, sit inside. I primarily paddle 16’ in rivers and lakes. It’s just the most enjoyable. I loan a 14’ plastic sit inside. These lengths work great for sightseeing. Anything shorter is work. Shorter is more for floating and just paddling for coarse correction.

[@michaelvalicenti471]

I don't mind taking my recreational out into the choppy bay sometimes. I've gotten good at getting back in it though! 😅

[@quake2u]

I use a Seaeagle 385FT to scuba dive in the ocean and it works great.

[@courtlandbates2683]

Loved the imagery of kayaking among the icebergs.

[@ihateusernames2006]

I know, I saw that scene and I was ready to sign up for the tour. Just don't want to Titanic my voyage.

[@PaddleTV]

Yup... paddling amongst icebergs is pretty amazing. Surprisingly nerve racking too. These shots were taken in Newfoundland..

[@BDiHaze]

Evening. I have been doing my attending as many kayak tour events as possible to get my bearing of what I would like most when I purchase and thought I was set on the Pungo 125 until having my hand at a sea kayak when the tour guide gave me a go at the Old Town Nantucket 149. I know they don't make these anymore but would like your insight to help me with that decision. So far I have enjoyed how I felt more sound in the Pungo, by not flipping it any of the times I went out, but the Old town I flipped over several times in until I was able to get my bearing learning the sea kayaks are WAY MORE sensitive with any movement of your legs of shifting of your body weight. But once I got it, I really enjoyed it. I liked how it felt faster and more nimble when dealing with getting in/out of Eddie's, lagoons and being more in the center of the mass of water we were kayaking in, but when we chilled and I got lost in my taking pictures I always felt like I was going to flip over again and it deterred me from taking pictures whenever I wanted to. I know we have some good waters here in the MD area and want to be able to do more than just the shallow stream waterways and hit the wider waterways between the Susquehanna or Annapolis waters. WIth the present Old Town lineup I am torn between the Sorrento 126, which reviews has given me pause since it doesn't have the option for a scag and they say it has trouble tracking when there is wind, and the Loon 126sk which does have come with the scag, and an anchor, but I am not really tripping on getting an angler kayak, but guess I can't complain if it does all I want it to do AND give me the ability to take a rod out when I go out with my buddies that ARE All About fishing when they're out. Or, just stick with the Pungo 126, that I can put a rudder on, if I so chose down the line. And I also know I can get a waterproof skirt for when I have evolved on the water to get in more choppy water and take a roll or two.... So to that, your insight is greatly appreciated?

[@oldsailor9022]

I kayak and canoe, but use a surfski on the ocean. I find it more comfortable and faster than a sea kayak, also remounting is way easier than rolling or other kayak reentry techniques.

[@FrankLadd]

No rolling is way easier than climbing back on a Ski. One of us need lessons! Perhaps we can meet up and you can prove it is me. I dread climbing back into my ski in rough water!

[@DinoAlberini]

Frank Ladd it is easier but if you fail to do it in a few tries and need a wet reentry, climbing a ski is much safer.

[@marksilva6726]

You don’t need a sit on top. Your not going to flip a sit inside. Fill the bulkhead with a dry bag and fill the back with foam. Just as good. Lifetime Cruze is all you need big fast lots of room and cheap. Some tasty buds and cool waves is all you’ll need mr Hand

[@norm_badwolf_9119]

Like previously commented, I think as time goes on, the lines between “recreational”, “touring”, & “sea kayak” are going to become a little fuzzy with SOME boats… While a pelican mustang is without a doubt a flat water rec boat, a boat like a Feelfree Aventura lives in the grey area between rec and touring, maybe even sea kayak as well. For example, I’m currently in an Aventura 110. Rear bulkhead, skeg, bow float bags, and outfitted with safety gear (pump, paddle float, sprayskirt, etc), and it does very well in reasonable surf. Not AS WELL as a 15’ Sterling would of course, but it still plays very well. It also handles well on a flat, slow river and is super maneuverable and stable in both settings. IMO, the Aventura line is one of a few boats out there that is good at many things, not great at any one thing. That is something we may start to see more and more of in the coming years, to some degree…

[@PaddleTV]

I totally agree. I really enjoyed reviewing the Aventura 125. My only complaint about it was the weight. It's a heavy boat! Thanks for the info!

[@just-dl]

thanks for this; i'm leaning heavily towards the adventura line up; partially as you said, for doing many things well, and partially for the fact it has to be the best value afloat right now! the feature set on that little bird looks a lot like some 1200-1500 kayaks i see out there! (looking at the 14' adventura)...and i'm really wanting to go kayaking right now...but, it's december....and i'm in Maine.....probably not the best time.... :-)

[@Q8Patriot]

Thanks alot, im considering buying one thats was much helpful

[@aftech7268]

Ive seen alot of people using siton top rec kyak the ocean some modify to have outriggers and electric motor, rudder , sail and shade - and gear etc… some fish overnight in hawaii … they fish many miles off shore some go from island to island

[@PatchaChel]

I am looking to purchase my first kayak in the next month. I am trying to decide between a recreational kayak, 12' long (mustang 120) or a Pungo 12' - any suggestions as to quality or significant difference?

[@PaddleTV]

Although I haven't tried the Mustang 120, it looks very similar to the Pungo 120 in character. I think it will likely perform very similarly to the Pungo. Couple of key differences (without having tried it - just from looking at it online), the Pungo has an upgraded seat that will make it more comfortable. The Pungo has a sealed bulkhead (wall) behind the seat. This does two things. It separates the kayak into 2 compartments. This means the stern compartment will keep gear much drier. Probably more importantly though, it means the entire kayak won't fill with water if you ever flip. This makes it much easier to deal with (safer). Bottom line, if you want to do longer days of paddling, want to do overnight camp trips, or just want to upgrade your comfort, it might be worth 'upgrading' to the Pungo. If you plan on staying on very protected water, doing shorter trips (under 2 - 3 hours) and don't see yourself doing much overnighting, then the Mustang will likely be a great choice. Hope this helps!

[@seathrunmagaoinghous4119]

Great breakdown

[@jasonschlencker8108]

Great vid. I was just given a Seaflo SF-1003 for free with frayed side handles, missing bung and plug things that go through the hull, so not bad with some light beaching scuffing on the underside of the bow. Can the little storage hole be sealed better or don't bother and just use a tiny drybag? Funny thing is that I thought that the holes through the hull were supposed to be open full time because my wife's 12 footer fishing kayak was second hand and didn't have any plug things. Regards, Jas. VK4FJGS Rocky Qld

[@REDHORSEcreekSWIMMER]

Excellent info here, cheers!

[@freesoul3371]

Get a sit inside kayak. They are the best for fishing. I have been using one for close to 40 years when the first plastic kayaks were first made in the early 80's, a Aquaterra Keowee 9 foot.

[@aranha9365]

I've been pedaling my 4m sit on top ( siren XL) for a few years know. It takes lots of gear, I go for multi-day camping trips on the coast... I haven't gone more than 30km offshore to say if it's an issue... but got quite rough waters and up to 50km/h gusts... not too fun... but its big limitations are surf related, it can't punch medium/to strong waves, specially in the way out of the surf.... that is when I wish I had a sea kayak, as it seems to have great surfing capabilities.

[@richardhazeldine1372]

Great informative video - thanks!

[@Daniël_FPVphoto]

Can you do a review about the Cambridge Adventure 350 touring?

[@PaddleTV]

I'll see what I can do!

[@Daniël_FPVphoto]

@@PaddleTVThank you. Take your time.

[@Carlb328]

You didn't mention the biggest difference which is price.

[@FrankLadd]

Really really like the performance oriented Rec kayak the best. Example like the Dagger Alchemy, Dagger Stratos, Current Designs Kestral, and Jackson Journey. The 23-25 inch 14 to 15 foot boats are great in rivers and surf and will keep up with the sea kayaks on most group paddles. I think the days of the 17- 19 foot sea kayaks are dwindling.

[@wisenber]

" I think the days of the 17- 19 foot sea kayaks are dwindling." I wouldn't want to give up the speed, stability and storage of my 18' boat. Nor would I want to give up its 34 lbs weight.

[@Ragga1205]

@@wisenber Which Kayak do you have?

[@wisenber]

@@Ragga1205 I have eight.

[@Ragga1205]

@@wisenber maybe you can help me pick out my first? Just moved to Miami and will mostly be on ocean and lagoons

[@wisenber]

@@Ragga1205 Part of that depends on your skill and mobility too. If struggle getting in and out, and ocean cockpit probably isn't a good start. Definitely go over 12 ft long to deal with the waves.

[@GinaFrench-p6r]

Have you tried a neris smart or smart pro?

[@DB-cx6cb]

Wanted to purchase a kayak and favor a touring Vs recreational. Question Can use use a touring without a skirt? I know the skirt is to prevent swamping but I will be on a river with minimal rough waters. Secondly if skirt is required and boat flips is the skirt easily displaced to escape without having rollover skills? I am certainly not wanting to kayak if rollover techniques are required. As I said the river has not strong currents since it is a large body of water with locks and dam similar to a lake. I am strong enough to get back into an overturned kayak but being intrigued with a tour kayak without rollover skills required certainly makes for a favorable decision prior to a purchase. Thanks loved your informative video.Thanks❤

[@flatheadfletch]

Yes you can go without the skirt. I do it on rivers n lakes with two sea kayaks. 14’ and 16 foot. Neckey Zoar and P&H Volan 160

[@DB-cx6cb]

@@flatheadfletchThanks, I live on on the Black Warrior River with Corps of Engineers controlling water flow with Locks and Dams, that is actually called Bankhead Lake. So waters never have waves or wakes. We do have lots of wakes caused by pontoons,bass boats and tug boats pushing barges,but mostly calm water especially in the creeks. I wanted touring kayak not for expeditions or overnight since we have a River home, but for day tours and for speed. Love all your videos!❤

[@ghyathhallak4281]

thanks for all information

[@PaddleTV]

Most welcome

[@jhondoe1483]

To be fair a rod holder can be installed on basically any.kayak other than some of the more odd high end materials that you can’t drill into without compromising the structure

[@japanclaude1]

Hello Ken i enjoy your vidéos . I am interested in a crossover kayak under 10 feet , I no the most popular ones are Pyranha , Dagger , Liquidlogic . And yet no one as made a comparison video about these . Is it because there not popular or any good . Thanks in advance .

[@PaddleTV]

Good question! I haven't had a chance to test many crossover kayaks yet, but I plan on doing a lot more boat review videos next spring and summer. I will definitely keep these in mind. Thanks.

[@glennoswald4239]

My Pyraha crossover is 10'4" and I love it in Class2+ and ocean bays.

[@kenthharris4432]

Question: where does the Pakayak fit? Rec or touring?

[@PaddleTV]

I consider the Pakayak a touring kayak, even though it's stable enough for a beginner kayaker to enjoy. It travels and tracks like a touring kayak.

[@rafaeluhu]

Here in NZ we find sea and fishing kayaks. Hard to find something in between.

[@pamelabondy-holmes2199]

I have a kayak Delta 12s it isn't wide and is comfortable what type is it I was told a touring kayak?

[@PaddleTV]

Nice kayak! It's commonly referred to as a 'Recreational Touring' kayak.

[@bibonic]

can you use a rek kyak in the ocean without it sinking?

[@Adventure-MTB]

What about a touring kayak that does have bow and stern hatches with bulk heads ,and rudder with perimeter lines can you use it like a sea kayak or what do you think

[@FrankLadd]

Lots of great rec kayaks like this and they are the best all around boats. If I could only have one boat it would be alike a Dagger Alchemy. 14 to 15 feet, 23- 25 inches, two bulkheads, great in surf and rivers, and a good roller. The Current designs Kestral is also a good one but you might want to replace any seat back with a simple back band. Lots of great choices new and used in this range!

[@martin.feuchtwanger]

You are describing a touring/sea kayak; they're the same thing.

[@tiaxanderson9725]

The only real difference between touring kayaks and sea kayaks is that touring kayaks almost never come without bulkheads and sea kayaks never. Touring kayaks come with 2 or 3 hatches, sea kayaks never less than 3. Touring kayaks will often have thigh braces, sea kayaks never without. etc etc. There's no hard line and if you were to categorize kayaks as rec -> tour -> sea than the high end of one might have more features than the low end of the next step (with the possible exception of sea kayaks since they have a bunch of "never comes without". So if your touring kayak has a load of sea kayak features; it's basically a sea kayak. Just make sure; bulkheads, (non-bungie) perimeter line, thigh braces, mounting point for a tow line (to tow or get towed), 3 water proof hatches, good fitting spray skirt, and a skeg or rudder. Edit: Sea kayaks are never *without* thigh braces. I had accidentally a word ;P

[@clnred]

I am sorry to bother you. I am torn between a P&H cetus HV and a Volan 160. I am 6’4 and 110kg. I have torn my shoulder so carry weight is important. The sales reckon the Cetus HV but I feel the Volan is enough and much lighter. If you have time or an opinion I would appreciate your opinion.

[@flatheadfletch]

I have a Volan 160. 5’11 210 lbs. I think both yaks will be to confining for you. Especially the Volan. It’s only a MV

[@xNightHawk32]

What kind of kayak would you recommend for a river? I was thinking about getting a Pelican Mission 100 kayak. Is that something I could safely use in a river?

[@PaddleTV]

Yup! That would be a good kayak for rivers with only slow moving water. I actually did a video about 'best kayaks for river' that you might find helpful. Here's a link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKfEpKaFgcx_itU

[@xNightHawk32]

@@PaddleTV I just watched the video you recommended. Thank you! I found it very helpful. I’m a beginner kayaker so I’m really just trying to learn as much as I can before I head out to the water. I’m looking to get a good life jacket, do you have any videos that talk about life jackets for kayaking?

[@WendyHicks-wt3os]

Thank you

[@shawnkdodds]

I saved and bought an inflatable a couple of years ago. I love it on the water and it's nice to keep in the car. I'm normally a still-water kayaker but would like to go out on the many bays here in Washington state. I was wondering what you think of using inflatables on coastal waters (i.e safety and maneuverability). I have an Advanced Elements tandem convertable series.

[@shawnkdodds]

P.s. thanks so much for your videos, I love watching them and the Canadian scenery.

[@PaddleTV]

I would think of paddling on coastal waters in a quality inflatable the same way that I think of paddling on coastal waters in a quality hardshell kayak. The 'inflatable' nature of the kayak isn't really the limiting factor. The training you have will primarly dictate what you should and shouldn't do in coastal waters. If you have taken a course, and know how to paddle safely in exposed waters, then an inflatable can work great in coastal waters. If you haven't taken open water rescue training, then you should stick to sheltered coastal waters, that are subject to heavy waves, even in windy conditions. That being said... watch out for barnacles and oyster beds... those can do some damage to an inflatable!

[@marksilva6726]

The inflatables kept a lot of men alive during the wars expecially with Japan as a lot of fighting went on over the open ocean. Destroyers submarines torpedos,etc..... Japanese submarine put two torpedoes into our hull chief. We were coming back from the island of Tinien had just delivered the bomb. The Hirashima bomb. Fair well and To you my fair Spanish maidens fair well and to you our ladies of Spain for we’ve received orders for to sail back to Boston and so never more shall we see you again. Stop playing with yourself Hooper!

[@DinoAlberini]

The most surprising thing I learned is that, in really rough conditions, a narrow kayak is easier to balance than a wide craft

[@Krigaranda]

I'm looking into getting a kayak. Wondering on if you would have any opinions on the best kayak for rough water that is also fishing capable? Thanks

[@2testtest2]

Depends on what you define as rough water, but I don't think a rec. Kayak would be good for most definitions of rough water. You don't want to paddle a swamped kayak, as they loose stability as they fill with water, so you probably want to use a spray skirt if the sea is rough enough to enter the boat. If the sea is rough enough you don't want too much stability either, as you don't want the kayak to overpower you, and tip you over. But for fishing you probably want something with good stability, so you will probably have to compromise a bit. Not sure if you will be able to get one, but I'm guessing something like the seabird discovery might be a good starting place. It's maybe more of a sea kayak than a fishing kayak though. You will have to consider what is more important to you.

[@hankb1604]

Learn how to kayak first. You will probably opt for a SOT for fishing once you learn basic paddling skills taught by an experienced kayak instructor (ACA/BCU certified).

[@PaddleTV]

Sit on top fishing kayaks are probably the most versatile kayaks out there. They can handle some rough water, and you don't need to worry about swamping. If you flip, you can reenter from the water pretty easily. They're amazing fishing platforms as well because they're so stable. That's where I would start.

[@r.fantom]

3:27 Serial killers be like 😁

[@kenwittlief255]

the caption and description under the timer line says Wrecked Kayaks....

[@gamer8622]

My recreational kayak handles class 2 whitewater pretty easily. I'm often launching further and further down river where live to be able kayak the entire stretch over time and there's sections of class 1 and mostly class 2 ww. I love every second of it and never felt in danger

[@RACanoagemOficial]

Excelent video!

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks!

[@juancarlosgonzales8055]

Is a sea kayak the same as a ocean kayak?

[@PaddleTV]

Ocean Kayak is a brand of kayaks, and they make a variety of types of rec kayaks - mostly sit-on-top kayaks. And so, 'Ocean Kayak' brand kayaks are NOT sea kayaks. On the other hand... some people do call sea kayaks 'ocean kayaks', although 'sea kayaks' is definitely the most common term. Others call sea kayaks 'touring kayaks'. I consider 'touring kayaks' to be short versions of sea kayaks - in the 12 - 15 foot range.

[@Cornfed41]

still confused, questions. recreational kayaks flat water, boats wake, jet ski wake, wind well that's just one other challenge to a recreational kayak. Any answers to these questions would be greatly appreciated, thank you.

[@Mr.Bryan1234]

Are you asking if its a challenge for rec kayaks to be on wave conditions?

[@averageguy1261]

Great shot at the end! Where is it at?

[@PaddleTV]

Thanks! That's the Ottawa River.

[@loganroderick4735]

Thoughts on the eddyline fathom? Ive been eyeing it for awhile now and really want to get into sea kayaking

[@FrankLadd]

Seems like the deck might be a little high for self rescues and easy rolling? So check that out when you get to demo one. I really liked the looks of the new Dagger Stratos, but found I was not in love with the really high back deck once I did a few self rescues. Still like the Old Alchemy better.

[@hankb1604]

Agree mostly with Frank. The Fathom rear deck is really high = difficult for rescues. The Stratos has a little higher rear deck than the Alchemy but the added forward deck means the legs are not as cramped & the Stratos is a much easier roll for me than was the Alchemy. The Stratos is immensely easier to do rescues on than a Fathom.

[@tammieherring8078]

Is there a crossover between the two? One that I can flat water race in and running a class 2 river?

[@toms6841]

Not sure about how serious the racing component is, but there are hybrids or crossovers. Basically looking at some of the shorter length kayaks (14 - 15 ft.) capable of coastal waters, lakes, and rivers that include Class I, II, III plus rapids. Beyond 14 or 15 feet, lose response and maneuverability needed in rapids. A couple of examples of these that I'm familiar with (there are many more I'm sure) include the Jackson Journey 14 (discontinued but still can be found at retailers), Wilderness Systems Tsunami, and the Dagger Stratos in 14 or 14.5 feet length. Of course, running rapids beyond Class I requires a skirt. Check this out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZjOqYiHd7-gbq8

[@tammieherring8078]

@@toms6841 I'm serious, but I'm just starting out. I know a carbon fiber 15+ft boat is what they use, but just for personal practice I'm wanting to try to purchase 1 not 2 yaks.

[@PaddleTV]

I agree with Tom. I'm not sure if you saw my response on a different video, but there are some great touring kayaks in the 14 foot range that provide a good combination of speed and maneuverability. The other kayak that pops to mind is the P&H Virga - a playful touring kayak. If you want something that's more on the river running side, it's worth looking at the Dagger Green Boat - a long whitewater kayak designed for downriver races on serious whitewater. It's fast, but maneuverable.

[@stevekimball7697]

Would I be OK in a WS Pungo 125 on a calmish Lake Superior???

[@FrankLadd]

Absolutely, Stay near shore and wear a dry suit. the Pungo is a great bay boat but must be treated like a canoe. Odds are really good you are going to swim it to shore. I had an old 120 and had a float bag tied in front of the foot pegs and the stern hatch was watertight, so rescues where similar to sea kayak rescues. There was no rolling it as the cockpit was just to big and you would fall out. In really big waves it with implode the skirt and flood, so use it like a canoe.

[@just-dl]

Go crazy on safety gear. Stay near shore. Get a rope ladder with plastic steps (yacht supply shop) to facilitate self rescue.

[@tkbass01]

As far as paddling solo, I want to get into kayaking, but none of my friends or family are interested in kayaking.

[@PaddleTV]

Local paddling clubs are great places to meet other paddlers in the area. Your local outdoor store might also know of events to meet other paddlers. Many paddling shops will host evening paddles once a week.

[@2AKNOT]

Found your video a little confusing since you split recreation kayaks and sea kayak apart at the 15ft mark. I've been kayaking for over a decade and have used many touring kayaks that are 10 to 15ft in length and include every feature you claim for sea kayaks. I've only found true recreational kayaks, using your description, in the 8 to 10ft range, excluding tandoms.

[@just-dl]

to add to the confusion...one of my favorite models that i'm drooling over (er, considering for purchase) is the Feel Free Adventura 140...14' recreational...with 2 bulkheads and retractable skeg...i really think the design is one of the best thought out 'best of both worlds' kayaks out there. (Adventura has 2 other sizes...11 & 12.5' as well.) would you recommend anything in particular from your experience? cheers!

[@basedpatriotLT]

why the more STABLE rec kayaks are not designed for rough water?

[@just-dl]

Stability comes at the cost of maneuvering and speed. Both of which are assets in tough water. Mostly, maneuverability. Yaks that sacrifice a little stability for a little speed and maneuvering are the best option, imho. Add a retractable skeg and you have even more flexibility. Others may give you more detailed explanations. Hope so, because I’d like to better understand the (inverse) relationship between performance and stability.

[@bibonic]

can you use a rek kyak

[@marksilva6726]

You don’t need anything more than a recreation sit in to go anywhere. Stuff that stern with styrofoam and shove the big balloon up in the nose of the bow.. unless your heading off where the Andrea Gale went. Of course your not going to take off with no skills, but these Kayaks are wide and stable. And some of them are of a longer faster shape now. They won’t be as fast as the ocean kayaks but stable comfortable. And if you use common since like not going out in ten foot seas etc..... you’ll be ok. Youll start to learn the art of launching in the surf without getting water in it. Marine Radio, flare gun, boat horn. And most of all paying attention at all times when it starts to drop into some good size swells. Have a rec sit in kayak use it on the ocean when weather permits. And have caught everything that swims in the last ten years. One more thing. LIFE JACKET ON AT ALL TIMES! And become a cork with the flow. And yes there is No substitute for experience here. The more you do it the better you’ll feel in it and will gain confidence.Be safe Good luck and God bless!

[@kurtammann7865]

rule #1,,,know your equipment,,,I have a 12ft Loon,,,not very fast,,,but does well in moderately ruff water,,,not sure about ocean work,,,also a 138 Loon,,,good on smooth water,,,lots of room,,,good for fishing,,,but like paddling a barge,,,every thing in its place,,,

[@Flashahol]

Weighing in just over 250 lbs, my experience has been that a rec. Kayak will NOT be stable at all in sideways waves and a sea kayak is so much more comfortable (leg extension wise, at least), more stable and so much easier to paddle... is it just me????

[@PaddleTV]

It really depends on the kayak you're using. Rec kayaks are inherently more stable, as they're much wider than sea kayaks. But, if the rec kayak you tried was too small for you, it will be less stable. If you're using a sit-on-top rec kayak, your center of gravity is also higher, and so if the rec kayak is too small for you, it will feel even less stable.

[@Flashahol]

@@PaddleTV From the specs I've been looking at, they don't really make sit-in rec kayaks for people my weight... I might have to settle for a heavier duty fishing kayak if I can't afford a sea kayak.

[@Joy-s3s6v]

I’ve took my inflatable my kayak to very big lake and went too far from the the beach so I end up surrounded by multiple sea lions 🦭 over three they got soo close just couple feet from my kayak and started to get more water getting in and after hard work got back to the beach!.

[@PaddleTV]

Wow! That's an experience!

[@superwag634]

Deciding on a boat is the same as deciding on a sports ball. You don’t play tennis with a football and opposite

[@ericstoever9577]

I don’t like the premise of the video as a ‘this vs, that’. The important thing is to get the watercraft that is suited for purpose and skill. It is quite possible to get a 12’ 25 lb kayak, suited to weeklong river touring, with hatches, and bulkheads. I guess by length I have to call it a rec kayak… The video seems to ignore this entire class of watercraft, with visuals showing Walmart poly kayaks on a campground pond, vs. 18’ sea kayaks among the icebergs. Nothing subliminal about that somewhat elitist message.

[@PaddleTV]

Sorry you feel that way, although I don't agree that it's elitist. We can agree to disagree on that. Maybe this is the video you were expecting to watch - kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5qWZYuroNuab5I

[@HDCairnsAviation]

I use my rec kyak in 15knt swell 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Romany1111]

Ken, you should have had representative samples on land for you to point out differences. This presentation wasn't well-scripted; seemed a bit confused.

[@PaddleTV]

I appreciate the feedback. I'm learning and trying to improve all the time. It's part of what makes it fun to do these videos. Cheers.

[@Romany1111]

@@PaddleTV Thanks for the response. Didn't want to be a jerk w/ my comment. A number of my mates have travelled to train with you and were favorably impressed. and I noticed their WW skills were improved, so I know you are a great coach. Best regards!

[@pobo6113]

You are comparing apples to oranges. They are both fruit but that is it. The information you gave seamed a bit bias. “Rec Kayaks” go whit water rafting. I think that is rough water don’t you. 👎🏻

[@larrybrickman6425]

Lol.

[@Cornfed41]

I palddle alone because I am alone 90 percent of the time, the other 10 percent of the time I'm at work around people. So let's not assume please.

[@jerryschneider145]

How about neither, buy a canoe.

[@wisenber]

or both.

[@PaddleTV]

"Different strokes for different folks" comes to mind here! :)

[@kristafechner6451]

It depends on what you want to use it for. If you want a craft with closed hatches so that it's easier to keep your stuff dry and a spraydeck to keep waves from spilling in, a sea kayak is the way to go. Also, you can't roll a canoe!

[@Zeppelinfaktor]

@@kristafechner6451 and boy can you quickly get screwed in a canoe! Learned that the hard way last year in the BWCA!