21 Reasons People REGRET Buying A Fishing Kayak

[@BucktailFishing]

All very good points. I jumped on my Pescador Pilot 12 because it was a good 2nd hand deal. In hind sight it is leaves some things to be desired. The deck storage space and rod holders leave a bit to be desired. I’m glad I got it and it is serving me well. In the future I’ll be more discerning about those features I really want to have. Nucanoe Frontier 12 or maybe a Native Titan. We shall see, but I won’t compromise on those things that make the experience more seamless and enjoyable.

[@wendellfishing]

Right on Bucktail, Sometimes the good deal wins the day. Appreciate the comment

[@michaell1665]

Great video. I started kayak fishing about 12 years ago at 58 years old. My wife and I originally bought some used kayaks to do some touring for exercise - I brought along a fishing pole that I hadn't used in years and got hooked!!! I bought 6 used kayaks and water tested a couple of others before buying my first new kayak - the 2016 Native Slayer Propel 13. I still fish from the SP13, am about to motorize it, and at 70 yrs old I'll fish from it as long as I can do so! I actually think that the SP13 design was superior to most - even some of its Native successors! I realize that everyone loves hull storage, but I love the fact that my SP13 only has 2 secure entry points to access the inside of the hull. It can be tough for making kayak mods, like adding my motor! Barring a hull breach, that hull should remain a solid pontoon with very thick walls. The bottom line: unless you're in a hurry to get the best, or consider yourself to be a pro kayak fisherman, I strongly suggest going the used kayak route and taking your time figuring it all out!

[@wendellfishing]

100% all mine are used.

[@outdoorsforachange]

Your members' only content is superb!

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss.. I like to so what I promise.

[@jupiterkayakfishing]

Lots of solid advice, Thanks.

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss, glad it was helpful!

[@lowlifeangler]

Nice info video. I need a trailer and hitch before I upgrade. Like Browns fans say after week 4 , next season. There's a Perception Crank 10ft for $1699 at a big box store 10 minutes away. Been there forever

[@wendellfishing]

Discount time is right around the corner!

[@d3l1a2704]

I am extremely happy with the way this product was delivered. It was wrapped and packaged well and I received it with no damage. All the parts are attached and the user guide and paperwork was included. Highly recommend it.

[@wendellfishing]

Great to hear!

[@aidancarroll570]

Bought 2019 hobie outback new 4 years ago . 100 saltwater trips later it still going strong and looks new .

[@wendellfishing]

Solid boss.. glad you got a sick yak!

[@shacklord]

been offshore Kayak fishing since 2009. Still have my first Hobie Outback. Can't get a seat for it. V2 mirage parts are hard to find. My dream yak would be a Ocean Kayak Trident 11. The hobie is still hanging in though.

[@wendellfishing]

Oh man... I didn't know that was a thing. Bummer you are having a hard time sourcing parts

[@lowlifeangler]

Maybe find someone that has a 3D printer or CNC machine. They can make about anything with those capabilities.

[@Bo-bb7kv]

Dicks sporting goods had a pretty decent cheap starter fishing kayak, I got it like a month ago and I've been loving the sport, I got so comfortable on it that I've ended up taking naps and ending up on the other end of the lake lol

[@wendellfishing]

Now that's pretty comfortable!

[@basskirkster]

I bought a Bonafide RS117 as my first kayak and I have no regrets at all. Such a great kayak. It helped me downsize all the gear I had in my old bass boat. Had 34 rods and reels in the bass boat. Downsized to 7 in total and I bring 3-5 out on the kayak.

[@wendellfishing]

Solid kayak Made in the USA!! GET SOME!

[@MyChaoticFishing]

Haven’t had time to watch this yet but I enjoy your content so onto the “watch later” list it goes 🤙🤙

[@wendellfishing]

My man!! Thanks boss

[@BriantreVino5]

Great video! I wished I would have watched this video sooner. I was an impulse buyer for my first kayak. I paid $300 for a foldable kayak, I'm happy I was able to return it. I did not feel stable at all. I plan on saving up for the p127. I'd love to find a lightly used one like yours. Thanks for your channel!

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother!

[@someoldguy109]

I checked out Bonafide. That was a real nice kayak. Half the price of my car but nice. For a good starter kayak I got the Lifetime Yukon. I drive a truck and not home that often. I couldn't spend 1,500+ on something I'll only use a half dozen times a year.

[@wendellfishing]

Makes sense to me. Hope you land some Slaunches when you get out there!

[@lowlifeangler]

I like the Yukon but bought the Lifetome Tamarack pro instead. it's lighter then the Yukon so I can fit it on top the vehicle. Very comfortable also. Only for $400 new I took it lol

[@ClayKickersOutdoors]

I have a "pelican the cath 110 hydryve" and I like it. But I do wish I would have got the oldtown that they had next to it, but that would have completely blown my budget. Might upgrade next year. This is by far the best hobby I have ever gotten into!

[@wendellfishing]

The beauty of fishing kayaks is that there is a HUGE secondary market for them and they keep their value. Great for upgrading. There's nothing like it right!?!

[@N44.]

The one thing I don’t like about my yak is that it is a paddle kayak but it still love the opportunity’s I get with it

[@wendellfishing]

Sounds like there is a pedal drive or motor in your future!

[@N44.]

@@wendellfishing you know it

[@lowlifeangler]

​@@N44.Something it's the paddle itself. I have a slightly upgraded $30 paddle, Having issues with that now. Needs replaced ASAP

[@patrickkoch8619]

I bought a Hoodoo 120p pedal drive kayak about a year ago and their quality control and customer support is almost nonexistent. I 100% agree with your first reason people regret buying a kayak. The pedal-drive didn't seat properly and the rudder would jam hard to the right or to the left. Made for super frustrating intro to kayak fishing. Then I bought a set of Outriggers from the same company specifically made for my kayak. The first time I got the Outriggers they were the wrong color so I had to send them back. When I finally got the right color, of course the holes on the bar were not drilled properly so I had to spend even more time and money running around to different hardware stores spending more time and money to make my own crossbar. I tried to tell Hoodoo about the misalignment issue. They tried to tell me I must be installing it wrong because they know it's right even though several other people on their website complained about the same issue. It really made me question if any thought or testing was even being put into the design of my kayak. I've made three separate purchases from Hoodoo and three out of three times there's been some issue. Anyways I really like your channel and your videos are half the reason I got into kayak fishing. I haven't given up on it yet. I know when I get everything situated it'll be a sport I love.

[@wendellfishing]

Ugh... sorry about your experience with Hoodoo brother. That's a bummer to hear. You will dial it in with time! get out there and get some!

[@truecrimson1]

They are one of the many companies getting their yaks from SE Asia. They all used to come from Joy Sports and have a wide range of quality. Feel Free and Vibe get theirs from there but the quality is a lot higher. Hoodoo and Brooklyn Kayak and a lot of the small pop up kayak sellers are on the lower end of quality. Also the capacity ratings on the cheaper ones are not accurate. You probably want to figure 50% on them.

[@timlong1462]

Transportation is why I switched from kayak to a jon boat. Some of these kayaks are so heavy it's unrealistic to get on a car roof. If you have to trailer it then why mess with a kayak in the first place? What's the advantage? I got tired of the loading and unloading all my gear and tackle into the kayak at home, then at the launch and again at home. It's so much nicer to leave my small jon fully loaded and can head out the door as fast as I can drop the ball and safely chains. I just don't really understand these new crazy big yaks, can someone explain their perceived advantages? I'll still keep my 12ft old town for an occasional paddle but it's been collecting dust honestly.

[@wendellfishing]

That Old Town needs to come over to my house to play!

[@YakbassOKC]

you can trailer a kayak with cover and not unload everything. I just dont like all the maintenance with regular boats and messing with gas/oil. I just recharge my batteries while my kayak is on my trialer in the garage. but I would miss the deck space of say a bass boat.

[@Meadmon]

I lost a 3ish pounder today cause I didn’t have a net. Net purchased😅

[@kevf500]

New guy to this looking at a coos X , my question will that wheel set up work with the X, like the fact that its with kayak thanks

[@wendellfishing]

The Coosa has tracmounts behind the seat.. I would take a look at the Native Sidekicks... you will love them

[@masonhaynie581]

Great video, love the content. Keep it comin!

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss! Glad it was helpful!

[@NateAndreica]

Would the sidekick cart work on an Old Town pdl 132 big water?

[@wendellfishing]

Never tried it so I would be hesitant to give advice on it

[@NateAndreica]

@@wendellfishing how heavy of a kayak would it support?

[@jtmarshall]

Fished out of a buddys Ozark trial kayak yesterday afternoon.. easily the WORST time ive had kayak fishing.. and i didnt even get skunked but it still stunk out there lmao 😂

[@wendellfishing]

Lol.. I feel your pain as I fished my Sun Dolphin earlier this year. I still have some flashbacks

[@basswhisperer4803]

Please give me your opinion on the Vibe Shearwater 125. I love all the features and options I can get for it. Until I get a trailer for it, I would be putting it in the back of my Tundra standard bed.

[@wendellfishing]

I honestly can't give you an opinion on it as I have never laid eyes on one in person before. However, for that price point.. I would also look at the Bonafide SS127.

[@Wellfedfisherman]

Looking to get the asend 133x for my large size plus camping gear

[@wendellfishing]

Get Some Brother!

[@gregstabryla9945]

Some good points. I researched mine for 4 months over 4 years ago and got a 12'5". Only 32" wide so when I lose 15 more pounds. Might have to move to a 10' but not looking forward to it. Car topping @ 82# is getting harder every year. Mine has all accoutrements for a paddle only kayak.

[@wendellfishing]

yeah.. that's some awkward weight for sure!

[@Bigger-Than-I]

Just got into kayak fishing and offshore fishing in general, picked up a vibe yellowfin I'm pretty happy with it and am now addicted. I will say it is a BIG adjustment going from being a bank fisherman.

[@wendellfishing]

Welcome to the dark side brother! It's a deep rabbit hole of fun

[@VAFSH4LIF]

I think I know where that video was shot? Are the Yahoo's still rooting up the primitive ramp? Have considered making the drive from Medina to fish it? Great video as always. 🎣🎣🎣

[@wendellfishing]

This lake doesn't have a primitive ramp . I mean.. you could launch from shore. so technically yes

[@VAFSH4LIF]

@@wendellfishing the lake I'm thinking of has a dock but no official slab/ramp, where the yahoo's rut the dirt ramp up so no one can launch from a trailer. At the other end of the lake there's a sharp curve and a gravel lot where you can launch a trailer but there's no dock. All of those lilly pads make me think of this body of water.

[@wendellfishing]

@@VAFSH4LIF Yeah.. this is not that lake.. concrete boat ramp here

[@scottcollette2755]

Excellent video! My biggest regrets are transporting and storing. I'm a bigger guy and was concerned about stability.l and didn't consider everything I should have. I love my kayak, but unless I have help, I can't load it on my suv. I can't store a trailer where I live either. I definitely should have considered that before buying it.

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks for sharing Scott... always good for those reading through the comments to see real like examples. Ironically, I just finished editing a video on stability minutes ago.

[@mastermouaable]

You should buy a cheaper yak 1st and used it for a while. This will make you decide if you’re really into kayak/kayak fishing. It’s a expensive investment and can added up fast.

[@wendellfishing]

I hear ya and respect you opinion but I see it differently. I believe that if you buy a cheaper 1st yak, this could potentially make you hate kayak fishing because it's not comfortable and makes it more difficult to fish. The beauty of fishing kayak is that they hold their value pretty well. They are expensive, but if you end up hating it. You can get most of your money back. But hey, if ya got a budget.. you got a budget.

[@mastermouaable]

@@wendellfishing; I agreed with you. My 1st kayak was a Vibe Yellowfin 100; a paddle recreation kayak in which you can used it for fishing. I’m not going to sell it because I can still used it for strolling down the river. I upgraded to my Oldtown PDL 106 and couldn’t be happier. I should of bought this from the very beginning but was cautious of not wanting to make an investment on something I might not totally like. My new vessel fits me on my style of fishing. What works for you might not work for someone else.

[@lowlifeangler]

The Yakattack bill will add up fast lol , Still very good accessories

[@HippieMagic]

Bought a Bonafide SS107 as my first kayak. The price hurt a bit but it’s not something I will regret either and if I want or need to sell it I don’t think I’ll have any trouble at all.

[@wendellfishing]

You got that right... Nice first yak!

[@Country4x4boy84]

Great points Wendell. They really helped me out on considering things on my 1st Yak. I just bought my Pelican catch 100 it’s a sit on top and I took it out the 1st time last week. I knew it doesn’t track well but man, it’s a beast to paddle for me as well. I kinda regret a little but I’ll give it more runs out on the water. I’ll also have to consider a small Yak trailer for easy transport. I hope I don’t have to go a smaller one cause it’s still a 10 foot weighting 58Ibs. Any advise?

[@wendellfishing]

Hey Boss, congrats on your yak! Are you asking me about a trailer for your 10 ft kayak?

[@Country4x4boy84]

Oh no. I meant the kayak itself. I was talking about getting a smaller Kayak. It’s tough getting this one on and off of the roof rack. So I know I’ll need a Yak trailer. And I know I can find a skeg to install to help with tracking. But Do you think it’s practical to get a trolling motor to help get around better? Maybe my next one could be a pedal drive.

[@wendellfishing]

@@Country4x4boy84 Instead of going to an 8 footer.. they make ultralights.

[@JASONBECKFISHING]

I ended up buy a Perception Outlaw 11.5 because at the price and for my needs as I'm a heavy weighted guy but built short lol. But was told by many that this would be best for me. So, after a year worth od research, I went only found one and bought one, biggest mistake I have ever made. I wanted so much to like it and get really into tournament online fishing. But because of my build. I couldn't reach anything behind me or reach down in front of me. To the point where on my second trip I ended up flipping it over and having to swim back to the shore. Ever since then the yak has been sitting on the side of my house and trying to sell it. Honestly it was the worse fishing item I have ever bought. I really wanted to love it but it cared me so much to the point after 40 years of fishing I almost wanted to give it up. But after it sells I think I'm going to end up working on getting a bassboat like the tracker I used to have at one time. Sucks this all happen but I'm glad I did before I put to much work into it.

[@wendellfishing]

Ugh.. that's a huge bummer. Sorry boss. I am editing a video on fishing kayak stability as we speak. I get it.

[@truecrimson1]

If you have to go cheap go Pelican. They have been in the recreational kayak game a long time and know what they are doing there. Buy a rec boat if you need to and add accessories yourself. If you don't have to go bargain basement then don't get anything without a frame seat. This is 2023 and there is no excuse for a serious fishing kayak today to not have a frame seat of some kind.

[@wendellfishing]

The seat will make the difference for sure!

[@phils6733]

Completely agree! Spend the $$$ on something that is gonna be tough stable and safe. Your better off cutting costs with the lures you buy and not the thing that keeps you a float 😂

[@wendellfishing]

Right on brother. An uncomfortable first kayak has ended kayak fishing for many.

[@rubenakacoolerlid2314]

People don't realize how out of shape they are and regret buying a peddle drive

[@wendellfishing]

Right.. Big facts there. I like to ask my wife "Do You Mind if I Go Exercise on Sat Morning?

[@lowlifeangler]

​@@wendellfishinglol I age an extra 6 months every I load my 57lb kayak on the J bars myself. Taking my kayak out just with myself ....priceless

[@pendragofan]

here is a video idea, the most common reputable kayak brands from cheap to expensive that you recommend

[@wendellfishing]

Solid... thanks for the idea!

[@lowlifeangler]

Lifetime kayak due to wall thickness. Still it's a cheap blow molded kayak. Watch the lines along the side of the kayak. If they or deep or alot of them. Don't buy it. Those are Die lines or the kayak was impropered blown. I saw some at Dicks and couldn't believe they passed Quality inspection. My Lifetime is way better molded. I'm a mold and process engineer in plastics for the automotive industry. I see stupid things like that

[@Wellfedfisherman]

Why do so many people hate on the ascend brand? Im looking to get the 133x hauls a lot of weight

[@wendellfishing]

I don't know.. I saw a pelican catch this morning that looked pretty sweet

[@LovingIdaho]

Feelfrre has great customer service . Lots of people by kayaks just because some says it great , then they get it and it is just not a comfortable kayak for them .

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks for the add. Always great to hear first hand experience with the kayak companies out there.

[@lowlifeangler]

What's costumer service? (Lifetime kayak owner)

[@maxcole3930]

I built a cart on casters that's ext same height as my truck bed. So it slide in & out for loading/unloading. I only ever have to lift my kayak 1 time per trip. Lifting nose onto my tailgate when I'm loading up to leave. Only ever lift half at a time. I have a cart if I need to roll it down to the water. Don't need a trailer. I fish for free at all big local lakes. They only charge to park if you have a trailer!!! Save me a lot of $ + A trailer limits your being able to drive back more restricted areas. Where fishing is usually better

[@wendellfishing]

Solid setup Max.. you have definitely though this through. Well done

[@maxcole3930]

@@wendellfishing after 9 years of trial & error... I would hope I have a good system.. Just wanna spend more time fishing & less time loading, setting up. Make things as easy as possible where & when I can

[@lowlifeangler]

I hear ya , my time I get mine in the water , my wife already has a fish on

[@cichfish7525]

I’m stuck between Pelican Catch PWR 100 and the RS117. The pelican catch is a little smaller and compact which personally I think I’ll like more, plus it has a built in mount for trolling motor, and a 360 chair. RS117 seems like it has more accessories built in, while being longer and able to go quicker. Any opinions?

[@wendellfishing]

RS117 alllll day.

[@jamesbourlard7892]

The 117 is a much better built yak easy to turn .fast and able to take many types of water

[@anthonyb27]

Love you videos, to the point and well presented. I just got the Hobie Lynx as I'm 62 and concerned about weight going forward. That said, I love it. I just needed something to get me out on the water.

[@wendellfishing]

Appreciate it Anthony... I try to keep them brief and bright. Get Some!

[@TheRiverBugProject]

would a old town 120 be a good starter?

[@TheRiverBugProject]

i plan to float the Gmr and fish my local small lakes like lake loarmie and Indian etc your in ohio i believe

[@wendellfishing]

Solid yak

[@GeorgiaKayakAngler]

I’m ready to get out on my battleship

[@Alex-kp2db]

Used 14ft aluminum boat is better than any new kayak.

[@wendellfishing]

Hard pass for me

[@lowlifeangler]

A kayak you can throw in anywhere, no ramp needed

[@matthmm123]

Great vid

[@wendellfishing]

Thanks boss!

[@AGuyNamedRicky]

I’ve owned my first yak about a year. NuCanoe Unlimited. It’s a lot of boat for sure but this thing perfectly holds my occasional second passenger. Big standing platform cause I love to stand, and high seats so I can sit up with my bad knee. Only flaws are the wide hull and front keel make this thing spin around butt first with the slightest breeze. My dealer also wasn’t the nicest essentially making me commit to the boat or he wouldn’t sell me anything. But that’s nothing against the company itself

[@wendellfishing]

I just mentioned this kayak in a video I just finished editing! So weird with the dealer.

[@mr.bluestone954]

😂 ya said hands free fishing! How does that work? Add live scope with hands free fishing and all I need is AC and a lazy boy chair on my kayak!!! I think ya meant hand free kayak?

[@wendellfishing]

lol.... I didn't even catch that in the editing either. I catch about 3 mistakes per video during the editing. One time I did a video on PFD's and called them PDF's the entire time

[@maxcole3930]

I bout my first 2014 Hobie PA12 late 2014 from a local tournament angler when he got his new one for 2200. It wasn't even a year old yet & was basically in new condition. I fished that until 2022. I bought the new Pa12-360 then sold my old one for 2200. Same price I paid orii. So I've been in 2 Hobie PA12 for past almost 9 years for price of one! That's not exspensive when you consider how long they can last. I fish 2 days a week 12 months out of year so I use my yak alot! Better to go ahead buy kayak you want & not buy a cheap one that you basically could have put that $ into a quality yak! I don't fish tournaments & have zero interest in them. I love kayak fishing & being on water enjoying mother nature!

[@wendellfishing]

Now those are some sick deals! Playing the game well.

[@maxcole3930]

I absolutely love my hobies but haven't been able to try any other pedal drive yak's out. It would be cool to try different kayaks & drives. I doubt could find one to beat my PA12-360 anyways but I can't say that for sure not using anything else! Their so expensive, hard to justify having multiple. Unless a killer deal fell in my lap of course

[@captainjrfeltbossmam]

#1 reason. flipping and loosing 600$ worth of stuff. 2 rods, net, and tackle . that i built up over 3 years. and it being impossible to get back.

[@wendellfishing]

Ugh.. how deep was the water?

[@captainjrfeltbossmam]

@@wendellfishing went from 4 feet to around 10 feet, wicked drop off .

[@wendellfishing]

@@captainjrfeltbossmam ugh.. sorry boss

[@Meadmon]

I lost a 3ish pounder today cause I didn’t have a net. Net purchased😅

[@wendellfishing]

Yup.. lesson learned.. never again. I'm there with ya

[@lowlifeangler]

Yup , I lost a trophy right beside the seat, forgot the net. I wanted to throw myself into the lake. But I was wearing my PFD so that would defeat the purpose