Photography platform

[Bosun]

Dear all,

I have joined your membership in the belief that I am likely to have access to some very practical tips and suggestions regarding the selection and use of stable, sit on top kayaks.
I have not been disappointed with the enthusiasm and breadth of knowledge clearly displayed.

I am shortly to make a purchase of a suitable Kayak with the intention to use it as a platform from which to take Wildlife photographs on rivers and coastal areas around the UK.
My desire is to kit the Kayak out both for fishing purposes and as a mobile hide with which to gain closer access to various timid species of bird and marine life.

I will be fabricating bespoke camera supports along with lightweight coverings to disguise the whole package with myself inside.

I am 6 feet three inches tall and have a body weight of approximately 17.5 stone. My camera equipment runs in at approximately 12 Kg.

Clearly, I need an exceptionally stable platform that is capable of handling the chop of coastal areas and to have sufficient load carrying capacity and safe storage.
The water proofing of camera gear is not important with the boat itself as this has been catered for.

So, which Kayak?

I have looked at the various mentions of Tarpons and Prowler Big Game, also the 2010 Manta Ray and The Hobie Outback.

Could anyone please provide some suggestions and advice?
Every snippet of information before parting with my hard earned would be extremely well received.

Many grateful thanks,

Bosun

[izzetafox]

The only one I have used is the Big Game......for me it was the wrong choice, too big and a bit slow.
However if speed and lightness are not your priority then it is a VERY stable platform with a lot of storage.

The main thing is to try as many out as you can There is no substitute for sitting on one and seeing if it is right.

You do not say where you are....there may be guys in your area who can let you have a paddle.

[Bosun]

Hi izzetafox,

Thanks for that.
The Big game seemed to be an obvious choice, but I became put off a little bit with mentions of other Kayaks tracking better and a perceived degree of wave slapping.
I'd imagine the latter might be down to a boats trim, but I'll do as you suggest as soon as I have chance.
I have one boat sorted now and am looking at a second in the near future - you never know, I might be able to drag the missus out for a bit of a FASH.

Regards and thanks again,

Bosun

[Bosun]

Well, Kayak sourced and after a deepening level of despair with courier firms, I believe I have resolved the collection/delivery problem.
More of that once I am in posession and can write a comment on performance of the couriers etc.

Also sourced is one Hide which is both narrow enough for mounting upon the kayak and yet spacious enough for top torso activities within. Read that as you may!!!
Once the fit out for this is done, with due regard to safety in a capsize or fall off situation, I will do a few lines etc.

So far, things are beginning to come together and I hope to have an inaugural outing in the next few weeks, weather permitting.

Bosun

[SEAJUNKY]

We look forward to it.