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Post by SpeciMan on Oct 29, 2007 8:06:44 GMT -1
Hi Malc
Speed/efficiency wise I'd recommend the P13 as the minimum for where you plan to fish - don't know how the other models compare. Portland area is rich in marks - as you probably know there are a number of wrecks in the harbour, a few outside the breakwater and theres the whole of Portland too.
This means there maybe some distance to paddle to get to the marks. For example, launching from Castletown Slipway, heading round past Church Ope Cove is a couple of miles and even further if you're making a day of it and heading up to the Bill. If finances allow, there are roof racks designed to make loading the kayak on your car easier (www.kari-tek.co.uk).
You will need to decide if you are buying primarily for solo fishing or for family trips with your 5 year old daughter. If the family trips will be very occasional you may find you can both go for a paddle in calm sheltered areas on something less spacious. I took my 7 year daughter (at the time) on my Ocean Kayak Caper for a 3mile river paddle - she sat betwen my legs on the center console.
At your size and weight there should be many models to choose from if you are primarily looking at a solo fishing kayak.
Simon
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Post by ZEBRA on Oct 29, 2007 10:44:39 GMT -1
prowler 13 fast but not as stable as the others . manta ray almost as quick as the prowler and very stable better fittings and moulding . x-factor very stable not as quick as the other 2 but you can buy a gator hatch for it which is designed to allow you to take a child out fishing with you .i have had all 3 at some time or other currently an x factor but the manta is on the way if i were paddling solo i would go for the manta ray becouse of the way its fitted out if i was to be taking a child out fishing with me regulary then the x factor with a gator hatch fitted would be the best soloution . but you do need to paddle all 3 to make sure you pick the right kayak fo you .
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Post by mariomalc on Oct 29, 2007 17:31:14 GMT -1
Thanks Guys.. will keep you posted, but tempted by the x factor i must say.
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Post by ZEBRA on Oct 29, 2007 20:00:44 GMT -1
how far are you from Cheltenham malc if not to far give andy at Cheltenham canoes a phone and go see them all side by side .andy may be able to arrange a test paddle for you as well .
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Post by mariomalc on Oct 31, 2007 19:21:26 GMT -1
Hi Zebra, I'm quite a way from Cheltenham, but I'm out tomorrow on Weymouth beach front to test drive a Prowler 13. Bournemouth canoes also stock all the ones I'm interested in so will pay them a visit too. cheers, malc
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Post by mariomalc on Nov 28, 2008 20:33:58 GMT -1
Well, I know it's been over a year, but purchased a yellow manta ray at the expo in Feb and haven't looked back ... a superb yak for the solo fisherman. Have also now bought a Malibu xtreme, and have a karitek system to get the whole lot on the roof!
Now, if i could just find some of those pesky fish..........
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