What’s the thing with fishing and kayaks?
Some time ago, kayaking and whitewater were pretty much the same thin. For instance, if you were determined to use a kayak, you were kind of willing to put your life at stake as well. Even if the whitewater kayaking was quite common for some areas, it was only a matter of time until this sport proved to be a lot more than dodging boulders, running rapids or eskimo rolls.
Kayaking is an amazing method to spend some nice time on the waterways, enjoying the sights and the sounds around you. Kayaking managed to become an important mode of transportation when fishing, hunting or camping. As for the kayak fishing, any kayaker knows it’s just another great way to fish and explore at the same time, while living on the edge on this fancy looking type of boat.
Is kayak fishing for everyone?
You may use the kayak for many things and, if you’re enough of a fisherman, you should definitely start using it for your fishing as well. No matter your socio-economic background, age or physique, kayak is in fact easy to learn about. The challenging part comes from selecting the right type of kayak for your needs and…stature.
Kayak does imply a lot of trepidation, but this doesn’t mean that men of all shapes or size cannot use it. Even if you’re taller or bigger than most people, there is no reason whatsoever for which you shouldn’t try kayaking. If you’re big and tall, it’s expected that you worry about the legroom, the higher center of gravity, the boat weight limits, the seating requirements or the tricky part about getting in/out of your kayak.
Despite of what one may think, the variety of kayaks is actually impressive and the chances for finding the right one for your size are anything but slim. You only need to take a look at the multiple choices out there (https://truthreels.com/best-fishing-kayak-reviews/for-big-guys/).
What are the most important things to remember?
There are plenty of things to consider when buying a kayak, but when you’re big and tall, some other things are going to add:
Weight limit
The first thing and the most important one to remember when looking for a kayak as a big person is to take the weight limit under consideration. You don’t actually need to be an engineer to know that the specified numbers are there for a very specific reason. Last thing you want is to pay some big bucks for a kayak that is simply too small for your size and weight. No matter how great the kayak is (having the perfect color or the most impressive organization of the storage compartments), you still don’t want to look funny in it or not be able to use it to begin with.
The size and weight of gear
Another thing to take under consideration when looking for a kayak is to consider the size and weight of your gear as well. All kayaks come with a weight limit which is supposed to handle you and your gear as well. If you’re around 290, and plan to take with you some fishing rod, a dog and a cooler, you should never take a look at a kayak that comes with 300 pound weight limit.
The weight distribution
The weight distribution is just as important as the weight limit, as it’s always difficult to control an unbalanced kayak. If you’re not planning to step up your games in terms of kayaking or fishing, you shouldn’t stress too much over it.
Many of the large kayaks out there include three molded seat wells, making it easier for you to move the seat position to the middle seat, for a better and evener weight distribution. You may very well sit in the back, placing the gear and the cooler in the front seat.
How you’re using the kayak
How you’re going to use your kayak is also important. You can find kayaks that are ready to take foot pedals and a rudder, but you may not get everything you need out of the box. Take the weight of the possible accessories under consideration too.
An experienced kayaker is going to recommend you stay below 70% of the rated weight of any kayak (gear included) as if you go higher than that, you may compromise the performance of your kayak.
Some think that the sit-on-top kayak makes the best choice for any entry-level kayaker as a sit-in kayak is a bit restrictive for a big person. Let’s not forget the whole part about getting in/out of it, which is quite challenging for big and tall people.
What are the most common types of kayaks?
The market is flooded with types and styles of kayaks, but not all of them make it as a valid or comfortable choice for the big guys and gals. Here are the most common styles and how they fit/don’t fit a large guy/gal:
Inflatable kayaks
Long-lasting, buoyant and really affordable, these kayaks don’t make the perfect option for the big and tall people. Most of them come with a low weight capacity, which isn’t great for anglers of different sizes.
Needless to say, some of the inflatable kayaks are going to come with good weight capacity, but they may fail the durability test. That’s why inflatable kayaks are a good option for small rivers.
Sit-in kayaks
The sit-in kayaks don’t make a good option for the big guys either. The cockpit sits on the smaller side and the beam is really narrow, which makes the entry/exit from the boat really tricky (the risk for a tip is quite high). It goes without saying that they’re able to provide amazing protection for the lower part of the body. This is why they’re a solid choice for anyone determined to stay dry and warm while kayaking. They also stand out as a reliable option for the all year round use.
Sit-on top kayaks
These kayaks definitely make it as the ideal option for the big guys. They feature a large cockpit, which means easier entry/exit in and out of the boat for the big guys. The risk for tipping isn’t high, and the level of comfort is pretty good. Any paddler is going to sit pretty cozy, placing the legs in front and on top of the kayak (and not inside of it). This offers in fact quite some room for the legs, without sacrificing the storage space for the fishing gear/various essentials in any way.
These kayaks provide good room for moving around, turning the fishing experience into a lovely one. They take the whole kayaking experience to another level, which makes them pretty exciting. The stability is another feature to highlight; standing and fishing at the same time in this type of kayak isn’t going to be difficult at all. Have a try with the stand-up kayaks for a great feel of freedom while cruising out there. (https://truthreels.com/best-fishing-kayak-reviews/stand-up ).
One pet peeve? They don’t come cheap, but they’re worth every single penny, especially since they’re also going to take the use for a good amount of time.
What features count when selecting your kayak?
Selecting the perfect kayak for your size and weight may not be quite a trip in the park, but doing due diligence before shopping is going to ease out the whole selecting process.
Do you have a huge frame and want a kayak for your fishing? Here are the most important aspects to consider:
Weight capacity
Every kayak (and type of boat for that matter) has its own weight limit. It’s fundamental that you take acknowledge of the weight limit of your kayak, making sure it’s close to your own weight. Don’t forget to add the weight of your fishing gear/accessories that you’re going to take on board.
Many kayaks designed for the big guys and gals are going to present a capacity of 200lb up to 500lb. A piece of advice: tandem kayaks are designed for two people and present a high weight capacity, which a big guy is going to appreciate, for sure.
Weight of the kayak
The weight of your kayak is another aspect to remember when selecting for a kayak. Don’t let the weight of the kayak mislead you; a lightweight kayak doesn’t mean that it’s not durable. By contrary, a lightweight kayak is going to be highly resistant to rocks and bumps in the water, taking the use for a good amount of time.
Lightweight kayaks make a great choice even for the big people as they’re very easy to carry around. they’re easy to control too. Don’t hesitate to take a look at some reliable lightweight kayaks right here.
Comfortable cockpit
Selecting a cockpit that is comfortable for your body is crucial too. If the cockpit is roomy, you’re going to have plenty of space to move, even in difficult conditions. If you have difficulties getting in/out of your new kayak, chances are you’re not going to do it easier when in a stressful situation either, leaving you with a lemon. Not all cockpits are the same, when it comes to shape and design, so look closely when buying.
Here are some types to choose from:
- The keyhole
The keyhole cockpit may be wide and have a 32in length. It’s best that is adjustable so that you may sit nice and comfy, with plenty of space for your legs.
- The ocean
Another type is the ocean cockpit, which comes in various shapes (oval, round or elliptical). Compact and wide, this type of cockpit offers a rather snug space for comfy sitting. It’s typically 20in wide and 26 in long.
- The recreational
The recreational cockpit is about 20in wide and 36 in long, presenting a square or an oval shape. It provides good space for entry and exit.
- The material
The material of the kayak is essential for the weight and lifespan of the kayak. You’re supposed to get a kayak that is going to take the use for a long time, so it’s wise to pay the extra buck upfront. There are various materials used for kayaks, each of them coming with ups and downs.
A softshell kayak may not be the most popular option, but it can surely impress with its amazing resistance to punctures and abrasion.
Composite is always a solid choice and you should always take a look at a fiberglass kayak. Fiberglass may be a bit pricey, but it’s both lightweight and tough, which makes it a reliable option for anyone.
Let’s not forget the polyethylene which is really durable and great for resisting water and impact.
RESOURCES
https://kayakspoint.com/fishing-kayak-for-big-guys/
https://www.oldtowncanoe.com/blog/article/kayaks-big-guys-and-gals
http://the-crafty-designer.com/how-to-buy-a-kayak-for-a-fat-person/
