kayak selection help?

I bought one recently off www.kayakdealstore.com they had some bargains compared to the local shop that tried to rip me off on the same exact models. Plus I got free shipping too so it was a win-win.

This is a very popular hunting and fishing model $375. It is inflatable so it stores easy. It is big for carrying a lot of gear. Plus it is a very high quality model.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0032GRD72/ref=as...

That's what I'd suggest, but if that's not what you're looking for I would look at some reviews or just browse amazon for what you like.

Good Luck. Let us know what you pick!

If your budget is only $500 you are going to have to go used. Best bet is to look on your local Craigslist for a 14' to 18' touring kayak that is 25" or less wide at the cockpit with sealed bulkheads (for flotation) and hatches for dry gear storage. Kayaks have to be sized to the paddler so your height and weight will be factors in choosing a model (so I can't recommend exact models). Check out the specifications and reviews for any models you find for sale on the paddling website. The site also has a "for sale" section of classified ads you can search by region.

http://www.paddling.net/

Some good moderately priced brands to look for that often show up for sale are Perception (they also used to make touring kayaks under the brand name Aquaterra with the Scimitar and Sea Lion models being common), Dagger (look for a Magellan model -- I bought one for $400 3 years ago), Wilderness Systems (especially the Tsunami seriies of models) and Venture's Easky series. The under $500 new kayaks by Chinese importers like Old Town, Pelican and Ocean that you see in discount stores tend to be short bulky recreational style boats. Most are too short and wide to be decent for long distance touring, lack sufficient bulkheads and have little storage. You really won't be happy with one of them.

There is a good used kayak that might suit your needs for sale on Craigslist in Western PA (my area) right now for $500. This will give you an example of what to look for.

http://pittsburgh.craigslist.org/boa/2438245342.ht...

And as previous answers said, visit your local independent kayaking dealer or outfitter and take a few classes to perfect your technique, and learn safety and how to pack for a trip -- they will also have demos you can try out and will let you see what size and style kayak suit you best. Many have access to used boats that have been traded in or can arrange to sell demo or former rental boats at a discount.

You can also build your own kayak for surprisingly little money and just a little manual skill. This site has instructions for a variety of excellent kayaks, even folding and inflatable onew, made of common materials:

http://www,yostwerks.com/

Look in the "gallery" for examples average people have built themselves around the world.

Visit a dealer. They often have boats available that they took in trade. Visit local canoe and kayak clubs. They always have boats to sell. Run a classified ad in your local paper. "Wanted- sea kayak for tripping". You may also want to consider buying a canoe. They are a more practical boat for camping travel. Do not neglect to learn how to kayak or canoe. Take lessons or attend a school.

Check out http://www.kayaks.net/ They have a great selection and easy to search for that type of kayak. If you are having trouble finding it, do a live chat or call into their customer service. They have very knowledgeable employees that work there. Good Luck.