Started By
Message

Kayak - Sit in or on top

Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:35 am
Posted by Jester
Baton Rouge
Member since Feb 2006
34717 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:35 am
I'm going to be purchasing a kayak in the next couple months and just wanted to get some opinions. I'm not looking to spend too much as this won't be my primary option.

Mainly, should I be looking at sit-in or sit-on-top? I'll be using it in the marsh some, as well as the Verret area and numerous bayous.

I'm 6'1" around 220 if that plays any part. Do I need to go 12' or is 10' enough?
Posted by StrongBackWeakMind
Member since May 2014
22650 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:36 am to
SOT are more popular, but there are some good SI fishing kayaks.

Go 12'.
Posted by AlxTgr
Kyre Banorg
Member since Oct 2003
86457 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:36 am to
quote:

Mainly, should I be looking at sit-in or sit-on-top?
I don't think anyone can answer that for you. I have used both kinds. I am glad I have one of each available right now.

quote:

Do I need to go 12'
Yes.
Posted by YOURADHERE
Member since Dec 2006
8424 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:42 am to
SOT would be you're best option, 12' or longer.


quote:

AlxTgr



Has a super nice Slayer 14.5 for sale at a good price, buy it.
Posted by Polar Pop
Member since Feb 2012
10919 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:43 am to
As stated, SOT and 12' minimum.

What is your budget and where will you be fishing the most
Posted by Jester
Baton Rouge
Member since Feb 2006
34717 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:44 am to
quote:


Has a super nice Slayer 14.5 for sale at a good price, buy it.


I clearly missed that thread...link? I'm always down for a good laugh.
Posted by BlackCoffeeKid
Member since Mar 2016
12889 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:45 am to
(no message)
This post was edited on 10/26/25 at 6:30 pm
Posted by Jester
Baton Rouge
Member since Feb 2006
34717 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:46 am to
quote:

What is your budget and where will you be fishing the most


I'm really not sure how much I'll use it, so I can't see spending over $600. Most of my fishing will probably be south of Leeville.
Posted by dltigers3
Collierville, TN
Member since Jun 2010
2198 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 11:59 am to
I have a sit in 11'. Currently saving for a 12' sot. The problem with most si is the lack of storage and inability to stand up.
Posted by thegreatboudini
Member since Oct 2008
7092 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:02 pm to
I got rid of my sit in and won't buy another. It gets VERY hot and humid in that thing. Recommend on top.

Def got 12' or longer. With your budget, look at the ascends from bass pro.
This post was edited on 5/9/16 at 12:04 pm
Posted by Jester
Baton Rouge
Member since Feb 2006
34717 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:13 pm to
I see that Academy sells a Perception Pescador in Purple and Gold....anyone with experience?

This post was edited on 5/9/16 at 12:16 pm
Posted by StrongBackWeakMind
Member since May 2014
22650 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:15 pm to
I have the Native Redfish 12. It's essentially the same kayak. It's a good beginner kayak but don't expect to stand up in it.

Call Massey's and see if they have any demos for sale.
This post was edited on 5/9/16 at 12:18 pm
Posted by The Last Coco
On the water
Member since Mar 2009
6919 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:16 pm to
New, for under $600, I would go with the Pelican Enforcer 120x. Retails for $550 at Academy. Comfy seat and stable enough to stand. Others will recommend an Ascend FS12t in that price range and it's a viable option as well.

Or you could keep your eyes peeled for a used one on craigslist.
Posted by Jester
Baton Rouge
Member since Feb 2006
34717 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:20 pm to
quote:

New, for under $600, I would go with the Pelican Enforcer 120x. Retails for $550 at Academy. Comfy seat and stable enough to stand. Others will recommend an Ascend FS12t in that price range and it's a viable option as well.


It seems Pelican sells different "models" at different stores. How does that compare to the Pelican Premium Strike at Dicks?

Posted by Riseupfromtherubble
You'll Never Walk Alone
Member since Jun 2011
39586 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:20 pm to
One of each and I prefer SOT by a longshot. It's a PITA trying to get to your gear in a sit in.
Posted by Jester
Baton Rouge
Member since Feb 2006
34717 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:23 pm to
quote:

One of each and I prefer SOT by a longshot. It's a PITA trying to get to your gear in a sit in.


Yeah, I could see a sit-in being nice on the Buffalo, but that will be so little of what we do.
Posted by Scooba
Member since Jun 2013
20005 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:26 pm to
Go 12'. Sitting depends on what you plan to do with it. If you're looking to fish, I would say sit on. If you're patient, keep an eye on craigslist. Don't waste your money on a loaded "fishing" kayak as several add ons like rod holders/bungee cords can be DIY projects for a fraction of the cost.

I have a 12' WS Tarpon and 12' Native Manta and I highly recommend either. I paid 900 total for both boats in pristine condition.
Posted by The Last Coco
On the water
Member since Mar 2009
6919 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:26 pm to
quote:

seems Pelican sells different "models" at different stores. How does that compare to the Pelican Premium Strike at Dicks?

Better seat in the enforcer. It's a folding, hard molded seat like you would see in a boat. That strike just has a formed/padded backrest. Not a true "seat"
Posted by HogsWillRiseAgain
Central LA
Member since Dec 2013
921 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:26 pm to
I have an Ascend 12' SOT, really comfortable seat and works very well for fishing and recreational paddling. Never used a sit in personally but I hear you keep a wet arse most of the time.
Posted by Scooba
Member since Jun 2013
20005 posts
Posted on 5/9/16 at 12:28 pm to
quote:

I see that Academy sells a Perception Pescador


I've never purchased a boat from a sporting good store but I did read several review that claimed that the cheaper hulls are two part and prone to leaking. If you're going to spend 5-600 you should easily be able to find a decent Native or Wilderness Systems on Craigslist.
first pageprev pagePage 1 of 2Next pagelast page

Back to top
logoFollow TigerDroppings for LSU Football News
Follow us on X, Facebook and Instagram to get the latest updates on LSU Football and Recruiting.

FacebookXInstagram