want to buy a kayak

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>>851951
Y O S T
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If you live near the coast you can probably rent some different kayaks to get an idea of what you want before you buy. Also some marine shops have tryout days so you can demo various different boats. That's better than getting advice on the internets, since we don't know the local water conditions and the kind of stuff you intend to do.

Flatwater paddling is really easy to get started, just look up some basic paddle strokes on youtube. Whitewater and surf can make it pretty tricky.

You can transport with tie down straps and pool noodles if you need to.

Also kayak thread here >>817634

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>>851951
Get one like pic related if you are a beginner, especially if you want to take it out on the ocean eventually. These sit-on-top types have a lot of advantages.
>never have to bail them out
>tough plastic material
>you wont get caught inside if it overturns
>easy to modify
>storage compartment on the inside
>if you're in the ocean the surf wont endanger your kayak
>lots of work space for fishing and gear
The aren't a traditional boat by any means, and they do leave you a little exposed to the sun and whatnot, but overall they are pretty good.

>>853215
>exposed to the sun
Or to the ice cold water as the case may be.

>>853218
This is true, but OP listed orange county craigslist, and socal usually has decent weather.

>>853221
nigga have you ever been in the pacific? even in august in san deigo it is cold as fug.

but yea op. get an open top. I love mine. I paddle out to oil rigs sometimes. just wear a hat and a long sleeve shirt because you will get sunburnt.

if you have enough money get a hobie with pedals. I have a friend that has one. they are incredible.