First Time Suggestions?

So I picked up a decent Extrasport Sabre PFD, Red in color.  The GF thought the yellow made me look fat.  I told her I am fat.  She told me to get red, so I did.  You have to pick and choose your battles sometimes.   It's actually more comfortable than I thought these would be.  I've been wearing it for like 30 minutes, since we got home. 

I snagged a Aquabond Paddle, Manta Ray I believe.  Aluminum Shaft, Fiberglass Blade.  I was thinking about getting the carbon shaft for $60 more.  They were supposed to be on sale at Alder Creek, 20% off.  But I didn't get the discount for some reason, so I'm glad I didn't go Carbon. 

Actually, there was a sign that said the PFD was on sale for $50, but I didn't get that price either.  I'm torn between just not going back to Alder Creek, or calling them up and getting annoyed.  Their store downtown was tiny, and their Jantzen Beach Store wasn't really too impressive.  They didn't have any Kayak seats.  I might as well just start ordering stuff online.

So, tommorow it's supposed to rain here with 5-10mph winds.  Assuming it's not too bad out, I plan to drop the Kayak in the lake anyway.  Friday it's supposed to be partly cloudy, and the rest of the next 2 weeks it's supposed to be rainy, so I might as well get used to rain.

So any suggestions on what I should do the first time out?  I'm thinking I don't want to be on the water for more then an hour, unless it gets nice out.  The only thing I have in mind besides paddling around is trying to sit sidesaddle, and right before I get out, flipping it and trying a deep water re-entry a few times.  Well, being an X-Factor, I'll probably have to jump out and not flip it, since it probably won't flip.   

Phynix,

Sounds like a pretty good plan.  You have the kayak, pfd, and paddle.. have you figured out what you're going to wear for thermal protection?  If the lake is warm enough, you might be okay, but with rain and light winds you can still get a pretty good chill.

As for things to do on your first trip out.  Paddling, side saddle and re-entry practice are all great ideas.  Also think about how you might want to rig things up on your kayak if you haven't done so already.  Are you going to have a fish finder, where can it go so that it doesn't get in the way, but you can still see it and reach it.  Where might you put your rods, your tackle, your net, etc.. 


Brian

Dunno how warm the lake will be.  I don't plan to go far from shore, or stay out long if the weather is bad.  Launch point is like a 2 minute drive from where the Kayak is stored, so it's not like I'm wasting a ton of time or anything.  I'm really fine at this point with less then 30 minutes on the water.  I just want to get it out and about for a bit.  I suppose I could use a windproof jacket, and I do have a good hat.  I plan to have a few towels waiting for me in the truck.  I believe the GF is going with me to watch me and maybe take a few pictures, and perhaps warm up the truck for me.

I don't really plan on a fish finder at this point.  There are already 4 flush mount rod holders installed.  However, I don't actually plan to do any fishing until next year.

Phynix,
 You got it figured correctly.
I started out with slow and short sessions in calmer water(river mouth). Take your time this winter and just learn what a Yak under yer ass feels like 
By the time the warmer weather gets here, you will be more than anxious to venture longer and farther.
My basic exercise these days is about a 3-4 mile paddle, I go up the river and back, into the wind both ways!LOL
Oh yes,, Never forget the camera.
Take Care and be safe!     

Hi Phynix,

I broke down and bought a 3mm farmer john wetsuite. Man...talk'n bout $ well spent! It was around a $100.00 for the farmer and another $40.00 for booties.

I'm gald that you r happy with the yak. I love mine (going fishing right after work tonight). I love it when things work out great for everyone. I'll have you know that yak is NOT a virgin. I caught a 18lb. silver last October in the creek I told you about down the road from my house.

When you have your yak fully rigged, practice self rescuing some more. You will find it to be a different experience than a bare hull self rescue.

Catch ya later. -wetwhopper

Actually, I plan to get a Partial Dry Suit in the next few months.  One of the ones with the latex ankle and wrist grommets, but no neck gasket.  Solve the problem all together.  Planning for ocean activity, even down here the water temp is cold enough in the summer that surfers still wear full wetsuits out there.

COOL BEANS!  What do those run? -wetwhopper

Man I'm really sorry I didn't see your post sooner!  There is a paddle shop in Salem that's closing and Wannabe (Mike in Corvallis) said they had some really good deals on PFD's etc.  Check www.oregoncanoesport.com  The closing sale was last Saturday but Mike said he had some stuff left and it'd be worth giving him a call.

Stocking-foot neoprene waders and a drytop (or even a splash top) makes a "good" slightly less spendy alternative combination to the drysuit. Add some neoprene shoes and your set. I've been in (not just on) some pretty cool water and that combo has kept me quite comfortable.  I find the waders are a lot easier to get in and out off than either a wetsuit or a drysuit. Its also offers a greater freedom of movement than a wetsuit. I have all three (drysuit/wetsuit/waders,,,,) and lately the wader/drytop has been my goto fishwear.
Note: The drytop (or splashtop) jackets are necessary for this combination to be effective. I don't count on the top to seal the waders (although it generally does), but it will minimize the amount of water exchange and keep you warm for an extended immersion.

WW: nrs has a neoprene collared breathable suit for about $400

 Lincoln City? Devils Lake? I have not fished it, but it looks promising.   I have a good fishing buddy who works for the city down there that I have been trying to get out on a yak. She and her BF are fishing maniacs and I'm certain they'd never go back to their stinkpot (powerboat) if they ever got out yak fishing.

I may be down in Pacific City on Saturday morning to try the Nestucca. If not, I'm planning to be out on Thursday. Drop me a line if you want to join me.

WW: nrs has a neoprene collared breathable suit for about $400

Kokatat Super Nova Semi Drysuit, $465-479 ... http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp?pfid=2253&deptid=1174

You can get a full Drysuit (entry level) at less than that,  $375-$405 ... http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp?pfid=2262&deptid=1174

Oh ... but do get the "relief" zipper.  If it's not stardard offering, have one put in.   

-Allen