Hello from Ballard

Funny, that I just came across this. I tend to just stay focused on the Recent Topics on the main page.

I have been fishing my entire life.  I grew up in the Fingerlakes area of Upstate NY where I fished year round.  I made my way out west 20 years ago and I'm always amazed at the diversity of different fisheries this area has to offer.  While I've always loved the idea of having a boat, the storing it, maintenance, etc has never interested me. 

I picked up a free copy of Kayak Angler Magazine a few years ago while vacationing in the Outer Banks of NC.  Up until this point, I hadn't really noticed SOT style of kayaks.  I went out with a local guy who took me kayak fishing for the day.  I rented an Ocean Kayak and he had Hobie Outback. 

After countless hours of reading and research I decided on a Hobie because of the Mirage Drive Pedals. I ended up demoing 5 different models at the local Hobie shop and went with the Pro Angler because I liked the stability and the endless possibilities of mounting and storing gear. My girlfriend expressed interest in fishing and crabbing, so I picked up another PA end of season for 40% off the retail price.  Needless to say, I'm never without a kayak partner.   I guess you can say I'm a little obsessed as I bought a used Hobie I9s inflatable over the weekend.

This year I really fished it harder than the three previous years.  You'll find me out in Shilshole during the salmon season or on Lake WA trolling for cutties or rainbows.  When I'm not in the kayak, you can find me river fishing for salmon and steelhead.

Outside of fishing, I enjoy foraging for mushrooms and edibles, cooking and anything outdoors.  Happy to see there's such an enthusiastic group in our area and on the west coast.  Hope to meet a few of you all in Fremont this Weds.  ~Brad

Well, welcome Brad!

My mom is from Auburn, NY and i've spent some time in Skaneateles. My uncle has a place there on the lake. I like it up there alot.

Good fishin with ya in BC. Hope to fish with you more. Sorry I'll miss the event on Weds. Thanksgiving prep is already overwhelming me!

Likewise Rory.  Wow, we have a lot more in common that I thought.  I grew up in Auburn and I have an Uncle that lives in Skaneateles.  Too funny.

Great fishing with you and Yakfish as well.  I'm sure we'll get out again after the holidays.

hello brad from Ballard, I to am from Ballard area and i was going to buy a boat for next year, i came across this gentlemen that was kayak fishing yesterday down by A dock in shilshoe, Wow i was amazed and had interest in getting a kayak instead of a boat, he told me that its great but not that popular up here in the northwest because of the cold, I am not a "fairweather fisherman and not afraid to get wet in the winterseason". i ask for your advise on what would be a beginner angler kayak? I love the peddle feature and the dept finder to, what would be a good start off kayak for me? the guy told me that he was doing a competition and trying to catch a pile perch. Yeah but i know that this is a Hobie for me. thank you for your time and I cant wait to meet new friends![/font]

Hey Sandman.  Nice to meet you.  My suggestion to you would be to visit the Hobie dealer on Lake Union and test out a few different models.  See which one you are most comfortable in.  I tested out 4 different models (Adventure, Outback, Inflatable and Pro Angler).  I like a dry ass and stability and went for the Pro Angler.  Some call them boats over kayaks because of the size.  I'm happy with my purchase but the Pro Anglers are much heavier than other Sit on Top models.  Transporting them often requires a pick up truck or trailer.  I have a Yakima Rack up top of my Prius and I have loaded it with a little effort. I also have a nice dent showing where it slipped while I was loading.  It's doable though.  For me, hands free Mirage Drive was the way to go and Hobie offered the best option.  I'm sure some other members can give you insight on other models.  You'll find a wealth of information on this site and feel free to ask.

I still turn a few heads with my set up while launching at Shilshole and they are fun to land a fish on!

A few members are meeting up at Browers in Fremont tomorrow evening at 6.  Come by if you can make it.  ~Brad

Lol .... that was my dumb ass out in the wind and driving rain trying to catch a stupid freakin perch. Hobies are flat out awesome kayaks but also the most expensive so lots to think about for your first boat. If you can make it out tomorrow join us at Brourers for beers and boat talk.

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My mother too, is from the Finger Lakes area. She was raised in Stanley, which is about halfway between Geneva and Canadaigua.

Sherminator, small world indeed!