Introduction Medford Or

Hey everyone, I'm new to this board.  I live in Southern Oregon (hence the SOR angler) and have recently been drawn to the dark side.  I should say drawn towards the light. I have been a fisherman all of my life but mostly out of boats or bankside.  I was born in Oregon and have live here most of my life.  I went to school in San Diego and I used a SOT once to get out and try my hand at kayak fishing.  It was a blast and I really want to get into it. So now I am going to begin the process of finding which kayak will fit the bill for me the best. 
One question I have though is what rule of thumb do you all feel is a good "guide line" for sea conditions.  When I had my 19 foot jet boat I wouldn't go out in any seas of 8 combined (wind wave and swell) or bigger.  Obviously there are many factors, a 6 foot well and 2 foot wind wave was much easier than the opposite.  The swell period also makes a big difference but what are some rules of thumb you all use?  Obvioulsy being prepared with all the safety equipment and skills is of utmost importance first. Thanks for any insight and I appreciate you help! 
Luke

Welcome SOR!

To answer your question, check out the Go / No-Go article that Pelagic Paddler wrote for the Homepage. 

http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/index.php?page=38

-Spot-

Thank you!  I figured this has been discussed at length.  A definate newbie question.   

Thank you!  I figured this has been discussed at length.  A definate newbie question.   

The only dumb question is the one unasked.

There are plenty of newbies joining all the time.  Feel free to re-ask well hashed questions as it'll bring the answers to the attention of others who need the info.

-Spot-

As a newbie, you should be venturing out on your own in only the most benign conditions, meaning that you need to hook up with a salty companion who can help you learn how to make those decisions. Guys here are pretty good about letting newbies know when they are open to taking them out.

That said - look for those guys with 1000+ posts and write articles for the front page and pay attention to what they say.