Opinions Ocean Kayak Malibu 2

   I'm thinking of getting a SOT to go with my SIT.  I'm looking at the Ocean Kayak Malibu 2 its not the XL one.  It is being discounted so the price is looking attractive.  This would probably be used as a solo boat most of the time but I have 2 kids so I need another tandem for the family paddles.  Could anyone give any advise on how well this would work for solo kayak fishing?

Thanks

Aaron

I believe both the XL version and the non-XL have the ability to use a center seat.  You can see the footwells in the pictures.

Non-XL:


XL:


I believe older version on the Non-XL didn't have the center seat option, so check to make sure your getting what you think you're getting.

Now, before I answer about how well these would work for solo kayak fishing, what sort of fishing do you have in mind?  There are no large hatch options for these kayaks so storing bigger stuff underneath would be problematic.  The 8" circle hatches are optional so if you want to get inside, you'll need to get those.  The Ocean Kayak site only carries the Gaspachi® 8" Round Hatch Kit type.  I don't like those as much and would opt for an after market T bar sort of hatch or a screw in.  The slightly longer length of the XL would certainly help with tracking, at the cost of 3  pounds.

Some doubles have shorter leg room to accomodate the 2 positions, so do check that you have what you need.  With my long legs, I don't like paddling doubles that much.

All that being said, I know a number of people that paddle these boats solo for fishing and theywork quite nicely.

-Allen

  IF money and kids weren't involved I would probably get a Prowler or Scupper Pro.  but for $300 I am hoping to have another Tandem and a boat I can solo and set up for fishing.  I bought the Johnny Bar for my SIT and hopefully I can get make a set up that can easily convert between tandem and solo.  It all sounds good but I am worried I will get this my 2nd kayak and then find it won't do the job I need it to. Can you even put a pole in a 8" hatch?

Thanks
Aaron

Well, the best way to decide is to test drive it.  Different boats fit different people differently.   

Like I said, I know people who happily paddle this boat, bot the XL and the non-XL.

-Allen

Finally got a SOT yesterday, it is a Malibu 2 XL.  Took my girls out ,7 and 4, and it rode well in the Sound.  I was playing with the layout in my yard and it looks like it will set up good for solo paddling.  I am almost done with my setups for my Necky and this yak and will post some pics soon.

Aaron