Corvallis/Albany newbie

Just getting back to fishing and am really intrigued by kayak fishing.  I have an inflatable kayak that I have been playing in, but don't feel comfortable taking out in a very big body of water.  I am in the process of researching kayaks (and local places to purchase).

I live in the Willamette Valley and am looking forward to trying out more of the local waterways. 

Frank

Welcome aboard Frank.
I live out east of Lebanon.

Welcome Bocefus!

Soooo many options for kayaks out there on the market! Inflatables certainly have their place for sure. And a lot depends on the build/quality... As for locations, generally speaking you will get a "real" kayak from a kayak shop vs a department store. You should make a trip to Coos Bay for Waxers Surf Shop or Portland for Next Adventure, Alder Creek, or American Kayak Supply just to name a few. Best advice is to DEMO! Secondly put a lot of realistic thought to the exact types of waters you wish to adventure into. I may assert a sit-on-top is arguably a better choice for the ability to self-rescue when out in big water. Pedal drive is highly coveted for the hands-free aspect for fishing. Most importantly is ponying up for appropriate safety gear.

If you can make it, you can check out the 10th annual  Sunset Bay Angler of the Day Kayak Fishing Challenge in Charleston next weekend. You will get to see a lot of "salt-worthy" yaks and meet a bunch of really cool local folks that love to talk about their gear. Check out the event on FB.

Thanks for the welcomes and recommendations of shops.  I will have to start checking them out.

I am starting to wonder if my expectations are too high.  I want something that is versatile enough I can do slow moving rivers and both small/larger lakes.   Oregon has so many different fisheries I hate to rule any out.  At the same time hate to spend more than 1000 on a yak since I have plenty of safety gear/clothes I will need as well (not to mention decent paddle).  Since I winter well...would like something with a capacity of roughly 400lb.   

Since I am trying to keep it under 1k so far I am intrigued by the Old Town Topwater 120 and the FeelFree Moken 12.5 (saw review of new 2020 looks more comfortable than 2019).