all right y'all....where ya from?

I just got an email from Allen about this site.... It is about time! 

I hail for the SW corner of the state (vancouver, WA) and yes, I fish out of my Kayak... Malibu Pro Explorer, and a Pungo Classic.
Mostly fly rod stuff, but I have thrown gear at those huge Tiger Muskies at Merwin... Which I WILL catch one this year...

chime in!  lets get this board rolling!

mgamby,
 Good thread.
I'm way down here along the Oregon coast at the border of California.
I fish the ocean, Chetco river and the Winchuck river.
Never made a fishing trip anywhere, it may be kinda fun to meet some of ya'll and catch a fish or 2.
An annual bar-b-que or something?

Welcome mgamby, nice to see you here.

I'm trying to come down to fish in your neck of the woods June 10-11.  I don't think I can make it as far as boxofrain that  weekend.

boxofrain, stay tuned.  I'm working on something.  I'm trying to put together a derby weekend.  I'll start a poll on what you all think weekend wise and location wise.

-Allen

SO!, it appears there are only 3 people located anywhere. are the rest of you just hiding from someone or something?

I've been finding that I conserve WAF by not spending too much time on the computer.

I'm in Twisp in North Central Washington. That's on the eastslope  of the Cascades (across the North Cascades Highway), about 90 miles from Wenatchee and, as the crow flies, about 25-30 miles south of the Canadian border.

Locally, I fish mostly flies for trout and steelhead (I'll be doing some guiding this summer out of a local shop). When I get somewhere where I can fish with a guiltfree conscience, I'll meat fish (we love fish  ) with whatever is effective and fun.

Boxofrain,

The other NWKA's aren't being rude or standoffish.  It's just that there was a similar thread running a while back called "OK, OK, east or west".  But that didn't take the deep south (I'm talking about Oregon) or the far north (Canadia) into consideration, so I conscede that you indeed have a valid thread started here.

Just like over on that other thread, I'm still in Bothell, Wa.  And it's still just a little east and mostly north from Seattle.  Look just barely north from the north end of Lake Washington.

I told floatin cowboys that I'd like to get over to his part of Washington some time soon, and I'll tell you now that I'd sure like to come down your direction and see where it is that you do your fishing too.  Personally, my wife is probably the BEST having given me what seems to be a gazillion WAF points... or maybe she just wants me outta her way?     Nah, that can't be it.  Any way, my big limitation thing is when I can and when I can't get away from work.  My work gives me a lot of flexability and so sometimes I can make some fishing time for myself where others can't.  But ultimately I also carry a sizeable load of responsibility and so sometime, some way, the old piper has to be paid and I have to invest a sizeable load of time to keep my portion of the job on track.  Long story made short, that means that some times when I want to I can get away, but I can't do it as much as I'd like to.

Fishin-T

  Hi everybody, I'm from Vancouver Island...same hometown as "Snag-a-but".  I live in Colwood, about 20 minutes from Victoria and was given the heads up to join this group.  Sean and I did some test paddling in Ladysmith (about 1 1/2hr drive) over two weeks ago and it was a blast!

I already put in the order for the Scupper Pro TW.  It is a wicked kayak, better than the P13 as I'm mucher lighter 5'8 and 155lbs.  Hopefully I'll get it before the Tofino Kayak fishing trip, that would be a blast!

Look forward to meeting some of you on this forum 

Stephen
VP

Welcome VictoriaPaddler.  It's nice to see you make your way over here.  Enjoy the new SPTW!!!  I'm curious as to more details on your impression of the SPTW vs. the Prowler 13.

-Allen

Hi Allen, here is my thoughts on the SPTW review from two weeks ago at the Paddlefest on VI...

...after testing out the Necky Dolphin SOT (see previous post Necky Dolphin report at KFS) Snag-a-But and I decided to forge ahead and headed North to attend the 2006 Vancouver Island Paddlefest at the last minute.

I call one of the rep on the cell phone at the paddle fest site and ask him whether he had SOT and he says he had 8 and then the line went dead. Oh shoot, I need to get there ASAP as we are running late. The fest was ending in less than an hour. The drive seems to take a long time. Uh-oh, Snag-a-but wanted to grab a bite, we drove in to McDonalds and swallow the burgers as fast as we could.

The gas tank was glowing, fuel is running low. Will we make it? Do we need to fuel up? Nah, SAB says we'll make it.

Wow, as soon as I saw the sign by the side of the road, I was so excited, couldn't wait to run to the beach. Parked the truck, and headed straight for the beach in search of SOT. There were Hundreds of SIK, so few SOT...what's wrong with these dealers I thought?! SOT is the way to enjoy recreational paddling. Maybe in 5 years it'll be really popular.

I came across the Prowler 13,...rrrrgghh rowd. Boy did I wanted to test paddle that thang. The rep says "Sorry guys, that's only for display. We're not having that kayak for the demo!" You gotta be kidding me, I drove all the way from Victoria to do some test paddling. I was even refer to come up here by Mountain Equipment Co-op (Big outdoor store) and you're telling me I can't test this kayak?   

Well, too bad for you guys, it looks like I'll have to go to the next dealer and test paddle their models, do my Kayak reviews, take some pictures and post them on the web.

Boy did he change his mind fast...WOW, had I known that, I should have given him my business card (if I had any). Snag-A-But almost blew my cover  when one of the rep (Pova was her name)ask which company/magazine are we from? Oh, we're not any big company, just SOT kayak fisherman on the web....shhhhh...I'm ready to test paddle the prowler now.

The darn thing was fully rigged, and the rep's name was Dave. He was going to take all the gear off and have me test paddle for my review.  Last minute changes, he saw SAB holding my digital camera and ready to shoot some photos. "Better yet, let's leave the Prowler as is and we also like to take some photos with you on it as we haven't gotten any pictures with anyone doing the demo!"

I help carry the P13 down to the beach. Holy smokes, it was heavy. With rudder, two metal rod holders, a Fish finder rigged, I felt as though I was carrying 70-80lbs.

Sat in it, the seat was a Comfort Deluxe - very comfortable. I started paddling, it wasn't bad a bit heavy compare to my earlier Necky Dolphin experience. It took 3-4 strokes for the P13 to turn. It tracks fairly straight, very stable didn't feel tippy at all which I was beginning to wish it did as I feel it's easier to lean into it when turning.

Then it was time to lower the rudder. Had some trouble pulling it off the stern. The rudder was stuck for some reason. Pova (rep for OK) came out and gave it a couple of good tugs before it finally free itself. That wasn't a good sign. I began paddling further away from the beach. There was some chop in the water but nothing major that would effect the P13.

Then I try using the rudder to turn, Port side was responding when I press my foot on it. Starboard wasn't responding well. Don't know if the rudder was defective or I was just unlucky. Maybe it wasn't rigged properly.

I decided to paddle backwards to see what happens. It moved slowly, not what I had thought. Time to head to shore.

Again, when it was time to pull the cord to retract the rudder. It wouldn't budge. I was starting to get annoyed. Dave (OK Rep) came down to give it a couple of good tugs, then the rudder retract but didn't fall into the groove.

Man, I had such high hopes for the P13 but after that experience. I really started to wonder, maybe I should test paddle it again, preferrably a different P13 kayak.

Went on the beach, looked around and saw the SPTW. Asked if it was ok to try it and was told yes, it was the only one they had.
I was given a Comfort Pro seat (not as fancy as the first one as it had a higher back support.)

Holy cow, when I slipped into the SP, it was the most perfect seat I had ever sat in. I felt as though the moulding really hug my bum. Even better then the Necky Dolphin.

Started paddling, wow, no complaint whatsoever, tracks well, stable, not as tippy as the Dolphin. Then I try to turn, 1 maybe even two strokes and the boat turn 180. By far the best kayak I had experience. I'm sold!

I paddle backwards and it was so smooth, glides nicely. I really like the way this boat moves, very responsive, doesn't take a lot of effort to get it moving. The speed is phenomenal. There was very little water in the footwells.

It didn't have a rudder, but for the test paddle, I don't think it needed one. Maybe in rougher condition, wind, cross currents, than I'd consider having it installed.

The last model I paddle was the Wilderness System - Tarpon 140. Very nice finishing, better looking than the OK kayaks.

It felt heavier carrying it then the SP. Surprisingly, on the water, it moves quickly, a few strokes and you're on your way. This kayak moves very nice just as well, if not, better than the SP. Turns easily one-two strokes.
Moves backward, forward, not much effort at all.

My butt got all wet as there were no scupper plugs but I didn't care. It's a wet sport!
So, when it was time to decide...I chose the SPTW!!!!

Before some of you decide to pull out your "blow-torch" and BBQ this poor soul, let me tell you why...

In my mind the Tarpon 140 is better and moves slightly quicker then the SP. The tracking and stability of the kayak is the same as SP. However, for me, I felt very very comfortable when I sat in the seating. As I said earlier, it hugs my bum and I felt as though it was made for me. Even the footwells, the length was perfect for my feet. When I turn, I lean into it and the SP moves with me.

The T140 still had some spaces maybe 1/4 or 1/2 an inch on the side and though it turns easily, it didn't have the same feeling of the boat being a part of you. I don't know if I'm explaining this right.

In any case, Snag-a-But wanted to have his try (he wasn't suppose to test paddle as he didn't register or pay for the $10 fee as it covers the liability insurance, but talk the rep into letting him have a go )

Nope, too heavy the minute I saw him in that little seat. The scupper holes started to take water (sorry SAB - I'm telling everyone as I see it). He paddle, it was quick he said, hey how about you write a short review base on your experience dude?

When it was all over, the reps came over and ask me what I thought. I told them the SP fits me better base on my height and wt. 5'8 155lbs and the kinds of activities I was going to use it for: day paddling, fishing, light touring/overnight camping. I definitely go with the SP. Layout was not as nice as P13, nor was there a drain on the side for the water to run to the scupper holes as the P13.

P13 was heavier and I think I would have trouble carrying it. 2 inch in width on the kayak really makes a big difference specially in the seating. For someone larger, maybe taller or stronger, P13 would make an excellent fishing boat.

Anyways, that's it for my reviews. Y'all excuse me but it's time for me to catch up on my sleep...I'm exhausted from all this typing and the weekend of fun paddling. I now have to find out what accessories I need to order along with the kayak!

Thank you to all those of you that helped me with your ideas and helpful suggestions. Now I know why the SP is so popular. It isn't built to fit for everyone but for those of you that falls within the ht. wt. and areas which you will use it for, it is one of the classic design and a great kayak. That's my personal opinion. It may not have a center 6 or 8 inch hatch, doesn't have the rod holders or other neat gadgets, but it's a fine kayak which will entertain those paddlers for many many years.

Sorry Snag-a-But, that's probably not what you want to hear but I really do like this baby. You already have your Hobie and this one really isn't made for you bro. -tee-hee......nuff said

VP

Sorry Snag-a-But, that's probably not what you want to hear but I really do like this baby. You already have your Hobie and this one really isn't made for you bro. -tee-hee......nuff said

 

VP...When you test out my mirage drive (hobie) you might just decide to sell your new dream machine...but seriously, I did like that LITTLE sucker. Just not quite enough kayak under me but if I wasn't carrying much gear I wouldn't hesitate to get one.

 When does your new ride arrive VP?

  Hey Sean (SAB), good to hear from you dude.  In my mind, the Hobie will surely exceed all expectation bro. but for a starter like me who's just starting out and on limited budget, I think SP will be good for now.  I probably need a few more years of paddling experience before going all out. 

Not sure when the SP will be deliver, but last I spoke to Craig on Thursday, he'd let me know this weekend as he's ordering 15 kayaks altogether (from the Ladysmith demo alone) from OK and then p/u, deliver to all the customer.   He's got the new website up to speed and he's finally giving in...gonna get the SPTW for the display.  I told him he needed to test paddle the SP along with his staff if he's going to be able to convince "potential customer" to buy SOT and SP is a good model to test out as it's fast and stable

http://www.coastalwatersports.com/

For a seller, I'm quite surprise many of the dealers don't even test paddle their products.  Even the agent/rep themselves know very little about it's history.  I ended up telling him the whole run down, even pointing out some of the deficiencies in areas where they can improve or error eg. like the one you told me about P15 footwells with no water to drain on the side like the P13.

Anyways, will post again soon.
VP

VP,

Nice posts and feedback ... keep it up.  Any new buyer should always paddle as many models as they can.  There is not any one model that is a mgic bullet that will fit everyone.  It's all about personal preference.  Sounds like you got the prefect kayak for YOU.

So Coastal Water Sports ordered 15 OK's!!!!  That's great.  Does he have any idea how many of those are intended to be used for kayak fishing?  Perhaps I'll drop him an email and introduce this site to him.

-Allen

  Hi Allen!  As far as I know, he sold a couple of P13, an SPTW (that's me) and the rest are frenzy, scrambler...I don't know exactly how many people bought other fishing SOT.

I think it's a great idea for you to email him about our site.  I initially introduce myself and had mention about our small group (that broke away from KFS) and told him about our upcoming Tofino KayakFishing so he's very excited.  I don't know what we need in terms of sponsorship if there is such a thing.  He's also opening up another store up in Shawnigan lake, which is a 45 minute drive from Victoria.

Craig is a really nice, business oriented guy who's willing to share his knowledge and expertise.  A pretty young fellow too, only 33yrs. old and he's already got two stores.  One of the reason I bought the kayak from him instead of the Big box store, because I wanted to support the little guys and he seems friendly and approachable.  He also rents bikes, kayaks and such and will actually even deliver them which none of the other store is willing to do.

So, if some people that do not have a kayak (a spouse, child, friend), he'll rent it to us.  I think we can even ask him for a discount if we advertise his store.  Craig gave me one of his store small sticker that stuck on my wagon windshield & told me that when I buy anything (except the major items like kayak or bike) in his store, I get 10% off from the price.
And the product is well price, almost the same as the Big Mountain Equipment Co-op Store that just open in Victoria.

VP,
Stephen

Cool deal.  I'll drop him an email tonight and say hello.

BTW ... we didn't break away from KFS.  I don't want people to look at it this way as these sorts of things are sometimes mis-interpreted.  We were rag-tags from a variety of homes, at least 4-5 other sites that I know of, with many of us already participating in many of those sites.  Bill from the NCKA site (www.norcalkayakanglers.com) helped us set up this site.  But I like to think of them more as a sister site as I live in WA and in NorCal and I consider both sites as "home".

And regarding Tofino ... that trip was being proposed from the KFS site by tinpusher, at least that's where I saw it originally.  BTW, anyone know where tinpusher is?  I'm not sure what the status of that trip is, but there are some people here that will be going to the Moutcha Derby the next week after the Tofino trip is planned. See this thread ... http://www.northwestkayakanglers.com/bb/index.php?topic=31.0

-Allen

Hi Allen, sorry about that, I meant that we form a group here base on the Northwest as some of us originally sign up with KFS (stragglers?).  Wrong choice of words.  Anyways, the site looks really good, very professional and easy to navigate.  I love that picture of holding the Halibut...really cool!

VP

PS. I'll have a look at the moutcha bay derby...