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 Post subject: Best kayak for a big guy
PostPosted: Tue Jun 19, 2018 5:11 pm 
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Joined: Tue Jun 19, 2018 5:06 pm
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6'2
325 pounds...looking to use a kayak to get into shape

want the 180 drive...considering compass or outback...needs to be stable...

thoughts?


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PostPosted: Tue Jun 19, 2018 10:11 pm 
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I’m 6’ 2” 265 and I went with an Outback. Plenty stable.

If you want the 180 drive that rules out the Compass.


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PostPosted: Tue Jun 19, 2018 10:55 pm 
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Location: Escondido
Either will work for you. Also consider the Pro Angler 14 -- a little heavier, but very stable and might better accommodate long legs IMO. Try to get a demo before buying so you feel comfortable in what you get. 8)


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PostPosted: Wed Jun 20, 2018 4:42 am 
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Location: Cedar Key, FL
I have not tried the compass, but unless you are dedicated fisherman, I would rate the Outback over the PA. It's easier to lug around, easier to pedal, and a much better sailor.

I'm 6'4" with long legs (36" inseam), and the Outback fits me fine.

I agree that you should try both.

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2014 Outback
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PostPosted: Wed Jun 20, 2018 5:46 am 
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I echo Roadrunners advice with the PA-14 too.

The PA-14 has a 600 pound capacity and if you a re not very "graceful" the stability of entry and exit is a bonus.

The seat is very comfortable and rated for 350 pounds, so your weight won't tax the PA-14.

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Dr.SteelheadCatcher
Hood River, OR


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PostPosted: Wed Jun 20, 2018 6:50 am 
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My worry first and foremost would be physical capabilities/safety. If you roll the kayak in deep water which one can you right and reenter safely, alone. If not, which one can you modify to do so???

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Tandem Island- 2013
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PostPosted: Wed Jun 20, 2018 9:25 pm 
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CR Yaker makes a good point about self rescue issues.......you don't need to be far from any shore to need these skills.

Years ago I bought a self rescue rope device http://kayakselfrescueladder.com/ for my 2010 Outback. It worked as advertised and I practiced using it on the Columbia River.

Later in 2013 I bought a PA-14 and moved the rescue device to the PA......again, I rolled over the PA several times on the Columbia and found it was actually easier, to re-board the PA-14 over the stern.
The rescue rope design is very simple and anyone could make their own version of it.

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Hood River, OR


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PostPosted: Thu Jun 21, 2018 3:03 pm 
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Thanks all!

i will go rent a couple and try things out!!


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PostPosted: Fri Jun 22, 2018 6:51 am 
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Don't forget the 17T if it's within your budget and you don't mind using a trailer. It is perfectly fine solo (some say even better), and if you can take someone else out with you, with capacity to spare. I'm a bit bigger/taller than you and found the 14 to be a bit "tippy" when seat is in the high position, which I prefer. It tended to list to one side when turning, etc.


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PostPosted: Fri Jun 22, 2018 11:57 pm 
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Joined: Mon Sep 18, 2017 5:34 am
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Location: Melbourne
IFlyEm wrote:
I’m 6’ 2” 265 and I went with an Outback. Plenty stable.

If you want the 180 drive that rules out the Compass.



Thats not true you can always upgrade to the 180 drive, for a little bit extra $$$$


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