How to Choose Between Different Types of Inflatable Kayaks For Freshwater Fishing
Despite the large amount of inflatable kayaks available on the market, they still remain one of the top sellers in inflatable kayaks. Even with the increase in popularity of canoeing and kayaking, it seems buyers have not been quick to embrace the smaller, more affordable alternatives to their traditional larger inflatable boat. Many people don't know how much their inflatable kayaks cost until they get them home and see the total cost. Most times, this is when they decide to make a second purchase of an inflatable kayak to use for other recreational endeavors.
Sizes are one thing, but quality and performance are two entirely different things. Each type of inflatable kayak is built to do a specific task, but in terms of construction and materials, there is little variation between each model. The average person kayak is built to carry a person of that weight (usually less than a hundred pounds). That is a lot of weight! Most folks who purchase an inflatable tandem kayak are unaware of just how heavy these models are, only to be disappointed once they try to raise the boat and realize it requires ten or twenty pounds of strength just to move it.
Some of the inflatable kayaks built for fishing are built with stronger frames in order to hold the much heavier aluminum fishing poles. Although the stronger frames may be worth the extra money up front, many of these advanced elements wear down much more quickly, even with the new materials. If you are serious about using your inflatable kayak for fishing and whitewater kayaking, you may want to consider purchasing an inflatable kayak with strong frames and advanced features that will last long. However, it will end up costing you more money up front in the long run if you do not go that extra mile in order to protect your investment.
There are also differences between the different types of inflatable kayaks in terms of safety. Most single person kayak seats are built with a basic flotation device, or a life jacket for swimmers. However, there are other models that have additional features such as built-in rudder wheels for added maneuverability and built-in anchorages for securing yourself in the event that the craft capsizes or rises suddenly from the water. The more expensive models have additional features that allow for a more secure ride and better safety features, but generally, this type of kayak seat only has a life jacket for the swimmer, unless of course you plan on purchasing additional features to make the kayak more safe for other activities. If you intend on fishing from your inflatable kayak, however, a simple life jacket will do.
Of course, inflatable kayaks come in a variety of designs to suit your needs. Some are made specifically for single people, some for two people, and others are designed especially for families or groups of friends. There are even kayaks designed to be rowed by two paddlers rather than one. The two-man kayak is one such model, while the four-man kayak is another. These kayaks offer greater maneuverability at the front end of the craft and allow paddlers to row the vessel in a safer fashion.
Paddlers who prefer kayaking for more advanced waters or for fishing should definitely consider getting an inflatable kayak that comes with an electronic speed regulator. Raised air chambers in the hull of the kayak allow increased resistance as water gets deeper, allowing kayakers to paddle faster and with more ease as the water gets rougher. Some of these kayaks come with separate seats so that riders can adjust the feel of the kayak to their own individual comfort level. Some even come with built-in cup holders so that riders won't have to remove their footwear to reach for a drink or a snack.
One of the biggest complaints that many people have about inflatable kayaks is that they're hard to get into and out of. Some have inflatable bottoms that make them difficult to climb; others have rickety bottoms that can become dislodged in strong winds; and still others have bottoms that don't inflate fully. To counter this problem, the manufacture of these inflatable kayaks has come up with clever solutions such as the ability to release the air chambers using a remote control. This makes them easier to get in and out of, making them much more portable.
The final option that you have when deciding on which inflatable kayak to buy is whether or not you're going to use it for freshwater fishing. Inflatable kayak models with PVC bodies have the advantage over traditional craft in a couple of different ways. First of all, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is an extremely durable material that's both lightweight and strong. This makes PVC the perfect candidate for being exposed to harsh conditions and yet remain stable enough to float on top of the water. On top of this, most PVC models are also more maneuverable than traditional craft, meaning you can get around your kayak more easily if you need to (and that means more fun for everyone).