Trident 13 vs Trident 15
 

Hello everyone.
I know there are other threads about this on the internet but none of them addressed some questions i had. First, is there a main difference between the two when it comes to surf launching/landing. Next, i have heard the the 13 is a wet ride, is the 15 dryer? I would primarily use it around malibu area (county line) and sometimes La Jolla in both the kelp and offshore open water. What are the longest rods that will fit inside the rod pod? Any other big differences that i should know about? Any insight more than welcomed.
Tight lines,
Johnny

If you don't have storage/ transportation issues or fish small water, get the 15. A bit more storage and speed, but not much different on dry vs. wet ride. Fishing County line, nothing is going to be a dry ride.

15 needs a rudder. 13 doesn't. Also weight difference if using a 15. love my 13.

Are you buying new? The new ones have a Wilderness type seat, thus a drier ride.

I wish but as of now i am looking for used due to money.

That's a big perk for me on the T13.

That's what interests me with the 15. I was just unsure because i have heard that longer kayaks get harder and harder to land/launch.

Love my Trident 13. Good in the surf and light.
I've stowed 7' 6" rods in the rod pod but usually just leash my gear.
Plenty of room for bait tank, tackle box, and anything else.
Only wish those new comfy looking seats would fit the older models.

Do you think that you could fit in an 8 foot rod or were the 7'6's a squeeze. Also have you found a seat that is better for the older models?

The 7'6" was a tight squeeze. I don't usually stow my rods in the hull.
The stock seat is fairly comfortable. I put some extra foam on top and I'm good to go all day. No need for anything else.

Whats your budget i you dont mind me asking?

Well right now i am hoping to sell my current kayak and i have some money saves so probably around 800. Hopefully my kayak is sold for what i want.

Ok that's good to know. I don't see myself really storing them unless the landing could be sketchy.

I never have a problem launching my older Trident 15. I get by without a rudder, too. Landing the longer boat is trickier...but you'll figure it out!

I had my trident 13 for years. I loved it. It would break through the surf and I was able to haul all my gear and a 56 pound white sea bass. The 13 is more than capable. You should be able to find one on Craig's list for around 600. I sold mine for 700 and I threw in the FF and a crate. But I went to the dark side and now I have a Hobie Outback. As to your question I would go with the 13 it is all around a better kayak in my opinion.

Ok great! Thank you for the help

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR THE HELP! As of now i would like the 13, BUT is a 15 shows up for a smoking deal i wouldn't mind the 15. It's good to know all this info.
TIght lines
Johnny

I always store my rods and reels. Reels go in a dry bag and rods under the hatch. I can fit a 7'6 rod in there but not a 8 ft one.

The 13 is more maneuverable, lighter weight, better handling in the surf, an overall better boat. I have a rudder and a sail on my kayak and it is the best kayak I have owned in almost 20 years of doing this.

That being said I am looking forward to the new Swell Watercraft kayaks that are coming out soon.

I think more fishing kayaks should have a large center hatch for storage for rods, fish, etc.