WTB my first yak - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

dmrides · 08-21-2012, 06:27 PM

I am certainly no expert, but here's my $0.02...A medium length paddle yak like the OK prowler 13 is going to be the most user friendly yak in the surf. Going out is usually not as big of an issue. Like was said before, watch the waves and figure out when there are lulls. Time it right and paddle 'til you clear the breakers.

On the way in, you really don't want to surf the waves. It's best to paddle in on the back of a wave or between waves. You can throw your legs over the sides to act as brakes and to help steer. If you do catch a wave, your yak will likely turn sideways. This is ok, relax, lean into the whitewash and just let it take you skipping sideways all the way to the shore. You can also use one leg over the side to help steer and brake. Whatever you do don't try to steer with your paddle, it will make you roll.

Just go practice. Take a day, spend an hour or two going in and out of the surf. Try different techniques and spend some time gaining confidence. When you are out past the breakers, lean over and see how far you can lean before you roll. Spending a lot of time in the surf will also help you to learn how much your yak leaks.

Then when you are more comfortable, take all your gear and go fish. Just remember, always leash it and stow it.

Good luck.

08-21-2012, 06:27 PM	#6
dmrides Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Point Loma Posts: 584	I am certainly no expert, but here's my $0.02...A medium length paddle yak like the OK prowler 13 is going to be the most user friendly yak in the surf. Going out is usually not as big of an issue. Like was said before, watch the waves and figure out when there are lulls. Time it right and paddle 'til you clear the breakers. On the way in, you really don't want to surf the waves. It's best to paddle in on the back of a wave or between waves. You can throw your legs over the sides to act as brakes and to help steer. If you do catch a wave, your yak will likely turn sideways. This is ok, relax, lean into the whitewash and just let it take you skipping sideways all the way to the shore. You can also use one leg over the side to help steer and brake. Whatever you do don't try to steer with your paddle, it will make you roll. Just go practice. Take a day, spend an hour or two going in and out of the surf. Try different techniques and spend some time gaining confidence. When you are out past the breakers, lean over and see how far you can lean before you roll. Spending a lot of time in the surf will also help you to learn how much your yak leaks. Then when you are more comfortable, take all your gear and go fish. Just remember, always leash it and stow it. Good luck.