Looking for a Kayak

[Jimmyz123]

Originally Posted by FlyFishinYakr

As been noted here time and again, test paddle some to get a sense of how each one feels. Also you'll get a sense of how much harder a wider yak is to paddle.
Just because it's wide doesn't guarantee stability. Keel form and gunnel design have more to do with primary stability. Call OEX in SD to see what they have available to test paddle.
I also was concerned about stability when I bought my first yak but I found the wider ones MUCH harder to paddle due to their width.
In the 12' x 31" range I tried the Cobra F & D, and the OK Big Game, but (for me)I found I liked the Malibu Pro Explorer (12' x 31" wide) easier to paddle. But to each his/her own.
Just my .02.
Jimmy is right though, have read the OK Trident is very stabile despite it's narrow width. Would have been my next yak if I hadn't badly injured my back.
FFY.

When I first got into this sport I was looking for the wide kayaks also for the extra stability, but with that you end up getting a heavier Kayak. All that has to be taken in to account. When I sold my first Prowler 15 I kicked myself, and still wish I had not sold it. Then I bought a Malibu X-factor and yes it was stable, but not as fast as the Prowler. I have never had an issue with feeling like I was going to roll, of tip over in the Prowlers, however I have paddled cobra, Tarpon, and Malibu kayaks and of all the Kayaks I've owned and paddled the most stable are the Malibu and Prowler or Trident kayaks.

As mentioned, before you buy go test paddle all the kayaks you have thought about and see which you like the best.