Okay, so I finally got my yak...now what?

[Jimmyz123]

Originally Posted by BrokeLoser

I need to 'outfit' my Malibu Stealth 14
I've read a bunch of tips and tricks on here all over the place. Looking for specific opinions on equipment in this thread?

Here's what I've already got:
Seat
Bait tank pump kit
Paddle

Okay, so here's what I'm thinking I need or pretty much have to have. Tell me what brand, model or type I should get specifically...please. See, I'm kind of a simple guy and I don't want to try and re-invent the wheel; I'd rather just copy what you guys are already doing as far as set-up goes. Keep in mind I'm on a bit of a budget so throw 'realistic' suggestions at me please. Thanks in advance!

Life jacket
Fish Finder
Fish Finder mount (besides X-wing)
Battery(s) - (1 for fish finder and 1 for bait tank) (do I need 2?)
Ice chest - (which one fits perfectly in the molded space at rear?)
Storage crate - (which one fits perfectly in the molded space at rear?)
Anchor
Net
Gaff
Measuring instrument that rivets or screws to the boat

Is their anything I'm missing that you think I should have or have to have?

Thanks again!

Let's have fun:

Life jacket: Go to OEX and try them on, it's fun and you can see what you like.

Fish Finder: I recommend the Cuda 350 it has GPS and FF very nice for the money and you can get them for less than $200

Fish Finder mount: Somewhere easy for you to work it

Battery(s) - (1 for fish finder and 1 for bait tank) (do I need 2?) Yes you need 2. The one working the FF will last all day, the bait tank one will drain faster.

Ice chest - (which one fits perfectly in the molded space at rear?) Not sure you will need this and a crate, but you can use the chest for a Bait tank on La Jolla lanches, and cooler for fishing the bays and lakes. I'm thinking of making one for this reason also.

Storage crate - (which one fits perfectly in the molded space at rear?) The Container Store has some that will fit any Kayak, you can find them online or at some malls.
Anchor: Use a 5lbs. Dumbell with rope on it.
Net: Get one that will not hurt the tails of the fish you catch.
Gaff: You can buy one or make one really cheap. OEX, Dana Landing, or any Tackle shop should have them.

Measuring instrument that rivets or screws to the boat: I marked the sides of my Yak with Sharpe

Is their anything I'm missing that you think I should have or have to have? Check out the Share you Innovations thread, there are a lot of things you'll see there that I have forgotten. You'll need a paddle leash, rod leashes, dry storage for phones, tackle, and other items. Boga grippers, or something similar. Best thing is, make the boat comfortable for you when you are on the water. Make it so that you can get to what you need and know how your boat handles.