Which paddle

[lyn]

Hi, right, now I have the kayak I have to kit it out over the winter ready for next spring so loads of questions. I'm one that will ask if I don't know and ask those that I do know what they are talking about!

 

Went out from Lulworth Cove, lovely in the cove but as soon as we got out we were straight into white water and could tell it was a force 4!!! I had second thoughts as a 4ft wave headed straight at us but the kayak was a solid as a rock and gently glided over the top. Went over to Durdle Dor but not through it because it was too rough. Loved it and cant wait for the next trip out! I have to point out that I went out with a very experienced sea canoeist friend. I had every confidence in Steve and only took a few big waves to give me the confidence in the yak.

 

We used some of Steves paddles which were 215s but both agreed that I need longer ones. Does anyone own a Tarpon 130t or a double, if so what length paddle do you use?

 

I've a feeling paddles are like rods and a personal preference but would like to know what others are using for fishing. As a complete beginner to the world of sea kayak fishing then all help and advice is gratefully received.

 

One lesson Steve taught me was that if I couldn't get back on it in open water then I was not to go out! I managed to get on but as I tried to roll over to sit up I caught the front seat and tipped the yak rolling straight off and back into the sea!!! I did it on the second attempt though.

 

Thanks in advance

 

lyn

[lyn]

Done it again!! must stop being impatient!!

[Renrag39]

A 215-225 should suffice for 'most' people.

 

If you have short arms or are generally small, a longer paddle will help extend your reach to some extent. The downside is that adding that much leverage can be more tiring, so a smaller blade might be preferable, maybe around 650cm^2.

You're right, your paddle of choice is a very personal thing!

Remember to rotate your torso a bit to engage your core muscles and lengthen your stroke, too.

 

Try them out before comitting to buy, if you can. Your paddle is your engine and worth investing in. It may even stay with you longer than your Kayak.

[lyn]

Thank you. It was good being able to use Steves paddles. He is a very experienced sea canoeist which is why I ask him for his help. I've never been on the sea on one before and I am very much a novice!! He gave me two types to try, straight and ergonomic. We were paddling with a low stroke and both found the 215s we were using a bit short (yak is 86cms) in that we were sometimes hitting the sides, well me more than Steve. It would be great if I can find somewhere that will let me try before I buy. Also, I suppose for fishing I'm not going to be going any distance but we go to Scilly every summer and will hopefully go 'Island Hopping' on it. My teenage son thinks it's so cool that we finally have something to do this on! For this reason I will need a paddle that will be good for distance as well.

 

Re; core muscles, I said to my friend that now I have this new 'man' in my life I have the incentive to get fitter and loose some weight! lol

 

Thanks again

 

lyn

A 215-225 should suffice for 'most' people.

 

If you have short arms or are generally small, a longer paddle will help extend your reach to some extent. The downside is that adding that much leverage can be more tiring, so a smaller blade might be preferable, maybe around 650cm^2.

You're right, your paddle of choice is a very personal thing!

Remember to rotate your torso a bit to engage your core muscles and lengthen your stroke, too.

 

Try them out before comitting to buy, if you can. Your paddle is your engine and worth investing in. It may even stay with you longer than your Kayak.

[Renrag39]

FWIW, I would be looking at something like a Carlisle Enchantment and look at modifying your stroke to a slightly higher angle or; if you are certain a longer shaft would be of benefit considering possible 'tours', the Werner Skagit, available in 5cm increments from 215-240cm.

HTH.

[JV44]

Got a Carlisle paddle myself suits me sir

[lyn]

Been looking at the Skagit, will look at the Carlisle.

 

PS. Found one with £55 off so only £65!! Renrag do you have one, if so do you use it on the sea? Sorry, lots of questions from this newbie to the sport. I expect one day I will have wished I'd taken up knitting in my old age!!!

Edited November 18, 2014 by lyn

[Renrag39]

Sorry for the delay. Yes I do use it on the sea. Really like the Enchantment, most bang for your buck afaik and not so expensive that you'll weep when you inevitably scratch and bully it!

 

Edit: I use it on the Norfolk Broads, off the coast of norfolk/suffolk and even for surfing on my Surfjet 305!

Edited December 4, 2014 by Renrag39