I'm considering buying a kayak and wanted to see if anyone had tried it, what do you think and is it enjoyable?  I know people have mentioned the Dolphin 120, but I'm not sure I want something that large.  I'd like something I could put in the back of my truck with an extender.

I've looked at the Predator XL Minn Kota.  Other than weighing 95 lbs, it looks pretty awesome.  

William. The predator XL Minn Kota is the exact model I have. Fellow member John Shepard has that model also. 

I am completely satisfied with my kayak. Give me a call at 210-383-7044 to discuss any details. I also recommend buying a smaller battery that can be installed in the front storage. 

 Bill Fetech 

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 (with the good seat, not the older version at Academy).  This yak pretty much overall fits the bill. Cost, stability (I don't stand - i think that's overrated and inviting a disaster), weight, ease of paddling.  You can spend more and get more, like a Jackson coosa. you can spend less and regret it.

The only thing I want different in it, is a square/rectangular center hatch for smallish tackle boxes

a "120" or 12 foot is about right overall.  Std truck bed, no problems taill-gate up or down.

IMHO, you will always be practicing patience when it comes to handling tackle boxes, gear, etc. Less is more.

No motor for me.  I have been that route with a 100lb bass hunter. never again. Paddling. Its the way to go. Can get in sooo far back. have "poled" over lay-down trees and got to the areas where it was fish-on. Every day I think about being out in the Kayak!

William. With the smaller battery (23#) installed in the front that opens up the back area where the external battery (50+#) was stored. I do stand in my kayak which is good to stretch. I also like standing when fishing larger open areas. I even keep the motor at a slow speed when standing.  With the feet controlled rudder, I am hands-free to troll and fish.  I even have  Garmen 7 fish finder installed and the battery after a full day is still showing about 12V (I do have a small solar panel installed).

Bill

Thanks for the information guys. I went over to Mariner Sails this morning and they were pointing me at the Hobie Pro Angler 12.  I may decide to go that route and buy the motor later.  They told me they'd meet me out on the lake next Saturday and I could try a few, so I may take them up on it.  

Bill, if you have a spot you're fishing and I buy one, I'd love to meet you out and let you show me the ropes.  It'd probably save me a CO2 cartridge because I'm sure I'm going to get wet.  If not, I will give you a call and get the rundown.  Thanks again guys.

William.  Looking forward to fishing with you. 

Bill

William,

I would also consider the pedal style native or perception kayaks. I tried the hobie but the drive system was tough on my knees vs the bicycle style propeller system on the native or perception. I have the perception pilot and it is very nice for the money! 

Bob

Also take a look at Diablo made right here in Central Texas. They are a kayak/SUP hybrid that are wide enough to stand up on. I also really like the elevated chair design. Were getting ready to buy two of them for flats fishing at the coast. I owned an Ocean Kayak Scupper Pro 15 years and 30 pounds ago.....great boat, fast but very narrow and limited to what you could do with it as a fishing platform. The DIablo looks MUCH more versatile in that regard.

http://www.diablopaddlesports.com/

Great information guys.  I tried out the Hobie 14' and pulled the trigger.  I added a fish finder and a micro Power Pole so I can anchor at the touch of a button.  I figure I will give it a go Sunday at 9G Ranch - Tom Bean.  If any of you with a kayak want to join me, shoot me a text message at 615-416-3270.