Spent some time paddling around on a cheap plastic kayak over the weekend and of course, now I want one. I will probably try to find used, but I want to talk about new as that's more accessible and consistent.
Also, I believe I'm looking for a sit-on-top for my purposes. no camping trips, just a couple of hours on a river, lake, or possibly intercoastal. A maximum of a couple of hours, and actual sea/ocean-going is pretty unlikely. Also, no specific plans to fish from the boat but not opposed (even if nothing more than an excuse to be on the kayak ). Some of the examples below are designed as fishing kayaks but I'm including those as they do tend to be more stable from what I gather.
I've been looking at a few guides online from various sources (some I trust, some are dubious) but I thought I'd ask here as I know a fair number of outdoorsmen here might have input.
Currently don't want tandem, don't need a canoe (I have one), don't want folding or inflatable, and am pretty sure what I want is one of the molded plastic sit-on-top types. I believe those come in a range of pretty crappy (what I presume I was using this weekend) and more pricey (sometimes simply because of accessories and/or add-ons).
I liked the kayak this weekend, given my specific use, because the seat was just a molded-in piece, but the more involved suspension seats are more desirable and better longer-term.
Some examples I've saved based on my "research" so far.
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 105 - $1,119
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120 - $1,229
SUNDOLPHIN Sun Dolphin Boss SS Sit-On/Stand On Top Angler Kayak
Perception Pescador Pro 10 - $919