New yak and a couple questions

[Rockport24]

Great advice right there

Congrats on the new yak man! you can't go wrong with that one, I have an OK Prowler 15 and friggin love it.

As for surf/chop. If you are feeling pretty comfortable and stable on it in the lakes, go out and give it a shot. I should say though, I amost always avoid a surf launch and try to launch in more protected waters. Your yak can handle chop and swells just fine, but it's all about your level of ability and comfort with the conditions. Go with your gut, if you are uncomfortable out there just head back in, it's not worth it for a fish! that said, you will be surprised how stable you will feel in it out there, but don't get complacent, anything can happen so be alert.

Also, seriously consider getting a handheld VHF radio, it's just a safe thing to have out there in case of problems.

[Sweetwater]

All good advice. Also keep a lanyard on your paddle as well. I good friend of mine lost his paddle in pretty good current and would have been screwed if two of us weren't around to retrieve it for him.

Definitely practice self-rescue. I've got the OK 15' Prowler and it is very easy but still good to have some practice.