yak time - suggestions?

[Sweetwater]

I also prefer a SOT (sit on top) vs. the sit in type. As mentioned before, easier self-rescue, no need to pump, etc. Also, much easier to shift your body around to get good casting angles. You can even sit sideways (like on a bench) with your feet in the water and drift. In a sit in, your body is more or less locked into a straight-forward position. Also, SOTs offer better areas to keep fish and store gear (on top and not inside the yak). Many mounting surfaces for extra rod holders, fishfinder/GPS, etc. I think most SOTs tend to be a bit heavier though.

SOTs are not as dry for the paddler, even if you use scupper plugs, compared to a sit-in with a spray skirt. However, dressed appropriately (I wear a farmer-john style wet suit, booties, and a Simms drytop) I fish comfortably in as low as 55 degree water (prime striper season) as long as there's some sunshine.

I have an Ocean Kayak 15 Prowler and it's a great boat. Tracks very straight even when paddling hard (i.e., no side to side bow shift). I probably could have gotten away with a 13 Prowler (I weigh about 185-190). But heavier guys like the 15. If you're going to do rivers, you may want to consider a shorter boat (easier to turn) or a rudder, but it won't be as fast or as stable in choppy waters.

Ocean Kayak and Wilderness Systems both make great boats.

Good luck!

[HighTide]

I like the SOTs. I've got an Ocean Kayak Malibu 2, it's really stable and I have enough room for my gear. I don't have it rigged as far as rod holders go, but I manage pretty well with it.

[reelecstasy]

here's mine

[Wee Hooker]

Everybody has their personal reasons for what they like. Having owned several of both styles, I'll break ranks here and state I preffer SINK's. Not any SINK but wider versions with large cockpits. Here are my main reasons:
1) Usaully better stability for the same length and width ( since you sit lower)
2) Better speed /handling due to hull shapes/ lower wind resistance/ profile.
3)Weather/elemint protection for me/my gear. -I use a simple/sliding "mini skirt" that keeps out water but allows me instant access to my (DRY!) gear/lunch etc below decks. Keeps me and my gear dry all the time ( i.e no paddle drippings spray, floating /soaked tackle bags.) but can be pushed back (think curtain vs wrap around arangement) It also alows you easier (wet or dry) exit/entrance or sun. The mini skirt maes a great stripping apron too.
4) No special clothing required- This arangement allows me to wear shorts and keep from getting my (white:-) legs fried in the summer and keeps my lower half warmer in the spring /Fall and even winter.

Down side is that deep water self rescue is more dififcult (IF you ever need to. Havn't yet.) Still, I always wear a pfd and generally fish within a short swim/tow of shallow water/land.

[FishHawk]

I agree with Wee Hooker . I have a Necky Santa Cruz and when it gets nasty I would much rather be in a SINK. That being said there are a lot of advantages to the SOT. Somehow wearing waders in a yak is not a good idea in my opinion. Just my .02. I guess I'm a little conservative when it comes to safety in a yak. FishHawk