Where to paddle kayaks

I'm looking to get a kayak sometime this year, however I would like to try some out before I buy one. After doing a lot of searching online the old town predator and jackson cuda 12 are real stand outs to me. Does anyone know someplace around that I will be able to try these out come spring.

Also does anyone have any experience with these kayaks, or have any other recommendations?

I know LL Bean has a training program and have try outs on Norton Rez, Check out the web page for info. Maybe something in your area.Good Luck.

In Mass, the only Jackson deal is Zoar in Charleton. Also, Saltwater's Edge in Newport, RI. The Old Town is probably easier to find though I can't point you in a particular direction. You should also paddle the Wilderness Systems Ride 115 or 135.

http://www.kayakcentre.com/ http://www.kayakcentre.com/demo-weekend.htm

This yak looks pretty cool! http://store.kayakcentre.com/browse.cfm/feel-free-lure-11.5/4,2475.html

This is worth watching if ur looking to paddle in the ocean, http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-Necky-Kayak-Vector-14-with-Rudder/121266209066?_trksid=p2050601.m2372&_trkparms=aid%3D111000%26algo%3DREC.CURRENT%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D207%26meid%3D4505196789512707957%26pid%3D100085%26prg%3D1112%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D4%26sd%3D121266209066%26%26clkid%3D4505197658238539189&_qi=RTM1562569

Also does anyone have any experience with these kayaks, or have any other recommendations?

Hi Mike,

I have the Cuda 12 and love it. I was torn between this and the Ride that Bloo mentioned. I test paddled both and ultimately the Cuda won me over because of the Seat and some of the design features. In retrospect I'm sure I would have been happy with the Ride but have no regrets. The boat is a great fishing platform.

I bought mine at Alden of Sunapee in NH. It's far but I saved the tax on it and made a family a weekend out of it. They had a great selection, a nice test facility and were very accommodating.

Good luck and when you get one join us for a Kayak tourney.

thanks for all the info guys.

I'm also curious how you transport you kayak. Anyone use foam blocks. Right now I drive a 98 corolla so i dont really want to invest in a several hundred dollar roof rack for a car that's gonna be worth less than the kayak itself.

I have a rack system but I'm sure foam blocks and some good ratchet straps will work fine.

I went the pool noodle route for a year, but in the end I purchased a roof rack for my Civic.

I chose the Wilderness Systems Ride 115, but as jjbagoose stated, I probably would have been happy with a Jackson as well. You are more than welcome to test out my kayak this spring - just let me know (I'm a few towns over from you and easy access to the Charles).

I used the foam blocks for a few months before getting a roof rack. The blocks will work, it can just get a little shakey on the highway. Don't forget to strap it down FRONT & BACK as well as over the top(just ask me how I know.....) and you should be fine.

And don't forget to tighten your roof rack every so often

I chose the Wilderness Systems Ride 115, but as jjbagoose stated, I probably would have been happy with a Jackson as well. You are more than welcome to test out my kayak this spring - just let me know (I'm a few towns over from you and easy access to the Charles).

I used the foam blocks for a few months before getting a roof rack. The blocks will work, it can just get a little shakey on the highway. Don't forget to strap it down FRONT & BACK as well as over the top(just ask me how I know.....) and you should be fine.

awesome, thanks for the offer