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Kayak Debate: SIS vs SOT

I will eventually be getting a new kayak. I am torn between the convenience of a sit on top SOT versus a SIS sit inside kayak's stability. I fish in an area (Salish Sea, Victoria Canada) where if you go in the water for half an hour you are as good as dead. An hour. You are dead. So I don't really want to go in the water. Also, the water is often very rough, from october to June. I have an old 9.5 foot Necky Sky kayak that I have totally modified for fishing and trolling. But, it's lifetime will be over eventually. I like it because it is SIS and very stable and therefor safe. I have seen other SOT yakers out there in the nice and calm weather but they look like they are sitting on top of a plastic bubble. I have never seen them in rough weather. I would like your input as to the stability of SIS vs SOT yaks. I am at a loss as to what is best for fishing and safety combined. I should also mention that I fish when it is just above freezing on calm winter days. Can anyone suggest any models for my requirements?
Likes: 0 Login to reply 10 years ago
Hi Rex

I would definitely go for a Sit on Top Kayak for fishing.
In my opinion they are much more stable then SIS.
In your cold water conditions I would wear a wetsuit or dry suit when kayaking for safety.

In case you capsize it would also be way easier to climb back onto a SOT kayak.
But I doubt you would capsize in a SOT unless you get pulled over by a super strong fish maybe :-)

You also got so much more space to organise and store your fishing tackle on a SOT.

I'm currently using a ocean prowler kayak - http://www.oceankayak.com/kayaks/angler_kayaks/trident_ultra_4.3/

Super stable and great cockpit for installing all your fishing gear and fish finder.
Plus you have a nice well behind you to store your catches.

You should try a SOT before you go and buy one.
But I think you will be pleasantly surprised how much more comfortable and stable they are compared to SIS.

cheers
Mark