Since kayak fishing is at it's core a personal sport involving personal watercraft, choosing the right 'yak' begins with you.

Personal

Your weight, height and physical condition will have a big impact on picking the right boat and are the first things to consider. The following example uses fairly conservative estimates for west coast fishing.

Example:

• You are 6' 2" and weigh 230 pounds.

• Your rod's, reels, fishing tackle, etc. add up to a total of 20 pounds.

• Factor in another 25 pounds for paddle(s), seat, rod holders, fish finder, dry bags and/or boxes, leashes, rope, first aid kit, food/drinking water, and misc. other stuff.

• You have a 3 gallon bait tank/live well that contributes another 10 pounds including the battery and an additional 25 pounds when full (water weighing 8.35# and bait being buoyant).

• If you don't always practice catch & release, your fish will weigh in too, unless you opt to drag them over the side (generally not a very good idea for several reasons).

• Your kayak weighs 55 pounds and has a maximum load capacity of 325 pounds.

It isn't hard to see where this is headed. You plus the stuff you take with you adds up quickly. As you get closer to maximum load capacity, the kayak will become increasingly unstable and difficult to handle depending on your overall physical shape. Changing wind and water conditions will add to this equation and could lead to a dangerous situation. On the other hand, if you are 165 pounds and are paddling a large, heavy kayak, you will probably not feel like venturing too far from your launch area. Choosing a kayak that's a good 'fit' for you, your gear and where you want to use it is VERY important.
 

What kind of vehicle do you plan on using to get your kayak to the water? Will you be able to handle unloading and loading it by yourself. Kayak carts are a big help if the water is still a ways from your parking spot, but will you also be able to carry the kayak for short distances over uneven terrain? 

After getting the hang of it, a 160 pound person in good condition should be able to load a 70# kayak onto a roof rack alone. But someone in marginal physical condition may not be able to load it alone without risking back injury. If you own a  pickup truck this may not be much of a factor since you can just push it in. If you own a sports car, a tall SUV or van, you will need to consider the weight and length of the kayak.
 

Fishing Preference

Where are you going to fish and what type of fishing are you expecting to do there? Will you fish only on lakes, slow moving rivers and protected bays or will you also want to launch through the surf to fish in the ocean. Are you interested in paddling long distances or just want stick close to your launch area? Do you fish with live bait or use only artificial lures. All these factors will help decide the right kayak for you.
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