Andrew23 wrote:
Hi,
So some questions that spring to mind:-
1/ Using the AI stripped down to just a kayak is it as capable and stable for fly-fishing as say a PA14?
2/ Will say a PA14 cope with extended trips and keep up with my other friends 5m+ touring kayaks in both speed and safety both for inland and coastal (and indeed would an AI as just a kayak be like a 5m+ touring kayak)?
3/ Is the AI nimble enough to manoeuvre in rivers or chase freshwater lake fish?
4/ All the You Tube videos seem to show the AI taking a lot of water over the bow is there any difference to the PA for the times I would prefer to stay dry like on very cold lakes?
Final thought:-
If you think that I would be better off with two kayaks as one can't do my list (which is an option as my wife would be keen on some trips) would it be best for a PA12 and an AI to have the versatility and then how safe is a PA12 for coastal applications or larger lakes for when my wife comes?
Cheers & thanks,
Andrew
Hi Andrew I will give you ,y opinion on your 4 questions
1/ Using the AI stripped down to just a kayak is it as capable and stable for fly-fishing as say a PA14? no not even close
2/ Will say a PA14 cope with extended trips and keep up with my other friends 5m+ touring kayaks in both speed and safety both for inland and coastal (and indeed would an AI as just a kayak be like a 5m+ touring kayak)? for Speed -nope- the PA 14 and 12 for that matter are wide and heavy- you will struggle to keep up with them. For safety- yes
3/ Is the AI nimble enough to manoeuvre in rivers or chase freshwater lake fish? not even close- thank God Hobie has reverse now- The AI is still a bear to manuver but reverse does help.
4/ All the You Tube videos seem to show the AI taking a lot of water over the bow is there any difference to the PA for the times I would prefer to stay dry like on very cold lakes? only time I take a lot of water over the bow is if i am sailing in wind and chop
Final thought:-
If you think that I would be better off with two kayaks as one can't do my list (which is an option as my wife would be keen on some trips) would it be best for a PA12 and an AI to have the versatility and then how safe is a PA12 for coastal applications or larger lakes for when my wife comes? The PA 12 is a very capable boat in any water and Yes it sounds like 2 kayak would suit your needs better than one do it all kayak.