Hello All! Newbie here, and I have a few questions...

[Followme438]

Hello everybody! I've been lurking for a month or so, and have finally decided to come out of my shell and ask a question or two and seek some advice.

I'm new to kayaking/kayak fishing, but have canoed for years. I'm torn between getting a Jackson Cuda 12 or starting off with a less fancy kayak (i.e. Ocean Kayak Tetra). I'm in the Severn area (just moved from Kansas, but I'm from FL) and am looking to fish everywhere I can possibly get to. I'm looking for any and all advice I can get. I do not want to get a Hobie (I actually like paddling), but beyond that I'm open to it all. I'd also like some advice on where some ponds are so I can do the whole crawl, walk, run thing... Thanks in advance!

[zimm]

use google earth and look at patapsco state park area/ patapsco river. most ponds will require some carry-in and exploration for a suitable launch

Daniels Are of the park offers a combo of pond type with a touch of river- the Dam hold water for about mile and a half of slow current paddling Easy launch.
Robert E Lee Park ( Balto city w/ Balto County management
Belgrove Ponds - sketchy launch directly into the middle pond near the VFW ( do not use their lot for parking) or Southwest park for a river launch w/ access to the ponds.
Lots of choices on the Eastern Shore which also has a good mix of tidal flow rivers for flat water adventure
And BTW Welcome!
glad you came out of your shell

[chimo]

I haven't fished out of either yak yet but I'm planning on picking up the Cuda 12 in May. The features and seat have me sold. Looks like the Tetra 12 is about $250 cheaper and will probably be a little faster. OC makes some nice hulls but if money isn't a factor I'd lean towards the cuda.

[Followme438]

Thanks for the replies everyone! I'm probably going to wind up with the Cuda. I like the way its rigged and honestly only think it could use an anchor trolly and a fish finder to be just right for me. I'm gonna look into Patapsco park soon. I was hoping to find an actual pond, but a big, slow moving pool in a river will do.

[wfauby]

dont second guess your choice of the Cuda...i have the Big Tuna and am thrilled with it. The seats are the best. Consider buying your Jackson from Delaware Paddle Sports in Lewes...depending on where you live they will deliver a short distance to meet you. Enjoy and welcome. W

[ronaultmtd]

Ocean makes a bunch of really versatile kayaks, as does Wilderness Systems- Hobies are the gold standard (pricey, too) as they are the easiest fishing yaks for long distance yaking- no other kayak can stay with a Hobie over a five mile stretch of open water- The boys with Hobies were fishing off Point Lookout for thirty minutes before I arrived on the fishing grounds (we all left the launch together) in my Prowler 13. The Prowler is a pretty fast paddle yak- if you primarily fish creeks, rivers, ponds, etc. The Hobies Mirage Drives aren't a big deal- if you primarily fish salt water- totally different story- they are unbeatable- my 2 cents worth-

And Native Ultimate is a consideration- a lot of guides use them for the Florida flats fishing skinny waters-

[yakken121212]

Depending on your location Piney Run Park in Carroll County and Centennial Lake in Howard County would both be excellent choices in addition to the Patapsco River above the Daniels Dam. Pick a site and I' ll meet you!

[Followme438]

Thanks again everyone! I'll be sure to take you up on that offer Yakken. I'll Google earth those places. And FYI, I'm near Ft. Meade

[deleonjo]

Check this link to Canoe and Kayak launch sites inAnne Arundel county.

http://www.aacounty.org/RecParks/launch/index.cfm

[Followme438]

Thanks man! That's super helpful!