Nebraskaland

36 NEBRASKAland • APRIL 2017 kayaks range from nine to 15 feet long at various widths. Do you want a boat that is small and light for lugging through a mile of backwoods before getting to water? Shorter kayaks excel on a wide variety of waters, providing the capability to make short turns and maneuver along small streams and flooded timber – not to mention taking up less space for storage and transportation. However, a longer, narrower kayak tracks better, staying on course and making easier work over long distances. A bigger vessel also provides ample room for storage and often enough stability to stand upon for a casting platform or to carry your trusty waterfowl-retrieving canine. A wider kayak will excel in stability but it is not going to get high marks for speed. If possible, those purchasing a kayak would be wise to sit in it, or even better, take it for a float, before taking it home. Each model handles a little differently, not to mention provides different features in varying arrangements. Sit-on-top vs. Sit-in Just like their caribou-skinned predecessors, sit-in kayaks, in which users are seated in a cockpit, provide a heightened barrier for those battling heavy surf, whitewater and big waves. While Nebraska may not have much of the first two, many of its reservoirs often feature big waves and wakes where some extra protection from the water is desirable – especially in colder temperatures. Regardless, the virtually unsinkable hollow-bodied sit-on-top kayak, with its molded ergonomic deck, has become the chosen option for many floaters for a variety of reasons. For one, this style is much easier to get in and out of, especially for larger users. Once aboard, operators are freer to move about. Many larger kayaks even have big enough platforms for users to stand, especially true of newer models that even have seats that will transform to leaning bars. Most also have hatches to access storage space below the deck. The "Propeller" Once aboard any vessel, the captain needs a way to propel his or her ship. The most common form of power for the kayak, of course, has long been the humble paddle. Paddles remain the lightest of the options and popular for people who got into the sport for its minimalistic attributes. Not only is a paddle low maintenance but it also provides great exercise. No winterizing, recharges or oil changes needed. Perhaps the one item that most distinctly separates a kayak from a canoe is the style of paddle. Kayakers use a double-bladed set-up that allows for quickly moving through the water with less time between strokes as the single-bladed variety. Many of today's kayaks come with apt paddles, but not all are created equal. Considering kayakers rely so heavily on this piece of equipment, they are wise to choose a good one. Length is critical, with taller paddlers ensured a better experience with a longer paddle and vice versa. Boat width is also an important consideration. Paddles generally range from 78 to 98 inches. Blades are most commonly constructed of nylon, aluminum and plastic, but higher performance models of fiberglass and carbon fiber are available. Regardless of the design, it is important the paddle has drip rings to keep the water from running down the shaft and into your lap. Unlike days of yesteryear, paddles are not the only way to move a kayak across the water. Some kayak users have found ways to mount an electric trolling motor and some let their feet do the work. Hoby, for instance, has distinguished itself for years by providing a hands-free pedal-powered kayak, especially popular for anglers, and other manufacturers are now following suit. Modern sit-on-top kayaks such as the Lifetime Tamarack Angler often come from the manufacturer with amenities popular for anglers, including rod holders, padded seating and hatches for storage. Sit-in kayaks such as the Sun Dolphin Aruba 10 have basic features, but give users an inexpensive way to get on the water.

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