I am certain this is a dumb question, but I need some help.

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M Michael Meyer
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Joined: Tue May 06, 2014 3:54 am

I am certain this is a dumb question, but I need some help.

Post by M Michael Meyer »

My wife and I are new to kayaking and are in the market for our first kayaks. Our use will be fairly limited. I cannot imagine ever taking the kayak into freshwater. Additionally, I do not believe we will ever take the boats into the surf or offshore. My guess is that 95% (or more) of our kayaking will be done in the Rockport/Aransas Pass area. We will fish the flats and put in very close to our destination (e.g., B&R flats or LHL - launching from the causeway - or Estes flats - launching from Palm Harbor marina).

We have probably decided on the Ride 115X because the raised seat works very well for my wife (she has short legs) and I like the stability. I understand that this kayak will be slow, but since virtually all of our fishing days will involved paddling a total of 4 - 5 miles, this is a sacrifice I can live with.

The disadvantage is the weight, and specifically, the weight when it comes to loading and unloading. We are planning to obtain a trailer so that we do not need to lift the boats on to a roof rack. (I drive a Toyota Rav4.)

I am looking for recommendations for a trailer. I am a fairly accomplished DIYer so I am especially interested in buying a kit or a general purpose trailer (such as the trailers they sell at Harbor Freight) which can be modified to hold two kayaks.

Any recommendations? Does anyone know of plans, etc. for modifying a general purpose trailer into a kayak hauler?

Thank you.
JimM
Posts: 171
Joined: Fri Mar 15, 2013 9:38 pm

Re: I am certain this is a dumb question, but I need some help.

Post by JimM »

In the "Kayak Rigging" section, click on "Post Your Trailer". A lot of great info and pics in there.
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Doc S
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Location: San Antonio area Texas

Re: I am certain this is a dumb question, but I need some help.

Post by Doc S »

I'd suggest you consider looking at the ride 135 too...

You can, use the high or low seats.
The 135 is a bit longer, so, is a bit more efficient.
It's also very stable. ..

Ive had both the 115 and 135.
I stuck with, the 115, mainly because I, river fish. Shorter in the river is better. Speed & efficiency arent as much of an issue like they are for larger bodies of water...

God bless,
Doc S
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hickoxp
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Re: I am certain this is a dumb question, but I need some help.

Post by hickoxp »

The wife and I have 2012 versions of the WS 135. They are a little heavy but we went from an overhead rack system on my truck to using a trailer. The trailer has made all the difference in getting into and out of the water. We boat ramp in and out and time to load is about 3 mins per boat.

The up side of having them on a trailer is we can leave them rigged and in the garage. The Trailer allows me to hook up and drive off and I can be waterside in 20 minutes or less. Off load the boats directly into the water and go put the truck up and off we go. It has allowed us to make kayaking trips during the week after work! Those three or so hours after work make the weekdays not so much of a pain.

We don't leave the plates on the trailer while near the ramp. Some folks have had them stolen so ours is quick to remove and I tuck it up under the drivers seat.

One thing I would warn against. Each person has his/her own way they want the trailer configured. Some want everything under the sun on the trailer while others (me) like a boat-only trailer. How you rig yours is up to you but I would caution against putting everything and the kitchen sink on it. I see some of those same trailers being sold not long after for various reasons. Mod as needed....

Also, if you leave your boats out in the sun you should be keel hauled for kayak abuse... 303 is your friend.
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richg99
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Re: I am certain this is a dumb question, but I need some help.

Post by richg99 »

As a start up base trailer, take a look at the McLain galvanized "Jon boat" trailer that Academy sells. They were $600.00.

Might do the trick for you. Not all Academy stores stock the trailers. Call first. Rich

P.s. welded galvanized is going to hold up better that bolted mild painted steel.
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