Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post Reply
User avatar
Neumie
Site Admin
Posts: 4012
Joined: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:10 pm
Location: SA, Hallettsville, or Rockport

Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Neumie »

Delete
Last edited by Neumie on Wed Nov 27, 2019 8:43 am, edited 6 times in total.
User avatar
Neumie
Site Admin
Posts: 4012
Joined: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:10 pm
Location: SA, Hallettsville, or Rockport

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Neumie »

At the bottom you'll see additional tabs.

The fourth tab is for PFDs. Those are broken down into Men/Unisex, Women, Inflatable, and Kids. Within the men/Unisex and Women's PFDs they are broken down into High Back (meaning the the flotation on the back is higher up between the shoulder blades to clear seat backs found on SOT kayaks), High Back - Angler (have features geared towards anglers), Thin Back (the flotation on the back is f full length, but thin enough to not be cumbersome when leaning back in a kayak seat), and Thin Back - Angler. A few of the models come in Universal Sizing, but most you need to select the correct size for your build. Inflatable is broken down into Auto Suspenders, Manual Suspenders, and Manual Belt. Kids is broken down into Youth and Child sizes.

The fifth tab is for kayak paddles. The paddles within the spreadsheet are considered "high angle" paddles with shorter, but broader blade designs. Those are broken into standard and adjustable length. Adjustable length paddles are a good option for kayaks which have a high/low adjustable seat heights. Within those to categories the paddles are grouped by build materials. Group 1 is fiberglass shaft with fiberglass reinforced nylon blades. Group 2 is carbon fiber shaft with fiberglass reinforced nylon blades. Group 3 is carbon fiber shaft with carbon reinforced nylon blades. Group 4 is carbon fiber shaft with fiberglass blades. Group 5 is carbon fiber shaft with carbon fiber blades. You should choose the lightest paddle within your budget.

Let me know if you have any questions on any of these spreadsheets. I hope this information helps those new or are looking to upgrade.
Last edited by Neumie on Tue Nov 26, 2019 1:57 pm, edited 1 time in total.
User avatar
Ron Mc
TKF 5000 Club
TKF 5000 Club
Posts: 5675
Joined: Fri Jan 20, 2006 6:12 pm
Location: downtown Bulverde, Texas
Contact:

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Ron Mc »

look at you go Josh - Great effort.
User avatar
Neumie
Site Admin
Posts: 4012
Joined: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:10 pm
Location: SA, Hallettsville, or Rockport

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Neumie »

Delete
Last edited by Neumie on Tue Nov 26, 2019 2:04 pm, edited 3 times in total.
User avatar
Neumie
Site Admin
Posts: 4012
Joined: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:10 pm
Location: SA, Hallettsville, or Rockport

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Neumie »

Ron Mc wrote:look at you go Josh - Great effort.
Thanks Ron.
User avatar
Getz-Some55
Posts: 107
Joined: Sat Nov 12, 2016 11:01 pm
Location: The 903 in Spring, TX

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Getz-Some55 »

I didn't see this until it popped up on my Tapatalk email notifications.
This is amazing! Thanks Neumie!
I'll be selectively sharing this with friends that are in the market.
User avatar
niswanger
Posts: 112
Joined: Sun Sep 23, 2018 8:23 pm
Location: Round Rock, TX

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by niswanger »

Very nice data set here, thank you for sharing it.

I did some quick sorting on capacity and found it odd...for instance.

How can the Eddy Gear Sting Ray XL at 13'04" and width of 29.5" have a capacity of 670 lbs when the Native Titan Propel is 2" longer and a whopping 12" wider at 41.5" but only have a capacity of 550 lbs? Would hull design (geometry and components) really off-set it that much?

Thanks,
Roy
User avatar
Neumie
Site Admin
Posts: 4012
Joined: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:10 pm
Location: SA, Hallettsville, or Rockport

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Neumie »

niswanger wrote:Very nice data set here, thank you for sharing it.

I did some quick sorting on capacity and found it odd...for instance.

How can the Eddy Gear Sting Ray XL at 13'04" and width of 29.5" have a capacity of 670 lbs when the Native Titan Propel is 2" longer and a whopping 12" wider at 41.5" but only have a capacity of 550 lbs? Would hull design (geometry and components) really off-set it that much?

Thanks,
Roy
There's no industry standard for determining weight capacity so that's why there's wide variance in weight capacities. I personally do not trust the listed weight capacities of kayaks from China; I believe them to be optimistic to say the least. Hull design does impact capacity (wider beam, flat bottom, pontoon hull, etc), but the that Eddy Line kayak seems why, why too high given it's specs and my eye test.

I made a post about this earlier this year (CLICK) where I reached out to some of the popular kayak manufactures to find out what their weight capacity actually meant. I won't recap all the answers, but Native Watercraft you subtract the weight of the kayak, seat, hatches, drives, etc to determine it's actual weight capacity. For example: Native Watercraft's Titan 10.5's true weight capacity is 379 lbs (500 lbs - 121 lbs for kayak, seat, drive, etc).

I'll add, it's important to balance your load while kayak fishing to get optimal performance and weight capacity. Most kayakers don't (I don't either) and the vast majority of the weight we add to the kayak (person, gear, coolers, etc) is above the waterline and in the back half of the kayak. This means we're ass heavy. That's why I think it's important to stay at 70%-75% below the stated manufacturers weight capacity so you don't have issues while on the water.
User avatar
niswanger
Posts: 112
Joined: Sun Sep 23, 2018 8:23 pm
Location: Round Rock, TX

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by niswanger »

Not surprised that there are variances and only makes sense that some would be inflated, just like battery capacity. The idea to stay under 75% rated capacity is a good idea for sure.

I do try to distribute my load and I've put a little more in font of me than probably the average. When I use my sail (currently the stock Hobie Kit sail, but as we speak Star Kayak Sails is making a custom one for me that is close to twice the size), having the bow dominant in the water helps reduce leeward drift.

-Roy
User avatar
Neumie
Site Admin
Posts: 4012
Joined: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:10 pm
Location: SA, Hallettsville, or Rockport

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Neumie »

niswanger wrote:When I use my sail (currently the stock Hobie Kit sail, but as we speak Star Kayak Sails is making a custom one for me that is close to twice the size), having the bow dominant in the water helps reduce leeward drift.

-Roy
A bit of an FYI, if your kayak is over 14 feet in length and you are using a sail you'll have to register it with TPWD.
User avatar
niswanger
Posts: 112
Joined: Sun Sep 23, 2018 8:23 pm
Location: Round Rock, TX

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by niswanger »

Yes, it's in the regulations (that white outdoors booklet with also fish size/limits). I've known about this and knowingly still have yet to get my registration numbers. Before ordering this better custom sail and making my own mast, I just didn't use the stock sail kit enough to justify it. But I'm planning on it, plus it gives me the opportunity to put a 40lb thrust trolling motor add as a possible addition. One thing on the registration process that bugs me is that I bought it used from craigslist and all I have is a simple bill of sale that is in electronic form only now (lost the original). It doesn't have the previous owners address or phone number. Hope I don't run into issues registering it. Now here's the funny thing, I just ran out into my garage to measure my PA14...thinking well it must be 14' but I wanted to see what would happen if I take the forward handle off? Well as it turns out and I could be off an inch but my PA14 isn't actually 14' long. It's at least 3" short of 14'. This is including the handles.

Ha so a quick google search puts it at 13' 8" from the manufacture's website: https://www.hobie.com/kayaks/mirage-pro-angler-14/

So, do I really need it registered? Are there stipulations on if the model name has a number to suggest it's length that the regulations go off a name and not the actual length? Could the length measurement be done differently, i.e. is it measured from the bow to the stern along the hull line?

And finally, I'll need to look at the trolling motor add...is there a 14' cutoff for them or is it any size vessel with electric or gas motor?

Thanks,
Roy
User avatar
Neumie
Site Admin
Posts: 4012
Joined: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:10 pm
Location: SA, Hallettsville, or Rockport

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Neumie »

niswanger wrote:Yes, it's in the regulations (that white outdoors booklet with also fish size/limits). I've known about this and knowingly still have yet to get my registration numbers. Before ordering this better custom sail and making my own mast, I just didn't use the stock sail kit enough to justify it. But I'm planning on it, plus it gives me the opportunity to put a 40lb thrust trolling motor add as a possible addition. One thing on the registration process that bugs me is that I bought it used from craigslist and all I have is a simple bill of sale that is in electronic form only now (lost the original). It doesn't have the previous owners address or phone number. Hope I don't run into issues registering it. Now here's the funny thing, I just ran out into my garage to measure my PA14...thinking well it must be 14' but I wanted to see what would happen if I take the forward handle off? Well as it turns out and I could be off an inch but my PA14 isn't actually 14' long. It's at least 3" short of 14'. This is including the handles.

Ha so a quick google search puts it at 13' 8" from the manufacture's website: https://www.hobie.com/kayaks/mirage-pro-angler-14/

So, do I really need it registered? Are there stipulations on if the model name has a number to suggest it's length that the regulations go off a name and not the actual length? Could the length measurement be done differently, i.e. is it measured from the bow to the stern along the hull line?

And finally, I'll need to look at the trolling motor add...is there a 14' cutoff for them or is it any size vessel with electric or gas motor?

Thanks,
Roy
Under 14' (actual measurement), you do not need to register as a sailboat. If you add a trolling motor you will need to register; regardless of the length of the vessel. All motorized (electric, gas or otherwise) are required to be registered if you use them on public waters of Texas.

Shoot Hobie an email requesting a copy of your MSO along with a picture of your serial number on the kayak and a return address. They'll either mail you a copy or email a PDF. I've had to request copies of MSO for some of my kayaks in the past, both used and new, and never had an issue with obtaining copies from other manufactures.

I've never registered a kayak, but since this topic is brought up fairly frequently it seems like it's a fairly pain free process with or without the MSO. You'll need to fill out TPWD Form 143, drive to your nearest TPWD office, verify or have them help you fill out the document, break out your check book and pay the fee. You'll probably want at the very least a picture of the serial number, or better yet bring the kayak with you just in case. I think it's about $65 the first go around and then about $32 every two years.
User avatar
niswanger
Posts: 112
Joined: Sun Sep 23, 2018 8:23 pm
Location: Round Rock, TX

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by niswanger »

Neumie wrote: I've never registered a kayak, but since this topic is brought up fairly frequently it seems like it's a fairly pain free process with or without the MSO. You'll need to fill out TPWD Form 143, drive to your nearest TPWD office, verify or have them help you fill out the document, break out your check book and pay the fee. You'll probably want at the very least a picture of the serial number, or better yet bring the kayak with you just in case. I think it's about $65 the first go around and then about $32 every two years.
Well, here's what Hobie said, even sent them a photo of the SN on the transome of the yak and a copy of my bill of sale from the previous owner:

Code: Select all

Hi Roy,
 
Thanks for reaching out to Hobie with your inquiry.
 
Unfortunately we are only legally able to release the MSO to the purchasing dealer.
 
The dealer will need to sign over the MSO to the customer who purchased the boat and in turn, that person can sign it over to you.  If this is not a possible option your next option would be to file for a lost or never registered title (MSO) within your state.
 
Please let me know if you have any questions.
 
Thank you,
User avatar
Neumie
Site Admin
Posts: 4012
Joined: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:10 pm
Location: SA, Hallettsville, or Rockport

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Neumie »

niswanger wrote:Well, here's what Hobie said, even sent them a photo of the SN on the transome of the yak and a copy of my bill of sale from the previous owner:
Hmmm, bummer. I guess Legacy (now BIG) and Confluence (Now Pelican) were (are) lenient back in the day. I still think it's worth a shot to fill out the 143 form and bring your kayak to TPWD.
User avatar
TexasJim
Posts: 726
Joined: Sun Sep 22, 2013 11:56 am
Location: Crockport

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by TexasJim »

I've registered and titled two old boats, under 14 feet, recently. If you don't have an MSO, but have a VIN number, you can probably go to the TPWD office, schedule an inspection by a Game Warden($25). If your number doesn't show up in their records, they will probably let you pay the $25, the $27(Title Application), and the $32(two year registration fee). If you don't have a VIN number, they can give you an "Assigned Hull Number" sticker. Worked twice for me. They really aren't trying to be difficult, and they want your money, now and forever. They just have rules to follow.
Can you imagine how many untitled boats are sitting in yards in Texas? TexasJim
bones72
Posts: 236
Joined: Sat Jun 08, 2019 1:42 pm

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by bones72 »

TexasJim wrote: Can you imagine how many untitled boats are sitting in yards in Texas? TexasJim

Holy cow, I always thought of this. I think it is required to be a Texan with more than five acres to have at least one old boat sitting in the yard. More than five acres requires at least one 1970s vintage fiberglass boat displaying a torn apart motor, inboard or outboard doesn't seem to really matter. Must be visible from the road.
User avatar
Kitsune
Posts: 777
Joined: Mon Dec 01, 2008 10:47 am
Location: Rockport/AP/CC

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Kitsune »

How do I locate the spreadsheet....am I missing something?
User avatar
Neumie
Site Admin
Posts: 4012
Joined: Sat Nov 27, 2004 10:10 pm
Location: SA, Hallettsville, or Rockport

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Neumie »

Kitsune wrote: Sat Apr 15, 2023 4:51 pm How do I locate the spreadsheet....am I missing something?
I've deleted the spreadsheet and link; it was outdated and not something I want to maintain anymore.
User avatar
Kitsune
Posts: 777
Joined: Mon Dec 01, 2008 10:47 am
Location: Rockport/AP/CC

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Kitsune »

Okay.. that does seem like a task nowadays. Thanks.
User avatar
Ron Mc
TKF 5000 Club
TKF 5000 Club
Posts: 5675
Joined: Fri Jan 20, 2006 6:12 pm
Location: downtown Bulverde, Texas
Contact:

Re: Spreadsheet to Help Narrow Down Your Kayak Choice

Post by Ron Mc »

Completely understand your choice and the strain on your limited time, Josh.

But even without updating, it was the single best resource for people in the used-boat market.
I was searching this morning to link it on a timely BR forum thread.
Regards
Post Reply