General points to bear in mind
- The wider the kayak, the more stable it is.
- The narrower the kayak, the faster and more manoeuvrable it is.
- The shorter the kayak, the lighter and easier it is to maneuver.
- The longer the kayak, the faster it will stay on course.
It's a combination of all these factors that will determine the sailing qualities of your kayak. Based on these qualities, the kayak will respond to your pre-established program.
Factors to consider when making your choice
Price: gK models range in price from 400 to 2,500 euros.
The program: freshwater fishing, sea fishing, both. Depending on the program, kayaking must comply with certain regulations (these will be discussed in depth in another article).
Calm rivers, enclosed stretches of water, 300 m strip of coastline: short kayaks are more maneuverable, especially when navigating in congested areas (submerged tree trunks, meanders, rocks, oyster beds, etc.), where floats from 2.80 to 3.60 are recommended.
Large lakes, sea, a long kayak will cover long distances more easily and with less fatigue. Spots: launch from a beach, bank, slipway, etc.
Propulsion : paddle-powered, blade-powered, propeller-powered, motor-powered, hybrid-powered.
Storage on land : gK models range from 2 m to 4.50 m in length, and weigh from 15 to 40 kg.
Transport : on gallery or trailer.
Your body type : a kayak is designed to carry a maximum total weight, and a small kayak is not always comfortable for a tall person.
These are the most important criteria to consider.
Classic paddle propulsion or powered kayak
If you're just starting out in kayak fishing, the classic paddle kayak is the perfect choice. It's already more affordable than a powered kayak, and easier to maintain. It's also a good way to see if you like kayaking, and they're easy to resell on the second-hand market. In the GK range, there's a wide choice of paddle models: Le Force, Cruz Ultra, Ranger, Fuego, Blaze, Tahiti Tandem 2+1 solo.
Power kayaking
These are kayaks entirely dedicated to fishing, as they allow you to have your hands free at all times. Their cost is a little higher, and like all mechanical kayaks, they require a certain amount of maintenance. In propelled kayaks, you have the paddle system or the pedal-propeller system. The 2 movements are different. On the paddle system, you push on the steppe arms, while on the propeller crankset, you turn your legs like on a bicycle. The paddle system is ideal for fishing edges, crowded areas and shallow waters. In such areas, the crankset will be wound up more often to avoid rubbing. Both systems are efficient and effective. A propeller crankset also weighs more than a stepper.
The GK 2024 range of powered kayaks also offers a wide choice:
- The Alboran FX3, with dual propulsion, choice of propeller or stepper The Wildcat, also with a choice of dual propulsion systems
- The Supernova FX, the largest solo kayak in the range with propeller propulsion The Supernova Junior should be arriving shortly in the 2024 catalog
- The Hawaii FX Tandem, a stepper-powered double kayak
Most of these models are also available with an optional motor drive. The models feature crimped inserts for mounting a Torquedo-type engine mounting plate. A central motor for the Wildcat and Alboran models will be available shortly.
A few more details
When buying a kayak, you also need to consider a few extras, which I'll talk about in future articles: the transport cart, fishing accessories such as the depth sounder, safety equipment depending on the distance you're going to be fishing, and special clothing for the sport... You'll find full descriptions of all our models on our product sheets, which you can access by clicking on the link under the article "Discover our kayak range". Kayaking is for you!
