Connecticut Water Trails Association
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Connecticut Water Trails Association |
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Connecticut Water Trails Program Kayaking Basics
Different Styles Of Kayaks -
This type of kayak offers the paddler a secondary option of power with a
unique pedal mechanism.
The pedals are a removable device that mount into a built-in opening in the hull. When you pedal back and forth, a set of penguin like flippers under the hull swing to propel the kayak. Some manufacturers offer a similar mechanism that also utilizes pedal power to move a small propeller instead of "flippers".
Included is a hand controlled rudder system to easily steer - it raises out of the water when not in use. Both the pedals and the rudder make this type of kayak fast and maneuverable.
Some models, designed specifically for fishing, include rod holders,
storage compartments for bait, a cooler or dive tanks - and an anchor
system can be added. Fishermen are able to move the kayak with the
pedals, they can maneuver in confined areas and have free access to all
their kayak fishing stuff .
But wait .... there's more to these . . . for those who like to sail kayaks, some manufacturers also offer sail rigging ("Sail-Yak"). The rigging is easy and boy, do they fly!
The Stats . . . The hull design is an elaborate sit-on-top with built-in storage compartments. They are quite stable and maneuverable. They are manufactured in both solo and tandem styles (tandem, in the photo above). Their lengths range from near 10' to about 16'. They are on the heavier side - weighing-in between nearly 50 lbs. and over 70 lbs., depending on the model you choose.
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