A few years ago I purchased a Perception kayak. After much research and talking to an expert at my local kayak store, I decided on a recreational kayak. I came to this decision because I planned to only venture into streams, rivers and small lakes.

Eventually, I settled for the Sundance model, which is 12 feet long. The price was higher than other kayaks I looked at but they didn’t have the comfort and options the Perception had.

The seat is extremely soft and comfortable. The backrest has an adjustable height and you are able to adjust the backrest to sit straight or recline back.  I quickily found that one of the most important things about buying a kayak is to make sure the seat is comfortable.

The Sundance has nice grab handles on both ends of the boat. There is also built in bungee straps to hold items, but whatever you put there will typically get a bit wet. There is a big waterproof storage space in the rear of the boat and it could also be used as a cooler.  The only problem with this storage is that you have to get out of the boat to open this compartment.

The adjustable foot pedals works great for me as I am 6’2”. The foot pedals or rests help you stabilize the boat when paddling.  I bought a carbon fiber paddle for those long days. It is very lightweight and comes apart for easy storage. I also use a paddle leash to keep it hooked to the boat.  If I go by myself and loose my paddle it is really hard to use your hands to paddle so the leash comes in handy.

I decided early to settle for a natural color that could easily blend into the surroundings in case I decided to do some type of hunting from the.  Sand was the color I chose, which is still nice for recreational boating.

I carry a sponge for unwanted water in the boat.  The reason for this is that each kayak always has a certain amount of water in them.  This either happens from splashing or getting in and out of the boat.  It is easy to sponge it up if you are carrying one!

There are a lot of options a person can get for kayaks. There are rod holders for fishing, water skirts to keep you dry and so much more. This boat is not too heavy. I don’t have any problem putting it in the back of my truck. My wife handles hers very well to.

Kayaks are very easy to paddle allowing you to enjoy new areas and see things from a different point of view.

Before you purchase a kayak, determine what your local laws are for life jackets.  In Michigan, you do not have to wear a life jacket when you are in a kayak, but you do have to have one within reach.

To purchase this kayak online, visit SierraTradingPost.com or DicksSportingGoods.com.  Yoopers can visit Brampton Bike in Gladstone.

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