Reviews written by hippie66

If you're looking for a very stable kayak that will be good for rivers, lakes, and BTB (Beyond The Breakers) fishing, the Ride115 is ideal. The hull design makes it so stable that you would fall out before it will flip. Self rescue is not difficult at all, as a recent practice session showed me. Plenty of room, great design, and a decent price. The high seat is great for someone with long legs, without making it feel unstable (I am 6' 1", 210 lbs). I have paddled Ride115's on rivers and lakes several times and it was the only kayak I considered for my 2nd 'yak.
The only negative I can see on these kayaks is they don't come standard with the rudder and rod holders. Everything else is just right.

The good:
The Castaway 116 is light enough to load in the back of a van or on top of a car by yourself.
The rod holders will securely hold rods for trolling.
Cheap price.

The bad:
Front hatch seal does nothing to stop water from getting inside the hull, as well as being so far forward that it is all but inaccessible while on the water.
The kayak sits too low in the water, allowing waves to come over the sides.
The seat is not comfortable for long days on the water, and allows water into the seating area.

I'd highly recommend spending a little more money on a good brand of kayak before purchasing one.