Boat Fever

Florida Bay Outfitters has an annual torment Paul rental fleet sale: http://www.kayakfloridakeys.com/Sales/salerentalgear.htm

Why am I drooling this year?

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 160 w/ Rudder for $845

Yes, I already have a Tarpon, but it’s the older model.  The new model has their Phase 3 seat, which would solve my ass pad seat cushion problem quite nicely. 

It also has a rear well where my model has a hatch.  When they first made the change, I didn’t like it – reducing dry storage.  But over the years, I’ve come to wish I had that rear well – what with trying to access coolers and dive gear in the rear hatch or trying to keep things strapped to the back from sliding off the boat, I can see the benefit now.

Although the Tarpon’s marketed for fishermen, I like mine for all purposes.  It’s a very stable boat, tracks well and it’s easy to get in and out off – from dock, shore or deep water.  I’ve used mine for river, lake and ocean trips – touring and camping. 

Wilderness Systems Tarpon 140 w/ Rudder for $795

Why a second, shorter Tarpon?  Because the first one is so damn good, but the kids have trouble horsing the long boat around turns.

I now have four boats: my Tarpon, a Pamlico, a Swifty and a Spitfire.  Frankly, no one in the family likes to paddle anything but the Tarpon.  I got the Swifty and Spitfire for the kids, because they’re more appropriately sized, but the poor tracking of the shorter boats wears them out too fast.

I’m very tempted to sell those three and start buying multiple Tarpons.

Hobie Mirage Adventure Island $2399

I want this boat.

16’ with outriggers and sail – the peddle drive system would be nice for a break once in a while, too.

And, of course, now that I’ve started paddling again, it appears that the entire state of Florida is going to be rained on for the next week … figures.