ULTIMATE ANGLING - the Ultimate SA Fishing website
OFFSHORE ANGLING => General Offshore Angling Discussion => Topic started by: sea sick on April 12, 2011, 09:56:12 PM
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guys
Your input needed.
I am a keen rock and surf angler, but i want to start doing offshore.
I would like to know the following,
Would it be a mistake, starting small in like getting a aqua quad.
I did think of a jetski, but it's a no go as the aqua quad is n little bigger, so me and my 15 year old son can fish from the quad.
The quad is more steadier as it is wider then a ski.
I have a isuzu 280dc 4*2 difflock and want to keep it that way for now.
As the quad is very light, towing from joburg down to the coast shoild not be that tireing.
I could later upgrade to a bigger boat, if needed.
Will the isuzu not get stuck in the st lucia sand?
Had a beech buggy years back, so have some experience, but the isuzu is way heavier then the buggy.
Your comments awaited.
Dankie.
Pottie
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Pottie,
Do you know about the Catskee? It is made in Pennington on the South coast and is
worth investigating, I think.
Nice entry level, sea-going craft.
Very affordable as well.
I'm thinking of getting one myself.
http://www.catskee.com/ (http://www.catskee.com/)
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SS do not attempt to launch anything with a 2 wheel drive as you will get stuck and if you are alone it will be in the shore dump when launching your boat, then you have serious problems. the launch site at st lucia is a 2km beach drive you might be fine while you have momentum but as soon as you stop on the soft sand its going to be a battle to get going again.
cheers rory
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SS do not attempt to launch anything with a 2 wheel drive as you will get stuck and if you are alone it will be in the shore dump when launching your boat, then you have serious problems. the launch site at st lucia is a 2km beach drive you might be fine while you have momentum but as soon as you stop on the soft sand its going to be a battle to get going again.
cheers rory
Rory,
Can't one rent a tractor to assist with launching at St Lucia?
Or launch at the Fishing club? (If the mouth is open)
Being a kayaker I never realy noticed.
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I would say the first thing to consider is a 4x4. You will be towing a long distance and it can happen there is something wrong with the tractor, then what?
Then, I like the look of that little Catskee PH posted. I would much rather have something like that.
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guys,
The 4*4 is sorted.
Any one have any comments regarding entry level 'aqua quad'
You can also see them at
Peterswatersports.co.za under the rubber duck section.
I can get a 2nd hand one, for a good price, with a 50hp yamaha.
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guys,
The 4*4 is sorted.
Any one have any comments regarding entry level 'aqua quad'
You can also see them at
Peterswatersports.co.za under the rubber duck section.
I can get a 2nd hand one, for a good price, with a 50hp yamaha.
Sorry, can't comment as I've never been on one. PieterH has one, maybe send him a PM
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hi bennie.
I do understand, but is it worth starting small, or should i just go big?
Small is manageble.
Big is oprn ocean........
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hi bennie.
I do understand, but is it worth starting small, or should i just go big?
Small is manageble.
Big is oprn ocean........
It is worth going small initially especially if you have very little to no off-shore experience. Small will mean low operating costs and a lot more manageable on the beaches, easier to tow, easy to launch. Just bear in mind if it is for you, you may want to upgrade in the future, most people do until they eventually scale right down again. :hehe:
That said, you could also invest in a few charters and decide from there.
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I have never seen the catskee, but seems like a nice very little boat.
IMO the quad has some limitations.
1- it has inflatable pontoons low down. fish have skikes and teeth, sharp hooks are used to catch them etc. they therefore get holes. Persoally I dont like holes in my boats.
2- they are fun to play in the waves on, but they are not as"indestructable" as a jetski. Once the fishing set up is removed froma jetski it can be used as a toy int he waves, you can fall off, flip etc and the motor doesnt get wrecked, you dont chop yourself to pieces ont he prop etc.
3- resale will be down compared to a jetski.
If you do mange to turn over at sea, you wont get the quad righted and running again easily. the jet, you climb on and go.
Ont eh up side, they are generally cheaper than a jet sjki, but there are some good deals on 2nd had jetskis, It is probably a bit more stable than a jetski, but the fishing jets are plenty stavble for 2 people.
If its for only 2 of you, I would go either small boat ie catskee (but I dont know them) or jetski.
Alot depends on how you intend fishing, how many of you, where and what you will target etc. you need to clear this up in your own mind and then make a decision. it may turn out that a skivee or slightly bigger small cat is the ideal for your intended purpose. All are fair capital outlays, so you dont want to pay cash and be unhappy witht he decision.
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SeaSick ...... you should firstly think it thru properly as it usually is a way bigger decision than one realises. Firstly you have no experience in owning and operating an offshore vessel. From experience I can tell you that as you learn during the operation and ownership of a vessel, you will discover a million things you never considered initially. It is also impossible to consider without the experience. So my advice here would be to go as cheap as you can ensuring however the vessel is constructed solidly and safely. You will be looking around in a while to upgrade and then you do not stand to loose to much.
Another recommendation from me will be to go do your skippers first and ensure it is a Cat C irrelevant of what you might require. This way you gain valuable experience and knowledge before you make that all important decision.
Looking at the Catskee I see a few things that bother me.
1. Looks like there is not adequate drainage for when a water comes onto the deck.
2. Statement of no skippers required I do not agree with.
3. They have a motor rating for a single person surf launching which I would imagine not to be legal.
I hope some of this assist you in that all important decision.
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@TUNAMAN:
I know nothing ab out these matters, but I qoute from their web site
The Merchant Shipping (National Small Vessel Safety) Regulations 2007 (also available on the SAMSA website) which has made it easier and cheaper for entry level boaters to start - where a craft powered by a motor equal to or less than 15HP is exempt from satisfying certain conditions namely: exemption of annual inspection and seaworthy certificate(ref Marine Notice 13 – Part 2.1.2-3 – page no. 7) and exempt from the skipper requiring a skippers certificate or certification (ref Marine Notice 13 – Part2.1.2-2 – page no.6 and Part 14 – page no. 52) This is applicable should the craft not exceed 15HP!
The manufacturer informed me that it is the intention to use a single motor to build up hours for the
skippers and then fit an additional motor to be able to take on another person on the boat.
:dunno:
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tunaman.
Looking at getting a aqua quad, with at least 40 hp.
So it shoukld float even when flipped.
Like you say, an important besluit die.
The nice thing also, getting a aqua quad, i can use on vaal dam which is close to me.
Thanks for all the input, so far.
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@TUNAMAN:
I know nothing ab out these matters, but I qoute from their web site
The Merchant Shipping (National Small Vessel Safety) Regulations 2007 (also available on the SAMSA website) which has made it easier and cheaper for entry level boaters to start - where a craft powered by a motor equal to or less than 15HP is exempt from satisfying certain conditions namely: exemption of annual inspection and seaworthy certificate(ref Marine Notice 13 – Part 2.1.2-3 – page no. 7) and exempt from the skipper requiring a skippers certificate or certification (ref Marine Notice 13 – Part2.1.2-2 – page no.6 and Part 14 – page no. 52) This is applicable should the craft not exceed 15HP!
The manufacturer informed me that it is the intention to use a single motor to build up hours for the
skippers and then fit an additional motor to be able to take on another person on the boat.
:dunno:
@PH now you have shown me something i was not aware of. I have to however disagree with the practice be it legal. You have just gone out with Mike (Harbour Launch) and can you just imagine surf launching in a craft that probably will be at the speed or slower than the swell itself and an operator (note not skipper) with no experience behind the wheel. I know it is just one person but I strongly recommend that it should not be an option and no insurance company will cover you at all. Secondly any experienced skipper will tell you that the craft in question seems to lack adequate drainage for that wave that breaks onto deck during a launch.
This is where the experience comes in. I personally with lots of experience will not launch that boat with a 15 at the back in our surf conditions. You will be so open for a problem.
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tunaman.
Looking at getting a aqua quad, with at least 40 hp.
So it shoukld float even when flipped.
Like you say, an important besluit die.
The nice thing also, getting a aqua quad, i can use on vaal dam which is close to me.
Thanks for all the input, so far.
What do they sell for?
http://www.hansenbt.co.za/Search.aspx?searchcat=&startprice=-1&endprice=9999999&searchmake=Ski%20Vee (http://www.hansenbt.co.za/Search.aspx?searchcat=&startprice=-1&endprice=9999999&searchmake=Ski%20Vee)
Above is just an idea of one of the most popular and dependable small crafts available. Also no problem to swing it afterwards.
Have you done your inlands skippers yet? Reason why I ask it would be best if you have not to do the Cat C type. Costs bit more and takes more time but the experience and knowledge passed on is invaluable.
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IMHO no person should operate a motor-driven watercraft without a skippers. Not that a skippers is the be-all and end-all, but the experience you gain from the communication with other skippers is vital.
Which brings me to that other issue: hire, rent, steal, beg as much hours with an experienced skipper before you even think of getting your own boat. Experience and common sense on the water is NOT natural and should be acquired. I'm not saying this to dampen anybody's spirits, but as a great big caution to all prospective boat owners.
Another thing to keep in mind is that it costs a lot to keep a boat running, especially if you want to tow from Joburg three or four times a year, if you're lucky.
That said and done, being a skipper and a boat owner is one of the most enjoyable things ever!! Do it right (IMHO) and you'll have so much pleasure you just won't believe!
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@ TUNAMAN & 1309SG
Sound advice, Thanks!!!
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Whether or not he should get a skippers ticket is not the question...
Sea sick asked "Would it be a mistake, starting small in like getting a aqua quad...."
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dis korrek, dankie bennie dat jy die manne weer op track kry.
Seems, that starting small could be better.
And remember, this thing will now replace my bait boat too.
So more fun, on vaaldam too.
Have just spoken to dave de bruin, he advised me to do my cat c skippers instead.
Now i just need to get everything sorted. And then it's :dor: :cout: :yft: :grk: :gt:
Dankie vir almal se input.
Groete
See siek
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Whether or not he should get a skippers ticket is not the question...
Sea sick asked "Would it be a mistake, starting small in like getting a aqua quad...."
:hehe: :hehe: :hehe: granted Bud but it is a much bigger question than what it reads.... w;k
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dis korrek, dankie bennie dat jy die manne weer op track kry.
Seems, that starting small could be better.
And remember, this thing will now replace my bait boat too.
So more fun, on vaaldam too.
Have just spoken to dave de bruin, he advised me to do my cat c skippers instead.
Now i just need to get everything sorted. And then it's :dor: :cout: :yft: :grk: :gt:
Dankie vir almal se input.
Groete
See siek
Klaar gepraat...... Sea Sick dit is 100% die pad. Gaan ry n bietjie boot op die prakties dan kyk jy met nuwe oe.
Dit is n great ervaring en geniet elke oomblik.
Wat kos die Aqua Quad?
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bennie,
Nuut met 40hp so r70 000
Maar daar is darem nog n 2nd hand mark
Sal seker kyk vir so om en 50 000.
Dis n paar rand, ek sien dat daar is groter bote te koop vir dieselfde prys.
Die klein goed, behhort mskliker te smoud op die einde.
Marcell van hondamarinekzn se die goed smous soos soetkoek 2de hans.
Hier kom n ding.........
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bennie,
Nuut met 40hp so r70 000
Maar daar is darem nog n 2nd hand mark
Sal seker kyk vir so om en 50 000.
Dis n paar rand, ek sien dat daar is groter bote te koop vir dieselfde prys.
Die klein goed, behhort mskliker te smoud op die einde.
Marcell van hondamarinekzn se die goed smous soos soetkoek 2de hans.
Hier kom n ding.........
Soos soetkoek.... ne??? :hehe:
Just remember... If you find a big boat for the same price as a small boat, chances are there will be more wrong with it.
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when i get all of this sorted, i need to do only 1 thing.
Get n huisie by die see, en bly daar.
I wanna move down, but she doesn't want to sell the house to move closer, now i'm 600km stuck.
Untilf i get a deworse....... :hehe:
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when i get all of this sorted, i need to do only 1 thing.
Get n huisie by die see, en bly daar.
I wanna move down, but she doesn't want to sell the house to move closer, now i'm 600km stuck.
Untilf i get a deworse....... :hehe:
:shk :shk :shk Met eeissh jaa.... what a dilemma wonder which is gonna win... :hehe: :hehe:
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as you know eve, always wins.
And adam sits and cries.........
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Personally I would rather go with a hard boat than something with pontoons, having said that those aqua quads are very stable and better in the surf than any boat or duck but not an easy fishing platform where a hard boat will be much better for this. I saw that Cat Ski and for what it is it looks very good and with you being up country would be ideal for the dams also, it is light to tow and so on.
4x4 is the way to go, but that would depend on where you are launching, as in Durban and Richards Bay you do not need a 4x4 for a small boat.
I would also suggest you look at the Alley Cat, it is alittle bigger than the Cat Ski and really a nice stable litte boat.
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Hi sea sick if I could could have a go at confusing the issue more
Personally I'd look at a good second hand ski vee. It's a proven hull doesn't need monster motors and you can load it by hand and one person can turn it in the surf. You will get wet but that's just the nature of the boat category a small duck or jet ski will be no better and in many cases worse.
The older ski vee hull without the false transom and fancy gunnel's will run happily with 2 x 30HP 2 strokes with 2 big adults on board.
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I would go with the smaller boat options or if not boat I would go with the Jetski. There are some great deals around under R100000.00 for new jet skis. Remember that there are no pontoons to lean on the aqua quad and it will be quite a stretch to reach a fish to make sure the hooks on the lure dont touch the pontoons.
With the boat mommy can tag along on the dam or river even the ocean for that matter.
With the Aqua quad if you do some how get it wrong and roll it like was mentioned that will be a costly mistake with the jetski no worries turn it right side up climb hit the start button and you are on your way.
My2c but it seems your mind is made.
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Guys
yet again, thanks for the input.
ski's weet nie mooi nie.
it all boils down to the following.
1. smaller, means i can use it on vaaldam too.
2. 600km of towing down to the coast (smaler is less demanding etc)
3. it's just for me, and sometimes my son or wife, so i could later upgrade to something bigger.
4. more steady on water capsizing wise then a jetski
5. down side, pontoons that can get hooks into them.
6. a bit more space then a jetski.
every thing has a upside, and a down side.
as long as you know the pro's and con's, then you can work your way aroung the con's etc.
ss
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ss
will post a picture of a great boat for you later nice to start off with and if you every want to sell will go quickly. a aqua cat is nice but would not class it as a jet ski if it gos over the motor is buggered just like a boat.
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Just do 1 thing... Take both an Aqua-quad and a Jetski for a test ride before you decide! They will behave so differently!
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i think a good boat to learn on
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another
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Personally I would much rather have that Ski Vee befor an Aqua Quad or Jet Ski.
You can do so much more with it.
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another
See it at a boat shop, what is the ski-vee going for without the motors????????
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And I would rather have a small cat for stability and ease of handling on the water!
Are you now properly confused??
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Hi eric
it is one of my boats make me a offer its on a road worthy galvanized trailer, went through test begining of year. the boat is in good condition sadly the motor was stolen would be a lovely boat with 2x 15hp motors
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I agree with all here. I too have a lot of respect for a Ski Vee but if you are going to upgrade in the future you will be going to a CAT so then it would be best to opt for one now to get the feel and experience on one.
Small Kosi Cat or Vidal cat will also serve you well.
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Hi eric
it is one of my boats make me a offer its on a road worthy galvanized trailer, went through test begining of year. the boat is in good condition sadly the motor was stolen would be a lovely boat with 2x 15hp motors
Is it a 13'6" Rory?? 14'6" will not work with 15's, my last SkiVee had 25's and would be the lowest you can go.
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There is a huge difference between a small cat and a small mono when it cones to handling it on the beach and during launching. A cat on the sand can only move in one direction forward generally under winch power. A small mono you tip on its side and swing around. If sea sick is launching with his lighty a cat isn't going to be practical as I doubt SS will hand control of his bakkie over to his son to put the boat in the sea and a cat will be too much of a handful for a young kid. With a small mono he can put the boat just shy of the shore break and go park his car. return to the boat turn the nose into the surf push the boat past the shore break jump on start the motor pull junior on and launch this is how I grew up fishing off a Trimcraft hustler with my brothers and dad, launching in places like amitikulu and umtunzini
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Have been busy so missing out.
lekker confused now, but, what the heck.
i need to start somewhere.
it's needs to handle easily.
have a friend, who had a skiboat.
when he wanted to do some fishing, he had to call on his friends to go along.
sometimes he did not have any friends to assist him.
and the bad, thing of all, he had to carry all the expenses all the time.
he later sold the skiboat and got himself a jetski.
since then he has never looked back on his choice.
he fishes alone, as there aint much space on the jetski, the aqua quad is a little bigger, so for me and the boy or ma, or sister.
at the time when he got his jetski, it was out of my league.
now with the aqua quad, i can have the chance too to enjoy the open ocean.
and like i said, i can always upgrade when the gogga realy bites me.
the guys from ultimate rocks.
your inputs etc.
enjoy the weekend
ss
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just buy my cc and get over it :-)
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hi jean
die aanbod is nice.
n bietjie bo my vuurmaak plek.
ek het iets gekry- wat klaar die bulle se koppe laat draai.
maar nou ja.
ek is dankbaar vir wat ek gekry het, teen die prys wat ek betaal het.
nou kan ek ook die oop see aandurf en dinge geniet wat my altyd ontgaan het.
pic's sal ek later laai.
ss