Geo-Kayaking?

[Cathunter]

I apologize for the off-topic question, but looking forward to the campout and other warmer days, I have taken an interest in buying a kayak.
I am aware of REI, but am wondering where else I might find a good place in SE WI to shop for kayaks and gear?

[This message has been edited by Cathunter (edited 02-16-2004).]

[Natloh2]

Madison there are two Carl and John’s Paddlin and Rutabaga with canoecopia Mar 12-14, both have web pages

quote:

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Originally posted by Cathunter:
I apologize for the off-topic question, but looking forward to the campout and other warmer days, I have taken an interest in buying a kayak.
I am aware of REI, but am wondering where else I might find a good place in SE WI to shop for kayaks and gear?

[This message has been edited by Cathunter (edited 02-16-2004).]

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[Cheesehead Dave]

I’m not 100% sure, but I think Johnson Outdoors has opened up a shop on Main Street in Racine near the new Johnson Wax building.

[kbraband]

Canoecopia is a fun event. Even if you don’t need or want to buy anything, the seminars are great. http://www.rutabaga.com/canoecopia/page.asp?pgid=1001

For an on-line guide to selecting a kayak, try this: http://www.paddling.net/buyersguide/Kayaks.html

[wzbt03]

Best prices for good kayaks I have seen is at Galyans. One near Woodfield mall and I think there is one going to be in Middleton this spring.
I also plan on picking one up soon.

[The Lil Otter]

quote:

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Originally posted by Natloh2:
Madison there are two Carl and John’s Paddlin and Rutabaga with canoecopia Mar 12-14, both have web pages

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That’s where I bought my kayak at canoecopia ages ago.. a cute baby blue Hydra.

~The Lil Otter

[brupp]

We picked up two sit on top’s by Ocean Kayak last year from the Johnson Outdoors location in Racine. Really nice. Wish I had more time to use them.

[beggymike]

I’ve found that especially with kayaks, purchasing a used boat is a great, cost effective way of getting in, without the initial large investment. I’d much rather not feel guilty about banging, scratching, or dropping a used boat as opposed to being hyper sensitive with a brand new one.

Rutabaga has a great selection of used boats, but their prices are a bit on the high end for used equipment. That is offset by their trade-in program. check out their website @ http://www.paddlers.com

Another place where I’ve had great luck, and is well worth the trip up to the Wolf River is the Bear Paw Inn. They have an ever rotating used boat corral and can be searched online @ http://www.bearpawoutdoors.com/store.htm

Good luck

[Cathunter]

Thanks to all who offered ideas! I’m still shopping.

For those interested, Canoecopia 2004 – The World’s Largest Paddlesport Expo, is next weekend in Madison.

Of course there is plenty of caching to do in the area too!
http://www.rutabaga.com/canoecopia/page.asp?pgid=1001

[kbraband]

We plan to attend Canoecopia on Sunday, March 14. Will try to take in both Cliff Jacobson seminars that day: “Canoeing Secrets and Tricks” at 11:30 a.m., “Packing and Portaging – Tips from the Field” at 2:30 p.m. The John Bates seminar at 12:30 also looks good: “Hidden Gems: Paddling Northern Wisconsin’s State Natural Areas”.
See schedule of seminars here: http://www.rutabaga.com/canoecopia/speakers_schedules.asp

Also, for those who missed it in the Campout topic, some of us are hoping to plan a paddling trip this summer for interested WGA members and other friends. Bring your calendars and your Mike Svob books to the campout and lets talk. For those who can’t make it to the WGA campout, watch the WGA forums for further discussion after the campout.

[This message has been edited by kbraband (edited 03-05-2004).]

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