Question for Pro Angler 12/14 owners

[PapaDave]

If the drift is in the 0.8-1.0 range I usually keep the kayak into the wind before setting the drift by slowly peddling into the wind. Or I will just use the side drift keeping the rudder hard to the left or right and keeping the peddles down. You can vary the angle and speeed by raising or lowering the peddles (not taking them out, just moving one peddle all the way forward) or by decreasing the angle of the rudder. Works real well once you get the hang of it. If the drift is faster I will use a drift chute to keep the nose pointed into the wind. I have an anchor also but only use the in the harbor or bays, not sure I want to use it in the open water, swells could be a big hazard there.

The steering on the PA can be a pain, you have to be moving for it to work. When you start moving keep the rudder straight for a few feet then turn. There seems to be a backwash when you start off with the rudder maxed to one side, the water forms an eddie that will cause you to go the opposite direction.

As mentioned before, you will get the hang of it, try to picture yourself in a big boat and how that responds to the steering and current.

Have fun

[dc1983]

Thanks, everyone for the responses. I picked up a drift chute and going to go out on sunday at Dana Point and give it another try. Still like the PA 12, Imean there is so much room whats not to like.

[jorluivil]

It takes some practice but you can point it in the direction you want using the rudder and the mirage drives. I've gone as far as lifting my rudder up and getting the drives in the up or flat position and letting the wind do its thing. Sometimes the bait tank will act as a sail and force the rear of the kayak to point downwind. Again, it takes practice but it is possible to make the kayak face the direction you want.....goodluck

[RockyRaab]

Good info, PapaDave. But those things we put our feet on are PEDALS

[Old Man in the Sea]

nothing like teaching an old swap meet peddler how to pedal...
yea I thought I saw a kayak guy with big white sign selling live bait and he was having trouble controlling his drift because of the current and the wind blowing the sign...