Get that Eagle Talon. I don't have one, but when I saw those at Dick's a while back i decided it was a pretty complete and well-thought-out fishing package for the price (which was a lot more than $450, right?). Maybe not for paddling out to the oil rigs, but for what you're talking about doing - about perfect. Don't discount the handy size and weight, either. You're more likely to use it if it's not a pain in the butt to load/unload. Just buy it and go fishin, man. If the kayak thing suits you, you may end up upgrading soon. Or you may just use that one til you wear it out.
