Paddle Dippings

Recently, over the past few months, there have been many reports of stolen kayaks in the Plymouth area. At least one of these kayaks had been recovered and returned to its owner, only to have it stolen again this week. My guess is that it involved the same person(s) that took it the first time.

The thefts seem to be getting more brazen in nature and more frequent in time.

The main emphasis of these thefts appears to involve the more recreational oriented models from 9’ to 14’ in length, both sit-in and sit-on-top kayaks that are popular and easy to sell quickly. Because kayaks are harder to hide because of their size, it means that either they have to be sold quickly or they have to be stored somewhere. When they are sold, it usually would be for ridiculously low prices. Usually there is a “hardship” tale that goes with it trying to explain the low price. The old adage that if a deal sounds too good to be true, then it usually is too good to be true.

There are things you can do and look for when purchasing a questionable used or new kayak. Look for a serial number stamped or scribed near the stern on the right-hand side (if you were sitting in the kayak). This number will usually be where the deck meets the hull about 4” to 6” from the stern. It will be a combination of letters and numbers usually totaling 12 characters. Ask the person selling the kayak if they have paperwork of their purchase of the boat. Do they know what year the kayak was built and when and where they purchased it? If it looks like the serial number has been filed or ground off, beware!

Whether or not you decide on making the purchase, get the sellers name, address, phone number, vehicle make, model and plate number. If the deal is legitimate, it is good information for you to have if you purchase the boat. If the deal is not legitimate, then this info is good for the local police to have.

There are some safeguards that boat owners can take to reduce the chance of their boats being stolen.

• When not in use, use a cable lock to secure the boat to a fixed object such as a tree, boat rack, fence post, etc. or roof rack when on your vehicle.

• When storing boat at your house, do not store it in view of people or vehicles passing by. Out of sight, out of mind.

• Write your name and phone numbers in two places in the boat. Do not include your address! The first place should be in the cockpit where anyone could see it. That’s in case the boat washes ashore with no one in it. Authorities can quickly check to find out if the person is missing or the boat just drifted off. The second place to have your name and phone number written is somewhere only you know its location. That’s in case it is stolen and could aid in the chance of its being recovered and returned to you.

This posting is a rather sad commentary about a reality of the world we live in and about the fact that most of us are willing to work for what we have or want, while a few are content with just taking advantage of others. Fortunately, good conscience, morals and ethics are the strengths prevalent in the vast majority of folks, especially those enjoying paddle sports.

Today there are stores that are selling kayaks for incredibly cheap prices. We are all looking to save money and yet get the best value for our hard-earned dollars. Given those two facts, there are several excellent reasons why you should consider Billington Sea Kayak for your purchase. First, we sell quality boats for fair prices. Our staff is the most knowledgeable and is committed to helping you find the right kayak or canoe. “Trying before you buy” is what our business has been based on for 25 years. Sure, there are some stores that have slightly lower prices than we do, BUT, are the sales personnel kayakers and do they know the products they are selling? Can they advise you where the boats should be used and, more importantly where they shouldn’t be used? Does the store offer a wide selection or just one or two models? Can you try out their kayaks or canoes before purchasing?

Unfortunately, having knowledgeable staff and demo boats to try in several models from several manufacturers costs money, but you as the consumer will benefit greatly through being able to make better decisions because of our staff’s expertise and our large selection of kayaks. Most folks wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes or an automobile without trying them first. Why would you purchase a kayak or canoe without trying them first? Time and effort in making your decision pays off every time when you finally head out on the water.

Our goal is for you to have fun and your family to be safe.