[Cameron]

definitely don't buy anything just for transportation/storage means and definitely get a sit-on-top. Buy something you really think you'll be comfortable with and will suit your needs, then find a way to transport it and store it (but it is a giant piece of plastic, it can handle the elements pretty well). There's a lot that goes into whether long or shorter will be better- ignore that for now; if you plan on paddling lakes and slow rivers anything 8-11ft will be perfect. my first kayak was 8ft and I used it extensively on some pretty large lakes. As for brand, Future Beach, Emotion (my first kayak was an Emotion Spitfire ~$250), Perception are fine. Also, if you can get to a Bass Pro Shops their own line, "Ascension," is actually pretty nice too. Look around on the net for used kayaks too, they can take a beating and hold up real well. And you may get lucky and find one thats got soem rigging done to it already. Hope this helps.