Consider a used poly boat. I learned in Prijon kayaks, specifically Kodiak and Seayaks. They can usually be found used for about $500 max, and when you decide to upgrade you will be able to sell it what you bought it for. A new kayak will depreciate, and you'll almost certainly discover that your taste in boats will change as your skills improve.

: I would like to purchase a kayak for mountain lakes and slow wide
: rivers I'm look to use it for paddling around on weekends
: fishing and camping that way I can paddle across the lake
: instead of hiking around I'm wanting something that I can carry
: some over night gear and was even thinking of getting a 2 person
: kayak so that I would have room for more storage and the
: possibility of a passenger. more often I will be using it for
: single person day trips but don't thing I want something to long
: looking at around 10' so I can haul it in my truck bed. What
: brands are good any particular options I should be looking for?
: I buy a lot of gear from backcountry.com and have a $500 credit
: with them so I would like to get it from BC if possible my price
: range is $500-$1000 but not set in stone if I have to spend
: alittle more. I have some canoeing experience but I know nothing
: about kayaks. I have been looking at this one but really don't
: know if it's any good
: http://m.backcountry.com/old-town-cayuga-110-kayak
: Thanks for any help
: I'm 6'3" around 220lbs
: Is paddling a good way to work my upper chest and back?