Hey guys.
I am relatively new to kayaking and just bought my first kayak, a '97 Dagger Crossfire, off Ebay. It came with two floatation bags and I was wondering when I would and would not need to use them. Are they mostly for whitewater, flatwater, both? Are they a pain in the ass like they seem like they would be? Do most people use them? Also, It came with a Werner one piece paddle. I can't find a model name or anything, is there anyway to tell if it is intended for whitewater or touring?
Thanks!!
Jay

basically if you have float bags you want to use them. They go INSIDE the boat behind the seat. and yes, just about EVERYONE USES THEM. The idea is that when you flip over and you don't roll up, you have to swim. Once you pull your skirt, your boat fills with water, the bags fill up the empty space inside your boat so that it will not fill up with water. Because if the boat is completely full of water you may find yourself trying to swim with a 700+ lb boat. So Always use them, because trying to swim to safety with your boat is important, and having a 700+ lb boat doesn't help. the only time you don't use them is if you have packed up your kayak with gear, like your camping expedition style on a river and kayaking down river then stopping to camp for 2-3 days. The paddle you have looks like a cross between whitewater and flatwater, So in other words. You can use it, and it will work fine. I wouldn't go buying any new gear until you know how much you really like the sport, how often you'll be paddling, and your progression of ability.

Welcome to kayaking

Thanks for the info!

The paddles are definatly a white water paddle, they are a set of Wenatches (sp?) really strong lay up should serve you well. leave the air bags in the back of your boat inflated but leave them slightly soft, as the air expands when it gets hot and has been known to pop them.

If you want, you can use one bag, so you can still store gear. There are float bags that you can put gear in, which makes your boat float, as well as give storage AND keeps your gear from floating away. Some more things you need to consider are a PFD, helmet, spray skirt, and for whitewater, throw bags. If you look at my profile, under boating I have my gear, which is inexpensive and works great. As far as your paddle, normally the wider and shorter the paddle blade, it is more for whitewater/high angle touring, and if it is narrow and long, it is probably a low angle touring paddle. Also, at some places, they will let you use their gear for instruction (USNWC), so you don't need gear yet, but it is definitely something to look for if you plan on continuing paddling for a while.