I am about to head of to UC Santa Barbara for School, and I am excited about the fishing I am going to be able have access to. However I would like to bring my kayak along in addition to a float tube. However, all the storage facilities anywhere near campus are like $125 a month and there is no way I can afford that. I was wondering if anyone who knows the area better than me has any ideas. Any help would be great.
#827, "RE: Kayak Storage in SB" In response to Reply # 0
I live in ellwood and have mine chained to the gas main - I figure if anyone wants it that bad we can all go together.... But seriously - its pretty easy to find a place to store your kayak - just ask around and see if any of your friends have space in their yard, invest in some chain (make sure it is sturdy but thin enough to fit through the self-bailing holes) and chain it to something solid. Just make sure you keep it out of the sun - i cover mine with a tarp i got at kmart - that way the plastic wont degrade from the uv.
#828, "RE: Kayak Storage in SB" In response to Reply # 1
I moved to SB 3 months ago and had the same problem. The storage units are expensive, and not convenient for a spontaneous paddle after school or work.
I called every paddle shop in the area about places to store it, and got such helpful suggestions as "why don't you just buy a chain and store it on top of your car." (True story)
I thought about hanging around the marina and seeing if I could find somebody there who would be willing to let me leave it on their dock in exchange for letting the use it sometimes, but never did. Of course, if you're up in Goleta, you want something closer than the SB marina anyway.
In the end, I got as long cable and lock, and talked my landlord into letting me chain it to a fence behind the building. Not the best, but at least it is accessible.
Good luck, and if you find a better solution in the area, please let us all know.