By Paul Lebowitz

Sit-inside kayaks don't have to be tippy and cramped. Take, for example, the Dirigo line by Old Town Canoes and Kayaks. Meant for calm lakes, bays and slow-moving rivers, these kayaks match hulls stable enough for beginning paddlers with cockpits with elbow room.

That's a fine combination for fishing. There are three models: the compact and quick-turning 106, the slightly larger 120 and the longer, sweeter-paddling 140.

The list of standard Dirigo features starts with the adjustable Extrasport Outfitting Seat System, a thick foam seat pad and backrest designed for hours of comfort.

The Dirigo decks were built with the angler in mind. A console shelf, the perfect home for a rod holder or fish finder, perches at the front of the cockpit. A small, round hatch up there is great for stowing keys, a wallet, or your favorite fishing lure.

Large stern hatches and fore and aft deck bungees complete the storage options. Flat deck surfaces that can accommodate rod holders are located conveniently, just aft of the cockpit.

THE DIRIGO 140 is a recreational sit-inside kayak built for fishing. At no-water-contact lakes such as Southern California's Diamond Valley, they are the only way to go.