[Paddlewise] 2 Newbie Questions

I have two questions/ ponderables that I would like to hear commentary
on. Please feel free to e-mail me directly with your responses.

#1 Before I buy my first kayak, I am trying to figure out what size and
design would be best for the type of seakayaking I plan to do. The majority
of my time will be day and weekend trips with a possibility of week long
trips once or twice a year at best (for now). The water will probably be
lakes, shorelines, flat rivers and the occasional short crossings such as
Long Island to Fire Island, Key hoping in Florida and things like that. I'd
love to try fishing from my kayak. 

I don't know if my size matters but I'm 5'9" and of average build. From
personal experience, what would be the best size and type of kayak for my
needs? I know that glass costs more that plastic so money is not an issue
here. I'm looking for something I wont want to trade or sell off within a
year or 2 of owning it. I plan to rent in the beginning and I'll be
attending the show in Lorton, VA and New Jersey to get a look see as well.

#2 Does anyone kayak with their significant other fairly regularly? How
do you find keeping pace with one another? Do you enjoy it more or less
when you kayak with them? Do you prefer kayaking in your own kayak or a
tandem?

Thanks all,
Tee

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