Not knocking the Ascend as I have never been in one. My opinion is to save your pennies and get a "proven" kayak. NuCanoe, Wilderness, Jackson, Native, Ocean Kayaks, and Hobie are all quality kayaks that will have a model to fit your needs. If it's possible, try to test drive some before you buy. If standing to fish matters to you, most of the kayaks I mentioned all have a model that you can stand in. I have a NuCanoe Frontier and a 10 ft NuCanoe that offer numerous seat options, standing ability, room for two people if needed, lots of room for gear. Whatever you decide, have fun.