Kayak fishing is the one new way to enjoy the thrill of the outdoors. Its popularity has grown over a couple of years. More than 38 million trips are planned in America every year. A kayak is a specialized boat, smaller than the regular larger sibling.
Kayakers can explore new fishing spots. The small kayak can reach places where the larger boats can’t.
However, kayaking can also be one of the most challenging aspects when you are a beginner. From selecting a kayak to learning which one is made especially for a beginner, transporting it, and completing accessories here is everything you need to know before you head out into open water.
Table of Contents
Buying the right fishing kayak
Picking out a kayak is not easy because of the variety of options in terms of power, stability, designs, and sizes.
Everybody is different, and their preferences are diverse too. You should always check out a kayak that fits your needs. They are expensive, and if you’re buying one, take it for a test ride on and off the water like you would try a car before, paying close attention to the length, weight, and width.
Kayak demo days are also an opportunity to test various brands that may have the model you want.
There are many boats and kayaks in the market at sub-thousand dollar prices. It is hard to pick just one; Check best fishing kayak under 1000 reviews.
Quick tips for a perfect Kayak fishing experience
- Check the wind with a wind finder app. Avoid going fishing if the wind sustains 40 miles per hour or more. It makes the day unpleasant for you.
- Get a truck extender. Secure your kayak to the extender rear to load it into your truck.
- Make sure to carry a pair of pliers, scissors, and a BOGO grip.
Top 6 kayak fishing gears
1. Get the perfect PFD
There is an extensive range of PFD for kayak anglers to outfit any budget. When choosing a Personal flotation device, if you have a seat with a high back the padding has to be above it. The PFD must be comfortable because you have to wear it from the time you get on the kayak to get off it.
It also helps to get back to your kayak if you accidentally fall out in the water. Get one with lots of pockets so that you can keep your gears in it.
2. Paddle
Another kayak fishing gear to pay attention to is a paddle. It is a crucial thing if you are not buying a motor-driven kayak. Most of the time you have to buy a pedal drive separately. It should have a lightweight, durable handle of at least 230 to 250 cm and stiff blades to paddle well.
3. Anchor
Anchor is crucial fishing gear. An anchor is valuable if you want to hold still and tame the wind. Fitting an anchor rig on the side of the kayak offers to position the anchor off the stern or bow. A steel rigger ball or kettlebell tied to a steel carabineer works really well here.
The anchor wizard makes the whole anchoring experience better. It enables you to open out the anchor hook so that it can easily throttle it. The anchor widget can tighten and bring your anchor back up; it makes it easier to keep the twine to your anchor from tangling around your feet.
4. Plastic crate
Customize plastic crates or suckers available at a nearby Walmart store for organizing things inside. It is a fun DIY with zip ties and PVC pipes. You can customize it to have a couple of rod holders on the sides.
You can also upgrade with the box with a nice lid that closes down.
5. Light pole
It has a 360˚ light on top. When you screw it down, the LED light comes on. This portable light is packable. It has got a reflector and an orange flag. These things can be folded, stuffed in a storage sack, and wrap it with a tether.
It is a must-have accessory on your boat to enhance the visibility of these little boats when it is speeding at 60, 70, or 80 miles an hour.
6. Rod holders
Fishing rod holders for kayaks bear a locking system to secure the rod so it isn’t knocked away from the Angler. Usually, the rod holders come in 1 5/8 inch, 1 7/8 inch, and 2-inch diameters. Look for the breadth of inner diameter as well. It should not be too narrow.
There may be an adjustable rod holder, flush mount rod holders, and horizontal and vertical rod holders. Settle for a strong, corrosion-proof, and durable rod holder. Get at least two good rod holders.
Kayak fishing safety measures
Kayak fishing is an adventure sport and involves risk. Safety is the prime concern, so invest in a good quality life jacket.
The excitement of the fishing sport may be overwhelming and urge you to explore the deepest. Be careful. Do not try to go far from the water if you are a beginner. It is one good safety measure you should take care of.
You may like fishing in salt water, but it is not a good idea for beginners. They must start with a small freshwater lake.
10 Important Safety Gears
You might believe you are ready for kayak fishing, yet have you jotted the essential safety gears? Kayak fishing is an adventurous activity, so your packing list should stock up the safety gear before hitting the water.
- Paddle Leash
- Your buoyancy aid, i.e., PFD or life jacket, and Sponsons
- Sharp knife or line cutter
- Helmet
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses – preferably polarised
- First Aid Kit
- Buckets, dry bags, barrels
- Spray skirts
- Paddle float
Conclusion
This fishing sport is a game of planning. So, plan where you want to fish, at what time, and the tools or equipment you’ll need in advance.