Kayak fishing is an increasingly popular activity among anglers and has many advantages over fishing from a conventional powerboat. Fishing from a kayak is easy to learn, but there are a few things to consider if you are a beginner. Let’s explore how to fish from a kayak.
Why Fish From a Kayak?
There are several reasons why so many anglers love fishing from a kayak. Here are the main advantages of kayak fishing.
Easy Launch and Access
Kayaks can be launched virtually anywhere, and many kayaks are light enough for one person to carry from a car to the water. This ease of launch and the shallow draft of a kayak make it easy to access almost any body of water without needing a boat launch or special equipment.
As a result, a kayak is an excellent choice for anglers who want to fish in more remote areas and are difficult to access with a larger boat.
Quiet and Stealthy
Kayaks are quiet in the water and closer to the water surface, making it easier to see fish and approach without startling them. Also, because a kayak draws so little water and makes so little noise, it allows you to sneak up on skittish fish.
Ease of Use and Storage
It takes just a few minutes of practice to learn how to use a kayak, so there is a very small learning curve. A kayak also requires very little maintenance and can be stored in a garage or shed when not in use. Inflatable kayaks can even be deflated and stored in a car trunk or a closet.
So, a kayak is ideal for people who don’t want the hassle and expense of a boat or don’t have a lot of space at home.
Fishing from a kayak is perfect for people who enjoy freshwater fishing without the investment or hassle of a powerboat or who are determined to outsmart skittish, hard-to-catch fish.
How to Fish from a Kayak
To fish from a kayak, follow these steps:
- Choose the right kayak. While small, light kayaks are the easiest to use and the most maneuverable, fishing kayaks should be wider in the water. A wider deck makes a kayak more stable, giving you better support if you are fighting a fish. In addition, many anglers prefer a sit-on-top kayak for fishing because they are more stable and make it easier to sight-fish and cast. Choose the right kayak for your local waters and your fishing style, and always wear a life vest.
- Make sure the kayak also has room and rigging for all your fishing gear, including:
- Fishing rod holders
- Tackle, pliers, landing net, etc. within arm’s reach
- A shallow water stake or anchor
- Paddles, safety gear, a whistle, etc.
- Waterproof storage for personal items like mobile devices, dry clothing, food, etc.
- Consider the location. Kayaks are easily moved by water currents and winds because they are lightweight. Using an anchor can help prevent drift while fishing, but you may end up paddling against wind or water for long distances, which may be fatiguing. Depending on your water, it can be a good idea to stay close to shore when kayak fishing.
- Practice using the kayak. Before you fish, spend some time getting familiar with your kayak. Practice paddling, turning, braking, and navigation. Move around in or on your kayak to learn how stable and supportive it is. Practice paddling without splashing to not startle fish. Use a paddle leash to make sure you don’t lose your paddle when fighting a fish.
- Use long, light rods. You may need a longer rod to help maneuver fish around shallow water hazards or your kayak lines when kayak fishing. Choose lightweight rods that won’t add extra weight to the kayak and will be easier to cast over a long day on the water. Casting from a seated position is more difficult, especially if you are casting underhanded, so test rods when sitting down.
- Use a kayak anchor. Kayak anchors are usually small and lightweight, but anglers may need a larger, more robust anchor to prevent drifting.
- Remain calm and use a net. When you catch a fish, stay calm and in control while reeling it in. If you get excited, you may move too much and allow excess water into the kayak. Instead, use a net to land your fish to ease handling.
- Pinch your barbs. Pinching your barbs makes hooks faster and easier to remove and safer for you.
Conclusion
Kayak fishing is a quiet, peaceful, and fantastic way to access fishing spots that aren’t reachable with a powerboat. With some practice, you can enjoy the ease and beauty of fishing from a kayak.