Last Updated on September 21, 2022 by Donnell Henderson
Kayak fishing is a great way to spend some time on the water, and it’s nice to have a fishing setup that makes this unique experience as enjoyable as possible. Below are the pieces of equipment I use for kayak fishing, along with some tips for their use.
What Is Important for Kayak Fishing?
A good anchor is important when you’re fishing from a moving platform like a kayak. A little research can help you find the type that fits your needs best (generally, round stakes are better for heavy currents, while anchors with chains are better in straight water). I have an anchor that lets me tie off to any sort of anchor point (rocks, docks, etc.) when a stake isn’t available.
Make sure your paddle is long enough to reach deep water—it’s no fun trying to paddle over to where the fish are and watching your paddle scrape along the bottom. My paddle is about seven feet long, and it reaches depths of about fifteen feet with some vigorous effort.
A fish finder can be used both to spot fish and determine the depth of water and the availability of fish in your surroundings.
What Could Possibly Be More Relaxing Than Fishing on a Kayak?
When you’re out on the water, you’re surrounded by nature’s beauty, whether it’s the rocks and trees overhanging the lake or the birds flying overhead. But even if you’re at one of those lakes that has a boat ramp, loading your gear into a boat is still an extra step to get to your fishing spot. Kayaks require virtually no setup, so you can be on the water in no time.
Not only that, but they’re also one of the most efficient ways to fish—if you’re after a particular species, you can paddle in circles around them until they bite. And even if you’re not targeting specific fish, sometimes just being on the water is enough—you can drift around and wait for bites while watching the waves lap against your kayak and taking in all of nature’s beauty around you.
How to Create the Ultimate Fishing Kayak Setup
Kayaking is a low-impact sport that’s becoming popular among families and folks looking to get outside more. It’s a fun way to enjoy being outdoors and exploring the vast waterways in your area. While it’s a great activity, you can improve your kayaking experience by creating a fishing kayak that’s perfect for you and your needs. All you need is a mix of fishing gear and camping gear.
You’ll first want to decide on the type of kayak that works best for what you need. There are many types of fishing kayaks on the market today, from starter vessels at about $500 to higher-end models costing $1000 and beyond, from one from sit-on-top models to those with closed cockpits. The type of kayak you choose depends on how much insulation you need, how easy it is for you to get in and out of the boat, and whether or not you want extra storage space.
If you’re going to be spending a significant amount of time on the water, then having extra storage space is ideal for carrying food and other supplies needed for long trips. The closed cockpit models are great if you’re looking for mobility and ease of entry – these allow kayak anglers to move around quickly in their boats without worrying about getting wet when they leave the cockpit area.
Choose a Quality Fishing Kayak
The first step of a kayak angler is to select a decent kayak for fishing. There are many different options, but only a few will be right for you. The main focus in your decision should be on how the kayak will fit your body type and how easily it can be stored in your home or vehicle. There are three styles of kayaks that are frequently used in both saltwater and freshwater.
Sit-on-top kayaks (also known as SOTs) offer a lot of storage space, but they are difficult to paddle, and they require more maintenance than other styles. For example, the hull of an SOT is typically made of two pieces of plastic, which requires extra attention to ensure it doesn’t get waterlogged or ripped.
Safety Tips
Kayaking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but you have to be prepared for any situation you might encounter. Be sure to check weather forecasts and prepare appropriately for your excursions. It’s also important to check water levels before paddling on rivers or lakes—you don’t want to get stranded unexpectedly.
If you’re going out on the ocean, always choose the best kayak fishing setup. You’ll need to be even more cautious because of the unpredictability of waves and other conditions. Keep your eyes peeled for dangerous wildlife like sharks, jellyfish, eels, and stingrays. Sharks can sense blood in the water from miles away, so if you do happen to slice your hand while fishing or doing something else while paddling in the river or lake, wash it thoroughly with soap and cold water as soon as possible.
Get Appropriate Storage
Getting the right storage for kayak fishing can be tricky. The key is to find a combination of features that will make your equipment accessible, secure, and still fit into your kayak. The system I came up with has proven to be an effective and convenient way to stow my tackle, fish finder, and other essential items. It’s also versatile—if I want to switch out a few items or add something new, I won’t have to reconfigure anything.
Rod Holders Are Mandatory
A fishing rod holder is mandatory in kayak fishing, and there are several different types to choose from. Many are designed to be mounted on a kayak’s gunwale or fishing pole, so they can be used while you’re paddling or after the boat has been brought to a complete stop.
Others are easier to use when you’re at the pier or shore and don’t need your hands free to hold the rod. You can also use flush mount rod holders. Each variety has its ups and downs, so it’s best to know what you’ll be doing before you make a decision on which is right for you.
Wear Lightweight, Comfortable PFDs
A lightweight personal floatation device is a necessity for any kayak fishing trip. You never know when you might need it, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Personal flotation device regulations vary from state to state, so be sure to check the regulations in your area before heading out on the water.
The most important thing to consider when choosing a PFD is how comfortable it is. To keep yourself safe and happy while you’re out fishing, you want to wear a PFD that fits well, feels good against your skin, and won’t be too distracting to wear for hours on end. Comfort is even more important than saving money—if your PFD is uncomfortable, not only will you be distracted from the fishing by trying to adjust yourself every few minutes, but it’ll also be much less likely to keep you afloat if an accident does happen.
Buy Anchor Systems
Anchor systems come in multiple varieties, but they all have one thing in common: they keep your kayak anchored. If you’re out on the water and you need to anchor yourself, you’ll need to get one of these items. The first option is a manual anchor, which is small enough to fit in your pocket and easily stowable on your boat. The second option is an electric anchor, which uses electricity to keep you anchored.
Don’t Forget About The Paddle
For any kayak fishing enthusiast, it’s important to invest in a quality paddle and know how to use it properly. You never want to be out on the water with only one paddle. It’s an added expense that is well worth the investment for your safety and convenience when you’re out on the water. Fishing can be hectic, so having a second paddle on hand can mean the difference between going home early or making the most of your day on the water.
Consider Using Trolling Motors
Trolling motors are a great way to fish in deep, moving waters like rivers or lakes. They’re great for kayaks because they let you go faster than you can paddle and lets you move farther than you could with a paddle alone. If your kayak has two-rod holders, trolling motors generally come with one- or two-bladed propellers that keep the motor from being sucked underwater when bass fishing in rough waters. The downside is that trolling motors are usually much more expensive than the other options available on this list, and they require an extra battery to run them.
Final Words
As always, the most important thing you can do to ensure your trip goes smoothly is to be prepared. I have found that having all of my gear organized is a huge help in making sure I don’t forget anything when packing. You know those times when you get everything together and are about to head out the door, but you realize that you’re missing something? It’s happened to me, and it’s happened to every other fisherman I know. If you’re organized from the start, you’ll never have that problem, and your trip will be off to a good start. You’ll need a rod and reel, a tackle box, some fishing line, a reel spool, a container for lures (a coffee mug works well), rain gear, and an air pump for a fish tank.
Fishing hooks are also necessary — but they’re not as critical because they can easily be picked up at a gas station or store if needed. There are different types of fishing hooks, so it’s best to be prepared by having some of each kind before leaving on your trip.
