Beginner Tips for Kayak Fishing
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Kayak fishing is excellent for people who want to get away from the bank, but don't want the hassle or expense of owning a boat. Fishing from a kayak also gives you the opportunity to go places not accessible from a boat or from a land-based location. When you're targeting some fish species, you need to get in close and with as little noise as possible; this is where fishing from a kayak is perfect.
Kayaks are generally a one-person boat that is powered by using a paddle. However, there are two-person models, and they can be equipped with pedal power or an electric outboard motor. In addition, kayaks are classified as either sit-on or sit-in. Although you will get wetter with a sit-on kayak, these are better for beginners due to their stability and ease of getting back on board. In addition, a sit-on kayak will generally give you more freedom to move about, and you can even stand on these to get that perfect cast!
In addition, a sit-on kayak will generally give you more freedom to move about, and you can even stand on these to get that perfect cast!
What exactly is kayak fishing?
The options available for kayak fishing can make it challenging to choose the right kayak and equipment. However, we can provide enough information here to get you started on this exciting journey. To get started, you want to choose a kayak that fits your expertise and then build on it as you gain experience on the water.
Due to the reasonably low cost of kayak fishing, it's a hobby that can be enjoyed by the entire family, or you can head out on your own or team up with a few mates. When looking into kayak fishing, you'll find an almost endless number of ways you can get into this fantastic pastime. A kayak designed for fishing (and recreational paddling) will have plenty of places to store your equipment. This storage can include space for rod holders, a fish finder, bait buckets, and all your other fishing gear. By starting at the base level, you can slowly learn what additions to your kit will best suit your needs.
Kayak fishing is ideal for people beginning with kayaking and for those looking for a new way to target specific fish species. Fishing from a kayak allows you to sneak up on secluded fish spots that are not easily accessed. While it may seem a little challenging to grasp, once you've been out on the water a few times, you'll know precisely what optional extras will suit your style.
Choosing the best kayak for fishing
Almost any kayak will be suitable for fishing, but choosing one purposely built with fishing in mind is ideal. If you look at many fishing articles, you can be quickly inundated with advice, and not all of it is suitable for people getting started. When you're buying a kayak for fishing, here are a few features you may want to think about:
● Elevated seating
● Multiple rod holders
● Paddle holder & safety strap
● Suitable storage - enclosed hatch and bungee straps
● Fishfinder mounts
● Overall kayak weight
When looking at your kayak, consider where you may use it and your current skill level. If new to kayaking, then look for stability and good support when you're seated. As your skills develop, you may wish to upgrade to a kayak that provides speed over stability.
If you're not that keen on operating a paddle, then you can consider the pedal-powered kayaks. A pedal-powered kayak is ideal for fishing as it'll give you excellent speed and keep your arms free for more important duties!
What to wear when heading out on your kayak?
When you're kayak fishing, one thing is a given - you're going to get wet. So make sure you’re wearing quick-drying clothes that give you enough coverage to avoid getting burnt by the sun. Wearing a suitable hat and sunscreen, even on cloudy days, is an absolute must. There is a reasonable chance you may end up in the water, so try not to wear anything you don't want to get saturated. An old pair of running shoes are ideal for a kayak, and you can choose to wear socks if you prefer; it's best to pack a spare pair for the drive home!
At all times you should wear a suitable lifejacket. Find a lifejacket that allows you to have full arm movement. By keeping your arms free, it'll help when you're using the paddle and fishing. Ideally, it is best to try on the lifejacket and see how it affects your arms during a full rotation.
Checking the weather before heading out
Before heading out in your kayak, it is essential to check up on the weather conditions. Knowing the tide time is also vital if you're kayaking in the ocean or tidal rivers. The ideal conditions for kayaking are warm days (18oC - 32oC) and a light breeze; you may find a kayak reasonably challenging to control in winds over 20km/h for beginners. Kayaking in cooler weather is perfectly acceptable, but you may prefer to invest in a wetsuit as this will help keep you warm while you're out on the water.
What equipment to take when kayak fishing?
Other than your fishing gear, there are some items that you should take with you. One of the main differences between kayak fishing and boat or land-based fishing is the amount of gear you can take. Once you're out on the water, you won't have a backup to rely on, so make sure you're fully prepared for anything you may need. Here are some essential items to get you started:
● Dry bags - for your keys, phone, or anything you don't want to get wet
● Paddle leash
● Suitable knife - a floating knife is ideal
● Water bottles
● Sunglasses
● Polarised sunglasses
● A small first-aid kit
Keep all these in a suitable bag that can be strapped down to the kayak. While most kayaks are very stable, beginners will inevitably end up in the water at some stage - we've all got that one story!
When you first head out, it is best to keep your fishing gear to just the essentials. After you become more confident controlling and operating the kayak, then you can increase your fishing gear. If you're fishing for food, then don't forget you'll need to store the fish until you get home; a bucket or esky with a secured lid will be enough.
Keep building your kayak fishing skills
When you're starting with kayak fishing, try to get out on the water as often as possible. Try new skills and experiences each time and look for others who can provide you with helpful tips and advice on the best way to handle the craft on the water. With time you'll become adept at fishing from a kayak, and you'll wonder why it took you so long to get started!
